1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | vivo V21 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 159.7 x 73.9 x 7.3 mm | V21 is taller and wider, S21 is thicker; S21 may be more comfortable for smaller hands, V21 offers a slimmer profile in pocket |
| Weight | 169g | 176g | S21 is slightly lighter; S21 might feel better for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.44" | V21 has a slightly larger screen; V21 provides more screen real estate for media and browsing, S21 more compact |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical; Both offer sharp visuals for most content |
| PPI | 421 | 409 | Very similar; Negligible difference in sharpness |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 has smoother animations; S21 is better for gaming and scrolling, V21 good for general use |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 significantly brighter; S21 excels in direct sunlight, V21 brightness not specified, outdoor visibility unknown |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | S21 is more powerful; S21 is better for demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 343,150 | S21 scores significantly higher; S21 offers superior overall performance |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MC3 | S21 has better graphics; S21 provides smoother gaming and graphics-intensive tasks |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4000mAh | Identical; Both should offer similar battery life under normal use |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | V21 charges faster; V21 users spend less time tethered to an outlet |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, No Charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 has wireless charging; S21 provides convenience, but no in-box charger |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 12MP | 64MP | V21 has higher resolution; V21 can capture more detailed images under ideal conditions, S21 may have better pixel performance |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.79 | V21 slightly wider aperture; V21 may perform marginally better in low light |
| Telephoto Lens | Yes | No | S21 offers optical zoom; S21 users can get closer to subjects without losing image quality |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 44MP | V21 has significantly higher resolution; V21 can capture more detailed selfies |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.0 | V21 has wider aperture; V21 may perform better in low-light selfie scenarios |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes | Yes | Both have wide angle capabilities |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes | V21 has macro lens for close up shots |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 records higher resolution videos; S21 is better for professional video creation, V21 OIS provides stable video |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 111 (118 Photo, 90 Video) | Not Tested | S21 has documented image quality; S21 provides validated camera performance metrics |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 132 (125 Photo, 145 Video) | Not Tested | S21 has documented selfie quality; S21 provides validated selfie performance metrics |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21 has guaranteed updates; S21 provides longer software support |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | S21 has faster WiFi; S21 performs better on modern networks |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 | V21 has newer bluetooth; V21 has a slightly newer and more efficient Bluetooth version, but S21 has more audio profiles |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Identical; Both offer ample storage options, lack expandable storage |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | Identical; Both have sufficient RAM for multitasking and gaming |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support microSD cards |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation | Basic | S21 offers richer audio; S21 is better for multimedia consumption |
| Security | |||
| Biometric | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both offer basic biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 has superior protection; S21's screen is more scratch and shatter resistant |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | S21 has additional environmental sensors; S21 is better for applications using pressure and environmental data |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly more powerful chipset (Exynos 2100), higher AnTuTu score, and better GPU for demanding tasks and gaming. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Brighter Display: Much higher brightness (1300 nits) for excellent outdoor visibility, making it easier to see in sunlight.
- Smoother Display: Higher refresh rate (120Hz) for smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming.
- More Advanced Camera System: Offers 8K video recording, optical zoom, and telephoto lens. DxOMark scores also validate its overall image quality.
- Wireless Charging: Includes 15W wireless and 4.5W reverse wireless charging for added convenience.
- Better Audio: Offers Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers, and a noise-canceling microphone for richer audio.
- Wider support for WiFi standards: Supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster speeds and less latency on compatible networks
- Guaranteed software updates: Upgradable to Android 15
- Superior build quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging compared to 25W on the S21, enabling quicker top-ups.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: 44MP selfie camera for capturing more detailed self-portraits and video.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.1 is slightly more efficient.
- Slimmer Design: Thinner profile makes it a bit more comfortable for pocket usage
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21: Lacks in-box charger, less powerful selfie camera, no macro camera and no expandable storage.
- V21: Significantly weaker performance, lower screen brightness, lacks wireless charging, no telephoto zoom, older WiFi standards, uncertain display durability
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Power Users: Those who demand high performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value versatile camera capabilities, including optical zoom, and higher-quality video.
- Outdoor Users: Individuals who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight, needing a bright display.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who appreciate superior audio quality with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, good for consuming video content or enjoying music.
- Users Seeking Premium Features: Wireless charging and build quality.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- High-end mobile gaming.
- Professional video recording up to 8K.
- Outdoor photography in bright sunlight.
- Demanding work tasks requiring fast processing.
- Immersive media consumption with enhanced audio.
Ideal User for vivo V21 5G:
- Selfie Lovers: Individuals who prioritize high-resolution front-facing cameras for detailed selfies.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a decent phone with a large screen and 5G capability at a lower price point.
- Casual Users: Those who need a capable smartphone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic photography.
- Users who value faster charging: Those who want a quick recharge and don't want to wait long.
Use Cases for vivo V21 5G:
- Taking frequent and detailed selfies.
- Everyday smartphone tasks, like social media and browsing.
- Casual photography and macro shots.
- Users with no need for high performance and complex tasks.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers a higher price-to-value ratio for power users seeking performance and premium features.
- The vivo V21 5G offers a better price-to-value ratio for budget-conscious users primarily focused on selfie quality, faster charging and don't require high performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, everyday tasks, etc.)
- How important is performance and screen brightness to you? (Do you need a top-tier chip and outdoor visibility?)
- What is your budget? (Are you willing to pay more for premium features, or are you budget-constrained?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming Enthusiast - Choose Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its superior processing power, higher refresh rate, and better GPU, leading to a significantly better gaming experience.
- Scenario 2: Selfie Lover - Choose vivo V21 5G for its higher-resolution front camera and wider aperture for better low-light performance.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor User - Choose Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its significantly brighter display which guarantees good visibility in bright sunlight.
- Scenario 4: Casual User - vivo V21 5G might be a good choice if the budget is limited and top performance isn't needed, and a quick recharge is important.
- Scenario 5: Multimedia lover - Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a better choice thanks to it's high quality screen, better audio and the ability to record higher quality videos.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the vivo V21 5G has its strengths, particularly in selfie quality and faster charging, my priorities are aligned with the advantages offered by the S21. The significantly superior performance with the Exynos 2100, the brighter and smoother 120Hz display, the more versatile camera system with optical zoom and 8K video, and the enhanced audio capabilities make it a better all-around choice for me.
I often use my phone for tasks that require good processing power, such as editing photos and videos, and playing games. The S21’s brighter display is also essential for outdoor use. While the lack of an in-box charger and slower charging is a disadvantage, the benefits of a premium build, wireless charging, and a more comprehensive overall package outweigh the trade-offs for my personal use case. The software support also guarantees a better long-term experience. While the Vivo V21 is certainly a good value for certain users, the S21 offers features and benefits that better align with my needs.
