Alright, let's break down the Nokia G21 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It's a bit of a David vs. Goliath matchup here, but both phones have their place. Let's dive deep and see where each shines.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison of the key specs, along with what they mean for you, the user:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-15 | 2024-01-24 | The S24 Ultra is significantly newer, benefiting from updated technologies. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, no foldables here. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm | G21 is taller, S24 Ultra is wider, both have similar thickness. S24 Ultra might feel bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 190g | 232g | Nokia G21 is much lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.8" | S24 Ultra's larger screen is better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1440x3120 | S24 Ultra's dramatically sharper display is excellent for viewing detailed content, and less pixelation. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 505 | S24 Ultra has significantly sharper text and images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | (likely AMOLED) | S24 Ultra likely has a superior display technology offering richer colors and deeper blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S24 Ultra's smoother animations make for a more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2600 nits | S24 Ultra is much easier to use outdoors in bright sunlight. G21 likely has very dim display. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | S24 Ultra offers much faster performance for gaming, demanding apps, and overall responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 1,814,869 | S24 Ultra is significantly faster - apps load quicker, multitasking is smoother, and gaming is much better. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 750 (1 GHz) | S24 Ultra has a much more powerful GPU, handling graphically intense tasks better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 200MP, f/1.7 | S24 Ultra has a much higher resolution, larger sensor, better low light capabilities and will produce far better images. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | - | 50MP, f/2.4 | S24 Ultra has dedicated telephoto lenses which allows far better zoom shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/2.2 | S24 Ultra takes slightly higher-resolution selfies, the difference is not big. |
| Telephoto Lens | - | 10MP, f/3.4 | S24 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens, the difference is significant. |
| Wide Angle Lens | - | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | S24 Ultra has a dedicated wide angle lens, the difference is significant. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | - | G21 has a dedicated depth sensor, enabling portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | - | G21 has a dedicated macro lens for close ups |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps | S24 Ultra can capture professional-grade video with higher resolution, higher framerates, and better stabilization. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | - | 144 | S24 Ultra excels in camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Multiple Standard | Multiple, OIS, RAW, Night Mode | S24 Ultra has far superior camera software and hardware features, will take more versatile, better looking pictures. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Similar capacities suggest comparable battery endurance. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 45W fast charging | S24 Ultra charges much faster, saving you valuable time. |
| Features | 10W Charger in Box | Wireless, Reverse charging | The S24 has much better charging features and includes more options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 21) | S24 Ultra has a more modern OS and will receive a longer period of software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n, Dual band | Wi-Fi 6E, Dual band | S24 Ultra has far more modern Wi-Fi allowing better performance on newer networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | S24 Ultra uses a newer Bluetooth version for improved range and energy efficiency. |
| GPS | Multiple | Multiple | S24 Ultra uses more GPS systems for better accuracy and reliability. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM/eSIM | S24 Ultra offers eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | S24 Ultra offers far more storage. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 12 GB | S24 Ultra’s ample RAM means smoother multitasking and better performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offer expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Noise Cancellation, Stereo speakers | S24 Ultra has better sound capture and playback quality |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Nokia G21 has a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra has superior scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S24 Ultra includes more sensors, enhancing functionality in various apps and games. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21:
- Strengths: Lightweight, large battery, decent display for basic use and a very affordable price.
- Competitive Advantages: It’s an excellent budget-friendly option with a long-lasting battery life. Its design is practical for daily tasks and those who don’t want a heavy phone. Its simple software is great for those new to androids.
- Trade-offs: It lacks the processing power for heavy tasks, has a lower resolution display, and a less advanced camera system.
- Limitations: It lacks a lot of features that are becoming standard for most modern smartphones such as screen protection, high quality speakers, 4k or better recording and a lot more.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra:
- Strengths: Industry-leading display, extremely powerful chipset, top-tier camera system, fast charging, and extensive connectivity.
- Competitive Advantages: It’s a powerhouse designed for users who need the very best performance and features, no compromise. Its camera system is versatile, and the 8K video recording capabilities make it one of the best phones for videographers.
- Trade-offs: It's bulkier, heavier, and significantly more expensive.
- Limitations: The price might be prohibitive for many users and has no expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users, first-time smartphone owners, those who prioritize battery life, or those who need a secondary/backup device. Great for someone who wants to simply browse social media, communicate with friends and family and do basic internet use.
- Use Cases: Casual web browsing, social media, basic gaming, and as a reliable phone for long periods away from a power source.
- Price-to-Value: Extremely affordable, providing basic smartphone functionality without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra:
- Best for: Power users, professionals, photography enthusiasts, mobile gamers, and those who want the absolute best smartphone experience, regardless of cost.
- Use Cases: Professional photography and videography, mobile gaming, demanding applications, and extensive multitasking, using it as a daily driver for work and personal use.
- Price-to-Value: Premium price for top-tier performance and features, making it a high-end investment for users who need the best technology available.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
What is your budget?
- Nokia G21: If you're on a tight budget, the G21 offers great value for basic functions.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: If you are willing to spend more for premium, cutting-edge technology, the S24 Ultra is the better option.
What are your primary needs?
- Nokia G21: If you need reliable connectivity and battery life, this is great.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: If you need high performance, top-tier photography, and the best display quality, the S24 Ultra excels.
What level of performance do you require?
- Nokia G21: It is sufficient for everyday tasks and light to medium usage.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: If you are demanding in your needs, need smooth gameplay, need to edit large files and videos, the S24 Ultra is the best option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
Scenario 1: Casual User with Basic Needs:
- Recommendation: Nokia G21, its simplicity and affordability make it the best option.
Scenario 2: Social Media User Who Enjoys Photography:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, its cameras and beautiful screen would benefit this user.
Scenario 3: Mobile Gamer and Professional User:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, its high-end processor and feature packed hardware is the best for this use case.
My Choice
If it were up to me, I'd go for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The difference in performance is just too significant to ignore. As someone who values a powerful camera system, the stunning display, and the sheer speed and smoothness of operation, it’s the clear winner. While the price is steep, I believe the features and capabilities justify the cost for a phone that would be my main driver. It provides a more complete package and a more cutting-edge user experience. The Nokia G21 is a solid pick for a budget device, but if you can swing it, the S24 Ultra is worth the premium.
