Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. ZTE Blade V60 Design
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | ZTE Blade V60 Design | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2024-06-01 | ZTE Blade V60 Design is a newer model, potentially with updated software features, though not necessarily more powerful components. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones. |
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 164.2 × 75.3 × 8.6 mm | The ZTE Blade V60 Design is larger and bulkier, less comfortable for small hands, and not as pocketable as the Galaxy S21 5G. |
| Weight | 169g | 198g | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.6" | ZTE Blade V60 Design has a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking; however, its lower resolution diminishes its benefits. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1612 | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G's display is significantly sharper, resulting in better image and text clarity. |
| PPI | 421 | 267 | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G's higher pixel density provides a much clearer and detailed image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors and better power efficiency with dark UI themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has much better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, which is critical for usability outdoors. ZTE brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G uses a more powerful and efficient processor, leading to faster app loading and better overall performance. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 240,000 | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers significantly better performance for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has a significantly more powerful GPU, providing superior graphics capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | ZTE Blade V60 Design has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 22.5W Fast Charging | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Wireless/Reverse Charging | Non-removable | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers more charging flexibility with wireless and reverse wireless charging capabilities. ZTE lacks wireless capabilities. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8 | ZTE Blade V60 Design has higher resolution for the main camera. Samsung has better pixel size and sensor. Image quality depends on more than just MP. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G includes a telephoto camera for enhanced zoom and portrait photography. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 8MP | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has slightly better front camera resolution. |
| Portrait (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | ZTE Blade V60 Design has a dedicated depth camera. |
| Wide/Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G includes a wide-angle camera for more versatile shooting. |
| Video | Up to 8K | 1080p@30fps | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has far superior video recording capabilities, including 8K resolution, better stabilization, and slow-motion options. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 111, Selfie: 132 | None | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has been benchmarked for superior camera performance. ZTE doesn't have data. |
| Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, RAW, Night | Basic | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has a richer feature set with high resolution video, optical zoom, and stabilization capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 15 | Android 13 | ZTE Blade V60 Design ships with a newer version of Android. Samsung is confirmed to have a newer version and better updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G supports faster and more efficient WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, advanced features | 5.0, basic features | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has more advanced Bluetooth features, allowing more connectivity options with accessories. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | Basic GPS | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G provides more accurate positioning thanks to the dual-frequency GPS. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both offer dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256 GB | Both have the same maximum storage capacity. Samsung also has a lower storage option, which makes it more price accessible. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4/6 GB | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has more RAM, generally better for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage, meaning that you have to choose what internal storage works for you. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | DTS/DTS X | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers superior audio quality and immersion with Dolby Atmos and Stereo Speakers |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | ZTE Blade V60 Design has a more modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor for easier access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G's screen is more scratch resistant due to Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Sensors | Biometric/Proximity/Motion/Environmental | Biometric/Proximity/Motion | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has additional sensors for advanced functionality, such as a barometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen with higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness provides a much more vivid and sharp viewing experience, especially in outdoor conditions.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides drastically better performance for gaming, multitasking, and overall responsiveness.
- Advanced Camera System: Multiple cameras, including telephoto and wide-angle lenses, superior video capabilities, and features like OIS, result in more versatile and higher-quality photos and videos.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers offer a far more immersive audio experience.
- Better build quality: Gorilla Glass Victus on the screen for enhanced scratch resistance.
- More Advanced Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, barometer, and more advanced Bluetooth features give the Samsung a richer feature set.
Practical Impact: Users will experience smoother overall performance, much better photo and video quality, a vastly superior display, and better audio immersion. These advantages are noticeable in everyday use and make the device feel more premium.
ZTE Blade V60 Design Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000 mAh battery may offer longer battery life. However, with a less efficient processor and other factors to consider, this isn't a guarantee.
- Newer Software: Ships with a newer version of Android (13).
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient for some users compared to the basic sensor on the S21.
- Potentially lower price: Could provide better bang for the buck in the budget category.
Practical Impact: The ZTE may appeal to users prioritizing battery life and the latest Android version. The side-mounted sensor might be a preference for some users over the in-display sensor in the S21.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The ZTE Blade V60 Design trades raw power and screen quality for a lower price point and potentially longer battery life.
- The Samsung S21 5G sacrifices battery capacity for higher-end performance, display, camera and build quality.
- The ZTE Blade V60 Design lacks many advanced features, such as wireless charging and advanced audio capabilities.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is Ideal for:
- Power Users: Gamers, multitaskers, and users who need a fast and responsive device.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Users who value high-quality photos and videos, including 8K recording.
- Media Consumers: Users who watch videos, browse images, and enjoy sharp text.
- Users who want advanced features Such as wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, barometer, and more advanced Bluetooth features.
- Users who value premium build quality The Gorilla Glass Victus offers enhanced protection.
Specific Use Cases: Playing demanding games, recording high-resolution videos, editing photos, watching movies in high definition, or using multiple apps simultaneously.
ZTE Blade V60 Design is Ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Users looking for an affordable smartphone with a decent screen and long-lasting battery.
- Casual Users: Users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and calls.
- Users who need a simple phone with an easy to use side fingerprint sensor.
- Users who prioritize a more recent version of Android.
Specific Use Cases: Web browsing, social media, making calls, sending texts, and light app usage.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? If budget is a primary concern, the ZTE Blade V60 Design will be the more accessible option.
- How important is performance and display quality? If you want the best gaming, multitasking, and viewing experience, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is superior.
- How important is battery life and software updates? The ZTE Blade V60 Design offers a larger battery and a newer version of Android.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance & Quality Matters: If you need a powerful phone for demanding tasks, want an excellent camera, and a high quality display, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the better choice despite its older age.
- Scenario 2: Budget and Battery is Key: If you're on a tight budget and prioritize longer battery life and the latest software and don't care as much about the screen or camera quality, the ZTE Blade V60 Design is a viable option.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Use: If you value having a more modern device with a decent battery and a larger screen, but dont need too much power, and you're on a budget, the ZTE Blade V60 Design will be better suited.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While it is an older device, the superior display, vastly superior processing power, and much more versatile camera system are critical for my needs. The build quality and features it offers are also noticeably better. I value a high-quality visual experience, smooth performance, and advanced camera capabilities, and the S21 5G excels in those areas. Although the battery capacity is lower, the fast charging and wireless capabilities help offset this. I believe the long-term value and day-to-day experience provided by the S21 5G justify its selection over the ZTE Blade V60 Design, given its superior technology and features.
