Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Motorola Moto G31
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Motorola Moto G31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-12-06 | Moto G31 is newer, potentially with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm, 169g | 161.9 x 73.9 x 8.6 mm, 181g | S21 5G is more compact and lighter, better for one-handed use, Moto G31 slightly larger. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.4" | Moto G31 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both have sharp, detailed displays with identical resolution. |
| PPI | 421 | 411 | Negligible difference in pixel density; both appear equally sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks common with AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 5G has much smoother scrolling and animations, making the experience feel more fluid and responsive. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 5G is significantly brighter, making it much more usable under direct sunlight; Moto G31's brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Helio G85 (12 nm) | S21 5G has a much faster and more efficient chipset, providing better performance and energy efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 225,154 | S21 5G is significantly faster in all tasks, especially gaming and demanding apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G52 MC2 | S21 5G has a significantly more powerful GPU, resulting in superior graphics performance in games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Moto G31 has larger battery, likely providing longer battery life, depending on usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | S21 5G charges much faster, reducing downtime waiting for the phone to charge. |
| Charging Features | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse charging, No charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 5G offers wireless and reverse wireless charging, Moto G31 has only standard charging capabilities |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Moto G31 has higher resolution, but S21 5G has a larger sensor size which can mean better low-light performance |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | N/A | S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto lens, allowing for optical zoom. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.0 | Moto G31 has a dedicated ultrawide, while S21 5G includes this in a wide angle mode. |
| Macro Camera | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Moto G31 has a dedicated Macro camera, allowing for detailed close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 13MP, f/2.2 | Moto G31 has slightly higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Video | Up to 8K, EIS, HDR | 1080p@30fps | S21 5G has significantly better video recording capabilities, including 8K, HDR, and stabilization |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | N/A | S21 5G has a good DxOMark score, indicating good camera performance compared to phones of its time. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Continuous autofocus, Manual Focus, Night Mode | Laser autofocus | S21 5G has a more advanced set of camera features for both stills and video. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21 5G is guaranteed to receive updates to Android 15, while the Moto G31's update schedule is unknown. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | S21 5G has the latest Wi-Fi standard with faster speeds, lower latency and better performance on congested networks |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, extensive features | 5.0 LE, fewer features | S21 5G has more comprehensive Bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | Dual Band GPS | Standard GPS | S21 5G offers more precise GPS with dual-band support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | S21 5G offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 4GB | S21 5G has double the RAM for better multitasking performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers, Noise Canceling Mic | 2 Microphones | S21 5G has better overall audio output and clarity for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | In-display fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor on Moto G31 is generally faster and easier to use. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 5G has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Barometer | None | S21 5G has additional environmental sensors like barometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly better performance in terms of processing power, gaming, and multitasking.
- Better Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness offer a much more fluid and visually superior experience.
- Advanced Camera System: The S21 5G features a versatile camera system with telephoto zoom, 8k video recording, OIS, and more advanced features.
- Faster Charging: 25W fast charging allows for much quicker battery replenishment.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 support and dual-band GPS offer faster and more accurate connectivity.
- More Audio Features: Stereo speakers and a noise cancellation microphone provide better overall audio performance
- More Software Updates: Guaranteed upgrade to Android 15 ensures longer support
- Premium Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers better screen protection.
Practical Implications for S21 5G:
* Ideal for users who prioritize smooth performance, high-quality visuals, and advanced camera features.
* Offers a more premium experience for demanding users.
Motorola Moto G31 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers significantly longer battery life, which is ideal for users needing long periods between charges.
- Macro Camera: Dedicated macro lens allows close-up photos, which some users may find useful.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Convenient and fast unlocking.
- Lower Price Point : The G31 will likely be more budget friendly.
Practical Implications for Moto G31:
* Ideal for users who prioritize battery life and value, as well as those who enjoy taking macro photography.
* Offers a better "bang-for-the-buck" for budget-conscious buyers.
Trade-offs:
- The S21 5G sacrifices battery life and macro lens for superior display and processing.
- The Moto G31 sacrifices speed and camera capabilities for battery life and affordability.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, video content creators, those who prioritize a premium mobile experience.
- Use Cases:
- Playing demanding mobile games.
- Creating and editing high-resolution video content.
- Using advanced camera features for photography.
- Multitasking between several apps and programs.
- Enjoying media content with smooth animations and vibrant colors.
- Using for long hours on the go and needing fast recharging.
Motorola Moto G31:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious buyers, users who need long battery life, users who prefer simplicity.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday use like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Extended use without worrying about battery life.
- Casual photography with macro lens for close-ups.
- Users who don't require high-end graphics or processing speed.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget?
- The Moto G31 is likely to be the more budget-friendly option.
- What do you prioritize most: performance/camera or battery life?
- S21 5G: Performance, display, and advanced camera.
- Moto G31: Longer battery life and affordability.
- How important are advanced features like 120Hz display, wireless charging, and 8K video?
- S21 5G: Includes these features.
- Moto G31: Does not offer these features.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-Performance & Premium Experience: If you need the best possible performance, a smooth display, and a versatile camera system, and you're willing to pay extra, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Friendly & Long Battery Life: If you need a phone with good battery life, decent performance for everyday tasks, and you don't want to spend too much, the Motorola Moto G31 is a suitable option.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Option: If you can find a good deal on the S21 5G it will perform well in both battery and speed scenarios.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the battery life of the Moto G31 is attractive, the significant advantages of the S21 5G in overall performance, display quality (especially the 120Hz refresh rate), camera capabilities, faster charging and better connectivity outweigh the battery life differences for my usage. I prefer the smoother experience and better overall performance the S21 5G provides, especially for gaming, content consumption and photography. I also value the faster charging to minimize downtime and the longer software support. Though a bit older, the superior performance and camera system justify it for my needs.
