Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Google Pixel 8
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 150.5 × 70.8 × 8.9 mm | S21 is slightly taller but thinner, Pixel 8 is more compact but thicker. Pixel 8 has a slightly larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 169g | 187g | S21 is lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged holding. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.2" | Both have the same screen size, no difference in content viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness; both offer good clarity for daily usage. |
| PPI | 421 | 428 | Practically identical pixel density; both displays are very sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both use similar display technology, expect vivid colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, improving the user experience for gaming and media consumption. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 is significantly brighter, making it much easier to view in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8's newer chip offers better overall performance and improved AI capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 876,512 | Pixel 8 shows a performance advantage, better for demanding tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8's GPU should offer better graphical performance for gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4575mAh | Pixel 8's larger battery should provide longer battery life throughout the day. |
| Charging | 25W | 27W | Pixel 8 has slightly faster-wired charging, but the difference is marginal. |
| Features | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | None | S21 offers more charging options including wireless and reverse wireless charging |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" | Pixel 8's larger sensor and higher resolution capture more light and detail, resulting in better image quality. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21 offers dedicated zoom capabilities, Pixel 8 lacks a dedicated telephoto lens |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | Pixel 8 has a larger sensor which should help with better low-light selfie performance |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9" | S21 has a slightly larger sensor for better low-light performance. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 can record at 8K, better for those who need the highest video resolution; Pixel 8 offers more advanced stabilization features. |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 111 | 148 | Pixel 8 has a significant advantage in overall camera performance based on DxOMark scores. |
| DxOMark Photo Score | 118 | 152 | Pixel 8 excels in photo quality over S21. |
| DxOMark Video Score | 90 | 148 | Pixel 8 offers a better video recording experience. |
| Additional Camera Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Triple camera | Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, Dual camera, Ultra stable video, Laser autofocus (LAF), NPU AI Engine | S21 has Optical zoom, Google Pixel 8 has additional AI and stabilization features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 15 | Android 14, upgradeable to 21 | Pixel 8 has a much newer version of Android and should receive updates for longer. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 7 (802.11be) | Pixel 8's newer WiFi 7 standard offers faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | Pixel 8's newer Bluetooth offers a slightly more stable and efficient connection. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, GLONASS (L1) QZSS | Both phones offer comprehensive GPS support, with minor differences in supported systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Pixel 8 adds eSIM support, providing flexibility for switching carriers digitally. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | Both are well equipped for multitasking with 8 GB of RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both have stereo speakers; S21 offers Dolby Atmos; Pixel 8 has 3 microphones for better audio recording. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint security features. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Both use the same high-end glass for screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Compass, Barometer, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Thermometer, Magnetometer, Barometer, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Both phones offer comprehensive sensor suites; Pixel 8 features a thermometer sensor, the S21 has Geomagnetic, Hall, and Compass. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: Easier to hold for extended periods.
- Dedicated Telephoto Lens: Offers optical zoom capabilities lacking in Pixel 8 for greater versatility.
- Wireless and Reverse Wireless Charging: More charging options, which may be convenient in various use cases
- 8K Video Recording: Offers the highest resolution video for professional content creation.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced audio experience for immersive media consumption
- Geomagnetic and Hall Sensors: for specialized applications.
Google Pixel 8 Advantages:
- Newer Chipset (Tensor G3): Better performance, more efficient AI processing, and faster overall operations.
- Significantly Brighter Display: Better visibility in direct sunlight, improving outdoor usability.
- Larger Battery: Longer battery life on a single charge.
- Superior Main Camera Sensor: Produces better photos and videos with higher dynamic range, better low light performance.
- Much Higher DxOMark Scores: Indicates superior overall camera performance across photo and video.
- Newer Android OS: Ensures better software support, features, and security updates for longer.
- WiFi 7 Support: Faster and more efficient WiFi connectivity.
- eSIM Support: Enables easier carrier switching.
- Additional AI Features: For improved image processing, video recording, and general usage.
- Three Microphones: enhanced audio recording in videos.
Trade-offs
- S21: Lacks in processing power and camera performance compared to the Pixel 8.
- Pixel 8: Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens and has wireless charging
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Users needing a compact, lighter phone: For one-handed use and ease of carrying.
- Users who prioritize versatile camera zoom: The dedicated telephoto lens is useful for various photography scenarios.
- Users focused on specific audio needs: Dolby Atmos is beneficial for movies and music.
- Users who rely on wireless charging and reverse wireless charging
- Users who need 8K video recording
- Price-conscious buyers: This phone is older, making it more affordable on the used market.
Use Cases: General photography, video capture, media consumption, casual gaming.
Google Pixel 8 Ideal User:
- Photography enthusiasts: Looking for a top-tier smartphone camera experience with advanced features.
- Users who prioritize display brightness: For comfortable outdoor viewing.
- Users who need the latest software and updates: Benefit from a newer OS and longer support.
- Users who need a long battery life
- Users who require a fast and responsive phone: Benefit from the Tensor G3 chipset.
- Users who value AI-driven features: enhanced image processing, voice recognition, and more.
Use Cases: Professional photography, videography, mobile gaming, and daily use scenarios where performance and software are key.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is camera quality? If you're a photo enthusiast, the Pixel 8 is superior. If you are satisfied with good camera performance and need versatile zoom capabilities, S21 is good enough.
- Do you prioritize processing speed and battery life? Pixel 8 offers newer, more powerful hardware and better battery endurance.
- How often will you be using your phone in bright sunlight? Pixel 8's superior brightness is a big advantage for outdoor use.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget Conscious): If you are on a tighter budget and require a good performing phone with wireless charging and telephoto lens, the used S21 5G may be the better option, provided you do not mind the older software and camera quality.
- Scenario 2 (Photography Enthusiast): The Google Pixel 8 is the clear choice, offering vastly superior camera performance.
- Scenario 3 (Heavy Usage): The Google Pixel 8 with its superior processor and battery life would be the better choice.
My Choice
I would choose the Google Pixel 8. While the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has some advantages like a dedicated telephoto lens and wireless charging, the Pixel 8 is superior in many key areas that are important for me. The significantly brighter display for outdoor use, larger battery for longer usage, superior camera performance (especially in low light), newer OS with longer updates and more powerful chipset with AI capabilities make it a more compelling option for my daily needs. Although, I like the telephoto lens of the S21, I believe that the superior main camera and software enhancements offered by the Pixel 8 outweigh the need for a dedicated telephoto lens. Lastly, as an avid photographer, the difference in camera quality makes the Pixel 8 an obvious choice.
