1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Realme 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-11-11 | Realme 10 is significantly newer, potentially with longer software support |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 159.9 x 73.3 x 8 mm | S21+ is slightly larger but thinner, Realme 10 is more compact and thicker |
| Weight | 200g | 178g | Realme 10 is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.4" | S21+ has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer sharp visuals |
| Pixel Density | 394 ppi | 411 ppi | Both have very similar pixel density, resulting in a sharp display |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ has smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | S21+ offers superior outdoor visibility in bright conditions |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) | S21+ has significantly more processing power |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 401,886 | S21+ offers much better performance for demanding tasks like gaming and heavy multitasking |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MC2 | S21+ has a significantly more powerful GPU for graphics-intensive applications |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5000 mAh | Realme 10 has slightly larger battery, potentially minor difference in battery life |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Realme 10 charges faster |
| Features | Reverse, Wireless, No charger | Non-removable | S21+ offers more charging flexibility, but requires purchasing a charger separately |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" sensor, 1.80µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64µm pixels | Realme 10 has higher resolution, but S21+ has a larger sensor and larger pixels which results in better low light performance |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.80µm pixels | None | S21+ has a dedicated zoom camera for better zoomed images |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm pixels | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.06", 1.00µm pixels | Realme 10 has higher resolution, but S21+ has a wider aperture, potentially better low light |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm pixels | None | S21+ can capture wide angle shots and macro |
| Black & white Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm pixels | Realme 10 has a dedicated black & white sensor |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | 1080p@30fps | S21+ offers higher video recording quality |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | 111 | N/A | S21+ camera performance is rated |
| Features | 4K/8K Video, Optical zoom, OIS | Digital zoom | S21+ offers more advanced camera features |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, up to 15 | Android 12 | Realme 10 is on a newer version of android |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21+ offers faster and more stable Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Realme 10 has a newer Bluetooth, potentially more efficient |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1 | S21+ has better location accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ is more flexible with eSIM support |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Both offer similar storage options, Realme 10 has an additional option with a smaller storage |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4/8 GB | S21+ has 8GB standard, Realme has an option for less |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No extra storage for either |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res, 2 Mic | S21+ has better audio output |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Realme 10's fingerprint reader is more convenient |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21+ is more scratch resistant |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | None | S21+ has a barometer for altitude measurements |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers significantly higher processing power and graphics performance, resulting in smoother multitasking and better gaming.
- Advanced Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness offer a smoother and more visible screen experience, particularly outdoors.
- Better Camera System: Features a versatile triple-camera setup with a dedicated telephoto lens, offering better zoom and overall image quality. It also supports 8K video recording.
- More Flexible Charging: Includes 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities, adding convenience for users with compatible devices.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support provide a more immersive audio experience.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers better protection against scratches and damage.
- More Sensors: Includes a barometer and other sensors for advanced use cases and gaming.
- eSIM Support: Offers eSIM for easy carrier switching
- DXOMark Camera Rating: The only one tested and has a Mobile score of 111, indicating superior performance.
Realme 10 Advantages:
- Newer Device: Launched nearly two years after the S21+, offering the potential for longer software support and improved features.
- Lighter & More Compact: The Realme 10 is lighter and slightly more compact, which many users might prefer for handling comfort.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging is faster than the 25W on the S21+, allowing you to charge the phone faster.
- Newer Bluetooth: Supports Bluetooth 5.3 compared to S21's 5.0.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient than the in-screen fingerprint on the S21+
- Lower Price: Generally available at a more affordable price point.
- Black & White Camera: Offers a dedicated camera for black and white images.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Older, heavier, lacks a charger in the box, less convenient fingerprint sensor
- Realme 10: Lower performance, less bright display, less advanced camera, inferior audio, lacks additional sensors and wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Individuals who need high performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize image quality, zoom capabilities, and advanced video features.
- Media Consumers: Users who enjoy watching videos and require a larger, brighter, and smoother display.
- Tech Savvy: People who value features such as wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and eSIM support.
- Users that need advanced sensors
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming: The powerful processor and GPU ensure smooth gameplay at high settings.
- Content Creation: Recording 8K videos and capturing detailed photos, the S21+ is great for content creators.
- Outdoor Use: The higher brightness makes the display usable even in bright sunlight.
- Travel: The eSIM support and GPS accuracy make it easier to use the phone internationally.
- Professional work: It's performance and features like the barometer make it an excellent tool for fieldwork.
Realme 10 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those looking for a good smartphone experience at a lower price.
- Casual Users: Individuals who mainly use their phone for social media, browsing, and everyday tasks.
- Comfort Seekers: Users who prefer a lighter, more compact phone for better handling.
- Users who want a longer software support
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday Use: The Realme 10 is adequate for social media, communication, and casual browsing.
- Longer Battery Life: The slightly larger battery offers more moderate usage between charges.
- Basic Photography: The camera is decent for everyday photos and social media.
- Users who prefer a physical fingerprint scanner: Its side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more convenient than the in-screen alternative on the S21+
- Users who want faster charging: This phone charges faster than the S21+.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G offers more premium features and performance, but at a potentially higher price.
- The Realme 10 provides a good experience for the price but compromises on performance and camera capabilities.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (e.g., gaming, photography, everyday use)
- What is your budget? Are you willing to pay more for high performance and features?
- Do you prioritize performance or battery life and charging speed?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming & High Performance: If you prioritize gaming and need a powerful phone, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its superior performance, higher refresh rate, and advanced camera are worth the extra expense.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use & Budget: If you need a reliable phone for everyday tasks and have a limited budget, the Realme 10 is a better choice. It offers a good balance of features and price, and has better charging speeds.
- Scenario 3: Better Build Quality: If you want a phone with a more scratch resistant glass, chose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
My Choice
Given the provided information, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
Here’s why:
- Performance is paramount: As someone who engages in resource-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, and multitasking, the Exynos 2100 and the Mali-G78 GPU of the S21+ would make a big difference in my daily use. The higher Antutu score is a clear indicator of this performance gap.
- Camera Versatility: The S21+’s triple-camera system with the telephoto lens, higher video resolution, and enhanced features provides superior image quality and options. I often need to zoom into details. Having OIS is critical for me because I value stability when shooting videos. Additionally, the DXOMark score also suggests better camera quality.
- Display Experience: The 120Hz refresh rate is great for scrolling and smoother animations, which are important for my use case.
- Wireless Charging and Additional Features: Wireless charging is something I use a lot, and the S21+ includes this functionality which is not present on the Realme 10.
- Professional Work: The extra sensors on the S21+ and overall performance make it a great tool for fieldwork.
While the Realme 10 is a newer and more affordable phone that includes fast charging and a physical fingerprint reader, its overall performance is significantly inferior to the S21+, it's display is not as good, the camera system is inferior and lacks wireless charging. While the lack of a charger in the box for the S21+ is a downside, I'd rather get a higher-performing device. For my needs, the benefits of the S21+ outweigh the convenience of the Realme 10.
