Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A32
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A32 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 158.9 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | S21 5G is more compact, easier to handle with one hand. A32 is bulkier, less pocketable. |
| Weight | 169g | 184g | S21 5G is lighter, more comfortable for extended use. A32 feels heavier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.4" | A32 has a slightly larger screen, potentially better for media consumption. S21 5G is more manageable in one hand. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both have the same sharpness; pixel density is similar, so visual clarity is comparable. |
| Pixel Density | 421 PPI | 411 PPI | Both displays are sharp. Difference is negligible. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 5G has smoother scrolling and animations, more responsive user experience. A32 is slightly less smooth. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 5G is much better for outdoor use in bright sunlight. A32 likely struggles in direct sunlight (brightness spec missing). |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5nm) | Mediatek Helio G80 (12nm) | S21 5G has a significantly faster processor. Faster app loading, smoother multitasking and gaming. A32 is slower, may struggle with demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 200,458 | S21 5G offers vastly superior performance across the board (approx. 3.7x better). A32 offers basic performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G52 MC2 | S21 5G has much better graphics performance for demanding games and graphic-intensive apps. A32 is slower in graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" Sony IMX555 | 64.2MP, f/1.8 | A32 has a higher resolution, potentially more detail in photos. S21 5G sensor and image processing are superior, likely better low light performance. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" Samsung S5KGW2 | None | S21 5G offers optical zoom capabilities for better clarity when zooming. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" Sony IMX374 | 20MP, f/2.2 | A32 has higher resolution for selfie photos. S21 5G has superior selfie sensor. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX563 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both have a wide-angle camera, although S21 5G has better sensor. A32 offers wider field of view. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A32 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. S21 5G lacks a dedicated macro lens |
| Depth Sensor | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A32 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode photos |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | 1080p@30fps | S21 5G has superior video recording capabilities, including higher resolution (8K), stabilization, stereo sound. A32 is limited to 1080p recording. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 111 (Photo: 118, Video: 90) | Not Tested | S21 5G has significantly higher camera scores, indicating better image quality and performance. A32 camera performance unknown. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 132 (Photo: 125, Video: 145) | Not Tested | S21 5G has better selfie camera based on DxOMark scores |
| Camera Features | OIS, PDAF, RAW, Night Mode, 4K, 8K | Autofocus, Panorama, HDR | S21 5G offers more advanced camera features, including optical stabilization, RAW capture, and night mode. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh | A32 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging, 15W Wireless | Standard charging | S21 5G offers faster wired charging and convenient wireless charging. A32 has slower charging. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | S21 5G uses Li-Polymer battery. A32 uses Li-Ion. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | S21 5G will receive more software updates and security patches than A32. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | S21 5G offers faster and more efficient Wi-Fi performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 | S21 5G has slightly more advanced Bluetooth features |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Standard GPS | S21 5G offers more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM cards for flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 64GB or 128GB | S21 5G has higher internal storage capacity. A32 has lower storage and the base model is also lower. |
| RAM | 8GB | 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB | S21 5G has 8GB of RAM. A32 may have less RAM which will affect its multi-tasking capabilities. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage via microSD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation Mic | Basic audio | S21 5G offers superior audio output with stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos enhancement, and noise cancelling mic for clearer calls. A32 has basic audio output. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both use basic fingerprint sensor for unlocking device. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 5G has robust screen protection, reducing risk of scratches and cracks. Protection for A32 is not specified. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | S21 5G includes a barometer sensor, which is useful for some niche applications and gaming features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset delivers significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Enhanced Display: 120Hz refresh rate for smoother animations and scrolling, and significantly higher brightness for better outdoor visibility.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher quality sensors, telephoto lens with optical zoom, 8K video recording, and more advanced features like OIS and RAW capture.
- Premium Audio: Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, and noise cancellation microphone offer superior audio experience.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging options.
- More Software Updates: Guaranteed for more years with the option to upgrade to Android 15.
- Robust Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior screen protection.
- Additional Sensors: Includes a Barometer which can be useful for some specific gaming scenarios.
- More Internal Storage: Offers up to 256 GB of internal storage vs 128 GB on the A32.
Samsung Galaxy A32 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: 5000 mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: 64MP main camera may capture slightly more detail in some scenarios.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Lens: Offers a macro lens for close-up shots and a depth sensor for portrait mode.
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable, making it an attractive budget option.
Trade-offs:
- The S21 5G sacrifices battery capacity for performance and features. The A32 sacrifices performance for affordability and battery life.
- The S21 5G does not have a macro camera lens. The A32 has lower performance, less screen brightness, and no stereo speakers.
- The S21 5G has a higher price tag whereas the A32 is considerably cheaper.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize speed, responsiveness, and smooth multitasking.
- Mobile Gamers: Those who play graphically intensive games and need a powerful GPU.
- Photography & Videography Enthusiasts: Users who want high-quality photos and videos, with advanced features like optical zoom, RAW capture, and 8K recording.
- Media Consumers: People who watch lots of videos and appreciate high-quality audio with stereo speakers.
- Users Needing Outdoor Visibility: Those who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Power Users: Those who need fast charging and wireless charging capabilities.
Use Cases for S21 5G:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Professional photography and videography
- Demanding productivity tasks
- Outdoor use and navigation in bright sunlight
- Enjoying multimedia content with superior audio output
Samsung Galaxy A32 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users who want a reliable smartphone at a more affordable price.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: People who value longer battery life over other performance features.
- Macro Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want to take dedicated close up shots of small objects.
Use Cases for A32:
- Basic day-to-day tasks like calling, texting, social media
- Casual mobile gaming
- Users who need a longer-lasting battery
- Macro photography
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- S21 5G: Higher price, but the value is in its superior performance, advanced camera system, and premium features.
- A32: Lower price, offering decent battery life and a larger screen, but with compromises in performance and features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, basic usage, etc.)
- How much do you value performance vs. battery life? (Speed and smoothness vs. extended usage between charges)
- What is your budget? (Is a higher price for premium features worth it?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're a mobile gamer or a power user: Choose the S21 5G for its significantly better performance and smoother display.
- Scenario 2: You're a casual user on a tight budget: The A32 is the more economical choice, offering a good enough experience for basic tasks.
- Scenario 3: You need an excellent camera: The S21 5G is better due to its advanced camera system, superior low light performance and overall quality.
- Scenario 4: You need long-lasting battery life: The A32 has the larger battery, but consider the S21 5G if you prioritize fast charging or are willing to manage its battery life.
- Scenario 5: You're a photography enthusiast that needs a macro lens: The A32 is a better option for you, but consider the S21 5G if you are less interested in macro photos.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G.
My reasoning is based on several factors:
- Performance: As someone who uses their phone extensively for various tasks, including some gaming, the superior performance of the S21 5G is crucial for a smooth and lag-free experience.
- Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and significantly higher brightness offer a more enjoyable viewing experience, especially for outdoor use.
- Camera: While the A32 has a higher resolution main camera, the S21 5G's overall camera system, including the telephoto lens, video capabilities and OIS, will provide a better and more versatile photography experience.
- Future Proofing: The longer software support and better Wi-Fi standards on the S21 5G mean it will remain relevant and capable for a longer time.
- Overall User Experience: The combination of premium features, such as stereo speakers, wireless charging, and robust build quality, makes the S21 5G the superior device overall despite its higher price tag.
While the A32's longer battery life is appealing, the S21 5G’s fast charging makes this less of an issue for me. The improved performance, display and camera justify the higher price point. I do not need a dedicated macro lens and would prefer better overall photo quality. For a power user like myself, the S21 5G is the clear choice.
