Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Realme 12 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | The Realme 12 Pro is noticeably larger, which may be less comfortable in one hand. |
| Weight | 169g | 190g | Samsung S21 is lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and easier to carry. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.7" | Realme 12 Pro offers a larger display for more immersive media consumption and improved multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Both offer similar sharpness; the difference is negligible in daily use. |
| PPI | 421 | 394 | The slightly higher pixel density of the S21 results in slightly sharper text and images, though barely noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both phones feature vibrant AMOLED displays with deep blacks and rich colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 950 nits | Samsung S21's display is much brighter, significantly improving outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) | S21's chipset provides higher benchmark performance and likely smoother multitasking, while the Realme is more power efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 574,000 | S21 demonstrates significantly higher performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 710 | The S21's GPU offers better graphics performance for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12 Pro's larger battery will likely provide significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | Realme 12 Pro charges much faster, reducing waiting time significantly. |
| Charging Features | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | None | The S21 offers convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for compatible accessories. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 12MP | 50MP | The Realme 12 Pro has higher resolution for more detailed photos, but sensor size affects low-light performance. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.76" | 1/2" | The S21's larger sensor generally captures more light, potentially yielding better low-light shots. |
| Telephoto + portrait camera | 64MP | Not Available | S21 has a telephoto camera which is not present on Realme 12 pro. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 16MP | Realme 12 Pro offers higher resolution selfies, potentially more detail in good lighting. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.4 | S21's wider aperture allows more light for potentially better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | Not Available | 32MP | Realme 12 Pro has a telephoto lens which is not present on S21. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera Resolution | 12.2MP | 8MP | The S21's ultrawide camera is higher resolution than the Realme 12 Pro's. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Sensor Size | 1/2.55" | 1/2.8" | The S21’s larger sensor may improve low light performance. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 can record higher resolution video for professional-grade content. |
| DXOMark Camera Score | Main: 111, Selfie: 132 | Not Available | S21's camera performance is confirmed to be high based on tests. |
| Camera Features | Includes RAW, Night mode, Continuous/Manual Focus | Lacks RAW, Night mode, Continuous/Manual Focus | S21 has features for advanced photography not present on Realme 12 Pro |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 14 | Realme 12 Pro has a newer version of Android, offering the latest features and security updates out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Realme 12 Pro has additional Wi-Fi MiMO support |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2, LDAC, AAC | Realme 12 Pro has newer Bluetooth version, LDAC, and AAC codecs. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, QZSS, BeiDou (B1) | Realme 12 Pro supports more satellite systems for potentially better accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512GB | Realme 12 Pro offers more storage, better for storing larger media collections. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8/12GB | Realme 12 Pro offers higher RAM option, which aids multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage, this is limiting for some users. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, 2 mics, Stereo Speakers | Realme 12 Pro has additional features for enhanced audio and voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | In-Display | In-Display | Both phones use in-display fingerprint sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Samsung S21's screen has superior protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Samsung S21 has additional sensors that may be required by specific applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display Brightness: Offers much better outdoor visibility.
- Higher Performance Chipset: Exynos 2100 provides better overall performance in benchmarks and real world use.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Offers convenience for charging and powering accessories.
- Better Camera Performance based on DXO scores: Offers better image and video quality overall.
- Advanced Camera Features: Offers 8k recording, continuous/manual focus, RAW capture, and night mode.
- Advanced Sensors: Offers a compass and barometer for accurate positioning and environment sensing.
- Screen Protection: Has better screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- More Compact and Lighter Design: Easier to handle and carry.
Realme 12 Pro Advantages:
- Larger Display: More immersive experience for media and gaming.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Offers longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: Reduces charging times significantly.
- More Internal Storage Options: Provides more space for apps, media, and files.
- Newer Android Version: Offers latest features and security.
- More RAM: Potentially better multitasking.
- More satellite systems: Offers better GPS accuracy.
- Hi-Res Audio: Provides high quality audio and also better voice capture with dual microphones.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21 trades battery capacity and charge speed for a more premium experience and better camera performance.
- Realme 12 Pro compromises on display brightness and raw processing power for longer battery life and larger screen.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize camera quality and video recording capabilities, especially in low-light situations.
- Those who need a more compact, premium device.
- Users who require high display brightness for outdoor use.
- Users who use wireless charging
- Users who need the highest processing power available.
- Users who prefer a higher quality audio experience.
- Users that need a compass and barometer.
Use Cases for S21:
- Professional photography and videography on the go.
- Heavy users who demand smooth multitasking and fast app loading.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who require excellent visibility in bright sunlight.
Realme 12 Pro Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize battery life.
- Those who prefer a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- Users who want a faster charging solution.
- Users who want the latest Android features.
- Users who need a large amount of internal storage
- Users that prioritize GPS accuracy.
- Users who want the best audio performance.
Use Cases for Realme 12 Pro:
- Long days without easy access to charging.
- Users who watch a lot of videos or play games.
- Users who want the latest Android experience.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung S21 will likely be more expensive, but offers high performance and camera capabilities.
- The Realme 12 Pro should provide more value for users focused on battery life and screen size while being more affordable.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Battery Life vs. Display Brightness: Is all-day battery life more important than superior outdoor visibility?
- Camera Quality vs. Screen Size: Do you value higher quality camera output more than a larger display?
- Processing Power vs. Price: Is the higher performance of the S21 worth the higher cost, or does the Realme 12 Pro meet performance needs at a better price point?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Content Creator: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. Its advanced camera features, high-quality video recording, and superior display brightness make it ideal for creating professional-grade content.
- For the Power User: If you need all-day battery life and a larger screen, choose the Realme 12 Pro. Its larger battery, fast charging, and ample storage will keep you going without worry.
- For the Everyday User: If you value a more premium experience, better camera quality, and outdoor visibility, while not being as demanding on battery, the Samsung S21 is the better option. If you care more about battery and newer software, the Realme 12 Pro will be sufficient.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the Realme 12 Pro has strong advantages in battery life and storage, the S21's superior display, much higher performance processor, better camera system (as indicated by DXOMark scores), better outdoor visibility, and smaller size, align more closely with my preferences and daily usage. I value a high quality camera, and superior processing power for smooth operation. The additional features like wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are also very welcome. While battery life is important, the S21's battery capacity is sufficient for my typical day, and I'm often in locations where I can charge if necessary. I appreciate the convenience of a smaller, more pocketable device, and the S21's premium design is an added bonus.
