Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and the Samsung Galaxy A04s. It's a fascinating matchup, especially since both are targeting similar budget-conscious users but with some key differences under the hood.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive table breaking down the specs and translating them into real-world implications for the average user:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 | Nokia G21 is slightly slimmer; both are similarly sized. |
| Weight (g) | 190 | 195 | Nokia G21 is a tad lighter, which may be noticeable after long usage. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.5 | 6.5 | Identical screen size for both devices. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 720 x 1600 | Standard HD+ resolution; both are similar in sharpness. |
| PPI | 270 | 270 | Both offer similar clarity and detail on the display. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS generally offers better viewing angles and color reproduction. Nokia G21 should be slightly superior. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 90 | 90 | Both offer smoother scrolling and animations compared to 60Hz. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is the same and this is an issue for both of these devices, not very viewable outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Exynos 850 is more efficient due to the smaller node size. However, T606 has a superior architecture. |
| Antutu Score | 253,300 | 117,300 | Nokia G21 has significantly better performance, more than double the score. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G52 | The G57 offers better graphical performance, Nokia G21 offers an advantage when it comes to gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8 (1/2.76" sensor) | 50MP f/1.8 | Both have similar main sensors, Nokia G21 has a superior sensor due to its larger pixel size. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 5MP f/2.2 | Nokia G21 should take better selfies due to higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both offer similar depth-sensing capabilities. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both offer similar macro capabilities. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Similar video recording quality. Samsung A04s offers slow-motion at 34 fps |
| Additional Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Front Flash. | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, Scene mode, Self-timer. | Nokia G21 offers more additional features. Samsung A04s has PDAF for faster focus |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050 mAh | 5000 mAh | Very similar battery capacities, expect roughly similar endurance. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 15W fast charging | Nokia G21 will charge slightly faster. |
| Charger in box | Yes (10W) | No | Nokia G21 includes a charger which means the device is ready to use out of the box. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 12 (up to 14) | Samsung A04s offers a newer OS version with more updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/n 5GHz | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Samsung A04s has a newer Wifi standard, however, Nokia G21 offers a dual-band capability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both share similar Bluetooth version and features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Samsung A04s offers more satellite system for precise GPS tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both offer Dual-SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB or 128 GB | 32 GB or 64 GB or 128 GB | Both offer the same storage options but Samsung also has a lower configuration of 32 GB. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 3 GB or 4 GB | Nokia G21 has more RAM in the highest configuration which means better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage via microSD |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | 2 microphones | Basic Audio | Nokia G21 offers slightly better audio recording. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both offer standard fingerprint scanner security. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Ultrasonic Proximity | Samsung A04s uses an ultrasonic proximity sensor, offering a slight edge |
2. Key Insights
- Nokia G21:
- Strengths: The Nokia G21 shines in its performance capabilities, having a vastly superior AnTuTu score, better GPU for gaming, more RAM for smoother multitasking, higher resolution front camera, and more additional camera features. It is a slightly slimmer and lighter device.
- Competitive Advantages: The stronger processor makes it a better choice for those who need a bit more oomph, and with a lower price tag, you get more performance for your money. The inclusion of a charger in the box is a bonus.
- Limitations: It is running on an older version of Android (11) which may affect future feature updates. The main sensor, while similar to the Samsung A04s, has better pixel size which means better photographs.
- Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Strengths: The Samsung A04s has a newer version of Android (12) and also supports a newer WiFi standard. It includes phase detection autofocus and has a slightly better ultrasonic proximity sensor. The device also offers slow-motion video.
- Competitive Advantages: It has slightly better satellite coverage.
- Limitations: The main weakness of the Samsung Galaxy A04s is its much weaker performance, half the performance of the Nokia G21 based on benchmarks.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nokia G21:
- Best Suited For: Users who need a reliable, budget-friendly device with good performance for daily tasks, casual gaming, and general media consumption.
- Use Cases: Ideal for students, those who use apps frequently, and individuals who want a decent camera without breaking the bank.
- Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Best Suited For: Users who prioritize a newer Android version and value the additional features like PDAF and slow-motion video.
- Use Cases: Good for those who mainly use their phones for social media, browsing, and occasional photography and need a newer operating system.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help users decide:
- Do you prioritize performance and smoothness?
- If yes, the Nokia G21 is the better choice with its more powerful processor.
- Is having the latest Android version critical for you?
- If yes, the Samsung Galaxy A04s, with its newer operating system, might be preferable.
- What is your primary use case for the camera?
- If the goal is high-quality selfie images, the Nokia G21 should be the better device, but if you require phase detection autofocus, then consider the Samsung Galaxy A04s.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Performance-focused budget user: If performance matters to you, the Nokia G21 is the stronger option due to its higher AnTuTu score. It can handle more demanding apps and games better than the Samsung.
- Scenario 2: Casual user who prioritizes software: If software is your primary concern, then the newer Android OS of the Samsung A04s makes more sense. You will get better satellite coverage and more features compared to the G21.
- Scenario 3: User on a very tight budget: If the primary focus is on a device that includes a charger and has the best performance, the Nokia G21 is a great choice since you will get better performance.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would lean towards the Nokia G21. Its superior performance with double the AnTuTu score compared to the Samsung is a significant advantage, especially when it comes to daily tasks and gaming. While it has an older version of Android, the performance boost more than makes up for it, in my opinion. The higher-resolution front camera, included charger, and slightly better display technology are just icing on the cake.
I appreciate that the A04s includes features like phase detection autofocus and a newer Android version, but the performance of the Nokia G21 would provide a much better overall user experience. For those who need a budget device that can keep up with their usage, the G21 offers the best value.
