1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 168 × 77.8 × 8.8 mm | A05s is noticeably larger and slightly thicker, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 200g | 194g | A05s is negligibly lighter; likely not noticeable during typical use. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have the same screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both displays offer the same level of sharpness. |
| PPI | 394 | 393 | Nearly identical pixel density; very similar visual clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | PLS LCD | S21+ has superior contrast, deeper blacks, and better viewing angles. It is also more power-efficient with dark modes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ is much better for outdoor visibility, especially in direct sunlight. A05s display brightness is unknown, meaning its usability in bright conditions is questionable. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | S21+ has a significantly more powerful processor; faster app loading, smoother multitasking, better gaming experience. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 260,000 | S21+ is significantly faster in benchmarks. Real-world performance difference will be very noticeable. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 610 | S21+ has a much more powerful GPU, offering better graphics performance for games and demanding applications. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8 | A05s captures more detailed images under optimal conditions due to higher megapixel count. S21+ may perform better in low-light due to its larger sensor and pixel size. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" sensor | None | S21+ offers optical zoom capabilities for better close-up shots and portraits. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.0 | A05s has a slightly better aperture for selfies and more megapixels. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | A05s includes a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots with background blur. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | A05s includes a macro lens for extreme close-up photography. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor | None | S21+ has an ultrawide camera that is great for landscape shots. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@60fps | S21+ is capable of high-resolution video recording, suitable for more professional use and better quality video. |
| DxOMark Score | Mobile: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 89 | Not tested | S21+ is a much better camera overall, at least in tests. |
| Camera Features | Many (OIS, 4K/8K, Zoom) | Basic (Digital zoom, HDR) | S21+ has features such as optical image stabilization and RAW capture and offers more creative possibilities. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | A05s has a slightly larger battery. Difference may not be significant in day to day use. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both phones support 25W fast charging. |
| Battery Features | Wireless, reverse charging | None | S21+ offers convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for accessories. |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 13 | A05s comes with a newer version of Android. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21+ has better Wi-Fi performance, especially in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | A05s has a newer Bluetooth version with potential for slightly better connectivity. |
| GPS | L1+L5 | QZSS | S21+ supports dual-band GPS for more accuracy. A05s supports the QZSS satellite system. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | S21+ offers eSIM for more flexibility with carriers. |
| Storage | 128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | S21+ offers more internal storage options, especially at the highest configuration (256 GB). |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4/6 GB | S21+ offers more RAM for better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic | S21+ provides a more immersive audio experience, great for music and videos. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Security | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | S21+ has a basic fingerprint sensor. A05s may have a more convenient fingerprint sensor. |
Build Quality
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ has superior screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05s | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Sensors | Comprehensive suite (Barometer, Gyroscope) | Basic suite | S21+ offers a wider range of sensor data, useful for advanced features, AR and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness for better visual experience and outdoor visibility.
- Much Higher Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU, making it suitable for demanding tasks and gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Telephoto, wide-angle lenses, optical zoom, 4K/8K video, and OIS for higher quality photos and videos.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, better audio (Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res), and better build quality with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Better connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and a better GPS system.
Samsung Galaxy A05s Advantages:
- Newer Android Version: Ships with a newer version of Android (13 vs 11), which may translate into better software support for a limited time.
- Slightly Larger Battery: Marginally higher capacity battery, potentially offering slightly longer battery life.
- Dedicated Depth and Macro Lenses: Offers more creative shooting options in close-up scenarios.
- Potentially a better selfie camera.
- A Newer Bluetooth version
Practical Implications and Trade-offs:
- The S21+ is a premium device offering a much better user experience in terms of display quality, performance, and camera capabilities. The trade-off is that it is likely more expensive and lacks some very budget-oriented features like dedicated macro lenses and a more updated Android OS.
- The A05s is a more budget-friendly device with basic features, while it includes features like a macro lens and a newer Android OS, it trades off with a much less capable processing unit, display quality and a basic camera system.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who need high performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value camera quality, versatility, and features like optical zoom and OIS.
- Multimedia Consumers: People who appreciate high-quality displays, and immersive audio experiences.
- Users who prioritize screen visibility in different outdoor situations
Specific Use Cases:
- High-end gaming, demanding video editing, and photography.
- Enjoying high-quality streaming and music experiences.
- Traveling with the need for a reliable camera and GPS system.
Samsung Galaxy A05s Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who are looking for an affordable device for basic use.
- Casual Users: Users who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and browsing.
- Users who prefer to have macro and depth lenses on their phones.
- Users who want a more up-to-date Android OS.
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks, social media, and basic photography.
- As a secondary phone.
- For users with simple smartphone needs on a budget.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S21+ likely offers better long term value due to better overall hardware, a better camera and higher performance, but at a higher price.
- The A05s is more budget-friendly, offering good value for basic use cases, but lacks performance and some features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for the phone? (e.g., gaming, photography, basic communication)
- What is your budget? (Price will greatly influence the choice between these two devices)
- How much do you value screen quality, performance, and camera capabilities? (Consider the practical implications)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming & Multimedia: If you plan to play games, watch videos, or use demanding apps, choose the Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its performance, screen, and audio will greatly enhance your experience.
- Scenario 2: Casual Use & Budget: If you primarily use your phone for basic communication, social media, and occasional photos, the Galaxy A05s will suffice. It's much more affordable and offers the basics.
- Scenario 3: Photography Focus: If you want good photography and video features, and you value having a telephoto and wide-angle lens, the Galaxy S21+ 5G offers superior performance and advanced features.
- Scenario 4: Outdoor screen visibility: If you plan to use your phone in sunny outdoor conditions, the Galaxy S21+ 5G offers better screen visibility due to it's much higher brightness.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While it's an older phone, the performance difference is significant, and the display and camera are far superior. I value smooth performance, good outdoor visibility, and high quality photos more than a newer OS or slightly larger battery. It would provide a much better overall experience for my needs, and I believe it offers better long term value. The A05s, despite being a newer model, compromises too much on critical aspects for me. The lack of brightness on the display and the underwhelming performance makes it hard to recommend for my general use case.
