1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2023-03-24 | The A34 is a newer model, potentially offering longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 161.3 × 78.1 × 8.2 mm | S21 is more compact and easier to handle with one hand, while the A34 is larger and may be less pocketable. |
| Weight | 169g | 199g | The S21 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.6" | A34 provides a larger viewing area, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are similar, providing sharp visuals. Negligible difference in daily use. |
| PPI | 421 | 390 | The S21 has slightly sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | The S21's display is much brighter, providing better outdoor visibility in sunlight (The A34 is missing brightness spec) |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | The S21's chipset has a better architecture offering faster app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 532,300 | S21 offers superior performance, noticeably faster in demanding tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MC4 | S21 has a more powerful GPU, better for gaming and graphics-intensive apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP (1/1.76", 1.8µm) | 48MP (1/2", 0.8µm) | A34 captures more detailed images in good lighting, but the S21's larger sensor typically performs better in low light. |
| Telephoto | 64MP | Not Available | The S21 offers optical zoom, providing better quality when zooming in. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP | 5MP | The S21 has a higher resolution wide-angle lens with macro functionality. The A34 has a lower resolution, dedicated ultrawide lens, and a separate depth sensor for portrait mode |
| Selfie | 10MP (1/3.2", 1.22µm) | 13MP (1/3.06", 1.12µm) | A34 has slightly higher res and a marginally larger sensor, offering slightly better selfies. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | The S21 offers higher video resolution, better for professional-grade video capture. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 111 | 92 | S21 has better camera quality based on DxOMark scores. |
| Camera Features | Optical zoom, RAW, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF) | Ultra stable video | The S21 offers more advanced camera features, while the A34 has enhanced video stabilization. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | A34 has a larger battery, likely to provide longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both phones have the same charging speed. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging | None | S21 offers more versatile charging capabilities. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 13 (Upgradable to 17) | A34 ships with a newer OS and longer support, but both have similar software experiences. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21 supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster data speeds and better stability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | A34 has a newer Bluetooth version, offering better connectivity and efficiency. |
| Other | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 or 8 GB | Both offer good multitasking performance, but some A34 models may have less. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | S21 has noise cancellation mic, better for calls and recordings. |
| Security | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both offer basic fingerprint security. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | The S21 offers better screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Compass, Barometer, Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | S21 includes additional environmental sensors; A34 has a virtual proximity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and Mali-G78 GPU provide faster processing speeds and better gaming capabilities. This translates to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking.
- Better Camera System: Offers optical zoom, 8K video recording, RAW capture, phase detection autofocus, and higher DxOMark scores, providing better image quality, especially in low light and when zooming.
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits display provides significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, making it easier to use in all conditions.
- Wireless Charging: Supports convenient 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, enhancing its versatility.
- Better Build Quality: Includes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced screen protection, and has a premium feel.
- Additional Sensors: Offers an environmental Barometer sensor and a Compass sensor that are valuable for outdoor activities.
Samsung Galaxy A34 Advantages:
- Newer Model: Being a newer device, it offers a more updated design, along with the potential for longer software and security updates.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery provides extended battery life, suitable for users who spend long hours away from a charger.
- Larger Display: The 6.6" display offers a larger viewing area for consuming content and is more immersive for gamers.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 offers improved connectivity, and features LDAC support for higher quality audio.
- Lower Cost: Generally available at a more affordable price point than the S21, offering better value for users on a budget.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S21 sacrifices battery life for performance, whereas the A34 prioritizes battery longevity over raw power.
- The A34’s camera performance lags behind the S21, especially in low-light conditions and video quality.
- The S21, while smaller, comes with wireless charging, which is missing on the A34.
- The S21 is more compact and premium, whereas the A34 is larger and has a more budget-oriented design.
- The display of the A34 has an unknown brightness specification. This is a big unknown when comparing these phones.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users who prioritize performance and camera quality, and who appreciate a compact design with advanced features like wireless charging.
- Use Cases:
- Professional Photography/Videography: Capturing high-resolution images and 8K videos, using optical zoom, and utilizing RAW image support.
- Gaming Enthusiasts: Playing graphically demanding games with smooth frame rates and no stuttering.
- Outdoor Use: Viewing the screen clearly in bright sunlight.
- Multitasking: Running multiple apps simultaneously and switching between them seamlessly.
- Users who want the extra features: Wireless charging, noise cancellation microphone.
- Value: Offers better performance, camera, display and additional features for a higher price.
Samsung Galaxy A34:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who value battery life and screen size, and who are content with good everyday performance.
- Use Cases:
- Media Consumption: Watching videos and browsing social media on a large screen with good colors and contrast.
- Casual Gaming: Playing less demanding games with good battery life.
- Everyday Tasks: Using apps for messaging, emails, browsing, and other basic tasks.
- Long Battery Life: Spending extended periods away from a charger without worrying about running out of power.
- Value: Offers good value for the price with a large display, long battery life, and decent performance for most users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The S21 is often more expensive than the A34.
- Do you prioritize camera quality and performance over battery life? The S21 is superior in this aspect.
- Do you need a larger screen or wireless charging? The A34 has a larger display, but no wireless charging.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User/Creator: If you often edit photos and videos, play demanding games, and need a phone with a high-quality camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a better choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious/Casual User: If you mainly use your phone for media consumption, basic apps, and want a long-lasting battery, the Samsung Galaxy A34 will save you money and still meet your needs.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor/Heavy Use: If you frequently use your phone outdoors and require a bright display and reliable performance along with wireless charging, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G would be better.
- Scenario 4: Value Focused User: If you want a good, modern smartphone with a focus on price to performance the Samsung Galaxy A34 would be the best choice.
My Choice:
If I were personally choosing, I would lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, despite it being the older phone. My reasons are primarily around its superior display brightness (which is critical for outdoor use), superior camera performance and features, and its smaller size. I'm willing to trade battery life for these features. The S21’s higher performance capabilities also make it better for general use. While the A34 is newer and has a larger battery, for me the better display, more powerful chipset, and more feature-rich camera system of the S21 are more important.
