1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Razr 40 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Razr 40 is more compact when folded, offering portability advantages. S21+ is a traditional slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 170.8 x 74 x 7.4 mm | Razr 40 is taller but narrower and slightly thinner when unfolded. S21+ feels wider and thicker in the hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 188.6g | Razr 40 is slightly lighter, which may be more comfortable for extended use. S21+ feels more substantial. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Razr 40 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.9" | Razr 40 offers a marginally larger viewing area. This is not a huge difference but might be noticeable for some users. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Razr 40 has a slightly sharper display due to a higher vertical pixel count, although the difference might not be very noticeable for most users. |
| PPI | 394 | 413 | Both offer very similar pixel density; differences will likely be imperceptible to the naked eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | S21+ has superior display technology (AMOLED vs unknown), providing better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. Razr 40 display technology is unknown from provided information. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Razr 40 offers slightly smoother animations and scrolling, primarily noticeable in fast-paced content. The difference might not be obvious to all users. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1400 nits | Razr 40 offers marginally better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. Both are quite bright indoors. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Razr 40 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4 nm) | S21+ has a slightly better benchmark score. However, real-world performance is likely to be smooth on both devices for daily tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 749,100 | 699,600 | S21+ has a higher benchmark score, suggesting marginally better raw processing power. However, real-world performance for most users will be quite similar. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International (ARM Mali-G78 MC14) | Adreno 644 (Adreno 644) | Different GPUs, each optimized for different tasks; S21+ may have a slight edge in graphics-intensive applications based on the benchmark score but this is not a certainty. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Razr 40 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4200mAh | S21+ will likely have longer battery life between charges due to larger capacity. The difference of 600mAh is noticeable in heavy use. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Razr 40 will charge faster than the S21+, reducing the time spent plugged in. |
| Features | Wireless 15W, Reverse wireless 4.5W | Wireless 8W | S21+ has more versatile wireless charging capabilities and also wireless reverse charging. Razr 40 only has a slower 8W wireless charging option. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Razr 40 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", Sony IMX555, 1.80µm | 64MP, f/1.8, unknown sensor & pixel size | Razr 40 captures images with significantly more detail due to higher megapixel count. S21+ may have an advantage in low light due to known larger sensor and pixel size. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", Samsung S5KGW2, 0.80µm | None | S21+ offers a dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed images and portrait shots with depth effects. This feature is absent from the Razr 40. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", Sony IMX374, 1.22µm | 32MP, f/2.45, unknown sensor & pixel size | Razr 40 captures selfies with more detail; S21+ might capture better low light selfies due to its wider aperture. |
| Wide-Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.40µm | 13MP, f/2.2, unknown sensor & pixel size | Razr 40 has slightly higher resolution but both are likely to perform similarly in practical usage. S21+ sensor & pixel size specifications make it a bit more powerful in low light. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ can record much higher resolution videos; both have EIS and support slow-motion recording, but S21+ offers higher framerate options and more flexibility. |
| DXOMark | Mobile: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 89 | Not tested | S21+ is a known performer for mobile photography, offering high ratings in both photo and video capabilities. The Razr 40 does not have an equivalent test score. |
| Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Triple camera, HDR, Night Mode | Time-Lapse, Dual camera, Laser autofocus, Night Vision | S21+ has better zooming capabilities and advanced shooting modes, while Razr 40 offers time-lapse and Laser autofocus. S21+ has a better triple camera and the Razr 40 has just a dual camera. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Camera System: Includes a telephoto lens, better low-light performance (due to known sensor and pixel sizes) and 8K video, achieving a higher DxOMark score than the Razr 40.
- Larger Battery: Offers a 600 mAh larger battery than the Razr 40 leading to significantly better battery life for extended usage.
- Versatile Wireless Charging: Provides faster wireless charging (15W) with reverse wireless charging (4.5W), absent from the Razr 40 (8W Wireless).
- Better Display: AMOLED display ensures superior visual clarity.
- Higher Performance: Higher benchmark scores and better GPU in the S21+ may offer a better experience for high-performance tasks and gaming.
- More Audio Features: Hi-Res Audio and Noise cancellation microphone
Motorola Razr 40 Advantages:
- Foldable Form Factor: Significantly more compact when folded, enhancing portability.
- Higher Refresh Rate Display: Smoother animations at 144 Hz for a slightly better visual experience.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging enables faster battery top-ups.
