Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Motorola Moto G82
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Moto G82 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 160.9 × 74.5 × 8 mm | Samsung is slightly wider, Motorola slightly thicker. Minimal difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 200g | 173g | Motorola is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | Samsung has a slightly larger display, noticeable for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness. No visible difference in image clarity. |
| PPI | 394 | 402 | Negligible difference in pixel density. Both are sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. Similar viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | Samsung is significantly brighter, much better visibility in sunlight. Motorola brightness is not specified. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Exynos 2100 offers substantially faster processing, better for gaming and heavy apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 390,000 | Samsung performs significantly better in benchmarks, indicating superior overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 619 | Samsung's GPU is more powerful, better for graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Motorola has a slightly larger battery. Minimal difference in battery life likely. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Motorola charges slightly faster, getting you back to full quicker. |
| Features | Wireless charging 15W, reverse charging, no in-box charger | None | Samsung offers wireless and reverse charging, enhancing convenience. No charger included. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Samsung has a larger sensor, better low-light performance. Motorola has higher resolution. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | Samsung provides optical zoom capabilities, better for distant subjects and portraits. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2 | Samsung has a dedicated wide angle lens. |
| Macro | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Motorola has a dedicated macro lens. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 16MP, f/2.2 | Motorola has higher selfie resolution, better detail in selfies. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@60fps | Samsung captures higher resolution video, better for professional videography. |
| DXOMark | 111 (Mobile) | Not Tested | Samsung's camera performance is tested and rated well. |
| Features | OIS, 8K video, Optical zoom | OIS, Laser AF | Samsung offers superior video recording capabilities and zoom, Motorola provides Laser AF. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 15 | Android 12, Upgradable to 13 | Motorola has a newer base OS, but Samsung has longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Samsung supports newer WiFi standard, faster speeds, lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Motorola has a newer Bluetooth version. Minimal impact for most users. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5) + Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Samsung has more precise GPS, for better navigation in urban areas. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM, eSIM | Dual Nano SIM | Samsung has the option for eSIM, more flexible for switching carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128 GB | Samsung offers more storage. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB | Samsung has more RAM, better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, 2 Mics | Samsung offers higher-quality audio and better calls, Motorola has Dual Mics. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Motorola has a more convenient and modern fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Samsung has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity | Samsung has additional environmental sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU, ideal for demanding apps and games.
- Brighter Display: Much better visibility in direct sunlight thanks to higher brightness.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers optical zoom, better low-light performance, and significantly better video recording with up to 8K resolution.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Enhanced convenience for charging and sharing power with other devices.
- More RAM and Storage Options: More RAM and storage ensures smooth multitasking and more space for your files.
- Better Audio Features: Hi-Res Audio and Noise cancellation Microphone.
- Longer Software Support: Upgrades up to Android 15.
- Better WiFi: Supports newer WiFi standard.
Motorola Moto G82 Advantages:
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use due to its lighter weight.
- Slightly Larger Battery: Potentially slightly better battery life, though difference is minimal.
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster charging to top up the battery quicker.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Offers an additional lens for closeup photography.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic and convenient to unlock the phone.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: While minimal practical impact, Bluetooth 5.1 is more recent.
- More Recent Base OS: Ships with Android 12.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung: Heavier, no in-box charger, slightly smaller battery, and older OS base.
- Motorola: Much lower performance, less advanced camera, no wireless charging, and dimmer display.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, heavy apps, and multitasking.
- Photography/Videography Enthusiasts: Users who value high-quality photos and videos, including optical zoom and 8K recording.
- Users Requiring Excellent Outdoor Visibility: Those who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Users who need wireless charging.
- Users who want the latest version of Android
Ideal User for Motorola Moto G82:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for a capable phone without breaking the bank.
- Users Who Value Comfort: Those who prefer a lightweight phone for comfortable handling.
- Users Who Need Longer Battery Life: Users who prioritize battery over all other features.
- Users Who Take Selfies: The front camera is higher resolution.
- Users Who Prefer Side-mounted fingerprint sensor
Use Cases:
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Mobile gaming, professional photography/videography, outdoor navigation in bright sunlight, multitasking with many apps.
- Motorola Moto G82: Casual social media, everyday use, macro photography, users who need a lightweight phone on a budget.
Price-to-Value:
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Offers high value if performance and camera capabilities are priorities. May be more expensive, especially as a new device, but the performance and additional features justify it.
- Motorola Moto G82: A cost-effective option for users who need a lightweight phone for basic tasks. Its competitive price and good battery life make it a strong contender for budget-conscious users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: Do you require top-tier performance for gaming and heavy applications, or are basic tasks sufficient?
- Camera Requirements: Do you need advanced camera features such as optical zoom, or are standard features sufficient?
- Battery and Charging Preference: Do you prioritize a longer battery life or faster charging, or wireless charging?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- If you prioritize performance, camera quality, and a better screen: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- If you prioritize affordability, a lightweight design, and long battery life: Choose the Motorola Moto G82.
- If you use your phone outdoors a lot: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G due to its much brighter screen.
My Choice:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. My primary reason is its significantly superior performance, which is crucial for my daily usage involving multitasking, app testing, and occasional gaming. The camera capabilities are also a big factor, as I often take photos and videos in various conditions and would benefit from the optical zoom and higher video quality. Additionally, the brighter screen is essential for visibility under direct sunlight. Although it's heavier and doesn't have the latest Android version, the advantages outweigh these factors for my specific use case. I value performance, screen and camera quality over budget and a lightweight feel.
