Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Google Pixel 6 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 163.9 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | Pixel 6 Pro is slightly larger and thicker; might feel less sleek in hand and pocket. |
| Weight | 200g | 210g | S21+ 5G is lighter, which may be preferable for extended single-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Identical screen sizes, no difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 6 Pro offers a noticeably sharper display due to much higher pixel density; better clarity for text and detailed images. |
| PPI | 394 | 512 | Pixel 6 Pro's higher PPI leads to crisper images, less pixelation, especially noticeable when viewing small text or intricate graphics. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use AMOLED technology; expect vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations; no practical difference in fluidity. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ 5G will be significantly more visible outdoors in bright sunlight; Pixel 6 Pro's brightness info is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Google Tensor (5 nm) | Different chipsets; expect slight variations in processing performance and AI capabilities, but general user experience will be similar. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 721,000 | Both offer high performance; minimal difference in real-world speed, both suitable for demanding apps and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Mali-G78 MP20 | Pixel 6 Pro's GPU is potentially slightly more powerful for demanding graphics, but both will handle most games with ease. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Pixel 6 Pro has slightly larger capacity; marginal improvement in battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 30W fast charging, Li-Ion | Pixel 6 Pro charges slightly faster; minimal real-world difference. |
| Charging Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless | 23W Wireless | S21+ 5G provides slightly more versatility with reverse wireless charging; Pixel 6 Pro has faster wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 12MP | 50MP | Pixel 6 Pro captures more detail due to the higher resolution. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.76" | 1/1.31" | Pixel 6 Pro has a larger sensor, which should allow better low-light performance, wider dynamic range. |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP | 48MP | S21+ 5G has a dedicated telephoto with slightly higher megapixel count, however, Pixel 6 Pro has a dedicated telephoto lens, improving optical zoom capability compared to S21's digital zoom. |
| Telephoto Lens | Not Available | 48MP | Pixel 6 Pro offers a dedicated telephoto lens for superior zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 12MP | Pixel 6 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle lens, allowing for more versatile photography. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP | Not Available | S21+ 5G offers a wide-angle camera with macro functionality for versatile close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 12MP | Pixel 6 Pro captures marginally more detail in selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.2" | 1/2.93" | Pixel 6 Pro's larger sensor could provide slightly better selfie results, especially in low light. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21+ 5G provides a higher video resolution for professional-grade video capture. |
| DXOMark | 111 (Mobile) | 134 (Mobile), 138(Selfie) | Pixel 6 Pro has superior overall camera performance, particularly in video and selfie capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | S21+ 5G is expected to receive more OS updates while Pixel 6 Pro, released later, would receive fewer updates, but both phones are expected to receive more than enough updates in their life cycle. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Pixel 6 Pro has MIMO capability for potentially improved WiFi performance in multi-user environments. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Pixel 6 Pro uses a newer version of Bluetooth; offers potentially faster connection speed, better range and power efficiency. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512 GB | Pixel 6 Pro offers a higher 512GB storage option for users with extensive storage needs. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB | Pixel 6 Pro allows smoother multitasking and better handling of heavy applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No additional storage option is available on either device. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Noise cancel mic | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | S21+ 5G offers advanced audio features for richer sound and clearer calls, while Pixel 6 Pro has 3 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both devices use basic fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both offer similar screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Both offer a comprehensive sensor suite for various functionalities. Samsung includes Hall and Geomagnetic while Google includes Magnetometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Brighter Display: Significantly higher brightness at 1300 nits vs 0 nits (unconfirmed for Pixel 6 Pro) ensures better visibility in bright sunlight.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers 8K recording at 24fps for high-resolution video capture, for professional use.
- Advanced Audio Features: Includes Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and noise cancelling microphone providing superior audio experience.
- Wider Range of Wireless Charging Features: Offers both 15W wireless charging and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density, resulting in a crisper and more detailed display.
- Superior Camera System: Larger main camera sensor, dedicated telephoto lens, dedicated wide angle lens and better overall DXOMark scores for improved image quality and versatility, particularly for low-light photography, video and selfies.
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster 30W wired charging and 23W Wireless charging.
- More RAM: 12 GB of RAM vs 8 GB allowing for smoother multitasking and gaming.
- Potentially longer software support (though shorter actual support time): Released later, so may receive software support for longer.
- Newer Bluetooth: Utilizes Bluetooth 5.2, which offers better connection speed, range, and power efficiency compared to 5.0 on the S21+.
- 512GB Storage Option: Larger storage capacity available, beneficial for users with high storage requirements.
- MIMO WiFi: Supports Wi-Fi MIMO for potentially more stable connections in multi-user environments.
Trade-offs:
- S21+ 5G: Trades superior camera performance, and processing power for better outdoor display visibility and 8K video recording.
- Pixel 6 Pro: Trades higher display brightness and advanced audio features for a superior camera system, a sharper display, and a newer, potentially more powerful, chipset.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal User:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight and need a highly visible display.
- Video Content Creators: Users who require 8K video recording and a wide range of video modes.
- Audio Enthusiasts: Users who value high-quality audio playback with Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation.
- Users wanting a slightly more versatile phone: For users who prioritize wireless charging and want the versatility of reverse wireless charging, this is a better pick.
Use Cases:
- Filming 8K video for professional or personal projects.
- Browsing the web or watching videos outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Enjoying music and other multimedia content with enhanced audio quality.
- Charging other devices or wireless headphones using reverse wireless charging.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize image quality and versatile shooting options, including low-light performance and zoom capabilities.
- Multitaskers and Gamers: Users who require a phone that can handle heavy applications and demanding games due to its ample RAM.
- Users looking for the latest software: Users who value the newest software updates and features will benefit from choosing Pixel.
- Users who need a lot of storage: Users who need 512gb of storage should choose the Pixel.
- Users looking for best in class selfie capabilities. The Pixel 6 Pro's superior selfie camera is great for people who value selfies.
Use Cases:
- Capturing high-quality photos in various lighting conditions, using the telephoto and wide-angle lenses.
- Running multiple applications simultaneously without lag.
- Playing graphics-intensive mobile games.
- Having a very good selfie camera.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Display Visibility: Is outdoor display brightness a high priority? If yes, the Galaxy S21+ is better.
- Camera Priorities: Is a top-tier camera with excellent low-light performance, a telephoto lens and a wide-angle lens your main focus, or do you mainly use one lens and video? If the former, the Pixel is better; if the latter, then the S21+ may be better.
- Software and Storage Needs: Do you require the latest software features and have a lot of files, potentially requiring 512GB of storage? If yes, the Pixel is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Frequent outdoor use/video recording
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its superior screen brightness and 8K video recording make it ideal for outdoor use and content creation.
- Scenario 2: Photography focused and multitasking.
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 6 Pro. Its higher resolution, better camera system, 12 GB RAM and more storage will be ideal for users who prioritize capturing high quality images and multitasking on the go.
- Scenario 3: General use with budget in mind
- Recommendation: The device which provides the lowest cost. Both phones are capable of general tasks, but their pricing should be considered.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Google Pixel 6 Pro.
While the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G has a brighter display, the Pixel 6 Pro's advantages in camera performance, display sharpness and multitasking capabilities are more compelling to me. I value the superior image quality, especially in low-light and diverse shooting situations, plus the higher resolution display. The additional RAM and storage also appeal to my needs for smooth multitasking and long-term storage.
Although I often use my phone outdoors, the difference in brightness is not as significant as the difference in camera quality, as I often use it for photography.
