1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Apple iPhone 14 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.8 mm | S21+ is larger and may feel less comfortable in smaller hands or pockets, while iPhone 14 is more compact and portable. |
| Weight | 200g | 172g | iPhone 14 is lighter and more comfortable for extended use. S21+ is a bit heavier, might be less pleasant on long calls. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.1" | S21+ provides a larger screen for immersive media consumption and multitasking, while the iPhone 14 is easier to use with one hand. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1170x2532 | iPhone 14 offers a sharper image due to the higher resolution, despite a smaller size. |
| PPI | 394 | 460 | iPhone 14's higher pixel density results in noticeably sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; the difference will not be very noticeable for the average user. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21+ screen appears smoother and more responsive, which is especially noticeable during scrolling or gaming. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1200 nits | S21+ has slightly better visibility in bright outdoor conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) | A15 Bionic is significantly more powerful. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 1,324,887 | iPhone 14 will handle intensive games and applications better, ensuring smoother overall user experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Apple GPU (5-core graphics) | Apple GPU is optimized for iOS and generally delivers superior graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 3279mAh | S21+ battery will likely last longer on a single charge; however, actual battery life depends on usage and software efficiency. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | S21+ will charge faster, reducing the time spent waiting for a full battery. |
| Features | Reverse/Wireless Charging | MagSafe/Qi Wireless Charging | S21+ can charge other devices wirelessly, while the iPhone 14 has a convenient MagSafe option, each offering their own set of benefits. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 12MP, f/1.5, 1/1.66" | iPhone 14 captures slightly better photos in low light due to its wider aperture and larger sensor. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21+ offers dedicated telephoto zoom capabilities for better photos at a distance, however no details are provided about zoom. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/1.9 | iPhone 14 takes slightly better selfies in low light due to the wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/2.55" | Both offer wide-angle capabilities; iPhone 14 is a single wide-angle camera while S21+ is a wide angle with macro lens. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21+ can record 8K video for high-resolution footage, while the iPhone 14 maxes at 4K. Both have great recording features. |
| DxOMark Score | 111 (Mobile) | 133 (Mobile), 144 (Selfie) | iPhone 14 offers superior image and video quality based on benchmark tests. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | iOS 16 (Upgradable to 18) | Different operating systems; Android offers more customization, iOS has a simpler UI, better ecosystem and better performance generally |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Similar WiFi performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | iPhone 14 has the latest bluetooth version with higher performance and efficiency; S21+ has a wider feature set. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | QZSS | S21+ has more accurate location tracking, while iPhone 14 supports QZSS for Japan. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both have similar Dual SIM support using Nano SIM and eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | iPhone 14 has a higher storage option for users needing more space for media. |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB | S21+ may handle more demanding multitasking better with slightly more RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards, requiring users to buy their wanted storage configuration upfront. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Stereo, 3 Microphones | iPhone 14 provides a slightly more immersive audio experience with additional spatial audio and surround sound support, S21+ offers hi-res audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Security Features | S21+ offers a biometric authentication with a fingerprint sensor, while details are unspecified for iPhone 14. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ has superior screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Compass, Hall | Unknown | S21+ offers additional sensors for more advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display & 120Hz Refresh Rate: Provides a more immersive and smoother visual experience. This is beneficial for media consumption, gaming, and overall daily usage.
- Larger Battery: Likely offers longer battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging.
- Telephoto Camera: Offers dedicated zoom capability, making it better for capturing details at a distance.
- Faster Charging: Charges quicker than the iPhone 14, saving time.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Can charge other devices, a practical feature in emergencies.
- More RAM: Slightly more RAM can improve multitasking and general phone performance.
- Wider feature set for Bluetooth and GPS More protocols and satellite navigation systems for increased functionality and accuracy
Apple iPhone 14 Advantages:
- Significantly More Powerful Processor: Apple A15 Bionic chipset provides superior performance in all areas, including app loading, multitasking, and gaming.
