1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Razr 50 offers a unique foldable design, while S21 is a traditional slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 171.3 × 74 × 7.3 mm | Razr 50 is taller and slightly wider, S21 is a bit thicker. Razr 50 has larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 169g | 188.4g | S21 is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle for longer periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.9" | Razr 50 offers a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Razr 50 has a slightly sharper display with more pixels, although not massively noticeable. |
| PPI | 421 | 413 | Both have very similar pixel density and sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | S21 has AMOLED display which provides vibrant colours, deep blacks, better contrast and better energy efficiency for dark mode, while Razr 50 screen technology is not specified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 3000 nits | Razr 50 offers significantly higher brightness, much better outdoor visibility in sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7300X (4 nm) | S21's Exynos 2100 provides slightly better performance, but both are fast for everyday tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 620,395 | S21 has a higher benchmark score, indicating better overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G615 MC2 | S21's GPU is more powerful, better for graphics-intensive tasks like gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4200mAh | Razr 50 has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering marginally better battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Razr 50 charges slightly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W, No charger in-box | Wireless 15W | S21 offers reverse wireless charging, while both offer wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 12MP | 50MP | Razr 50 has significantly higher resolution for more detail in standard photos. |
| Standard Camera Pixel Size | 1.80 µm | 0.70 µm | S21's larger pixel size potentially captures more light in standard photos. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 64MP (f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.80 µm) | None | S21 has a dedicated telephoto camera, offering better optical zoom and portrait capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 32MP | Razr 50 captures higher-resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.4 | S21 has a slightly wider aperture, better low light performance in selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP (f/2.2) | Razr 50 offers a dedicated wide angle lens, while S21 has a combined wide angle + macro lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40 µm) | None | S21 has a dedicated wide angle + macro camera. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 can record higher resolution videos. |
| DxoMark Mobile Score | 111 | 92 | S21 has a significantly better camera score for the main camera. |
| DxoMark Selfie Score | 132 (only S21 tested) | N/A | S21 has been tested and performed well in selfie testing. |
| Camera Features | 8K video, Optical zoom, Triple camera | Time-Lapse, Ultra stable video, Dual camera, Laser autofocus | S21 has a dedicated telephoto lens, while Razr 50 features Time-Lapse and Laser AF. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 14 | Razr 50 ships with a newer OS. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi MiMO | Razr 50 supports newer Wi-Fi standard for faster speeds and reduced interference. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Razr 50 has a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | S21 offers dual-band GPS, better for precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano, eSIM) | Razr 50 supports eSIM for easy switching between carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 256 GB or 512 GB | Razr 50 offers more storage, beneficial for storing large files and apps. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Razr 50 has a 12 GB option, beneficial for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both offer stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, S21 offers Noise cancellation microphone and Razr 50 has 3 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Razr 50 provides a more advanced side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both have similar screen protection technology. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | S21 includes Barometer, while both have basic motion sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Stronger Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and higher AnTuTu score translate to slightly better app loading and smoother operation, making it more responsive for demanding tasks.
- Superior Main Camera: Larger pixel sizes and a dedicated telephoto lens contribute to potentially better low-light performance and optical zoom capabilities. It also has better DxoMark Mobile camera score.
- Higher Video Recording Capabilities: Ability to record 8K videos, making it a better option for professional video needs.
- More Extensive GPS: Dual-band GPS provides more precise location data for navigation apps and location-based services.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Unique ability to charge other devices wirelessly using the phone's battery.
- Better Selfie Camera: Better low light performance due to larger aperture and better DxoMark selfie camera score
Motorola Razr 50 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor that allows for a more compact size when folded and a larger screen when unfolded, providing flexibility for different use cases.
- Larger, Brighter Display: A larger 6.9" screen is excellent for media consumption, and the higher brightness significantly enhances outdoor visibility.
- Higher Resolution Primary and Selfie Camera: More megapixels in the main and selfie cameras result in images with higher detail and clarity.
- Newer OS: Ships with a newer Android OS for better security, features, and performance.
- Faster Charging: 30W fast charging reduces the time spent waiting for the phone to charge.
- eSIM Support: Allows digital switching between carriers, convenient for travelers.
- Newer Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E offers faster wireless speeds and less interference.
- Higher Storage Options: Up to 512GB internal storage for storing more media and apps, and an optional 12GB of RAM for heavy multitasking.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Offers a more convenient and faster way to unlock your phone.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21: Lacks the innovative foldable design, has lower camera resolution and its battery life might be inferior to Razr 50.
- Razr 50: Lower benchmark performance, lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, and its screen technology is unknown.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Ideal User: Someone who prioritizes performance, camera capabilities, and a traditional smartphone experience.
- Use Cases:
- Professional photographers who want high-quality photos and 8k video recording.
- Mobile gamers who need a responsive device and good graphics performance.
- Users who appreciate the quality of AMOLED screens.
- Price-to-Value: The S21 is an older model, potentially offering more value on the used market, or might be available with discounts.
Motorola Razr 50:
- Ideal User: Someone who wants an innovative design, a large display, and the convenience of a foldable phone with great battery and a more up-to-date device.
- Use Cases:
- Users who want a larger screen for media consumption and web browsing but also value a compact device that fits in a pocket.
- Travelers who want eSIM capabilities and the ability to easily switch between carriers.
- People who need a bright display for outdoor use.
- Price-to-Value: The Razr 50 is a newer device and is expected to be priced higher than the S21.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize form factor? Do you prefer a standard slab phone (S21) or the unique foldable design (Razr 50)?
- Do you need top-tier performance, better camera and video features? If yes, the S21 might be a better choice, even though it is older.
- Is a large, bright display and battery life more important? If yes, the Razr 50 might be a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance Enthusiast - If you need a phone for heavy gaming and intense multitasking, the S21's stronger processor and GPU will provide a slightly better experience, although the Razr is also a good performer.
- Scenario 2: Media Consumption Lover: If you want the best experience when watching videos or reading articles, then Razr 50's larger and brighter screen is a better choice.
- Scenario 3: The Innovative User: If you prioritize having the newest technology and want the portability of a foldable phone with more modern features, Razr 50 is the obvious choice.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious Buyer: If price is a major concern, the S21 might offer better value, especially if you don't need the latest features, but need good performance and camera quality.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would personally choose the Motorola Razr 50. While the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has a better main camera, better performance, and more GPS capabilities, I find the innovation and versatility of the foldable design, combined with the larger and brighter display, and the more modern OS to be more appealing. I prioritize having a more compact device when I am not using it, and a larger screen when I need it, and the Razr 50 delivers that experience. The Razr 50 also has a more modern fingerprint sensor, newer WiFi, and more storage options, making it a more appealing all-round device for my personal use. The slightly lower performance and camera quality trade-offs are acceptable in my case for the convenience of the folding screen and newer technologies.
