1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2024-08-22 | Pixel 9 is significantly newer, implying better software support and newer hardware. |
| Size | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | S21+ is larger, potentially less pocketable but offering more screen real estate. Pixel 9 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 200g | 198g | Both are virtually the same weight, feeling similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.3" | S21+ offers a larger display for media consumption and multitasking, while Pixel 9 is more comfortable for single-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2424 | Very similar sharpness; differences are negligible in real-world use. |
| PPI | 394 | 422 | Pixel 9 has slightly sharper text and images, but the difference is unlikely to be noticeable to the average user. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks; negligible difference in display quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ has significantly higher peak brightness making it much easier to use outdoors, the Pixel 9's brightness is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | Pixel 9's newer chipset offers faster performance, improved efficiency, and better AI capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 1,071,616 | Pixel 9 performs significantly better in benchmarks, translating to faster app loading and smoother overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G715 MC7 | Pixel 9's GPU provides better graphics performance and efficiency. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4700mAh | Similar battery capacity suggesting comparable battery life, however, performance and power usage of chipsets will play a major role. |
| Charging | 25W | 27W | Pixel 9 has a slightly faster charging speed. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, No Charger | 15W Wireless | S21+ provides more wireless charging options, but does not include a charger in the box. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.3" | Pixel 9's primary camera captures more detail and has better low-light performance due to a larger sensor and wider aperture. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | Not available | S21+ has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed shots and portrait mode. Pixel 9 relies on digital zoom. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 10.5MP, f/2.2 | Similar selfie camera performance in terms of resolution and aperture. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 48MP, f/1.7 | Pixel 9's wide angle camera will have much better detail and low light performance. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21+ records video in higher resolution but may lack the Pixel 9's overall video quality. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 | 154 | The Pixel 9 has much better image quality and video recording performance. |
| Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Triple camera, OIS | Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, Dual camera, OIS, LAF, AI Engine | S21+ offers more camera features but Pixel 9 boasts additional AI based tools for better image processing and focus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Up to 15) | Android 14 (Up to 21) | Pixel 9 offers a more recent version of Android with longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6, MIMO | Similar WiFi capability, with the Pixel 9 offering an additional feature. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Pixel 9 has a newer Bluetooth standard, allowing for potentially more stable and efficient connections. |
| GPS | Multi-system | More systems | Pixel 9 offers better location accuracy due to more supported satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano+eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano+eSIM) | Similar dual SIM capability, but S21+ supports two physical SIMs, where the Pixel 9 uses a nano SIM + eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both phones offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | Pixel 9 has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports external storage expansion. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res | 3 Microphones | S21+ has premium audio features for media consumption, while the Pixel 9 has more microphones for better call quality. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Basic Sensor | Basic Sensor | Both phones offer standard fingerprint security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Similar level of protection. |
| Sensors | Compass, Hall, Geomagnetic | No additional | S21+ has additional sensors for more advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: A 6.7-inch screen is better for media consumption, multitasking, and users who prefer a bigger interface.
- Higher Brightness: The S21+ is significantly brighter making it better for viewing outdoors.
- Dedicated Telephoto Lens: Offers true optical zoom for better quality zoomed photos.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Ability to charge other devices wirelessly.
- More Sensors: Includes additional sensors like a compass and geomagnetic sensor.
- Premium Audio Features: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio provide superior sound quality.
Google Pixel 9 Advantages:
- Newer Chipset (Tensor G4): Significantly faster performance, better efficiency, and enhanced AI capabilities.
- Higher AnTuTu Score: Indicating a substantial performance advantage over the S21+.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Larger sensor, wider aperture and higher resolution on the primary and ultra-wide lens translates to superior photo quality.
- Higher DXOMark Scores: Demonstrating significantly better photo and video performance.
- More RAM: 12 GB of RAM for smoother multitasking and app switching.
- Newer Software (Android 14): Offers extended software support and the latest Android features.
- More GPS Systems Supported: Provides better location accuracy and reliability.
- Updated Bluetooth Version: Offers a more stable, faster connection.
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster charging of 27W compared to the S21+'s 25W.
- Ultra stable video and AI processing: Provides additional tools for better video quality.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Offers a larger screen and a telephoto lens but falls behind in performance, software, and camera quality compared to the Pixel 9.
- Pixel 9: Has a smaller screen and no telephoto lens but provides a much better overall experience with modern processing, camera and software.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize a large display for media consumption and multitasking.
- Users who frequently take zoomed photos and appreciate a dedicated telephoto lens.
- Users who value premium audio features like Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio.
- Users who need reverse wireless charging to charge other devices on the go.
- Users who don't need the best camera quality, and are on a stricter budget.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies and videos on the go.
- Playing games on a large screen.
- Taking zoomed photos and portraits.
- Enjoying high-fidelity audio with headphones or speakers.
- Charging wireless earbuds or other devices using the reverse wireless charging feature.
Google Pixel 9 Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize performance, responsiveness, and overall smoothness.
- Users who prioritize exceptional camera quality for both photos and videos.
- Users who want the latest Android software and long-term software updates.
- Users who value AI capabilities and unique software features.
- Users who prefer a compact phone that's easier to handle.
Use Cases:
- Everyday usage, including social media, browsing, and email.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos in various conditions.
- Using AI-powered features for enhanced productivity.
- Playing demanding games and running graphically intensive apps.
- Getting the latest Android features and security updates.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is older and should be available at a lower price point, making it a budget option if users require a large screen and a telephoto lens.
- The Google Pixel 9 will likely be more expensive, but offers better performance, camera quality, and software, providing better value for users who prioritize these aspects.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my primary use case? (e.g., Media consumption, photography, gaming, everyday use)
- How important is camera quality to me? (Do I need the best image quality, or are good-enough photos sufficient?)
- What is my budget, and am I willing to compromise on some features? (Do I prefer value for money, or prioritize top-of-the-line specs regardless of cost?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "I primarily want a big screen for movies and general use, and I have a tight budget."
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its larger display is ideal for media consumption, it also offers a telephoto lens, and you can often find it at a lower price point. The lack of the best camera or performance won't be as important for a budget user, while the additional features like Dolby Atmos will improve your multimedia experience.
- Scenario 2: "I want the best overall camera quality and performance, and don't mind a smaller display."
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 9. It offers significantly better image quality, the latest software, and performance. The smaller screen is a trade-off, but for users who prefer the best camera and performance, the Pixel 9 is the superior choice.
- Scenario 3: "I do a lot of video recording and want a high resolution video"
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is the only phone here that records in 8K, but it has a lower DXOMark score compared to the Pixel 9 for video. So, it would be beneficial to check out the video recording capabilities of the two phones with reviews before deciding.
My Choice
I would choose the Google Pixel 9. While the larger screen of the S21+ is appealing, the Pixel 9's superior performance, camera quality (as evidenced by the significant DXOMark difference), newer software, and longer update cycle make it the better long-term investment. The improved AI capabilities and general smoothness of the Pixel 9 would translate to a more enjoyable everyday experience. I value camera quality highly, and the Pixel 9's larger sensors and wider apertures on both the standard and wide angle lenses would produce much better photos and videos. While the lack of a telephoto lens is a minor drawback, the Pixel's AI-powered digital zoom should be more than sufficient for most use cases. Also, I would not want to use a phone with significantly lower brightness levels.
