Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Xiaomi 12T
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G and Xiaomi 12T, focusing on the practical implications of their specifications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 163.1 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | Xiaomi 12T is noticeably larger and bulkier, might be less comfortable for one-handed use or smaller hands |
| Weight | 169g | 202g | Samsung S21 is significantly lighter, making it more portable and comfortable for extended use |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 6.67" | Xiaomi 12T offers a larger display, better for media consumption and multitasking |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1220x2712 | Xiaomi 12T's higher resolution results in sharper text and images |
| Pixel Density | 421 ppi | 446 ppi | Xiaomi 12T offers slightly sharper images, though difference may not be noticeable to all users |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, good for media consumption |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and gaming |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | Samsung S21 is significantly brighter, better visibility in direct sunlight |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 8100 Ultra (5 nm) | Xiaomi 12T's chipset shows better performance in benchmarks, potentially smoother in demanding games and apps |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 835,913 | Xiaomi 12T demonstrates better overall performance based on benchmark scores |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G610 MC6 | Both GPUs offer comparable graphics performance for gaming and general use |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 108MP, f/1.7, 1/1.67" | Xiaomi 12T offers much higher resolution photos, potentially more detail; the wider aperture might allow slightly better low light performance |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | N/A | S21 offers dedicated telephoto capabilities for zoomed photos. Xiaomi lacks this |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 20MP, f/2.24, 1/2" | Xiaomi 12T has a higher resolution selfie camera and larger sensor, potentially offering better quality selfies |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | Xiaomi 12T offers a wide angle lens for capturing more in the frame. S21 does not have this. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Xiaomi 12T offers a macro lens for extreme close-up shots. S21 does not have this. |
| Wide Angle+Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | N/A | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has a Wide Angle + Macro camera while Xiaomi 12T doesn't |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Samsung S21 offers higher resolution video, better for professional video needs |
| DXOMark Score (Mobile) | Overall: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 90 | Overall: 115, Photo: 120, Video: 127 | Xiaomi 12T achieves a superior overall score and video recording performance. S21 lacks an overall selfie score. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Xiaomi 12T has a much larger battery, expected to provide significantly longer battery life |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 120W fast charging | Xiaomi 12T charges much faster, a quick top-up may be a great advantage |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging | None | Samsung S21 offers more battery versatility with wireless and reverse wireless charging |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi 12T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Samsung offers more up-to-date software updates. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Xiaomi 12T uses a newer Bluetooth version, likely offering better performance and energy efficiency |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer the same storage variants; Neither has expandable storage |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Both have excellent audio, differing in additional specific features |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both offer biometric security through fingerprint scanner |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Samsung S21's display has superior scratch and impact resistance |
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | RGB | Samsung S21 provides enhanced sensor set, useful for more niche tasks. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Brighter Display: Significantly brighter screen (1300 nits) for better outdoor visibility.
- Superior Build: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better protection against damage.
- Wireless Charging: Offers wireless and reverse wireless charging for more convenience.
- Telephoto lens: Dedicated telephoto lens for zooming without quality loss.
- Advanced Video Recording: Supports up to 8K resolution video.
- Enhanced Sensor suite: More environmental sensors for various uses.
Xiaomi 12T Advantages:
- Larger Display: Bigger screen (6.67") for more immersive media viewing and better multitasking.
- Higher Resolution: Sharper display due to the higher resolution and pixel density.
- Superior Performance: The chipset offers better performance benchmarks.
- Significantly Faster Charging: 120W charging allows for much faster battery top-ups.
- Larger Battery Capacity: Bigger 5000mAh battery for longer battery life.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: 108MP sensor for detailed images.
- Wide Angle & Macro Lens: Offers both wide angle and macro camera options.
- Newer Bluetooth Technology: Utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 for better performance.
- Better Video performance: According to DXOMark
Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 5G : Smaller display, smaller battery capacity, slower charging compared to Xiaomi 12T.
- Xiaomi 12T: Heavier, larger size, less bright display, lacks wireless charging, lacks telephoto lens, and a reduced sensor suite compared to the S21.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Outdoor users: Those who need a bright screen for sunlight visibility.
- Video enthusiasts: Users who value high-resolution video recording (8K)
- Travelers: Who can use the reverse charging to charge accessories and like the smaller form factor
Premium Build Quality Seekers: Users who prioritize the durability and feel of the device in their hands
Specific Use Cases:
- Capturing high-resolution videos.
- Viewing content outdoors.
- Charging accessories using the reverse charging feature.
- Users who prioritize a compact form factor.
Xiaomi 12T Ideal User:
- Media Consumers: Those who enjoy watching videos, playing games, and browsing on a large screen.
- Power Users: Those who prioritize long battery life and quick charging.
- Photography enthusiasts: Those who want flexible camera options.
Performance Gamers: Users who play demanding games and need smooth performance.
Specific Use Cases:
- Watching movies and shows.
- Playing graphics-intensive games.
- Daily tasks with extensive multitasking.
- Taking photos in a variety of conditions with wide angle or macro options
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- Do you prioritize screen visibility in direct sunlight? (If yes, Samsung S21 is better)
- Do you need long battery life and super-fast charging? (If yes, Xiaomi 12T is better)
- Do you prefer a smaller phone, or a larger screen? (Smaller S21, larger 12T)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Mobile User/Gamer:
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12T - The larger screen, longer battery life, and faster charging make it ideal for those who heavily rely on their phone throughout the day.
- Scenario 2: Outdoor Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G - It's bright screen is better suited for direct sunlight and the wireless charging capabilities may be beneficial for travellers.
- Scenario 3: Multimedia Consumer:
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12T - For frequent media viewers, the larger, sharper display of the Xiaomi 12T provides a more immersive experience, paired with longer battery life.
- Scenario 4: Casual User:
- Recommendation: It depends on specific preference, both are great phones, the samsung is more premium build quality and camera, while the xiaomi has longer battery and fast charge. It comes down to what the user prefers
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would lean towards the Xiaomi 12T. While I appreciate the Samsung S21's brighter display and more premium build, the Xiaomi 12T's larger screen, significantly better battery life, and faster charging are more compelling for my typical use case. I tend to use my phone for extended periods for media consumption and productivity tasks. The performance difference might not be a huge dealbreaker in everyday tasks but it is nice to have extra performance available for future tasks. I also like the versatility of having the wide angle and macro camera lenses to capture different situations.
