Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2023-08-11 | Z Flip5 is significantly newer, suggesting better long-term software support and updated features. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip5 offers unique space-saving and interaction possibilities, while S21 5G is a traditional design. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 165.1 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip5 is taller and thinner; S21 5G is slightly thicker. Z Flip5 is more pocketable when folded. |
| Weight | 169g | 187g | S21 5G is lighter, making it more comfortable for extended single-handed use; Z Flip5 feels denser due to its hinge mechanism. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.7" | Z Flip5 has a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip5 has a slightly sharper display; difference is unlikely to be noticeable in daily use. |
| Pixel Density | 421 PPI | 425 PPI | Both have very sharp displays; pixel density is comparable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | S21 5G offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency with AMOLED tech. The Z Flip5's display technology is not specified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1750 nits | Z Flip5 is significantly brighter, making it easier to view under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Z Flip5's Snapdragon offers substantially higher performance and efficiency; S21 5G's Exynos chipset is older and less powerful. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 1,531,700 | Z Flip5 delivers much smoother performance for demanding tasks, such as gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 740 | Z Flip5's Adreno 740 GPU is significantly faster, resulting in better graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 3700mAh | S21 5G has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering marginally better battery life in typical use. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both phones support the same fast charging speeds. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging, Reverse charging | Bypass Charging, Fast wireless charging, Reverse charging | Z Flip5 offers bypass charging for prolonged usage; S21 5G's offers regular wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 12MP, f/1.8, 1.8µm, Sony IMX555 | 12MP, f/1.8, 1.8µm, sensor details not specified | Similar Standard camera setup on both phones |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 0.8µm, Samsung Bright S5KGW2 | Not Present | S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto camera for optical zoom. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1.22µm, Sony IMX374 | 10MP, f/2.4, 1.22µm, sensor details not specified | S21 5G has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1.4µm, Sony IMX563 | 12MP, f/2.2, sensor details not specified | S21 5G has a dedicated wide-angle camera. |
| Wide Angle lens | Not Present | 12MP, f/2.2, sensor details not specified | Z Flip5 has a dedicated wide-angle camera. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 5G supports higher video resolution recording in 8k. |
| DxOMark Mobile | 111 (Photo: 118, Video: 90) | 127 (Photo: 132, Video: 128) | Z Flip5 demonstrates better overall camera performance, especially in video. |
| DxOMark Selfie | 132 (Photo: 125, Video: 145) | Not Available | S21 5G has a higher selfie camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Optical zoom, Triple Camera, Digital Stabilization | Dual Camera, NPU AI Engine, Tracking AF, Noise Reduction | S21 5G offers more versatility with its triple-lens setup; Z Flip5 has newer features such as AI Engine, Tracking AF and Noise Reduction. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 13, upgradable to 14 | Z Flip5 comes with a newer Android version out of the box but less future updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Both devices support similar standards; Z Flip5 includes Wi-Fi MiMO for improved connection quality. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Z Flip5 uses the newer Bluetooth version, potentially improving connection stability and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Z Flip5 uses more satelite systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Z Flip5 offers eSIM support for digital carrier switching; S21 5G supports dual physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB | Z Flip5 offers significantly more internal storage space. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | Both phones offer sufficient RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | S21 5G has a slight edge in audio features offering enhanced spatial audio, clearer calls, better audio separation and immersion; Both have stereo speakers |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Z Flip5 features a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both devices offer the same level of screen protection against scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Gravity | Z Flip5 has all sensors of S21 5G plus Gravity for more advanced and accurate features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Telephoto + Portrait Camera: Dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities and portrait shots.
- Wider Selfie Camera Aperture: Better low-light performance for selfies.
- 8K Video Recording: Higher video resolution for professional-grade video content.
- Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone: Better audio capabilities with dedicated noise cancellation.
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for prolonged single-handed use.
- Lower price: being an older device, it can be bought cheaper than the Z Flip 5.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor that is more pocketable when folded, and allows for hands-free use.
- Significantly Faster Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset provides much better CPU and GPU performance.
- Brighter Display: Much better visibility under direct sunlight.
- Newer OS: Ships with a newer Android Version
- eSIM Support: Offers more flexibility with carrier switching.
- More Internal Storage: Higher capacity options for storing more data, apps, and media.
- Advanced Sensors: Has Gravity sensors.
- Better DxOMark Score: Demonstrates superior photo and video capabilities.
- Newer Features: Tracking AF, Noise reduction, NPU AI Engine
- Bypass Charging: Can be useful for gamers or professionals who use their phones for prolonged periods of time.
- Wi-Fi MiMO: For better connection quality.
- Newer Bluetooth version: potentially improving connection stability and efficiency.
- More Satellite System Support: for better location accuracy.
Trade-offs:
- S21 5G: Sacrifices performance and foldable design for a more traditional experience, telephoto camera, and lower price.
- Z Flip5: Offers cutting-edge performance and foldable design but may have slightly shorter battery life and no dedicated telephoto lens, higher price.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a traditional smartphone experience with a lower price point.
- Users who value a dedicated telephoto camera for zoom capabilities and portrait photography.
- Users who often record videos and want a higher 8K recording option.
- Users who prefer a lighter and thinner phone for comfort.
- Users who want Dolby Atmos, noise cancellation, and better audio capabilities.
Use Cases for S21 5G:
- Photography enthusiasts who use optical zoom often.
- Users who frequently record videos in 4k or 8k for social media or other content creation.
- Everyday users who value a balance of performance, camera, and a traditional design.
- People who want a lighter device for better portability and comfort.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Ideal User:
- Tech enthusiasts who appreciate innovative design and cutting-edge technology.
- Users who prioritize performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Users who value portability and a more compact device when folded.
- Users who consume media and appreciate a brighter display for better outdoor visibility.
- Users who want the latest features, like Tracking AF, Noise reduction, NPU AI Engine, Bypass charging, Wi-Fi MiMO, and newer bluetooth version.
Use Cases for Z Flip5:
- Gamers who need top-tier graphics performance.
- Multitaskers who switch between apps frequently.
- Users who like to watch videos on their phones, especially outdoors.
- Professionals who benefit from a hands-free device that is compact and easy to carry.
- People who want a more unique, eye-catching device.
- Frequent travellers who prefer the eSIM functionality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Form Factor Preference: Do you prefer a traditional smartphone or the innovative foldable design?
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier performance for demanding applications and gaming, or is adequate performance sufficient?
- Camera Requirements: Do you prioritize zoom capabilities or overall image quality?
- Price: Are you willing to spend more money on a newer device with more features, or would you rather save money and get a slightly less capable device?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User with Basic Needs - Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. It offers a decent camera, good performance, and is cheaper.
- Scenario 2: Performance-Oriented User with a Flexible Budget - Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. Its cutting-edge performance and innovative design justify its price premium.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast - Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G if zoom capabilities are important. Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 if overall photo quality is more important to you.
- Scenario 4: Trendsetter & Tech Enthusiast - Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 for its unique design, advanced features, and overall performance.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. While I appreciate the S21 5G's lower price and dedicated telephoto lens, the Z Flip5's superior performance, brighter display, foldable design, and newer features make it the more compelling choice for me personally. I value a phone that is fast, capable, and offers a unique experience, and the Z Flip5 checks all those boxes. The improved camera performance according to DxOmark scores also make it a more practical choice as the more powerful hardware should allow for better software optimization in the long run. Also, I value portability, and a foldable phone does just that.
