1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-09-01 | A52s is newer by 7 months, potentially longer software support |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | S21+ slightly taller; A52s is thicker, might feel less premium and bulkier |
| Weight | 200g | 189g | A52s is lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | S21+ has slightly larger screen, better for multimedia consumption |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both phones have same sharpness |
| PPI | 394 | 405 | Practically indistinguishable pixel density |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant, high contrast displays |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 800 nits | S21+ much brighter, significantly better visibility outdoors under direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | S21+ has a flagship-level chipset, resulting in better performance in demanding tasks |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 570,752 | S21+ significantly faster in benchmarks, translates to quicker app launches and smoother gaming |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 642L | S21+ GPU is more powerful, leading to better graphics performance in games and other GPU intensive applications |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4500mAh | S21+ slightly larger battery, might provide marginally better battery life |
| Charging | 25W, Li-Polymer | 25W, Li-Ion | Both have same fast charging speed, battery technology difference is minor |
| Features | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse charging | Non-removable | S21+ has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for added convenience |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7" | A52s has higher resolution for detailed photos, S21+ has slightly larger sensor size for better low-light performance |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21+ offers dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 32MP, f/2.0 | A52s has higher resolution and wider aperture for better selfies |
| Wide Angle lens | None | 12MP, f/2.2 | A52s offers an ultrawide lens for more versatile photo taking |
| Portrait mode (depth) | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A52s has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots |
| Macro lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A52s has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | S21+ has a dedicated wide angle and macro lens combination. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ offers higher video resolution and frame rate, better for professional video recording |
| DXOMARK | 111 | Not tested | S21+ has an overall camera score of 111 |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | S21+ has an extra software update, ensuring longer software support |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support modern WiFi standards for fast and reliable connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE with additional codecs | 5.0 with limited codecs | S21+ supports more advanced Bluetooth codecs for better audio quality |
| GPS | More constellations supported | Standard constellations | S21+ offers more precise location tracking with the help of extra satellite systems |
| SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ offers eSIM functionality, better for travellers wanting multiple plans |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer same storage capacity options |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB/8GB | S21+ always has 8GB of RAM for better multitasking; A52s comes with either 6GB or 8GB |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos | S21+ offers advanced audio functionalities with enhanced sound quality and noise cancelling |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both feature basic fingerprint sensors |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21+ has better screen protection against scratches and drops |
| Sensors | |||
| Includes Barometer and Proximity | Ultrasonic proximity sensor | S21+ includes Barometer for air pressure readings, and has a standard proximity sensor, A52s uses a virtual proximity sensor |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and Mali-G78 GPU provide significantly better processing power, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experience.
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits brightness makes the S21+ much easier to use outdoors, especially in direct sunlight.
- Better Camera System: Features a dedicated telephoto lens, a wide-angle macro lens, and 8K video recording capabilities, offering more versatility and higher-quality images and videos. Also has better low-light capabilities on the main sensor due to its larger pixel size.
- Enhanced Audio Features: Hi-Res Audio, Noise Cancellation microphone and stereo speakers.
- Better build quality: Gorilla Glass Victus provides better screen protection against scratches and drops.
- More RAM: Comes standard with 8GB RAM
- More software updates: Will receive 1 more android update than the A52s
- Wireless charging: Offers 15W wireless charging and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
- eSIM support: Ability to use an eSIM as well as two physical sims.
- More accurate GPS: Utilizes L1+L5 GPS for more accurate and reliable positioning.
- Additional sensors: Barometer provides additional environmental information.
- Higher benchmark scores: S21+ has a much higher AnTuTu score (749,100 vs 570,752).
Practical Implications: The S21+ is better suited for users who demand top-tier performance, a premium display experience, and versatile camera options.
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G Advantages:
- Newer Device: Released approximately 7 months after the S21+, the A52s may have slightly longer software update support.
- Slightly Lighter: More comfortable for extended use.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Better selfies in terms of resolution and wider aperture.
- Dedicated Wide Angle, Macro and Depth lenses: Offering versatility in photography with dedicated lenses for various scenarios.
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable, making it a more accessible option.
Practical Implications: The A52s is a strong mid-range option, suitable for users who prioritize a versatile camera system, value affordability, and don't require flagship-level performance.
Trade-offs:
- S21+ sacrifices cost for higher performance and camera versatility.
- A52s sacrifices peak performance and display quality for a lower price and more diverse camera setup.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who frequently multitask, play demanding games, or use resource-intensive applications.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Users who consume a lot of video content, appreciate vibrant displays, and need excellent outdoor visibility.
- Photography & Videography Enthusiasts: Those who require advanced camera features, including telephoto zoom, 8K video, and better low-light performance.
- Travellers: Who need dual sim and eSIM functionality
- Users who prioritize longevity: Wanting the extra software update
Use Cases:
- Gaming: Provides smoother and higher frame rates in graphically demanding games.
- Video Editing: Faster processing and higher quality video capture.
- Outdoor Use: Superior display visibility for use under direct sunlight.
- Professional photography: Has a better overall camera with more features and professional recording options.
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users seeking a feature-rich phone without a premium price tag.
- Social Media Users: Those who take lots of selfies and utilize wide-angle and macro photography often.
- Casual Gamers and Multimedia Users: Users who enjoy gaming and consuming videos, but don't need the absolute best performance.
- General Users: Those looking for a reliable, well-rounded smartphone for everyday tasks.
Use Cases:
- Everyday Photography: Versatile camera system for various social media scenarios.
- Casual gaming: Plays most games well but might struggle with demanding titles at high settings.
- General Multimedia consumption: Provides a good experience without premium features.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The A52s offers a strong price-to-value ratio for mid-range users, providing a very capable phone at a lower price point.
- The S21+ has a higher price, but offers a true flagship experience, justifying the extra cost for users who need the extra performance and functionality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is peak performance? If gaming, heavy multitasking, or intensive applications are crucial, the S21+ is a better choice. If general use is the priority, the A52s is adequate.
- What is the primary use for the camera? If you need zoom capabilities and high quality video recording, the S21+ is better. If social media and general photography is enough, the A52s offers more lens options.
- What is the budget? If the budget is a major factor, the A52s offers a much lower entry price for a complete package.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User, Multimedia Enthusiast: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its superior performance, brighter display, and better camera justify the higher cost.
- Scenario 2: Social Media User, Casual Photographer: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G. It offers a versatile camera system with multiple lenses, while remaining affordable.
- Scenario 3: Budget-Conscious User with Moderate Needs: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G. It provides a well-rounded experience for everyday use, without breaking the bank.
- Scenario 4: Travellers with multiple phone plans: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. It has an eSIM, as well as two physical sims, to allow multiple sim plans without switching phones.
- Scenario 5: Longevity: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. It will receive 1 extra android update over the A52s.
Personal Choice and Explanation
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
Given my preference for smooth performance and a high-quality display, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Although it is older and more expensive, the performance increase is significant, and its brighter screen is a must for outdoor use. I also value the telephoto camera lens, the advanced audio features and wireless charging capabilities. While the A52s is a solid mid-range phone with a versatile camera system, the S21+ offers a noticeable step-up in overall experience, specifically the flagship-level performance which I require for gaming and intensive applications. The longer software support is also a big bonus. The improved build quality with Gorilla Glass Victus also provides better peace of mind. If price was a bigger concern, or my usage was more casual, I would have opted for the A52s instead.
