1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G and the OnePlus Nord 3, focusing on their practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 162 × 75.1 × 8.2 mm | The OnePlus Nord 3 is noticeably larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 169g | 193.5g | The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build | Not specified, but screen is Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Screen protection: Not specified | The S21 offers better screen protection; protection of Nord 3 is unknown. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 6.74" | OnePlus Nord 3 has a larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1240x2772 | OnePlus Nord 3 has sharper images, improved clarity for detailed content. |
| PPI | 421 | 451 | OnePlus Nord 3 has slightly crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks; good for all usage scenarios. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations for a fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1450 nits | OnePlus Nord 3 is more visible under bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 9000 (4 nm) | The Nord 3's chipset is newer and more efficient, providing better performance and power efficiency. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 1,103,441 | OnePlus Nord 3 has significantly faster performance; better for gaming and heavy multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G710 MC10 | Nord 3 has a more modern GPU for enhanced graphics processing. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", Sony IMX555, 1.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", Sony IMX890, 1.00µm | OnePlus Nord 3 has higher resolution; better for detailed, large prints and cropping. Larger sensor, so likely better in low-light conditions. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", Samsung S5KGW2 | N/A | Samsung S21 provides dedicated zoom capabilities and better depth in portraits. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", Sony IMX374, 1.22µm | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", Sony IMX471, 1.00µm | OnePlus Nord 3 offers higher resolution selfies with a marginally larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX355, 1.12µm | OnePlus Nord 3 has an ultrawide lens for wider group shots and landscapes. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", GC02M1, 1.75µm | OnePlus Nord 3 has a macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.40µm | N/A | Samsung S21 has a dedicated ultrawide and macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Samsung S21 supports higher video resolution; OnePlus Nord 3 does not support 8K. |
| DXOMark | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | N/A | The S21 is rated higher for its selfie camera, however a full review is not available for the Nord 3. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, RAW, Night Mode | Lacks above features | Samsung S21 has greater camera features; but the Nord 3 does have a wide and macro lens that the S21 lacks. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | OnePlus Nord 3 has a significantly larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | OnePlus Nord 3 charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse Charging, Wireless Charging 15W, Reverse Wireless 4.5W, No charger | N/A | S21 offers more charging options. The Nord 3 lacks a wireless charging option and does include a charger in the box. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and more pocketable.
- Superior Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better durability.
- Telephoto and Ultrawide/Macro camera: Provides greater versatility for photography, especially if you plan on taking photos at different focal lengths.
- 8K Video Recording: Captures higher-resolution videos, ideal for detailed editing.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient charging options, a feature the Nord 3 lacks.
- More Camera Features: RAW, Night Mode, and more manual control over camera settings.
- Additional Environmental sensors More sensors for environmental conditions monitoring
- Higher-Rated Selfie Camera DXOmark score is higher, so may be better quality selfies.
OnePlus Nord 3 Advantages:
- Newer and More Powerful Chipset: Significantly faster performance for smoother operation.
- Larger, Sharper Display: More immersive and detailed viewing experience.
- Larger Battery & Faster Charging: Significantly longer battery life and faster charging times.
- Ultrawide and Macro Lens: Added versatility in camera shots.
- Newer Bluetooth Version Bluetooth 5.3, which is a newer version.
- Larger RAM Option: 16GB for more intensive multi-tasking.
Significant Trade-offs
- S21: Older chipset, smaller screen, and lower battery life vs Nord 3
- Nord 3: Larger size and weight, lacks dedicated telephoto lens, slower selfie camera, does not have wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Users seeking compactness and portability: The smaller size and lighter weight make it ideal for those who prefer a pocketable phone.
- Photography enthusiasts: The telephoto lens and extra camera settings allow for detailed photos.
- Users who want wireless charging: Offers flexibility with charging.
- Users who value a superior selfie experience Higher DXOmark ratings indicate possibly superior quality selfie camera.
- Users who value durability Corning Gorilla Glass Victus will be more resistant to scratches and damage to the screen.
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday carry and one-handed use: Easily fits in pockets and is comfortable to use with one hand.
- Casual photography with zoom needs: For capturing detailed photos and videos with optical zoom
- Users who need a rugged phone: Gorilla Glass Victus is more durable.
OnePlus Nord 3 Ideal Users:
- Power users: Those who value speed and a smooth experience; benefits from the superior processor, higher AnTuTu score, and larger RAM option.
- Gamers: The powerful chipset and larger, more detailed display provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
- Media consumers: Those who watch videos and movies will benefit from the larger screen and better brightness.
- Users who prioritize battery life and fast charging: The larger battery and significantly faster charging are ideal for on-the-go users.
- Users who value ultrawide and macro capabilities: Those who like to take landscape and close up photography may like the Nord 3 camera.
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming: Smoother gameplay due to the better chipset and larger display.
- Media Consumption: Immersive viewing experience on a large, high-resolution screen.
- Heavy multitasking: The larger RAM is suitable for running multiple applications simultaneously.
- Long days away from a charger: Longer battery life and faster charging will be appreciated.
Price-to-Value Ratio
- Samsung Galaxy S21 5G: As an older flagship, it might be available at a lower price, but it is important to note that it is an older phone.
- OnePlus Nord 3: Offers excellent performance and modern features at a competitive price, but its large size and weight may be a deterrent to some.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is portability and ease of handling? (Consider the size and weight difference).
- How important is battery life and fast charging? (OnePlus Nord 3 is significantly better here).
- How important are camera features and capabilities? (Consider if you prefer telephoto, ultrawide, or a specific camera function)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- If you prioritize compact size, wireless charging, a telephoto lens, and a better selfie camera: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G.
- If you prioritize performance, long battery life, ultrawide camera, and faster charging: Choose the OnePlus Nord 3.
- If you want the best all-around camera experience, and are less concerned about portability: The choice is dependent on whether you want the ultrawide/macro lens of the Nord 3, or the telephoto of the S21.
- If you want the most durable screen: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the OnePlus Nord 3. While the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has some compelling features like a more compact design, superior screen protection, and a telephoto lens, the OnePlus Nord 3 is the more compelling option for the following reasons:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 9000 chipset is significantly more powerful than the Exynos 2100, translating to a smoother, faster experience in everyday tasks and gaming.
- Longer Battery Life and Faster Charging: The larger battery and 80W charging are major benefits for my usage, ensuring I can go through a full day without charging and quickly top up when needed.
- Larger, Better Display: The larger, sharper display would greatly improve my experience with media consumption and browsing.
- Ultrawide Lens: I would prefer the ultrawide lens over the telephoto lens for my photographic preferences.
While the lack of wireless charging on the Nord 3 is a slight disadvantage, the performance and battery benefits outweigh this, making it the superior choice for my priorities. Additionally, the newer chip and extra RAM on the Nord 3 make it a more future-proof option in terms of software updates and the ability to run demanding apps and games. The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a great phone, but the Nord 3 offers significant value for the price if you are looking for a modern, high-performance smartphone.
