1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-06-14 | Moto G Stylus 5G is newer by ~4.5 months, potentially impacting software updates |
| Size | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 169.5 x 77.5 x 9.4 mm | S21 is significantly more compact and pocketable; Moto G Stylus 5G is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use |
| Weight | 169g | 217.5g | S21 is substantially lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.8" | Moto G Stylus 5G offers a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness levels |
| Pixel Density | 421 PPI | 387 PPI | S21 has slightly sharper text and images |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 has superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors; better for dark mode and HDR content |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 offers significantly smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 has dramatically better outdoor visibility, especially in sunlight (Moto G's nit value is missing, meaning it's either not reported, or very low). |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 480 5G (8 nm) | S21's chipset is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 171,000 | S21 has dramatically higher performance, indicating much better overall responsiveness |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 619 | S21 has a more powerful GPU, better for demanding graphics tasks, gaming, and video editing. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear | 12MP, f/1.8 | 48MP, f/1.7 | Moto G Stylus 5G's primary sensor has much higher resolution (48MP vs 12MP) and a slightly wider aperture, potentially capturing more details and brighter images |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0 | Not Available | S21 includes a telephoto lens for optical zoom and portrait shots, offering better flexibility |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2 | 20MP, f/2.0 | Moto G Stylus 5G has higher resolution and a wider aperture for potentially sharper and brighter selfies |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.2 | Moto G Stylus 5G has a dedicated wide-angle lens, offering wider perspective shots (information for S21 comes from the wide + macro lens). |
| Macro | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.2 | Moto G Stylus 5G features a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Not Available | Present | Moto G Stylus 5G has a depth sensor, beneficial for portrait modes. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@60fps | S21 supports higher quality video recording, including 8K resolution for professional-grade content creation |
| DxoMark Score | Mobile 111, Selfie 132 | Not Available | S21 has been tested and shows a high quality camera, while Moto G Stylus 5G scores aren't available. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000 mAh | 4000 mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, leading to comparable battery life (subject to other factors) |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | S21 charges significantly faster, reducing charging time |
| Features | 15W Wireless, Reverse Wireless, No Charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 offers more convenient wireless charging options |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 15 | Android 11, upgradeable to 12 | S21 is supported for longer, receiving more software updates and features |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128 GB | S21 provides more storage options |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4 GB | S21 has twice the RAM, allowing for smoother multitasking and app usage |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones lack expandable storage |
| Other | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | S21 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi standard |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic | S21 provides superior audio quality, including spatial audio and immersive experience |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 has superior screen protection |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Significantly superior performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers dramatically higher processing power and graphics performance, leading to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming.
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a much better visual experience with deeper blacks, vibrant colors, smoother animations, and high brightness.
- Advanced Camera System: The telephoto lens and high-quality sensors with 8K video capabilities, plus better stabilization options, make it a more versatile and capable choice for photography and videography.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Capabilities: The 25W fast charging and wireless charging options are more convenient and time-saving.
- Better Audio Experience: The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers enhances the overall audio quality and immersion.
- Longer Software Support: The S21 will receive more software upgrades and features.
- Higher Quality Build: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior protection
Practical Implications:
- The S21 excels in tasks requiring high performance, such as gaming, video editing, and complex multitasking.
- Its display is much better for media consumption, including watching HDR content and browsing in bright light.
- The camera is a better option for those who prioritize high-quality photos and videos with more features.
- Its wireless charging capabilities add convenience for users who prefer cable-free charging.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.8-inch screen offers more real estate for media consumption, multitasking, and stylus input.
- Stylus Integration: The included stylus is a unique feature, ideal for note-taking, sketching, and navigation.
- Dedicated Macro and Wide Angle Cameras: Additional dedicated lenses offer a range of photography options
- Potentially Better Selfies: Higher resolution selfie camera with a wider aperture.
Practical Implications:
- The larger display is better for those who value screen real estate and want to use a stylus for navigation and creativity.
- The macro lens is useful for detailed close-up shots, while the wide-angle lens is useful in tight spaces and for group photos.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21: Slower battery charging without an included charger in box and lacks expandable storage.
- Moto G Stylus 5G: Significantly lower performance, inferior display quality, basic audio features, and a less advanced camera system compared to the S21.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers, content creators, and heavy multitaskers who demand fast and smooth performance.
- Photography and Videography Buffs: Users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos with advanced features like 8K video, optical zoom, and optical stabilization.
- Media Consumers: Those who enjoy watching videos, movies, and playing mobile games and want a superior display experience.
- Users who want a compact phone: The lighter and more compact phone is better for one-handed use and portability.
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming: Demanding games run smoother, with better frame rates and graphics quality.
- Video Editing: Editing 4K or 8K videos is significantly faster and more efficient.
- Professional Photography: The versatile camera system is ideal for capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Outdoor Use: The bright AMOLED display is easily visible in direct sunlight.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Ideal Users:
- Note-takers and Sketchers: Users who prefer using a stylus for note-taking, drawing, and navigation.
- Media Consumers on a Budget: Those who prioritize a large display for watching videos and browsing the web.
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those who want a 5G device with decent features at an affordable price.
- Users who want more camera options: Dedicated macro and wide angle lenses are a plus for those that enjoy varied types of photography.
Specific Use Cases:
- Note-Taking and Annotations: The stylus enables precise input and handwriting recognition.
- Viewing Media: The large screen is suitable for watching movies and browsing the web.
- Casual Photography: The multiple lens options are suitable for different scenarios.
- Cost-Conscious Users: For buyers who don't need a high-end phone, the Moto G offers many of the same features while staying more affordable.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers a premium experience with its superior display, performance, and camera, justifying its higher price for performance and visual experience.
- The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G provides an affordable entry into 5G with a large screen and stylus integration, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is performance to you? If you engage in gaming, demanding apps, or heavy multitasking, the S21's higher performance will be crucial. For basic use, the Moto G Stylus 5G may suffice.
- Do you prioritize display quality or size? If display quality is a priority for you, with vibrancy, clarity, and high refresh rate, the S21 is superior. If screen size is the main factor, the Moto G Stylus 5G provides a larger display, and a stylus.
- What are your primary camera usage needs? If you need high quality photos and video from multiple camera lenses, with an emphasis on quality, the S21 would be superior. If you need variety in your shots, the moto g stylus 5g provides multiple lenses for different situations.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Power User: If you want the best performance, display, and camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the clear choice.
- For the Budget-Conscious Creative: If you want a large display, a stylus, and a variety of camera options, and you're okay with slower performance, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G provides a good alternative at a lower price.
- For Everyday Use: If you want a balanced mix of features, high performance, and good camera quality for daily use with a better display, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the superior choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the Moto G Stylus 5G has its appeal with its larger screen and stylus, the Samsung S21 excels in almost every other category that is important to me. The vastly superior performance of the Exynos 2100 chipset, coupled with the amazing AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, would make a huge difference in daily use. Additionally, the camera system of the S21 is a big draw. I prioritize a smooth, responsive, visually appealing, and high-performance phone. While the lack of expandable storage is a minor drawback, the overall package of the S21 far outweighs its limitations. For me, the enhanced user experience, especially in terms of display, speed, and camera, is worth the extra investment, and I'd like to have a device that will last me for several years and retain value.
