1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Sony Xperia 5 III | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-10-08 | Sony is about 8 months newer, possibly having more up-to-date software and minor feature enhancements. |
| Size | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 157 × 68 × 8.2 mm | S21 is shorter and wider, while Xperia is taller and narrower. The S21 may feel more compact in hand; the Xperia may be easier for one-handed use due to its narrow design. |
| Weight | 169g | 168g | Negligible difference; both feel similar in weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.1" | S21 has a marginally larger display, which may be slightly better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2520 | Xperia has slightly more vertical pixels, resulting in a slightly sharper display, although the difference is minimal. |
| PPI | 421 | 449 | Xperia has slightly higher pixel density, leading to a marginally sharper image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer excellent contrast and vibrant colors; practical difference is negligible. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both have fluid scrolling and smoother animations for an overall better user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 has significantly higher peak brightness, making it much better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. The Xperia brightness is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 888 in the Xperia generally provides better overall performance, especially in gaming and demanding tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 880,000 | Xperia has a notably higher benchmark score, which translates to smoother app performance, better gaming frame rates and faster overall system responsiveness. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 660 | Adreno 660 generally offers superior graphics performance, better for gaming and graphic intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | Xperia has a larger battery, likely leading to longer battery life per charge. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Xperia charges slightly faster; faster charging means less downtime waiting for your phone to reach full charge. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W, No charger in-box | Bypass Charging | S21 offers more versatile charging options, including wireless and reverse wireless charging, while the Xperia offers bypass charging for improved longevity. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | 12MP, f/1.7, 1.8µm | Xperia has a slightly wider aperture, which might result in better low-light performance for standard shots. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.8µm | N/A | S21 has a dedicated telephoto lens offering better optical zoom and portrait shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 8MP, f/2.0, 1/4", 1.12µm | S21 offers slightly higher resolution and a larger sensor, potentially better detail and performance, while Xperia offers a slightly wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 12MP, f/2.2 | Xperia has a dedicated telephoto lens for better optical zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12MP, f/2.3 | Xperia has a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing more in the frame. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | N/A | S21 has a dedicated wide-angle lens with macro capabilities, offering closer focusing distances. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, up to 720p@960fps | 4K@120fps, up to 1080p@120fps | S21 supports higher resolution (8K) video recording, while Xperia offers higher frame rate video recording for smoother playback and slow motion at 4K. |
| DXOMARK | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | N/A | S21's camera quality and selfie camera is tested and has good quality. Xperia has no listed DxoMark rating. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Manual Focus, Night Mode | Ultra Stable Video | Both offer a range of camera features; S21 additionally has manual focus and night mode, while Xperia has ultra-stable video. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | S21 is expected to receive two more major OS upgrades, ensuring future software compatibility, while the Xperia's support is shorter. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support latest WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Xperia has a newer version, offering better range and connection stability. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Xperia supports QZSS, potentially leading to more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support Dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB or 256GB | Both phones have the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | Sufficient for most users, good for multi-tasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, so choose the storage option wisely. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both offer good audio; the S21 provides noise cancellation microphone and the Xperia has Hi-Res audio support. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xperia's side-mounted sensor is often faster and more ergonomic than in-screen sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 | S21 provides better screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Geomagnetic | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Both include standard sensors; S21 additionally has geomagnetic sensor, useful for compass apps. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Brighter Display: 1300 nits brightness makes it much more usable in direct sunlight.
- Versatile Camera System: Dedicated Telephoto + portrait and wide-angle with macro lens offers more shooting options.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers higher resolution video capture for those needing it.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Provides convenient charging options for accessories and other devices.
- Better Software Support: Guaranteed upgrades to Android 15 ensures a longer lifespan with the latest features.
- Camera Performance: Tested camera quality with DxoMark
- Geomagnetic Sensor: Additional sensor for improved compass functionality.
Sony Xperia 5 III Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Snapdragon 888 chipset offers better overall performance compared to Exynos 2100.
- Larger Battery: Offers extended battery life per charge.
- Faster Charging: 30W fast charging allows for slightly quicker charging times.
- Dedicated Telephoto and Wide-Angle Lenses: Offer superior flexibility and photo quality for long-range and expansive shots.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.2 offers a more reliable connection and better audio capabilities.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Scanner: Often faster and more ergonomically convenient than an in-screen sensor.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Better support for higher quality audio playback.
- QZSS GPS Support: More accurate location tracking.
Trade-offs:
- S21: Sacrifices some raw performance and battery life for a brighter display and versatile camera system.
- Xperia: Sacrifices a bit of screen visibility under direct sunlight and the versatility of the camera system, but gains performance and battery.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Ideal User: Someone who values a vibrant display for outdoor use, a versatile camera system, and the convenience of wireless charging. Users who value longevity in software support also fit this profile.
- Use Cases:
- Outdoor photography and videography
- Regular social media content creation
- Media consumption under bright sunlight
- Users who prefer a future-proof device with newer OS support
- Price-to-Value: Good value for users who need a strong all-rounder with a focus on display and camera versatility.
Sony Xperia 5 III:
- Ideal User: A user who prioritizes performance, battery life, and a high-quality audio experience. Users who enjoy photography with dedicated zoom and wide-angle capabilities will also appreciate this phone.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and heavy multitasking
- Frequent travelers or users who require extended battery life
- Audiophiles who appreciate high-resolution audio playback
- Users seeking a premium experience with a focus on performance
- Price-to-Value: Offers a premium performance and audio experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How often do you use your phone in direct sunlight? If the answer is frequently, the S21's brighter display is a significant advantage.
- Do you prioritize performance and battery life, or versatile camera features and convenience? S21 offers the convenience while Xperia offers performance.
- Do you need more future software support or do you prioritize performance? S21 offers a longer software support life.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Outdoor Enthusiast: Choose Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its superior brightness and versatile camera system.
- Mobile Gamer: Choose Sony Xperia 5 III for its superior performance and better battery life for extended gaming sessions.
- Media Consumer: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a good fit due to the good display, although both are good for media consumption, and depending on need, the user may choose the Xperia for slightly better display quality.
- Traveler: Choose Sony Xperia 5 III for its longer battery life and better GPS support.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Sony Xperia 5 III. While the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers a very attractive display, wireless charging, and is more feature rich in camera, the Xperia's focus on performance, battery life, and a superior audio experience aligns better with my preferences. I value a phone that can handle demanding tasks smoothly and last a full day without needing a recharge. I use my phone for gaming and media consumption, for which the Xperia's performance and audio benefits. I am also a light user of camera features and find that the telephoto and wide lens meet my needs and the lack of wireless charging doesn't really affect my usage. Finally, the side-mounted fingerprint reader of the Xperia is more convenient. While I acknowledge the superior screen brightness of the S21, the missing spec of brightness of the Xperia is also concerning. The advantages of the Xperia outweigh its trade-offs for my personal use case.
