1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 161.3 × 75 × 6.9 mm | The Nova 11 is slightly thinner (0.9mm), making it feel a bit sleeker and possibly more comfortable in hand. The S21+ is fractionally taller and wider. |
| Weight | 200g | 168g | The Huawei Nova 11 is significantly lighter (32g), which makes it more comfortable for prolonged use and easier to carry in a pocket. |
| Build | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus (screen) | Unknown (screen) | S21+ offers superior screen protection from scratches and impacts due to Gorilla Glass Victus, Nova 11 has an unknown protection which might be less durable. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Identical screen size provides similar viewing area for content consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1084x2412 | Negligible difference in sharpness; both offer a detailed visual experience. |
| PPI | 394 | 391 | Both have very similar pixel density, providing sharp and detailed images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; OLED is a general technology for AMOLED screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations, enhancing overall user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 950 nits | The S21+ has a brighter display, making it much easier to see in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 4G (6 nm) | Exynos 2100 offers a higher benchmark score (27% faster); better for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 587,561 | The S21+ is significantly faster based on the AnTuTu benchmark, suggesting smoother app loading and better overall responsiveness. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 642L | The S21+ GPU offers potentially better graphics performance for gaming and graphics-intensive apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.80µm) | 50MP (f/1.9) | The Huawei has higher resolution sensor, potentially capturing more detail. Samsung offers a wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto | 64MP (f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.80µm) | None | The S21+ has dedicated telephoto lens which is suitable for zoomed photography |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP (f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm) | 60MP (f/2.4, 1/2.8", 0.61µm) | Huawei boasts a significantly higher resolution selfie camera which could lead to more detailed selfies. Samsung offers a wider aperture which results in better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm) | 8MP (f/2.2) | The S21+ has a higher resolution wide-angle lens for more detailed wide shots. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps (HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound) | 720p@960fps (EIS) | The S21+ offers far superior video recording capabilities, including 8K recording. Nova 11 has basic capabilities. |
| DXOMark Score | Overall: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 89 | None | The S21+ has been tested for camera performance which offers insight into real-world performance, while Nova 11 has no available results |
| Features | 8K Video, OIS, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Night Mode | 4K Video, Dual camera | The S21+ offers a more versatile camera system with features like optical zoom, image stabilization and night mode, while Nova 11 is lacking in optical stabilization and optical zoom. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4500mAh | S21+ has a slightly larger battery (6%) which might lead to marginally longer usage time between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 66W Fast Charging | Huawei charges much faster, which can be very useful for users on the go. |
| Features | 15W Wireless Charging, 4.5W Reverse Wireless Charging | None | S21+ offers versatile charging options, while Nova 11 lacks wireless charging capabilities. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Unknown | Samsung is known for providing Android version upgrades while the OS version and updates on Huawei Nova 11 is unknown. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6, MiMO | Both offer similar high-speed WiFi performance, with the Nova 11 having MiMO for potentially better wireless reliability. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | The Nova 11 has a newer Bluetooth version, which might offer slightly better performance and power efficiency with compatible devices. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | The Nova 11 has additional satellite support for potentially more accurate GPS positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano/eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | S21+ includes eSIM support, allowing for more flexible carrier options. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512 GB | Nova 11 offers more internal storage option for users who require more space for apps, media and files. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB, 8 GB or 12 GB | Nova 11 offers more RAM options which are more suitable for heavy multitaskers and demanding gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports memory card expansion, therefore, user must choose an appropriate storage variant for their usage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | The S21+ offers enhanced spatial audio for immersive sound, higher quality audio playback, clearer calls, better audio separation and immersion. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones have similar security features for basic biometric authentication |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | The S21+ has a barometer for measuring atmospheric pressure which could be useful for weather tracking or altitude calculations, as well as other advanced sensors, while Nova 11 is equipped with a gravity sensor for orientation related calculations. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Brighter Display: Significantly better visibility in bright sunlight (1300 nits vs 950 nits)
- Stronger Performance: Better CPU and GPU, leading to smoother performance in gaming and heavy applications
- Versatile Camera System: Dedicated telephoto lens, better video capabilities (8K recording), OIS, night mode.
