1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers a larger screen that can be folded for portability, while the S21 5G has a conventional, more compact design. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 155.2 × 150.2 × 5.1 mm (Unfolded) | The Pixel is taller, significantly wider when unfolded, but much thinner when unfolded. The S21 is smaller in pocket, while the Pixel offers a tablet-like experience when unfolded. |
| Weight | 169g | 257g | The S21 5G is much lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and single-handed operation. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is noticeably heavier, which can be tiring for extended use but may feel more premium. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 8" | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold provides a much larger display, ideal for media consumption, multitasking, and gaming. The S21 is better suited for those preferring a compact phone for single-hand use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 2076x2152 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers a higher resolution providing sharper, crisper images and text, particularly noticeable on the larger screen. |
| PPI | 421 | 373 | The S21 5G has a slightly higher pixel density, meaning that images and text will appear marginally sharper on its smaller screen compared to Pixel's larger screen with lower density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | The S21 5G's AMOLED screen provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and vibrant colors. The display technology for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is not listed, which is a limitation for this comparison. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both devices offer smooth scrolling and animations due to the 120Hz refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | The S21 5G’s much higher brightness is significantly better for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's brightness is not specified which poses a limitation for this comparison. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | The Google Tensor G4 in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers a newer architecture and potentially better performance, particularly in AI-related tasks, compared to the S21's Exynos 2100. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 1,140,000 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's significantly higher AnTuTu score indicates superior performance in daily tasks, demanding apps, and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G715 MC7 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's GPU should offer better graphics performance for gaming and other graphically intensive tasks based on the newer generation, but the actual performance may vary based on the software optimization. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4650mAh | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a larger battery which should provide longer battery life between charges, particularly important for users frequently using the larger unfolded display. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 27W fast charging | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a slightly faster charging rate, allowing for faster battery replenishment. |
| Features | Reverse charging, 15W Wireless charging, 4.5W Reverse wireless, No charger in-box | Non-removable, 7.5W wireless charging | The S21 5G offers more wireless charging flexibility. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's wireless charging is slower. The S21 5G not including a charger in the box is a disadvantage. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" Sony IMX555, 1.80 µm pixel size | 48MP, f/1.7 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's standard camera has a significantly higher resolution (48MP vs 12MP), potentially capturing more detailed images. The Pixel also has a slightly wider aperture, which can be better in low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" Samsung S5KGW2, 0.80 µm pixel size | None | The S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto camera for better zoom and portrait shots. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is missing this functionality |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" Sony IMX374, 1.22 µm pixel size | 10MP, f/2.2 | Both phones have a similar selfie camera in terms of resolution and aperture, providing decent performance for social media and video calls. However, the sensor and pixel sizes on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold are not specified. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10.8MP, f/3.0, 1/2.65" Samsung S5K3J1, 1.22 µm pixel size | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a dedicated telephoto lens, which the S21 5G lacks, which will improve zoom and perspective compression in shots. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 10.5MP, f/2.2 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a dedicated Wide Angle lens, which the S21 5G lacks, which allows for a wider field of view. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX563, 1.40 µm pixel size | None | The S21 5G has a dedicated wide angle + macro lens, which provides versatility in capturing landscape shots and highly-detailed close-up shots. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is missing this functionality. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, HDR, EIS, Stereo sound | Up to 4K@60fps, HDR, OIS, EIS | The S21 5G supports up to 8K video recording with HDR. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is limited to 4k. Both phones offer smooth video due to EIS and OIS. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | Main: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 90 | Main: 141, Photo: 0, Video: 0 | The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a significantly higher overall DxOMark score. However, it doesn't have a photo or video score. The S21 5G shows more even performance with scores for Photo and Video. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | Main: 132, Photo: 125, Video: 145 | Not Tested | The S21 5G has a well-performing selfie camera based on DxOMark scores. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold was not tested in the DxOMark selfie category |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry.
- Superior Display Brightness: Significantly better visibility outdoors in sunlight.
- More Flexible Wireless Charging: Offers faster wireless charging (15W) and reverse wireless charging.
- Dedicated Telephoto + Portrait and Wide Angle + Macro Cameras: Provides versatile photography options.
- 8K Video Recording: Higher video resolution for those who need it.
- Well performing Selfie Camera: Has been tested and received solid scores for photo and video capabilities.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Advantages:
- Larger Foldable Display: Offers a unique tablet-like experience when unfolded, excellent for media consumption, multitasking, and gaming.
- Superior Performance: Faster processor and better benchmark scores (52% higher in AnTuTu score) for more responsive experience and better gaming.
