Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Motorola Moto G52
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Motorola Moto G52 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 160.1 x 74.5 x 8 mm | Moto G52 is larger and slightly thicker, may feel bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 169g | 169g | Both are equally lightweight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.6" | Moto G52 has a larger display, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp visuals. |
| PPI | 421 | 402 | S21 has slightly crisper text and images due to higher pixel density, but the difference may be barely noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 offers smoother scrolling and animations, especially in fast-paced games. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 is significantly better for outdoor visibility and in bright sunlight. Moto G52 brightness data is not available. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | S21's chipset is significantly more powerful, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 216,000 | S21 offers significantly faster overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 610 | S21's GPU is much more powerful, offering better graphics processing for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 12MP | 50MP | Moto G52's main camera has a higher resolution; However, sensor size also plays a critical role |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.76" | 1/2.76" | S21 has a larger sensor, which generally means better low-light performance and overall image quality. |
| Telephoto/Portrait Lens | Yes (64MP) | No | S21 provides optical zoom and portrait capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes (12.2MP) | Yes (8MP) | Both have a wide-angle lens, but the resolution and image quality will differ. Samsung's is combined with a Macro lens. |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes (2MP) | Moto G52 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 16MP | Moto G52 has higher selfie camera resolution. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.45 | S21's wider aperture can provide better low light performance on the selfie camera. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | S21 offers much higher video recording quality. |
| DxOMark Camera Score | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | Not Available | S21 is rated very high on DxOMark's camera tests. |
| Camera Features | More features: OIS, RAW, etc. | Fewer features | S21 offers a more comprehensive suite of camera features and a better user experience for those who prioritize photography. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G52 has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Moto G52 has slightly faster charging speeds. |
| Charging Features | Wireless, Reverse | None | S21 has wireless and reverse wireless charging, which provides extra convenience. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 | Moto G52 ships with a newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | S21 supports the latest WiFi standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 | Both are the same. |
| GPS | More Satellite Systems | Less Satellite Systems | S21 offers more precise location accuracy due to support for additional satellite systems. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both offer up to 256GB of storage, but the Moto G52 has a 64GB option. |
| RAM | 8GB | 4GB/6GB | S21 has more RAM which results in better performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos | S21 has an advantage in audio with a noise-cancelling microphone, potentially better for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Moto G52's side-mounted sensor is often more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21 has more advanced screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | None | S21 includes a barometer, which is useful for weather and altitude data. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly better processing power, crucial for demanding applications, gaming, and overall responsiveness.
- Better Display: Brighter display (1300 nits vs unknown for Moto G52), higher refresh rate (120Hz vs 90Hz) and slightly better pixel density, resulting in a more vibrant and smoother user experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers a telephoto lens for optical zoom, superior main sensor, 8K video recording, and advanced camera features like OIS, RAW, and night mode resulting in better picture quality.
- Wireless Charging: Supports wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- Enhanced Audio: Includes a noise-cancellation microphone for clearer calls and audio recordings.
- Superior Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers greater resistance to scratches and drops.
- More Sensors: Includes a barometer for added functionality.
- Latest Wi-Fi Standard: Uses the WiFi 6 standard.
- Higher RAM: 8GB, better for multitasking.
Motorola Moto G52 Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.6-inch screen is better for media consumption and multitasking if a bigger display is a priority.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers longer battery life than the S21, which should be better for daily use.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging is slightly faster compared to the 25W on the S21.
- Higher Main Camera Resolution: 50MP vs. 12MP; However sensor size on the S21 is bigger.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Provides the ability to take close-up pictures with a dedicated macro lens.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Often more convenient than the basic fingerprint sensor.
- Newer Android OS Out of Box: Ships with Android 12.
Trade-offs:
- S21: Sacrifices battery life and a larger display for superior performance, camera capabilities, and more features.
- Moto G52: Prioritizes battery life, screen size, and a lower cost point at the expense of performance, camera quality, display technology, and advanced features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Individuals who require top-notch performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize image quality and a versatile camera system with optical zoom, advanced features, and 8K video recording.
- Multimedia Lovers: Users who appreciate a vibrant and smooth display with a high refresh rate and brightness for enjoying videos and movies, and who may be in bright sunlight.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who value the latest features such as wireless charging, a better Wi-Fi standard, and superior screen protection.
- Users who don't mind charging more often: S21 is likely to need more charges throughout the day.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Mobile gaming with high graphics settings.
- Professional photography and videography.
- Heavy multitasking with multiple apps.
- Watching HDR content.
- Use cases where high performance and a great camera is a necessity.
Motorola Moto G52 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those looking for a reliable smartphone with a good display and battery life at an affordable price.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for browsing, social media, media consumption, and basic photography and do not prioritize top-tier specs.
- Users who want a bigger display: Those who prioritize screen size.
- Users who prioritize battery life: Those who value longevity from their device battery.
Use Cases for Motorola Moto G52:
- Daily web browsing and social media usage.
- Watching videos and movies.
- Casual gaming.
- Photography and videography with macro capabilities.
- Use cases where battery life and price are the priorities.
Price-to-Value:
- The S21 will likely be more expensive due to its premium features and performance.
- The Moto G52 offers good value for those who prioritize battery life and screen size on a budget.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, Photography, Media, Casual Use)
- How important is performance vs. battery life?
- What is your budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Gaming & Performance: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. Its superior performance, GPU, and 120Hz display will provide a much smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
Scenario 2: All-Day Battery & Casual Use: Choose the Motorola Moto G52. The larger battery ensures longer usage between charges, which is beneficial for casual use.
Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. It offers a significantly better camera system with greater versatility, optical zoom, and advanced features.
Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious User Choose the Motorola Moto G52. The lower price point and still good battery life and screen size will work well.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. My rationale is based on the following:
- Performance: As someone who frequently uses multiple applications simultaneously and enjoys gaming, the significant performance advantage of the S21's Exynos 2100 chipset is crucial for a smooth user experience.
- Camera Capabilities: The superior camera system, including the telephoto lens, 8K video recording, and advanced features like OIS and RAW capabilities, aligns with my interest in photography and videography.
- Display Quality: The brighter 120Hz display of the S21 enhances the overall viewing experience, making it better for media consumption and general use.
- Feature Set: The addition of wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, the latest Wi-Fi standard, superior screen protection, and additional sensors provide further value to me.
While the Motorola G52 does have a larger battery, better charging, and a larger screen, these are secondary to my needs for performance and camera. I am willing to accept slightly less battery life and a slightly smaller screen for the S21's overall superior experience.
