Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Huawei Pura 70
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei Pura 70 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 157.6 × 74.3 × 8 mm | The S21+ is slightly taller and wider, while the Pura 70 is a bit thicker. S21+ may feel slightly larger in hand, while Pura 70 might feel more compact despite being a bit thicker. |
| Weight | 200g | 207g | The S21+ is 7g lighter, which might be a marginal difference. S21+ may feel lighter during extended use. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus (Screen) | Unknown (Screen) | S21+ provides superior scratch resistance for the screen. Pura 70 screen protection is unknown, making it a potential risk. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei Pura 70 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | S21+ has a slightly larger screen, offering a more immersive experience for media consumption. Difference is minor. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1256x2760 | Pura 70 has a significantly sharper display with more detail. Text and images will appear crisper on Pura 70. |
| PPI | 394 | 460 | The higher pixel density on Pura 70 will result in a noticeably clearer and finer picture. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both phones use high-quality display technologies, expect vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. Differences in actual display quality may be subjective. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. Expect a fluid visual experience on both phones. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2500 nits | Pura 70 has much better outdoor visibility, particularly in bright sunlight. Easier to use in sunny conditions. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei Pura 70 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Kirin 9000S1 | Different chipsets may have varying performance characteristics related to processing power. Real-world performance may differ based on specific tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 768,000 | Both offer similar performance levels in terms of raw power. Expect comparable speed in everyday tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Maleoon 910 | Different GPU architectures can impact gaming and graphics-intensive applications. Real-world gaming performance will vary. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB | Pura 70 has more RAM, leading to better multitasking and smoother performance when running multiple apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei Pura 70 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.80µm (Sony IMX555) | 50MP, f/1.4, 1/1.3", 1.20µm (Omnivision OV50H) | Pura 70 captures more detailed photos with a larger sensor and wider aperture. Better low-light performance for Pura 70. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.80µm (Samsung Bright S5KGW2) | Not Available | S21+ has a dedicated telephoto lens for zooming and portrait shots. It provides more flexibility in the shooting process. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm (Sony IMX374) | 13MP, f/2.4 (Omnivision) | Pura 70 captures slightly higher resolution selfies. S21+ has slightly wider aperture allowing for slightly more light in selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | Not Available | 12MP, f/3.4 | Pura 70 includes a dedicated telephoto lens, offering more zoom flexibility than the S21+. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 13MP, f/2.2 | Pura 70 includes an ultrawide lens for wider landscapes and group shots. S21+ uses a combined Wide Angle + Macro Lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm (Sony IMX563) | Not Available | S21+ features macro capabilities for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, etc. | 4K Video | S21+ supports 8K video, offering higher resolution recording. Both offer similar video features, but S21+ is better for professional-grade video content. |
| Camera DXOMark | 111 (Mobile) | Not Available | S21+ has a DXOMark score of 111, showing the image capabilities, the Pura 70 hasn't been tested. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Huawei Pura 70 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4900mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity. Expect similar battery life for both. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 65W fast charging | Pura 70 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime and improving usability. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 50W | Pura 70 offers much faster wireless charging, a convenient feature for on-the-go power. |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | 4.5W | 7.5W | Pura 70 can charge other devices wirelessly at a higher rate. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Telephoto + Portrait Camera: Dedicated telephoto lens for zoom and portrait photos, providing more versatility.
- Wide Angle + Macro Camera: Provides the capability of capturing macro photos with a dedicated sensor.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers higher resolution video for professional-grade video content.
- eSIM Support: Allows for digital carrier switching and dual SIM usage.
- Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone: Enhance sound quality for calls and audio playback
- Gorilla Glass Victus: Superior screen protection against scratches and damage.
Huawei Pura 70 Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density providing a better viewing experience.
- Significantly Brighter Display: Much better visibility in outdoor and bright sunlight.
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster wired and wireless charging speeds reduce downtime.
- Superior Main Camera: Larger sensor and wider aperture for better low light and image quality.
- More RAM: Provides smoother multitasking and better performance in demanding apps and games.
- Dedicated Telephoto and Wide Angle Lens: Greater zoom and wide angle capabilities compared to S21+.
- Newer Bluetooth Standard: Bluetooth 5.2 offers more bandwidth and better connectivity features.
- More Storage Options: Higher internal storage options (up to 1TB).
- More advanced GPS system: Enhanced satellite support for better location accuracy.
Trade-offs
- S21+: Trades superior camera versatility and 8k video for a less sharp and bright display, slower charging and lower RAM.
- Pura 70: Trades 8k video recording, slightly less advanced audio and eSIM support for a sharper, brighter display, significantly faster charging, superior main camera and more RAM.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prefer a versatile camera system with telephoto and macro lens capabilities.
- Video Content Creators: Those who need 8K video recording and video editing capabilities.
- Users that heavily use their speakers or microphones for audio needs: Users that want the best quality audio experience.
- Users who value eSIM capability: Those who travel frequently and switch between carriers.
- Users who value brand familiarity and Google Services: This phone provides a familiar user experience with easy access to Google services.
- Users looking for a good balance of features and good screen protection: Those who prioritize durability of the screen and good image capturing capabilities without needing a super sharp screen.
Use Cases:
- Travel photography: Telephoto lens and eSIM support makes it good for travel.
- Video production: 8K recording and advanced video features.
- Everyday photography: Versatile camera system for all types of photos and videos.
Huawei Pura 70 Ideal Users:
- Media Consumers: Users who prioritize a sharp and vibrant display for watching videos and browsing.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who require a bright screen for use in sunlight.
- Power Users: Those who need a phone that can handle heavy multitasking and demanding games.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want high quality images and high zoom capabilities.
- Users who prioritize fast charging: Those who want a fast charging phone to reduce downtime.
- Users who want the best performing screen: Those who need the sharpest screen with the best visibility.
Use Cases:
- Outdoor photography: Bright display helps visibility.
- Gaming: Powerful performance and smooth display
- Daily Media Consumption: Sharp display and high performance.
Price-to-Value
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Likely more affordable due to its age, providing a good value for users on a budget looking for good all-round features.
- Huawei Pura 70: Offers premium features and cutting-edge technology, but will be pricier, catering to users who don't mind paying more for the best.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- How important is a bright, sharp display? If you need to use your phone a lot in bright sunlight, the Pura 70 is the clear winner.
- Do you need advanced video recording capabilities, especially 8K video? The S21+ is the better choice if video content creation is important.
- How important is fast charging? If you need to charge your phone quickly, the Pura 70’s fast charging capabilities make it better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional photographer/videographer: If you absolutely need 8K video recording and a versatile camera with macro lens capabilities, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- Scenario 2: Outdoor and Media Focused User: If you prioritize a bright, sharp display, faster charging, a superior main camera and more RAM choose the Huawei Pura 70.
- Scenario 3: Cost Conscious User: If you need a good phone with a very versatile camera without the highest specs, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would select the Huawei Pura 70.
Reasoning:
While the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G has some appealing features like 8K video and a macro camera, the advantages of the Pura 70 are more significant for my daily use. The dramatically brighter display is a game-changer for outdoor use, and the significantly faster charging would be a huge convenience. I also prioritize a sharp and high quality display, which the Pura 70 excels at. The larger RAM, along with the newer chipset, provides better future proofing and will allow a better experience in demanding applications and games. The superior main camera and zoom capabilities provide more flexibility with pictures, making the Pura 70 a better fit for my use case. Although I would miss the macro lens, the overall benefits provided by the Pura 70 make it the better device for me.
