Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Motorola Moto G35
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2024-09-25 | Motorola is newer by almost 3 years |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 166.3 × 76 × 7.8 mm | Moto G35 is noticeably larger, potentially harder to handle with one hand but provides larger viewing area. Same thickness. |
| Weight | 169g | 188g | S21 5G is lighter, more comfortable for extended use; Moto G35 feels more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.72" | Moto G35 offers a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. S21 more compact in hand. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same FHD+ resolution, resulting in similar sharpness for the same content. |
| PPI | 421 | 392 | S21 5G has slightly sharper display with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 5G has superior contrast, deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, providing a more premium viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | S21 5G is much better for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc T760 (6 nm) | S21 5G's chipset offers significantly faster processing and better performance in demanding apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 423,297 | S21 5G provides considerably better performance, faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MP4 | S21 5G's GPU offers superior graphics capabilities for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G35 has a larger battery, potentially offering much better battery life, but actual endurance depends on software optimization. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | S21 5G charges faster, reducing time plugged into wall. |
| Charging Features | Reverse/Wireless | None | S21 5G offers wireless charging and reverse charging for other devices, more versatile charging options. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Moto G35 has higher resolution for detailed shots, but S21 5G has larger sensor that captures more light and better performance in low-light scenarios. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto lens, better for zoomed-in photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 16MP, f/2.45, | Moto G35 offers higher resolution for selfies. S21 has wider aperture that is better in low light conditions. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2, | Moto G35 has a dedicated wide angle lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | S21 5G has wide and macro lense for greater flexibility. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 5G records higher resolution video with more features, suitable for professional video creation. |
| DxOMark Mobile | 111 | N/A | S21 5G offers significantly better image quality and video recording capabilities based on DxOMark benchmarks. |
| DxOMark Selfie | 132 | N/A | S21 5G's selfie camera performs very well based on DxOMark scores. |
| Camera Features | OIS, RAW, Night Mode, 8K | Dual Camera | S21 has several features including OIS, RAW, and Night Mode that enhance photo quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable) | Android 14 (no data on upgrades) | Moto G35 ships with a more recent version of Android. S21 is upgradeable to Android 15. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 (ac) | S21 5G has faster WiFi, more efficient performance on modern networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE with aptX, etc | 5.0 LE with AAC | S21 5G offers more advanced bluetooth features including AptX. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, QZSS | S21 5G offers more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Moto G35 supports eSIM for more flexible carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have similar storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4/8 GB | S21 5G has higher base RAM and will multitask better. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation, Stereo | Dolby Atmos, Stereo | S21 5G offers enhanced spatial audio and improved call quality via noise cancellation. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Moto G35 has a more convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21 5G has superior screen protection, more resistant to scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | No | S21 5G offers additional environmental sensors for various applications and better gaming experiences. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED technology, higher brightness, and slightly higher pixel density offer a significantly better viewing experience with more vibrant colors and better outdoor visibility.
- Much Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides much faster processing speeds, better multitasking, and more robust gaming capabilities.
- Advanced Camera System: Features include a telephoto lens, larger sensors, optical image stabilization (OIS), 8K video recording, and RAW support, offering greater versatility and quality.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Features: 25W fast charging, plus 15W wireless charging and reverse charging offer more convenient and versatile charging options.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better screen protection.
- More Feature-Rich Audio: Includes noise cancellation microphone, enhancing call quality.
- Advanced connectivity: includes WiFi 6 and better GPS.
Motorola Moto G35 Advantages:
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 14, providing a more recent operating system.
- Larger Display: A larger 6.72" screen is ideal for media consumption and users who prefer larger interfaces.
- Significantly Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery should offer superior battery life for daily use.
- Dual SIM + eSIM: offers more flexible carrier switching.
- Wide Angle Lens: Has a dedicated wide angle lens.
- More Modern Fingerprint: Has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21 5G is older, and is likely to receive fewer software updates in the future compared to the Moto G35.
- Motorola Moto G35 is slower, has worse screen quality, a significantly less capable camera system and lacks premium features such as wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who need a high-performance device for demanding applications, gaming, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with high image quality and advanced features.
- Media Consumers: Those who appreciate a high-quality display for watching videos and browsing content.
- Users who appreciate premium features: Those who want wireless charging and a more modern look and feel.
Specific Use Cases:
* High-end gaming with smooth graphics.
* High quality photography and videography.
* Watching high quality HDR content.
* Fast app loading and seamless multi-tasking.
Motorola Moto G35 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Individuals looking for a capable smartphone at a more affordable price point.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Those who need a device that can last all day on a single charge.
- Large Screen Fans: Users who prefer a large display for media and daily use.
- Users who prefer a newer OS: Those who want the latest version of Android.
Specific Use Cases:
* Long days without worrying about battery life.
* Basic daily tasks such as browsing social media, web browsing, and calling.
* Users who want a wide angle lens.
* Users who need the flexibility of an eSIM.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 5G: Offers significantly higher performance and better features, which is reflected in the price. It provides a better experience for power users.
- Motorola Moto G35: Offers decent performance and a large battery at a more affordable price. It's a great choice for users who prioritize battery life and basic functionality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance vs Battery? Do you prioritize a powerful processor and advanced features or a longer-lasting battery and larger screen?
- Camera Quality? Do you need a high-quality, versatile camera system or just a decent camera for everyday snapshots?
- Budget vs. Premium Features? Are you willing to pay more for a premium experience, or do you need a reliable phone on a tighter budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gamer/Power User: If you play a lot of games or use demanding applications, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its much higher performance, better display, and smoother gaming experience.
- Scenario 2: Battery Life Prioritization: If you need all-day battery life and your budget is limited, choose the Motorola Moto G35.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If you take a lot of pictures and video and want higher quality output, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G due to its superior camera system.
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
If I had to choose, I would personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. Although it is an older phone, the performance gap is significant enough to make the S21 a better choice for me. The superior AMOLED display, much faster chipset, wireless charging, and significantly better camera system with greater flexibility make it much better suited for my use case which involves gaming, photography, and video watching. The trade-off in battery life and slightly older OS is worth it considering the overall premium experience it provides. The build quality also feels much better with the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus display offering better protection. The superior audio and call quality is an additional factor that would lead to an improved user experience.
