Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Realme C55
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Realme C55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm, 200g | 165.6 x 75.9 x 7.9 mm, 189.5g | Realme C55 is slightly taller and lighter, but both are similar in width and thickness, differences might be noticeable during extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.72" | Virtually identical screen sizes; difference is negligible |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness for both displays |
| PPI | 394 | 392 | Nearly identical pixel density; difference is imperceptible |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21+ offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency, especially with dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 680 nits | S21+ has much better visibility in bright sunlight, making it better for outdoor use |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | S21+ offers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance due to its more powerful processor |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 245,800 | S21+ provides a much more fluid experience, and is more future-proof for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G52 MC2 | S21+ will handle graphic-intensive games much better |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5000 mAh | C55 offers slightly longer battery life, but difference may not be dramatic |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | 33W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | C55 charges slightly faster, but both provide fast charging capabilities |
| Features | Reverse/Wireless Charging | Non-removable | S21+ offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging which are missing from the C55. S21+ does not have a charger in the box while C55 probably does. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 12MP (1/1.76"), f/1.8, 1.8µm | 64MP (1/2"), 0.7µm | C55 has higher resolution; S21+ has larger sensor and larger pixels for better low-light performance. S21+ is expected to offer better image processing |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.8µm | None | S21+ has a telephoto camera allowing optical zoom and portrait mode, which is not available in the C55 |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 8MP, f/2.0, | S21+ has slightly higher resolution; C55 has wider aperture. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP (1/5"), f/2.4, 1.75µm | C55 has a depth sensor for portrait mode, which is not present in the S21+ |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | None | S21+ offers wide angle and macro capabilities, not available in C55 |
| Video | Up to 8K/24fps w/ HDR, EIS | Up to 1080p/60fps | S21+ offers much higher quality video capabilities including 8K recording and more stable video thanks to EIS. |
| DxOMark | Main: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 89 | Not Tested | S21+ has a superior camera performance according to DxOMark, but no results are available for the C55 |
| Camera Features | Multiple advanced features | Basic camera features | S21+ offers a more versatile camera system including optical zoom, OIS, and more shooting modes |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 13 | C55 ships with a newer Android version, but S21+ will receive the same Android 15 update |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | S21+ has faster Wi-Fi speeds, which is useful for downloading and streaming content on Wi-Fi 6 networks |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | C55 features a slightly newer Bluetooth version, S21+ has a broader range of Bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1, E1 | S21+ has better positioning accuracy in urban areas due to dual-frequency GPS. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ supports eSIM for more flexibility in cellular connectivity. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Both offer similar maximum storage, C55 gives an additional storage option. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Both offer 8 GB RAM versions, S21+ is standardized. The C55 has the option for 4 or 6GB which means it might struggle with multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers external storage expansion |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | S21+ offers superior audio playback and recording with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | C55 has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ has significantly better scratch and shatter resistance on the screen due to its superior protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive sensor suite | Basic sensor set | S21+ includes more advanced sensors like Barometer, Gyroscope, and compass for better gaming and advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate and significantly higher brightness provides a much more vibrant and smoother viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Far Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers significantly better performance in all aspects from app loading and multitasking to gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a more versatile camera setup with a telephoto lens, wider angle and macro lens, OIS, 8K video, and higher scores in DxOMark ratings.
- Enhanced Audio: Includes Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging Added convenience for charging.
- More advanced connectivity: Faster Wi-Fi and more satellite systems for GPS
- Better build quality: Offers screen protection from Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Realme C55 Advantages:
- Slightly Larger Battery: Offers marginally longer battery life
- Faster Charging: 33W charging is slightly faster than the 25W on the S21+
- Newer Android Version: Ships with a newer version of Android which may provide more up to date features out of the box, although the S21+ is due to get the same update as C55.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: This is a matter of preference but some people prefer side mounted fingerprint scanners rather than an in-screen one.
- Lower Price Point: The C55 is generally more affordable.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S21+ offers significantly superior performance, display quality, camera capabilities and advanced features in exchange for a likely higher price tag.
- The Realme C55 prioritizes affordability and offers slightly faster charging, and a slightly larger battery in exchange for inferior screen, camera and performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Those who demand high performance for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a high-quality camera with versatility and features like optical zoom.
- Media Consumers: Users who appreciate a vibrant, smooth, and bright display for watching videos and movies.
- Users looking for premium features such as wireless charging and enhanced audio.
- Users who need durability: The phone has a premium build quality
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming with demanding graphics
- Professional photography and videography on the go
- Watching high-resolution movies and streaming HDR content
- Heavy multitasking and using multiple apps simultaneously
- Using outdoors regularly in bright sunlight
Realme C55 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Users who need a reliable smartphone but are price-sensitive.
- Everyday Users: Those who primarily use their phone for social media, browsing, and communication.
- Users with good access to power: The slightly improved battery life and fast charging allows for this to be a phone that isn't worried about being without power.
- Users who want a modern device on a budget The newest Android version provides a premium feel on a budget.
Use Cases:
- Social media browsing and communication
- Basic photography and casual video recording
- Everyday tasks and light app usage
- Long hours of regular smartphone usage (browsing, chatting, etc)
- Users who want a phone that can last through the day and are often near charging stations.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: What is your maximum budget, and how much are you willing to pay for premium features?
- Performance Needs: How important is high performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps?
- Camera Priorities: How critical is camera quality and versatility, such as optical zoom and low-light performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- If you prioritize high-end performance, display quality, and camera versatility, and your budget allows for it, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is the superior choice.
- If you are on a tight budget and need a reliable smartphone for everyday use with a decent battery and fast charging, the Realme C55 is a more affordable option.
- If you need a balance of good battery life and want to save some money but still want smooth performance, there is a significant trade off with the Realme C55, therefore the S21+ still remains the better option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While it is older and likely more expensive, the performance difference is huge and would significantly improve my daily experience. The significantly better display, superior camera, enhanced audio, and additional features like wireless charging justify the extra cost for my needs. I value smooth performance, high-quality display and camera capabilities for capturing memories and consuming media. The Realme C55 would not offer the same experience due to the significantly slower processor and lower quality display.
