Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-05-11 | Redmi 10 2022 is newer by ~1 year, potentially longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | S21 5G is more compact and easier to handle with one hand. Redmi 10 2022 is larger and may be less comfortable for smaller hands. |
| Weight | 169g | 181g | S21 5G is lighter, noticeable during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.5" | Redmi 10 2022 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharpness, resulting in similar image clarity. |
| PPI | 421 | 405 | Both have a high pixel density, making the screen clear, but S21 5G is slightly sharper |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not Specified | S21 5G's AMOLED provides better contrast, vibrant colors, and deeper blacks. The lack of info for Redmi 10 2022 makes it an unknown quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 5G's 120Hz offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 5G has much better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | S21 5G’s 5nm chipset provides significantly faster processing speeds and better overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 253,600 | S21 5G is much faster for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G52 MC2 | S21 5G has a more powerful GPU for better graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi 10 2022 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. However, the processor and software also matter. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | S21 5G charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless | 9W Reverse Wired | S21 5G has wireless charging. Both have reverse charging, but with different implementations. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Redmi 10 2022 has higher resolution, while the S21 5G has a larger sensor, meaning better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21 5G offers better zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 8MP, f/2.0, Not Specified | S21 5G has slightly higher resolution and a smaller aperture than the Redmi 10 2022, but the sensor size is unknown for the latter. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Redmi 10 2022 offers a wider field of view for group shots, landscapes etc. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi 10 2022 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi 10 2022 includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | S21 5G has a combined wide angle and macro lens. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 5G offers professional-grade video recording. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | S21 5G has electronic image stabilization that is superior to the one in Redmi 10 2022. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | Not Tested | S21 5G has a benchmarked score, with a decent rating. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Max Android 15 | Android 11 | S21 5G is confirmed to get OS updates to Android 15, while Redmi 10 2022's update plans are unclear. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFI 5 | S21 5G has faster and more efficient Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Redmi 10 2022 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, but the S21 5G offers more profile support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | S21 5G has better GPS accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both support dual SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | Not Specified | S21 5G has more storage options. The Xiaomi's storage is not specified. |
| RAM | 8GB | Not Specified | S21 5G has more RAM, which is great for multitasking, but the Xiaomi's value is not specified. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support microSD card expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation Mic, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | S21 5G has enhanced audio, making it a better overall audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Redmi 10 2022 has a more convenient fingerprint sensor placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21 5G offers superior scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | S21 5G has a broader range of sensors including a barometer which can be used for weather apps and more precise motion tracking, and the Redmi 10 has the Ultrasonic Proximity. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Much faster processor and GPU for demanding applications and gaming, as shown in the AnTuTu benchmark.
- Better Display: AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness offers a better viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers better zoom capabilities, higher-resolution video recording, and better low-light performance due to its larger sensor.
- Wireless Charging: Includes 15W wireless and reverse wireless charging, a convenient feature missing on the Redmi.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and a noise-canceling microphone provide superior audio quality.
- Better Build Quality: Features Gorilla Glass Victus for superior scratch and drop resistance.
- More Advanced Sensors: It includes a barometer sensor for additional environmental and motion tracking data.
- Guaranteed Software Support: Confirmed to get Android 15, making it more future-proof.
Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Has a larger 5000mAh battery, potentially offering longer battery life, though this is offset by less efficient performance.
- Wider Angle Lens & Macro Lens: Has a dedicated wide angle lens and a macro lens which enables a wider variety of shots.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: May be more convenient for some users than a screen embedded sensor.
- Newer Bluetooth: Supports Bluetooth 5.1, potentially more efficient than the S21 5G's Bluetooth 5.0.
- Lower Price: Likely to be more budget friendly than the S21 5G.
Trade-offs:
- S21 5G: Higher price point and might be less appealing for users on a tight budget. Smaller battery life with the extra performance.
- Redmi 10 2022: Significantly lower performance, basic display, and the lack of camera features found in the S21. The battery, while bigger, may not have the best endurance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who need high processing power for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize camera quality, zoom capabilities, and advanced video features.
- Media Consumers: Users who value a high-quality display with smooth scrolling and vibrant colors for entertainment.
- Users Requiring Reliability: Individuals needing a reliable phone with long-term software support.
- Users of Wireless Charging: Who require easy charging methods.
Specific Use Cases:
- High-end Mobile Gaming: Smooth and lag-free performance.
- Video Production: Recording high-resolution videos with advanced features.
- Outdoor Use: Excellent visibility in sunlight.
- Professional Photo Shoots: Versatile camera system for varied environments.
- Heavy Multitasking: Smooth and responsive performance for intensive use.
Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Users looking for an affordable smartphone with decent features.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Users Seeking Longer Battery Life: People who prioritize battery endurance over raw performance.
- Those who do not need high-end performance: People who are happy with basic performance.
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday Tasks: Basic web browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Long Battery Life Needs: Extended use without frequent charging.
- Casual Photography: General photography needs with the extra macro and wide-angle options.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The S21 5G is likely much more expensive.
- How important is performance for you? Do you play high-end games or perform demanding tasks?
- What are your camera needs? Do you require professional-level photos and videos, or are basic shots acceptable?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget is the primary concern: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022 as it offers good value for its price, despite its performance drawbacks.
- Scenario 2: Prioritizing Performance and Camera: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for its significantly better performance, superior camera system, and premium features.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Needs: If you're comfortable spending more but don't need the absolute best performance, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G would be an appropriate choice. It has a much better display, camera and audio.
My Choice:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. Despite its age, the significant performance advantage, superior display, better camera system, and additional features like wireless charging make it a much better overall experience for most users. While the Xiaomi Redmi 10 2022 has a larger battery, the performance tradeoff isn't worth it for me, and I value the additional features the S21 offers. If budget were my main concern, I would look at other budget devices rather than considering the Redmi 10 2022.
