Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. OnePlus Nord 2T
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-05-21 | The OnePlus Nord 2T is a newer device, meaning potentially better software support and newer technology. |
| Size | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 159.1 x 73.2 x 8.2 mm | The S21 is more compact, potentially more comfortable for one-handed use; the Nord 2T is larger, potentially offering better screen real estate but a more bulky feel. |
| Weight | 169g | 190g | S21 is lighter, more comfortable for extended use, less tiring on hands. Nord 2T is heavier and might feel more robust. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones with no folding capabilities. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 6.43" | The Nord 2T has a slightly larger screen, potentially better for media consumption and gaming, but the difference is not huge. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharpness; text and images will look equally crisp on both. |
| PPI | 421 | 409 | Both have very similar pixel density, meaning similar image sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast due to AMOLED technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | The S21 has a smoother scrolling and animation experience, making it feel more responsive in daily use. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | The S21 will be significantly more usable in bright sunlight, while the Nord 2T's brightness is not provided. This is a key advantage for the S21. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Mediatek Dimensity 1300 (6 nm) | The S21 has a slightly more powerful chipset based on the benchmark score, although daily use may not show large differences. The 5nm chip in the S21 is technically more efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 699,576 | The S21 has a better benchmark score, implying slightly better overall performance, especially for demanding tasks like gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International (ARM Mali-G78 MC14) | Mali-G77 MC9 (Arm Mali-G77 MC9) | The S21's GPU is more powerful, which will result in better graphical performance in demanding games or video editing. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", Sony IMX555, 1.80 µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766, 1.00 µm pixel size | The Nord 2T's main sensor has higher resolution and a slightly larger sensor, potentially resulting in better detail and low-light performance. |
| Telephoto+Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", Samsung Bright S5KGW2, 0.80 µm pixel size | None | The S21 offers optical zoom capabilities for better portraits and telephoto shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", Sony IMX374, 1.22 µm pixel size | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74", Sony IMX615, 0.80 µm pixel size | The Nord 2T has higher resolution selfie camera, likely capturing more detail. The S21 has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.40 µm pixel size | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both phones offer ultra-wide options but different resolutions and sizes. The S21 uses a combined wide-angle and macro lens, whereas the Nord 2T has a separate ultra-wide camera. The S21's is only present with the wide angle sensor. |
| Black & White Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.2 | The Nord 2T offers a dedicated black and white lens for additional creative options. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, extensive stabilization options | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | S21 supports higher resolution video recording for professional-grade footage and has a wide range of fps options. The Nord 2T has basic stabilization options. |
| DxOMark Mobile | S21: 111, Nord 2T: 114 | S21: 111, Nord 2T: 114 | Nord 2T has a slightly higher score, suggesting slightly better camera performance. |
| DxOMark Video | S21: 90, Nord 2T: 123 | S21: 90, Nord 2T: 123 | The Nord 2T has a significantly better video performance based on DxOMark. |
| DxOMark Selfie | S21: 132 | Not available | The S21 has better tested selfie camera. |
| Camera Features | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has 8K Video, Optical zoom, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Panorama, RAW. | OnePlus Nord 2T has only Digital zoom | S21 offers professional-level features. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | The Nord 2T should last longer on a single charge due to its larger battery capacity. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 80W fast charging | The Nord 2T charges significantly faster, reducing downtime waiting for the phone to charge. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse Charging, Charger not in-box | Non-removable | The S21 offers more versatile charging options, but not with included charger. The Nord 2T has a charger in-box. |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 15) | Android 12 (up to 14) | The Nord 2T comes with a newer OS out of the box. Both phones will get software updates for some time, but the S21 gets a longer max version OS upgrade. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Both have Wi-Fi 6. Nord 2T's Wi-Fi MiMO could result in slightly more stable connection in busy networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, LE, ANT+, APT-x, SBC | 5.2, LE, EDR, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Nord 2T has a newer standard and more audio codec support, which may result in more stable connections and better audio quality for certain Bluetooth devices. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS (L1+L5), NavIC System | The Nord 2T supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support Dual SIM for using two numbers/carriers simultaneously. |
Storage, Audio & Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have similar storage options, allowing for a wide range of app and media storage. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 or 12 GB | The 12GB option on the Nord 2T provides better multitasking for demanding users. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | S21 offers an enhanced audio experience through Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both use similar fingerprint technology for basic biometric security. |
Build Quality & Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 2T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | The S21's screen is more scratch and shatter-resistant than the Nord 2T's. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | No Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | The S21 has more environmental sensors and more comprehensive sensor package for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages
- Superior Display: Higher refresh rate (120Hz vs 90Hz) and much better brightness (1300 nits) make for a smoother, more viewable experience, especially outdoors.
