Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. We'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a look at how these two phones stack up across several key categories:
Design
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip4 offers a unique foldable design for portability and novelty. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 165.2 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | G21 is wider and thicker, Z Flip4 is slimmer when unfolded. |
| Weight | 190g | 187g | Virtually identical weight, not much difference in hand. |
Display
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger display, good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip4's significantly higher resolution means sharper visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 426 | Z Flip4's higher PPI translates to crisper text and images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | Unknown | Nokia G21 has an IPS LCD panel; Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 display technology is not specified. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4 has a smoother scrolling and animation due to higher refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 is dramatically more visible in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Z Flip4 has a much faster and more efficient processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 delivers significantly better performance across the board. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4's GPU is substantially better for gaming and graphics-heavy tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | 12.2MP (f/1.8, 1/2.55") | G21 has higher resolution, Z Flip4 has a larger sensor for better low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 10MP (f/2.4) | Z Flip4 has a slightly better selfie camera resolution |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP (1/3.06") | Z Flip4 offers an extra wide-angle shooting. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | G21 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | G21 offers a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | Z Flip4 is vastly superior for video recording quality and features. |
| Features | Triple cam, Autofocus, HDR | Dual cam, OIS, Tracking AF, 4K | Z Flip4 has image stabilization and advanced video features. |
Battery Life
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 3700mAh | G21 has a much larger battery and likely longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Z Flip4 charges faster, despite smaller capacity. |
| Features | In-box 10W charger | Bypass Charging, Fast/Wireless Charging, Reverse charging | Z Flip4 offers more advanced charging options. |
Other
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Z Flip4 ships with a more recent Android version. |
| Storage Options | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512 GB | Z Flip4 offers a much bigger storage capacity range.. |
| RAM Options | 4GB or 6 GB | 8GB | Z Flip4 has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Security | Side fingerprint sensor | Side fingerprint sensor | Both phones offer biometric security. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 is more durable against scratches and drops. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21:
- Strengths: Impressive battery life, a dedicated macro lens, and a very budget-friendly price. It's a dependable phone for users who need a device that lasts all day.
- Competitive Advantages: Its primary advantage lies in its battery life and lower price point. If you're on a budget and prioritize battery, the G21 is a strong contender.
- Limitations: Significantly weaker performance in processing, display quality, and camera capabilities.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Strengths: Powerful performance, innovative foldable design, high-quality display, excellent camera, and fast charging. It’s designed for those who want top-tier features in a unique package.
- Competitive Advantages: The Z Flip4 offers a cutting-edge foldable design, flagship-level performance, and excellent camera features. It excels in situations where performance, visuals, and a unique form factor matter.
- Limitations: Smaller battery, considerably more expensive than the G21.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21 User:
- Profile: Budget-conscious, value battery life over premium performance and features.
- Use Cases: Daily tasks, social media, web browsing, long travel times without needing to charge, less resource intensive gaming.
- Recommendation: A solid choice for those who need a dependable phone without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 User:
- Profile: Tech enthusiast, wants flagship performance, loves a unique design, willing to pay a premium.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, high-quality photography and video, multitasking, media consumption, and enjoying a stylish and pocketable device.
- Recommendation: Ideal for those who want a top-of-the-line smartphone with innovative features and are happy to pay the premium.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, here are three practical questions to ask yourself:
- What's Your Budget? The G21 is vastly more affordable than the Z Flip4. If price is a key factor, the G21 is the clear choice.
- How Important is Battery Life? If you need a phone that lasts a long time between charges, the G21 will likely be better suited.
- What Do You Value Most in a Phone? If cutting-edge performance, a high-quality display, and an innovative design are important, then the Z Flip4 is the obvious choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're on a tight budget and need a long-lasting phone for basic tasks. The Nokia G21 is the most practical choice.
- Scenario 2: You're a heavy user and want top-tier performance and features. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: You want a phone that turns heads and offers a unique user experience. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 with its foldable design is your best bet.
Which One Would I Choose and Why?
If I were choosing, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
Here's why: As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I spend a lot of time pushing devices to their limits. I need the power, display quality, and camera capabilities that a flagship phone like the Z Flip4 offers. While I appreciate the Nokia G21's amazing battery life, it's the innovation and raw performance of the Z Flip4 that truly excite me. The unique form factor and excellent camera capabilities make it a fantastic tool for both work and personal use. Yes, the price is a considerable factor, but for my needs, it is worth the premium. I would appreciate the premium feel and features like fast wireless charging and its video recording prowess. The higher refresh rate would also make using the device a much smoother experience.
