1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G and Samsung Galaxy A73 5G, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 163.7 × 76.1 × 7.6 mm | S21 is more compact, easier for one-handed use. A73 is larger, better for media consumption. |
| Weight | 169g | 181g | S21 is lighter, more comfortable for extended use. A73 is slightly heavier. |
| Build | Not specified, likely plastic/metal | Not specified, likely plastic/metal | Build material impact durability, but without details, cannot evaluate. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 6.7" | A73 has a larger screen, better for videos, gaming, and multitasking. S21 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have sharp displays. No practical difference for most users. |
| PPI | 421 | 393 | S21 is slightly sharper, though the difference may not be noticeable to most users. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both, great for media. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 is much brighter, making it significantly better for outdoor use in sunny conditions. A73 brightness is not known. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | S21's Exynos offers higher benchmark performance, potentially faster app loading and smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 575,551 | S21 has significantly faster performance, beneficial for intensive tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 642L | S21 has a more powerful GPU, better for graphics-intensive games. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 12MP, f/1.8 | 108MP, f/1.8 | A73 has much higher resolution, may capture more detail, though pixel binning affects final image size. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0 | None | S21 has dedicated telephoto for zoom and portrait shots. A73 relies on digital zoom. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2 | 32MP, f/2.2 | A73 takes higher resolution selfies, more detail in images. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/2.2 | A73 has a dedicated wide-angle camera which S21 is missing. |
| Depth | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A73 has a depth sensor, improving portrait effects. S21 doesn't have a depth sensor but has a telephoto camera which can do portrait shots |
| Macro | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A73 has a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots, lacking on the S21 |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 can record higher resolution videos, better for professionals. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | Not available | S21's camera performance is rated, A73 is not, but this also means that it was not a focus point for the A73 |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | A73 has larger battery, likely longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both have the same fast charging speed. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse charging | Bypass charging | S21 offers more versatile charging options, A73 allows charging while gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers higher benchmark scores, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits display ensures much better outdoor visibility under bright sunlight.
- Better Camera System: It offers 8K video recording, a telephoto lens for optical zoom, a higher DxOMark score for both main and selfie cameras, indicating better image quality and versatility.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: More convenient charging options for users.
- More Advanced Connectivity: L1+L5 GPS and E1+E5a Galileo support
Practical Implications: Ideal for users who prioritize performance, demanding camera capabilities, bright displays and convenient charging options.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.7" screen is better for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking.
- Bigger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers longer battery life, better for users who are on the go.
- Higher Resolution Camera: Its 108MP main camera and 32MP selfie camera capture more detailed images, especially in well-lit conditions.
- Dedicated Wide Angle, Macro and Depth Camera: Versatile camera setups and options.
- Newer Android Version: The A73 ships with Android 12 (upgradable to 16) which is more modern than the S21 (Android 11 upgradeable to 15)
Practical Implications: Ideal for users who value a large display, long battery life, and good camera resolution, at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- The S21 sacrifices battery life and a larger display for better performance and camera quality.
- The A73 compromises on performance and display brightness but offers a larger display and better battery life, as well as versatility with its camera setup.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Power Users: Those who need a snappy, fast phone for demanding apps and gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera with optical zoom and excellent video capabilities (including 8K).
- Outdoor Users: People who need a bright display for visibility in direct sunlight.
- Premium Features Seekers: Users who want wireless charging and reverse charging.
Specific Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Professional video recording
- Outdoor photography
- Multi-tasking on demanding applications.
- Traveling to unfamiliar places where advanced GPS is needed.
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A73 5G:
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos and movies.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: People who need a phone that lasts all day without needing to be recharged.
- Casual Photographers: Those who take pictures regularly and want good image resolution.
- Budget Conscious Users: Users who want a good value phone
Specific Use Cases:
- Watching movies and TV shows on the go.
- Extended use without worrying about battery drain.
- Social media photography and selfies.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance vs. Battery: Do you prioritize raw speed and processing power (S21) or longer battery life (A73)?
- Camera Versatility vs. Raw Resolution: Do you value zoom capabilities and advanced camera features (S21) or higher resolution and a broader range of lenses (A73)?
- Display Size vs. Brightness: Do you prefer a smaller more pocketable phone with better display brightness (S21), or a large screen with more surface area (A73)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Frequent Gamer): If gaming is a primary use case, the S21's superior performance and GPU will provide a better experience.
- Scenario 2 (Traveler): If the phone will be used for long periods without charging, the A73's larger battery is more suitable.
- Scenario 3 (Content Creator): The S21's 8K video capabilities and telephoto lens make it better for creating high-quality content.
- Scenario 4 (Outdoor Photography): The S21's display is significantly brighter, making it more useful for taking pictures in sunlight.
- Scenario 5 (Budget Conscious Buyer): If cost is a concern, the A73 offers good value, but with sacrifices in performance and display brightness.
- Scenario 6 (Versatile Camera User): If you want different cameras for different types of photos, then the A73 would be a better option.
My Choice
Given my own preferences and needs, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the A73 has a larger battery and a larger screen and a more versatile camera setup, I find the performance boost, superior display brightness, telephoto lens and wireless charging of the S21 to be more beneficial. I often find myself using my phone outside in bright sunlight and also do a lot of photo editing and sometimes video editing.
The performance and display quality of the S21 better align with my priorities, despite the smaller screen and battery. The added convenience of wireless charging is also something I find I would use. While the A73 has newer android software, I feel as though the trade off in the other areas is something I wouldn't want to miss. I also think that, for the camera experience, the telephoto lens and the higher DxOMark score give the S21 a slight edge.
