1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Redmi Note 12S is larger and slightly thicker, may be less comfortable for smaller hands. |
| Weight | 169g | 176g | S21 5G is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for prolonged use. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.2" | 6.43" | Redmi Note 12S offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same level of detail and sharpness. |
| PPI | 421 | 409 | Both have similar pixel density, negligible difference in perceived sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks and good contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 5G has smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | S21 5G is significantly brighter, offers better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm) | S21 5G's chipset is significantly more powerful, providing faster performance and better energy efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 412,400 | S21 5G offers noticeably better overall performance, smoother multitasking and higher gaming capabilities. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International (ARM Mali-G78 MC14) | Mali-G57 MC2 (ARM Mali-G57 MC2) | S21 5G has a much more powerful GPU, better graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.80 µm pixel size | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.52", 0.70 µm pixel size | Redmi Note 12S has much higher resolution, theoretically capturing more detail. S21 5G's larger pixel size could result in better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.80 µm pixel size | N/A | S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom and portrait shots, offering greater versatility in photography. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22 µm pixel size | 16MP, f/2.4, pixel size missing | Redmi Note 12S has higher resolution for selfies, while S21 5G has a wider aperture, potentially capturing more light. Pixel size missing from Note 12S makes comparison difficult. |
| Wide Angle lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2, pixel size missing | Redmi Note 12S has an ultra-wide angle lens for capturing expansive scenes. |
| Macro lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, pixel size missing | Redmi Note 12S has a dedicated macro lens for extreme close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40 µm pixel size | N/A | S21 5G offers an additional ultrawide camera that can also take macro photos, combining functionality. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound; Slow-motion 960 fps | 1080p@30fps; Slow-motion 120 fps | S21 5G has much higher video recording capabilities and stabilization options, suitable for more advanced video use. |
| DXOMark Score (Mobile) | 111 (Photo: 118, Video: 90) | N/A | S21 5G performs well in independent camera testing. Note 12S is untested. |
| DXOMark Score (Selfie) | 132 (Photo: 125, Video: 145) | N/A | S21 5G performs well in independent selfie camera testing. Note 12S is untested. |
| Features | 4K Video, 8K Video, Optical zoom, OIS, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, PDAF, Continuous shooting, Panorama, RAW | Digital zoom, Autofocus | S21 5G has more advanced camera features like OIS and RAW capture, better for advanced users. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12S likely offers significantly longer battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Redmi Note 12S charges slightly faster, allowing for shorter charging times. |
| Features | Wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging | Reverse charging | S21 5G offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, providing more convenient power options, note that S21 comes without in-box charger, which is a disadvantage. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly better performance in CPU and GPU tasks, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking and higher gaming capability compared to the Redmi Note 12S.
- Better Display: The higher refresh rate (120Hz) and brightness (1300 nits) result in a smoother and more visible screen, particularly in outdoor settings.
- More Advanced Camera System: Includes telephoto lens, wider main camera pixels, 8K video recording, and advanced features like OIS, leading to more versatile and higher-quality photos and videos.
- More Camera Features: Including features like RAW capture, 4K video, optical zoom, and panorama mode offer greater flexibility for photography enthusiasts.
- Wireless Charging: Offers both wireless and reverse wireless charging, which adds more convenient power management options.
- Better Build Quality: Features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for superior screen protection and better satellite support for location services.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Enhanced audio experience with Dolby Atmos.
- More Advanced Sensors: Offers additional sensors such as a barometer which is useful for environmental measurements.
- Higher dxoMark Scores: Higher mobile camera scores compared to the Redmi Note 12S which hasn't been tested.
- More Bluetooth Features: More advanced bluetooth features including; AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, ANT+, APT-x, SBC
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery provides significantly longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging is slightly faster.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 108MP main camera captures more detail.
- Dedicated Wide Angle and Macro Lens: Offers more versatility in photography with the inclusion of wide angle and macro lenses.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 13 for newer software features and updates.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Provides a more convenient placement of the fingerprint sensor compared to a traditional sensor.
- Hi-Res Audio: For enthusiasts who prefer the additional quality offered by this feature.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G sacrifices battery life for superior performance and camera capabilities. It also lacks a charger in-box.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S provides better battery life, but at the expense of raw processing power, screen quality, and advanced camera features compared to the S21 5G.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Gamers, heavy multitaskers, and those who need smooth performance and a fast experience.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize image and video quality, especially those interested in versatile shooting options and advanced features.
- Content Creators: Users who value the ability to record high-quality video (including 8K) and require a color accurate display.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a very bright display for readability in sunlight.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate wireless charging and a more advanced smartphone feature set with good build quality and better sensors.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those seeking a good balance of features at a lower price.
- Battery Life Prioritizers: Users who need all-day battery life and don't want to worry about recharging frequently.
- Casual Photographers: Users who want versatile cameras with an ultrawide and macro lens but don't need the absolute best image quality.
- Everyday Users: Those who primarily use their phone for social media, browsing, and basic tasks.
Specific Use Cases:
- S21 5G: Gaming, video editing, professional photography, outdoor use, presentations.
- Redmi Note 12S: Long travel days, daily use, social media sharing, casual photography, basic gaming.
Price-to-Value Ratio
- The S21 5G likely costs more but offers high-end performance and camera capabilities, potentially better value for power users and photography enthusiasts if they can find a good deal.
- The Redmi Note 12S provides excellent battery life and a decent camera system at a lower cost, making it a good value for users on a tighter budget.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What is more important: performance and camera quality or battery life and affordability?
- How important is outdoor screen visibility and smooth scrolling?
- Do I need advanced features like wireless charging and optical zoom?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High Performance and Camera Focus: If you need top-tier performance, an advanced camera system, and don't mind charging more frequently, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Long Battery Life and Budget-Conscious: If you prioritize long battery life, have a limited budget, and mostly need a reliable device for everyday tasks, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is a great option.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User: If you want a balanced experience and some of the more advanced features but would still like to save some money the Redmi Note 12S will satisfy most needs as a general user.
Personal Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. The primary reason for this decision is its superior performance. As someone who uses their phone for a variety of demanding tasks, including gaming and app testing, the Exynos 2100 chipset is a must-have. The better display with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness also contributes to a much more enjoyable user experience. While the battery life of the Redmi Note 12S is tempting, I value performance, color accurate display, better camera capabilities and convenience features such as wireless charging more. The additional camera features and the better quality videos in particular make the difference for me. Additionally, the build quality is superior, offering better protection, and the inclusion of better satellite support and a barometer offer additional functionality that I appreciate. Although, I acknowledge that if I was more concerned with battery life, the Redmi Note 12S would be a more compelling option due to its battery capacity and lower cost.