- Newer Android OS: Android 13 out of the box
- Significantly Higher Megapixel Count in Standard and Selfie Cameras: 64MP standard camera and 32 MP selfie camera will capture higher resolution images.
- More RAM Options: 12 GB RAM option, in addition to the 8GB, that will improve heavy multitasking performance.
Significant Trade-offs
- S21+: Larger and heavier. The standard form factor may not be as convenient for carrying. No newer features like a foldable screen.
- Razr 40: Smaller battery capacity and less capable cameras. The long-term durability of the folding mechanism is also a consideration. Unknown display technology.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize high-quality images and videos. The telephoto lens, 8K video, and higher DxOMark score make it suitable for photo and video lovers.
- Power Users: Individuals who require long-lasting battery life and sustained performance for multitasking and gaming, with more versatility in wireless charging options.
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who prioritize display quality and audio clarity will enjoy the AMOLED screen and Hi-Res audio features of the S21+.
- Users Who Prefer Traditional Smartphones: Those who are more comfortable with a standard form factor.
Motorola Razr 40 Ideal Users:
- Fashion-Conscious Individuals: Those who desire a compact, pocketable phone with a unique foldable design.
- On-the-Go Professionals: Users who prioritize convenience and portability, needing a phone that easily fits in a pocket or bag, along with faster charging speeds.
- Social Media Users: Those who frequently use the front-facing camera might appreciate the high-resolution selfies and the unique flexibility of the foldable screen for creative content capture.
- Users who Prefer Newer OS: Users who prioritize having the latest Android OS.
- Users who need more RAM: Users who need 12 GB RAM for heavy multitasking and demanding games
Specific Use Cases:
- S21+: High-resolution video recording for professional or content creation purposes. Long battery life for travel or prolonged usage without access to a charger. Reliable and high-quality camera performance in various lighting conditions.
- Razr 40: Effortlessly carrying a pocket-sized phone. Quick video calls with the hands-free aspect of the foldable form factor. Taking high resolution selfies.
Price-to-Value Ratio
- S21+: As an older flagship, it may now be available at a more competitive price, offering significant value for its camera and battery performance.
- Razr 40: As a mid-range foldable, its price may appeal to those interested in a foldable experience without the premium cost of high-end foldable phones.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Form Factor Preference: Is a compact foldable design more important than a standard slab design?
- Camera Needs: Is a versatile camera system with better zoom and 8K recording needed, or are high resolution images and selfies the priority?
- Battery and Charging: Is longer battery life with wireless charging more crucial, or is faster charging more important?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You are a travel vlogger. You prioritize video quality, battery life, and reliable performance in different environments. Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G due to 8K video capabilities, versatile cameras and larger battery.
- Scenario 2: You need a phone that fits in small pockets and purses. You also like taking selfies and love the idea of a foldable phone. Recommendation: Motorola Razr 40 due to its compact foldable design, higher resolution front camera, and newer software.
- Scenario 3: You are a business professional. You prioritize multitasking, and fast performance. Recommendation: Motorola Razr 40 with 12 GB RAM option, faster charging, and newer OS. The foldable aspect can also help in hands-free usage and video conferencing.
- Scenario 4: You are a photographer/videographer on a budget. You need great photo and video capabilities but also don't want to pay top dollar for a newer model. Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for its higher DxOMark camera performance and 8K video recording at a potentially lower price.
What I Would Choose and Why
Considering my priorities, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Here's why:
- Camera Versatility: As someone who values high-quality photography and videography, the S21+'s telephoto lens, 8K video, and known superior camera performance (backed by DxOMark) are important. The Razr 40 camera system's capabilities (sensor details, video specifications, etc) are not entirely provided, which makes me less confident. The S21+ has the best known performance in this area.
- Battery Life: I dislike having to frequently charge, so the larger battery capacity in S21+ is critical for my daily usage.
- Superior Display: While the refresh rate of the Razr is higher, having the AMOLED screen on S21+ is a feature I won't compromise on.
- Established Ecosystem: Samsung ecosystem is something I am used to and enjoy.
While the Razr 40 offers a more modern foldable design and faster charging, I value the more established, robust performance and versatile camera of the S21+. I also appreciate the additional audio capabilities (Hi-Res audio, noise cancellation) that will improve my multimedia and calling experience. For me, the superior camera system and battery life of the S21+ outweigh the modern form factor and faster charging of the Razr 40. The unknown display tech on the Razr is also a point of concern.
