1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 164.7 × 76.1 × 8.4 mm | S21+ is slightly shorter and thinner; C31 is taller and thicker but similar width. The S21+ will likely feel more premium and compact in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 197g | Negligible weight difference; both will feel relatively similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | S21+ offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing, good for media consumption and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | S21+ offers significantly sharper images and text; less eye strain for reading and detailed viewing compared to the Realme C31. |
| PPI | 394 | 270 | S21+ provides much crisper and more detailed visuals due to higher pixel density, especially noticeable with text and detailed images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21+ provides deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better contrast, significantly improving the viewing experience, especially for videos and dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21+ offers smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming, feeling more fluid and responsive than the Realme C31. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ is significantly brighter, making it much more usable in direct sunlight; the Realme C31's display brightness information is missing which may indicate a limited brightness range. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | S21+ offers significantly faster processing for demanding apps, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 224,223 | S21+ performs drastically better, meaning faster app loading, smoother UI, and much better gaming compared to the Realme C31. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MP1 | S21+ has superior graphics performance for gaming and graphically intensive tasks; the C31 may struggle with more demanding games. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" Sony IMX555 | 13MP, f/2.2 | S21+ has a larger sensor and wider aperture for better low-light performance and dynamic range; Realme C31 has a slightly higher resolution sensor. |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" Samsung S5KGW2 | None | S21+ offers optical zoom capabilities, useful for capturing detailed shots from a distance. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" Sony IMX374 | 5MP, f/2.2 | S21+ captures higher-resolution, more detailed selfies; the Realme C31 will have basic selfie performance. |
| Macro Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Realme C31 can take close-up shots of small objects, a feature the S21+ lacks; However, macro cameras are often of low quality and limited usefulness. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX563 | None | S21+ captures wide-angle shots useful for landscapes, large group photos. |
| Black & White Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.8 | Realme C31 can take black and white photos, offering creative options, although the quality of these sensors are usually low. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | S21+ captures much higher resolution and quality video suitable for professional use, with better stabilization and slow-motion options. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 111 | None | S21+ has a rated camera performance that outperforms the Realme C31, which lacks such ratings. |
| Camera Features | More advanced features (8K, OIS) | Basic Features | S21+ offers a significantly more versatile and feature-rich camera system for photography and videography enthusiasts; Realme C31 offers basic functionality. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Realme C31 has a slightly larger battery, which may result in slightly longer battery life, though not substantially different; overall battery life is also influenced by chipset and screen. |
| Charging | 25W | 10W | S21+ charges significantly faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, Reverse Charging | None | S21+ offers convenient wireless charging and the ability to charge other devices wirelessly, which the Realme C31 lacks. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21+ receives extended software support with upgrades to Android 15, while it is not guaranteed for Realme C31. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11n | S21+ has faster and more reliable Wi-Fi, and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 with advanced profiles | Bluetooth 5.0 | S21+ supports a wider range of Bluetooth profiles, offering more versatility with wireless accessories; both phones offer standard Bluetooth 5.0. |
| GPS | More systems (L1+L5, E1+E5a) | Standard GPS | S21+ provides more accurate positioning, crucial for navigation in challenging conditions. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ allows for more flexibility in carrier options with eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 32GB/64GB | S21+ has significantly more storage for apps, photos, videos; C31 has limited storage for power users. |
| RAM | 8GB | 3GB/4GB | S21+ handles multitasking and memory-intensive apps much more smoothly with more RAM. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion via SD Card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | S21+ has much better sound quality with support for advanced audio features; the C31 has only basic audio capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Realme C31 has a more conveniently placed and potentially faster side-mounted fingerprint sensor for unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. The Realme C31 screen protection information is not available. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity: Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Environmental: Barometer | Proximity: Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | The S21+ has an environmental barometer and a fingerprint sensor; these sensors improve functionality and accuracy. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED with higher resolution, PPI, 120Hz refresh rate, and much higher brightness offers a vastly better viewing experience for all uses.
- Much Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and significantly higher AnTuTu score means much faster and smoother performance for apps, multitasking, and gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Includes telephoto, ultrawide lenses, higher quality sensors, 8K video recording, and a range of advanced features making it much more versatile for photography and videography.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging provide greater convenience.
- Better Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio, and stereo speakers provide a superior audio experience.
- More RAM & Storage: 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage provide superior performance for multitasking and storing more data.
- Extended Software Support: Guarantees a longer software support lifecycle.
- Better Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and additional GPS systems, offering better connection speeds and accuracy.
Realme C31 Advantages:
- Potentially Slightly Longer Battery Life: A slightly larger battery may lead to slightly longer battery life.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: The inclusion of a macro lens allows for close-up photos, a feature missing on the S21+.
- Lower Cost: Likely significantly more affordable than the Samsung S21+.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: May be more convenient for some users.
- Black & White Camera: The inclusion of a black and white camera sensor, however, these sensors are often of low quality and limited usefulness.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21+ 5G: Higher price point and no expandable storage.
- Realme C31: Significantly inferior display, performance, camera, and features compared to the Samsung S21+.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who need high performance for demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Users who value a high-quality and versatile camera system.
- Media Consumers: Those who enjoy watching videos and movies on their phone and value a vibrant and high-quality display.
- Users Requiring Fast Charging: Those who need to quickly charge their phone throughout the day.
- Users who Value Longevity: Those who prefer the extended software support of the Galaxy S21+ and need a device that will be supported by the manufacturer for many years.
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming: Smooth high-fidelity games thanks to superior processing and a 120Hz display.
- Mobile Photography & Video: Capturing high-quality photos and videos in various scenarios.
- Productivity: Efficient multitasking with multiple apps running concurrently.
- Media Consumption: Immersive viewing experiences with an AMOLED display and high-quality audio.
Realme C31 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those who prioritize affordability over high-end features.
- Basic Smartphone Users: Those who mainly use their phone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media browsing.
- Users who need a backup phone: Good choice as a secondary or temporary phone.
Specific Use Cases:
- Basic Communication: Reliable device for calls, texts, and basic social media.
- Casual Browsing: Light web browsing and email checking.
- Limited Photography: Casual photos with a basic camera setup.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Offers premium features and performance but at a higher cost. The price may no longer be high due to its age.
- Realme C31: Offers basic functionality at a budget-friendly price point; however the low-end display and processor make it difficult to recommend for anyone who requires above-basic functions.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for a smartphone? (Gaming, photography, basic communication, etc.)
- What is your budget? (Are you willing to spend more for a premium experience?)
- How important are display quality, performance, and camera capabilities to you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-End User, Budget is Not a primary concern If you're a power user who needs the best performance, a fantastic display, an excellent camera, and great audio, and budget is not an issue, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget User, limited use If you are on an extremely tight budget and you only need a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and very light browsing, the Realme C31 is an option; though most users will find the C31 an unsatisfying experience. Consider looking for refurbished options in other manufacturers if you are budget constrained.
- Scenario 3: User Who Values Performance but has a budget constraint If you want the best performance, great display, and a good camera on a budget you should consider a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G which should be more affordable than a new unit.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. The significant advantages it offers in terms of display quality, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience far outweigh the Realme C31's slight edge in battery capacity and a very basic Macro camera. As a tech enthusiast, I value a smooth, high-performing device with a vibrant display and versatile camera, and the Galaxy S21+ 5G delivers on all fronts. Although it has a higher upfront cost, the long-term value and user satisfaction are far superior to what the Realme C31 can offer. The S21+ is a far better phone that will remain useful and enjoyable for years.