- Superior Camera Performance: Higher DxOMark scores indicate better image and video quality. Better low-light performance with the standard camera due to wider aperture and larger sensor.
- Higher Pixel Density: Sharper and more detailed display with higher pixel density.
- More Storage Options: Provides an option for 512GB of storage.
- Better Build Quality: Build materials generally feel more premium in hand, although the screen protection is unknown.
- Newer Bluetooth Standard: Provides higher performance, efficiency and newer features than Bluetooth 5.0.
- Better Audio: The iPhone has improved spatial audio and surround sound support, while including 3 microphones for better clarity.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Larger size and weight make it less pocketable, slightly lower display sharpness, and has weaker performance than the iPhone 14, although the differences may not be obvious to most users. The lack of a dedicated wide angle lens is a major trade off.
- iPhone 14: Smaller screen, shorter battery life, slower charging, lacks a telephoto camera and reverse wireless charging compared to S21+, which may be important to some users.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who enjoy watching videos, movies, and playing games on a larger, smooth screen.
- Power Users: Those who need a long-lasting battery and the ability to charge other devices wirelessly.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want more control over zoom and value versatile camera systems.
- Android Customizers: Users who prefer Android's open-source nature and deep customization capabilities.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Watching movies or TV shows on the go.
- Extended gaming sessions without worrying about battery life.
- Capturing photos and videos at various zoom levels.
- Using Android-specific apps and customization options.
Ideal Users for Apple iPhone 14:
- Performance-Oriented Users: Those who prioritize speed and seamless performance in all tasks.
- Camera-Centric Users: Users who want the best image and video quality for everyday photography and videography.
- Ecosystem-Focused Users: People who are invested in the Apple ecosystem and want seamless integration across devices.
- Users who value a lightweight phone: People who value a compact design and a lightweight device in hand.
Use Cases for Apple iPhone 14:
- Running demanding apps and games smoothly.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos with ease.
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices, like iPads and MacBooks.
- Utilizing iOS specific features and apps.
Price-to-Value Ratio: The S21+ will have a better value with it being older than the iPhone 14 and usually available at a lower price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Do you prioritize display size and battery life or portability and processing power?
- If you want a larger display, longer battery life, and better zoom capabilities then the S21+ is for you, but if you prioritize performance and portability, then the iPhone 14 is the better option.
- Do you need the flexibility of the Android ecosystem or the simplicity of the Apple ecosystem?
- Choose S21+ if you prefer customization and versatility, and prefer not being in Apple's ecosystem; choose the iPhone 14 if you prefer iOS's simplicity and a more integrated experience within the Apple ecosystem.
- How important is superior image and video quality to you?
- If you take a lot of pictures with your phone and video recording is a necessity, then the iPhone 14 is a superior option; if you only casually use your camera on the go then the S21+ will be a good enough choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Frequent Traveler and Media Consumer: If you watch lots of media on your phone and are often on the go, the S21+ is ideal due to its larger screen and battery. However, the performance and camera are not as good as on the iPhone 14.
- Scenario 2: Professional Photographer or Videographer: If capturing the best possible images and videos is a priority, the iPhone 14 will give you better overall results, and the slightly smaller display wont be much of a bother. The iPhone 14 is ideal if you don't need the zoom functionality offered on the S21+.
- Scenario 3: Casual User with No Ecosystem Preference: If you use your phone for basic tasks and don't have any OS preferences, the S21+ might be a better value proposition as it should be available for a lower price with its older release date and similar capabilities, it also has a wider range of features and sensor that the iPhone 14 lacks. However, the iPhone 14 will give better overall performance for the next few years and will be a more seamless experience with better build quality, portability, and audio features.
My Choice
I would choose the Apple iPhone 14. While the S21+ offers a larger screen and longer battery life, the superior processing power, image quality, better build quality, portability, better audio, and overall more fluid experience of the iPhone 14 is more appealing for my usage. I am also personally invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer the simplicity and performance of iOS. The trade-off of a smaller screen and battery life is acceptable for the better performance and more premium experience, making it worth the investment.