- Wireless Charging: Includes both wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- eSIM Support: Offers eSIM functionality for more flexible carrier options.
- Enhanced Audio: Offers a more immersive audio experience through Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and noise cancellation.
- Superior Screen Protection: Offers Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better protection.
Software Updates: Provides consistent Android version updates up to Android 15
Practical Implications: The S21+ excels for users who need a bright screen for outdoor use, who prioritize performance, camera quality, versatility, and wireless charging features, and care about software updates, as well as a stronger built quality.
Huawei nova 11 Advantages:
- Lighter Build: More comfortable to hold and carry.
- Faster Charging: Charges the phone much quicker (66W vs 25W) which can be useful for people on the go.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Captures more detailed selfies and offers more flexibility for cropping.
- Larger Storage Options: Comes with 512GB storage option for users that require more storage.
- More RAM Options: Comes with 12GB RAM which is suitable for heavy multitasking and gaming.
- Better GPS: Offers more satellite systems which provides better location accuracy.
- Practical Implications: The Nova 11 is better for users who prefer a lightweight design, and value faster charging, while also providing high-quality selfie cameras, storage options and better location tracking.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21+: Heavier and lacks fast charging and the newest bluetooth technology.
- Nova 11: Less bright display, lower performance for heavy tasks and lacking on the camera features such as OIS and telephoto lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Outdoor enthusiasts: Benefit from the brighter display and solid camera system.
- Mobile gamers: Experience smoother performance with better CPU and GPU, as well as better audio.
- Content creators: Capture high quality video and photos with versatile camera system.
- Power users: Utilizing wireless and reverse wireless charging, and who appreciate a premium build with superior screen protection.
- Users needing software updates: Offers software updates up to Android 15
- Use Case:
- Filming 4K and 8K videos for professional projects.
- Playing graphics-intensive games on high settings, with excellent audio quality.
- Viewing content outdoors in sunlight, while having a premium build device with reliable software support.
Huawei nova 11 Ideal Users:
- Casual users: Appreciate a lightweight and stylish design, with faster charging capabilities.
- Selfie lovers: Benefit from the high-resolution front-facing camera and generous storage capacity.
- Travelers: Require faster charging and accurate location tracking, while also benefiting from the lighter build.
- Multitaskers: Who require more RAM to operate many apps, or play heavy games.
- Use Case:
- Taking detailed selfies and social media pictures.
- Quickly charging the phone during the day when time is limited.
- Navigating while traveling with accurate GPS location information and multi-tasking with heavy apps.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S21+ (released in 2021) may be available at a lower price compared to its initial release price which can make it a great deal. It offers more premium features, stronger performance and a more versatile camera, making it a good value for power users.
- The Nova 11 is designed to be a mid-range phone which is more affordable with a focus on essential features like charging, design and high-resolution selfies which can provide a good price-to-value ratio for casual users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize outdoor visibility and camera versatility, or a lightweight design and faster charging?
- Do you require high-end gaming performance or just smooth, daily usage?
- Is having the latest software updates, or a high resolution selfie camera and more storage more important?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Outdoor Usage & Content Creation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for its brighter display, stronger performance, and versatile camera system.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use & On-the-Go Charging: Choose the Huawei nova 11 for its lightweight design, faster charging, and high-resolution selfie camera.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Performance & Value: If you want a more premium experience, and more power and software updates without breaking the bank, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is a strong contender at a lower price as it is an older model. If you want great basic usage, combined with the latest tech and focus on selfies, then the Huawei Nova 11 is a suitable choice.
Final Decision:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While the Huawei Nova 11 offers a lighter design and faster charging, the S21+ provides a more well-rounded package for my needs. I prioritize a brighter display for outdoor visibility, and a stronger performance for demanding apps and gaming, as well as high quality audio for better immersion. Additionally, I use my camera a lot for work which makes the versatility of the S21+ camera system much more valuable to me, while also having better software support. The wireless charging and better screen protection are also a plus. Even though it is a heavier device, the benefits I get from the S21+ far outweigh the drawbacks for my use case, plus the fact it is an older model makes it more affordable for a power user that wants premium features.
