1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 161.9 × 74.7 × 8.6 mm | S21+ is slightly thinner (0.8 mm). Nova 8i has a slightly larger volume and may feel slightly bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 190g | Nova 8i is 10g lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus screen | Unknown screen protection | S21+ offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Negligible size difference. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2376 | Virtually identical sharpness, visually indistinguishable. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 394 | 391 | Nearly identical screen sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21+ has superior blacks, contrast, color vibrancy and better energy efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21+ provides much smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ offers dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. The brightness of the Huawei is not specified. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | S21+ has a significantly more powerful and efficient processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 201,000 | S21+ offers substantially faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 610 | S21+ has a much more powerful GPU, leading to much better graphics and gaming performance. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB | S21+ allows for smoother multitasking and handling of more demanding apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 12MP (f/1.8) | 64MP (f/1.9) | Nova 8i has higher resolution photos, but S21+ has a wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor | Sony IMX555 (1/1.76", 1.80 µm pixels) | Unknown (0.80 µm pixels) | S21+ has larger pixels and sensor size for better low light and dynamic range. Huawei uses pixel binning but does not specify sensor size. |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP (f/2.0) | None | S21+ has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed images without significant loss of quality. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12.2MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | S21+ has a dedicated wide angle lens that also serves as a macro lens, providing superior flexibility. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP (f/2.2) | 16MP (f/2.0) | Nova 8i has higher selfie camera resolution, but S21+ may have better low light due to sensor size. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | S21+ supports much higher quality video recording, suited for professional use. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes (EIS & OIS) | No | S21+ has better video stabilization, leading to smoother, less shaky videos. |
| Slow-motion | 960fps | 120fps | S21+ captures much more detailed slow motion video. |
| Additional Camera Features | OIS, Optical Zoom, RAW, Night Mode | Quad Camera | S21+ has more advanced photography features for detailed and versatile shooting. |
| DXOMark | Mobile (111), Photo (118), Video (89) | Not tested | S21+ has objectively tested and graded camera performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4300mAh | S21+ has a larger battery, likely resulting in longer battery life. |
| Charging Speed | 25W | 66W | Nova 8i charges much faster. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | None | S21+ supports wireless charging, providing more flexibility. |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | 4.5W | None | S21+ can wirelessly charge other devices. |
| Charger in-box | No | Yes | S21+ does not come with a charger in the box, potentially increasing total ownership cost. |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei nova 8i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 10 | S21+ has a newer and supports newer version of Android with more up-to-date features, performance, and security updates. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | S21+ supports faster, more efficient WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE with comprehensive profiles | Bluetooth 5.0 LE with aptX, AAC, LDAC | S21+ supports more Bluetooth features. |
| GPS | More satellite systems (L1+L5, E1+E5a) | Basic GPS | S21+ offers more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ has eSIM functionality for carrier flexibility. |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB | S21+ is available with more storage. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | S21+ has higher quality audio and spatial audio features. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | In-display (basic) | Side-mounted (more advanced) | Nova 8i has a generally faster and more reliable sensor. |
| Sensors | Comprehensive set including barometer | Basic set | S21+ includes extra sensors for advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly more powerful processor and GPU resulting in smoother multitasking, better gaming, and faster app loading.
- Higher Quality Display: AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate offers superior visuals, contrast, and fluidity. Much higher brightness for outdoor visibility.
- More Advanced Camera System: Better main sensor, dedicated telephoto lens, higher quality video recording, and advanced features like OIS and RAW.
- Better Wireless Capabilities: Supports faster WiFi 6, more comprehensive Bluetooth profiles, wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Includes barometer and more GPS capabilities, useful for advanced tracking and features.
- Longer Software Support: Newer OS with more up-to-date features and longer update support.
- Larger Battery: larger capacity than the Huawei
- Enhanced Audio Quality: Supports Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio for superior audio playback experience.
- Screen Protection: Superior glass protection.
Practical Implications: The S21+ excels for users who demand high performance, a top-tier display experience, advanced photography capabilities, and the latest software and wireless technologies. It is more future-proof and geared toward power users.
Huawei nova 8i Advantages:
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster 66W charging that could be more convenient for some users.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Might be more appealing for those focused on selfies.
- Quad Camera: The additional 2MP sensors increase camera flexibility for different modes of shooting.
- Lighter Build: The device is 10g lighter
- Lower Cost: Is a much cheaper phone.
Practical Implications: The Nova 8i caters to users who prioritize fast charging and may not need the highest level of performance or display quality. It's likely to be more budget-friendly and good for more basic tasks.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Does not include a charger in the box. Charging is slower compared to the Huawei. It's significantly more expensive.
- Huawei nova 8i: Significantly inferior performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and slower software support.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who frequently multitask, use demanding apps, and play graphics-intensive games.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want advanced camera features, excellent video recording capabilities, and high-quality images.
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who watch videos, stream content, and want a vibrant, high-quality display experience.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want the latest technologies, including faster WiFi, wireless charging, and a more comprehensive sensor package.
- Professional Users: Those who may need more professional video capabilities or require long-term software support for business use.
- Users needing detailed location data: Users who want the most accurate GPS data.
Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Professional photography and videography
- Extensive multitasking and productivity
- Streaming high-resolution content
- Outdoor usage in bright sunlight
Huawei nova 8i Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking a more affordable option for basic smartphone tasks.
- Users Prioritizing Fast Charging: Individuals who need a phone that can quickly recharge its battery.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for social media, browsing, and basic apps.
- Selfie takers: Individuals who want more megapixels in their front-facing camera.
- Users who do not use wireless charging: Those who do not use wireless charging capabilities.
Use Cases:
- Basic social media use and browsing
- Everyday communication
- Casual photography and video capture
- Users requiring a quick battery top-up during the day
Price-to-Value Ratio:
The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G has a higher price point but provides a premium experience. The Huawei nova 8i is designed for users on a budget and comes with some trade-offs to achieve this.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What are my performance needs? Do you need high-end gaming, fast multitasking, or can you manage with more basic performance?
- How important is display quality? Is a vibrant, smooth screen crucial, or is a basic display sufficient for your needs?
- How much emphasis do I place on camera capabilities? Do you need advanced photography and videography features, or are basic features adequate for everyday use?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: High Performance and Quality are a Priority
- Recommendation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- Reason: It offers superior performance, display, and camera capabilities.
Scenario 2: Budget is the Primary Concern
- Recommendation: Choose the Huawei nova 8i.
- Reason: It provides basic smartphone functionality at a lower cost with a fast charging battery.
Scenario 3: Balanced User with a Focus on Fast Charging
- Recommendation: Choose the Huawei nova 8i, but be mindful of the significant trade-offs in performance, display, and camera quality.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would select the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While it's more expensive and lacks a charger in the box, its advantages are simply too compelling for my needs. I value high performance for smooth multitasking and demanding apps, and the AMOLED display with its 120Hz refresh rate is a significant upgrade for a visually pleasant experience. The camera system is more versatile and offers much better quality, which is important as I take many photos and videos. Additionally, I would like the latest software and the security of longer update support. While the charging is slower and the battery life is not as long as the Huawei (I value a bigger battery in my phones) I also value the ability to wirelessly charge and also reverse wireless charge my accessories. The advantages the S21+ offers would allow a much more seamless experience when comparing to the limitations of the Huawei, and I'm willing to accept the disadvantages the S21+ has.