- Newer Software: Comes with a newer version of Android and is expected to receive updates for longer.
- More RAM: 16GB of RAM is excellent for heavy multitasking and demanding games.
- Larger Battery Capacity: Likely to provide longer battery life.
- Wider Aperture in Main Camera: Slightly better low-light performance with a slightly wider f/1.7 aperture compared to f/1.8.
- Dedicated Telephoto and Wide Angle lenses: Improves zoom and offers wider field of view
- eSIM Support: Offers eSIM support for easier digital carrier switching.
- Higher Overall DxOMark Score: Has an overall higher mobile camera score (141)
- Newer Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Standards: Features Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E for faster and more reliable connections
Trade-offs
- The S21 5G's smaller form factor makes it better for one-handed use and portability, but it lacks the large display of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which greatly enhances viewing experience.
- The S21 5G's camera system is more versatile with the addition of a Telephoto + portrait and Wide Angle + Macro camera, but the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a higher main camera resolution, dedicated Telephoto and Wide Angle Lens.
- The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's folded form factor is not compact. This and the additional weight of the phone can make it difficult to use single-handedly and carry around in small spaces.
- The S21 5G is older, and will not receive software updates for as long as the newer Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Users who value portability and single-handed use: The smaller size and lighter weight make it easy to carry and use with one hand.
- Users who prefer a traditional smartphone form factor: Those not looking for a foldable device.
- Users who prioritize display brightness and outdoor visibility: The higher brightness of 1300 nits ensures good readability even in bright sunlight.
- Users who want a versatile camera system: The telephoto and macro cameras, combined with 8K video recording, offer more flexibility.
- Users who want fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging: Makes it easy to charge wirelessly and charge other devices using your phone.
Specific Use Cases:
- Daily commuting and on-the-go use
- Outdoor photography and videography
- Casual gaming and media consumption
- Users who prefer an intuitive, traditional smartphone experience.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Ideal User:
- Users who want a larger screen for immersive experiences: The 8-inch foldable display is perfect for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking.
- Users who value performance and future proofing: The newer Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM provide a faster and smoother experience and more longevity for software updates.
- Users who want to make the most of the Google ecosystem: The phone will have enhanced AI capabilities and other Google exclusive services.
- Users who are looking for a premium experience: The newer technologies will help provide a smooth and enhanced user experience
- Users who prefer newer, cutting-edge technologies: The foldable form factor and more recent standards for connectivity and charging, make this a more advanced and premium phone.
Specific Use Cases:
- Intensive gaming and multitasking
- Watching videos, reading, and browsing the internet
- Mobile work tasks such as spreadsheets, word processing and presentations
- Users who need a highly responsive and long-lasting phone
- Users who desire the latest features and technologies
Price-to-Value Ratio
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is older and would be cheaper, offering good value for money for users who want a compact, well-performing smartphone with a good display and camera.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a premium, more expensive phone, which justifies its higher price with its large foldable display, superior performance, and newer software.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you need a foldable device? If having a larger display is a priority, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the obvious choice.
- What's more important: portability or performance? The S21 5G is smaller and lighter, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers significantly better performance.
- How important are battery life and wireless charging? The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a larger battery, but the S21 5G has more flexible charging options, such as 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: On-the-Go User:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, because it's compact, lightweight, and has good outdoor visibility, making it practical for daily use.
- Scenario 2: Media Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold for its large, immersive display which enhances the user's media experience.
- Scenario 3: Power User/Gamer:
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold due to its superior processor, GPU and RAM and a larger display, leading to better gaming and multitasking capabilities.
- Scenario 4: Photography Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its more versatile camera system with the addition of telephoto and wide angle + macro lenses. If you are only looking for higher resolution on the main camera and do not require additional versatile lens options, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold would work well.
What I would choose and why!
My Choice: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
I would choose the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold because I find the foldable form factor extremely compelling for my use case. I often consume media and need to refer to multiple documents, and a larger display is preferable to me. While I acknowledge that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is bulkier and heavier, I am willing to trade the portability for the enhanced screen real estate. The higher performance and newer software, coupled with a large battery, make the device more appealing for the demanding workload and gaming sessions that I would put the device through. Although the S21 5G has a more versatile camera system, the higher resolution main camera and dedicated telephoto and wide angle lenses of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold are still adequate for my photography needs. The better software and hardware integration are compelling enough to justify this trade-off. I also am a fan of the stock Android experience that Google Pixel phones provide. Therefore, I am willing to trade the traditional, familiar form-factor for an immersive and futuristic experience.
