Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Nokia X30
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-09-21 | Nokia X30 is a newer device, potentially with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 158.9 x 73.9 x 8 mm | Samsung is slightly larger, might feel less comfortable in smaller hands, Nokia is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 200g | 185g | Nokia X30 is noticeably lighter, better for long holding. |
| Build | Glass front & back, metal frame | Glass front, Aluminum frame | S21+ uses metal for the frame which can feel more premium, X30 uses aluminum which is still high quality. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | Samsung has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption, multitasking; Nokia more compact, easier to handle with one hand. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same detail level for most uses. |
| PPI | 394 | 409 | Practically identical sharpness - both display crisp images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, excellent viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Samsung's display is smoother, less motion blur during fast scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | Samsung's display is significantly brighter, much better visibility in direct sunlight. The Nokia has no brightness spec, so this is a potential issue. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Exynos 2100 is significantly faster, better for gaming, heavy apps, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 410,072 | Samsung offers drastically better overall performance, faster app loading and smoother operation. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Adreno 619 | Samsung's GPU is superior, resulting in a smoother gaming experience with higher framerates. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.0µm | Nokia has higher resolution for more detail, Samsung has larger pixels for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.8µm | None | Samsung has a dedicated zoom lens, better for capturing distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2 MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | 13MP, f/2.4 | Samsung's wide angle is higher resolution, better for group photos. Nokia has a dedicated wide angle lens, whereas Samsung's is combined with the macro lens. |
| Selfie Lens | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 16MP, f/2.4, 1.00µm | Nokia offers higher resolution for more detailed selfies. Samsung has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps, various 4K options, slow motion 960fps | Up to 1080p@60fps, slow motion 120fps | Samsung offers significantly better video recording options, more professional and versatile, with more slow-motion capabilities. |
| DxoMark | 111 (Photo: 118, Video: 89) | Not available | Samsung's camera performance is tested and rated, Nokia X30 has no scores available. |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K video, Optical/Digital zoom, OIS, PDAF, RAW, etc. | Digital zoom, OIS, CDAF, etc. | Samsung has more features, suitable for advanced users who want more control and options; Nokia has a more basic set of features. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4200mAh | Samsung has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Nokia charges faster, will spend less time plugged in. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging, Reverse charging | None | Samsung offers additional charging features. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Nokia X30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 15) | Android 12 (up to 13) | Samsung can be updated to Android 15 while the Nokia can only go up to 13. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Significantly superior performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides a much faster and smoother experience for gaming and intensive tasks.
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits display offers much better visibility in outdoor and bright conditions.
- Superior Camera System: Offers more features, including an 8K video recording, optical zoom, and more detailed main sensors.
- Larger battery & charging features: A higher capacity battery coupled with additional charging features such as wireless charging and reverse charging, offers more convenience.
- More software support Samsung has 2 more software updates than the Nokia.
- Better audio quality Features Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio, noise cancellation and stereo speakers
Nokia X30 Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: Easier to handle and carry around.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging allows for quicker top-ups.
- Newer Device: Launched almost 2 years later, possibly with a longer support lifecycle.
- Better Wide Angle Lens: Has a dedicated wide angle lens
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung sacrifices portability and battery efficiency for a better camera, performance, brightness and display quality.
- The Nokia prioritizes a lightweight design and faster charging but has a less powerful processor, smaller display and more basic camera features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is Ideal For:
- Power Users: Gamers, heavy multitaskers, and those who run demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera with professional features and high-quality video.
- Media Consumers: Those who value larger, vibrant displays, high brightness, and good audio output.
- Those who want better long term software support Users who want more operating system updates
- Those who want more battery features Users who want the convenience of wireless and reverse charging.
Nokia X30 is Ideal For:
- Everyday Users: Those looking for a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-use phone for daily tasks.
- Budget Conscious Consumers: Users who want a decent device without breaking the bank.
- Minimalists: Those who prefer a smaller, more pocketable phone with a focus on essential features.
- Users who are mainly indoors: Users who mainly use their phone inside, as the brightness is unknown.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- How important is performance for me? (Gaming, heavy apps, multitasking?)
- How much do I prioritize camera quality and features? (Professional features vs. daily snapshots?)
- What is my priority: Battery life and advanced charging, or portability and fast charging?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For High Performance & Camera: If you are a gamer or a camera enthusiast, the Samsung is the clear choice.
- For Portability and Value: If you want a lighter, more affordable phone with a decent camera for basic use, the Nokia is suitable.
- For Outdoor Use: The Samsung is much better due to its high brightness display.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
Here's why:
- Performance is key: The significant difference in processing power is a major factor. As a user who values responsiveness and smooth multitasking, the Exynos 2100 is a clear advantage. The higher Antutu score translates into real-world speed and performance gains.
- Camera Versatility: I enjoy taking photos and videos, and the S21+ offers a far superior system with more features like 8K video, optical zoom, and better low-light performance. The presence of a dedicated telephoto lens is a plus for capturing distant subjects.
- Software Support: I value the ability to get updated to the latest operating system, and the Samsung offers that with 2 more potential software updates.
- Brightness: The higher brightness is something that I value, especially when outdoors.
- Display Quality: While both phones have AMOLED displays, the S21+ has a larger size and a 120Hz refresh rate.
While the Nokia X30 is lighter and has faster charging, the performance gap and superior camera system on the Samsung make it the better choice for my needs. The Nokia's lack of a brightness specification is also a significant drawback. The extra features such as wireless charging on the Samsung is also a plus. Despite being older, the S21+ still packs a punch and offers a premium experience.