- More Powerful Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and Mali-G78 GPU deliver better benchmark scores and potentially smoother performance in demanding tasks.
- More Advanced Camera Features: Offers a telephoto lens, higher quality video (8K), and more manual controls, providing greater creative control and zoom capabilities. Includes advanced video options like optical zoom.
- Premium Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection and an overall premium feel.
- Advanced Features: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities for convenience. Includes features such as Dolby Atmos, and a barometer.
- More Software Upgrades: The S21 receives more software updates than the Nord 2T
OnePlus Nord 2T Advantages
- Larger Battery & Faster Charging: 4500mAh battery and 80W charging mean longer usage and less time plugged in.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: The 50MP Sony IMX766 sensor may provide better low-light performance and detail. The main camera on the Nord 2T has a higher megapixel count and a larger sensor size.
- Newer Bluetooth: Supports a newer Bluetooth version (5.2 vs 5.0) and a few better codecs.
- Higher RAM Option: 12 GB of RAM enables superior multitasking compared to 8 GB available in the S21.
- More Up-to-date Android version: It comes out of the box with Android 12, which might be more secure with better performance.
- Lower Cost: Generally positioned as more budget friendly, offering excellent value.
- Dedicated Black & white lens: Offers more creative options.
Key Trade-offs
- S21: Better display and performance, but smaller battery and slower charging. The camera is versatile but the main sensor is less powerful.
- Nord 2T: Excellent battery life and charging, with a better main sensor, but the display is not as bright, the performance is slightly less powerful, and lacks a telephoto lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User
- Performance-Focused Users: Gamers and power users who want the smoothest performance and highest graphical capabilities.
- Outdoor Users: People who need a bright screen that's easily visible in sunlight.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want manual controls, optical zoom, and versatile video features with up to 8K support.
- Premium Experience Seekers: People who prefer a premium feel with superior build quality and wireless charging options.
- Users who value software updates
Specific Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming, demanding applications.
- Outdoor photography, video recording in various lighting conditions.
- Users who appreciate wireless charging features.
- Users wanting premium features and design.
OnePlus Nord 2T Ideal User
- Battery Life Prioritizer: Users who need all-day battery life and quick charging capabilities.
- Casual Photographers: People who want a reliable main camera with good low-light performance.
- Budget Conscious Buyers: Users who want excellent value for their money without sacrificing major features.
- Multitaskers: Users needing to switch between many apps with ease.
- Users wanting more up-to-date software
Specific Use Cases:
- Daily usage, heavy media consumption, social media, browsing.
- Travel photography in well-lit and low-light conditions.
- Users who need to charge their phone frequently and quickly.
- Users needing a phone that has solid performance at a better value.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions
- Do you need a very bright screen for outdoor visibility? If yes, the S21 is significantly better.
- Is battery life and fast charging a high priority? If yes, the Nord 2T is the better option.
- Are advanced camera features and overall performance important, or is basic camera quality sufficient? If you need advanced camera features, the S21 is the better option. For casual photography, the Nord 2T is a great option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Professional Photographer: The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the better choice due to higher resolution video, optical zoom, RAW support, and manual controls.
- Scenario 2: Power User with Gaming: The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers better graphical performance due to its superior chipset and GPU.
- Scenario 3: On-the-Go Professional: The OnePlus Nord 2T is more suitable with its faster charging and longer battery life, despite the weaker screen.
- Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious User with Basic Needs: The OnePlus Nord 2T offers excellent value, covering daily use very well, with a slightly better main sensor, and a great battery.
- Scenario 5: Social Media Enthusiast: The OnePlus Nord 2T's better selfie camera might be favored.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the OnePlus Nord 2T offers a larger battery and faster charging which are desirable, the significantly brighter screen, stronger performance, and more versatile camera system on the S21 are more important to my usage patterns. I often find myself using my phone outdoors and find the enhanced display and camera features of the S21 to be a worthy trade-off for slightly less battery life and slower charging speed, which can also be offset by using a power bank or a higher-wattage charger. Additionally, the premium build quality, more capable sensors, and more software updates offered by the S21 are also appealing.
