1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2024-01-24 | The S24+ is significantly newer, benefiting from newer technologies. |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm | The S21+ is slightly taller, but overall dimensions are very similar. |
| Weight | 200g | 196g | Virtually identical weight; negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have the same screen size; similar viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | The S24+ has a much sharper display; text and images look noticeably clearer. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 394 | 513 | The S24+ provides higher clarity and detail for content; smoother text and visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | S21+ display has deep blacks, better contrast, vibrant colors, and is power efficient in dark mode. S24+ tech is not specified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both displays offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2600 nits | The S24+ is significantly more viewable outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) - USA/Canada/China | The S24+ has a more powerful and efficient chip; faster app loading and smoother performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 1,639,695 | The S24+ provides significantly higher performance; noticeable in demanding tasks like gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Adreno 750 (1 GHz) - USA/Canada/China | The S24+ offers superior graphics for better gaming experiences. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4900mAh | Similar battery capacity; expect comparable battery life for typical usage. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 45W fast charging | The S24+ charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W, No charge in-box | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging | Both support wireless charging, reverse wireless charging and reverse charging. S24+ features 'bypass charging' which can improve battery longevity by directly powering phone when plugged in. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" Sony IMX555 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" Samsung GN3 | S24+ captures more detailed images; larger sensor should improve low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" Samsung Bright S5KGW2 | N/A | The S21+ has dedicated telephoto camera for optical zoom and portrait shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" Sony IMX374 | 12MP, f/2.2 Samsung S5K3LU | S24+ provides slightly better detail on selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" Samsung S5K3K1 | The S24+ has a dedicated telephoto lens for better optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX564 | The S24+ has a dedicated wide-angle camera to capture more in a shot. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX563 | N/A | The S21+ has a macro camera for close-up photos in addition to a wide angle lens. |
| Video | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps | Both phones provide similar high-resolution video recording; S24+ has slight slow motion recording disadvantage. |
| DXOMARK | Main score: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 89 | N/A | S21+ has good camera scores based on this third-party benchmark; no data available for the S24+. |
| Camera Features | 4K, 8K, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, OIS, PDAF, etc | Night Mode 2.0, 4K, 8K, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, OIS, PDAF, etc | Both have most key features; S24+ has the benefit of night mode 2.0. S21+ has additional continuous autofocus and manual focus |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 14, upgradable to 21 | S24+ has a newer Android version, longer software update lifespan |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | The S24+ supports newer Wi-Fi standards, offering faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | S24+ has a newer Bluetooth version, improving power efficiency and connectivity |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | The S24+ has more satellite system support, which enables better location accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | Both phones support dual SIM, with the S24+ offering dual e-sim |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 256 GB or 512 GB | The S24+ has higher storage options which is suitable for media hoarders. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB | S24+ provides better multitasking performance; smoother performance for apps & games |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | S21+ has additional spatial and high-resolution audio capabilities |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both have basic fingerprint security; same functionality. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S24+ has a slightly more advanced screen protection technology; better scratch resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Both have similar, comprehensive sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio: Offers better audio experience for music and video consumption.
- Telephoto + portrait camera, and Wide Angle + Macro cameras: This gives a flexible camera setup for varied photography scenarios, offering both optical zoom and close-up shots.
- Continuous autofocus and manual focus: Provides additional professional controls for camera enthusiasts.
Practical Implications: The S21+ offers a more versatile camera system for those who like to experiment with different photographic styles and may appeal to audiophiles due to its superior audio features.
Samsung Galaxy S24+ Advantages:
- Significantly Higher Resolution and Brightness Display: Offers a much sharper and more viewable display, especially in outdoor conditions.
- Newer and Much More Powerful Chipset: Provides superior performance for demanding tasks and better future-proofing.
- Faster Charging: Reduces charging time, a practical benefit for users on the go.
- Higher Base Storage and RAM: Offers more space for apps, photos, and smoother multitasking.
- Newer Software: Longer software support with newer Android version and longer future update lifespan.
- Better Connectivity: Supports newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, enhancing network and accessory connectivity.
- Dedicated Telephoto and Wide Angle Cameras offers an additional camera option compared to the S21+
- Night Mode 2.0: Provides an enhanced low light photography capability.
Practical Implications: The S24+ offers a superior all-around experience, excelling in performance, display quality, and connectivity. It is suited for users who want the best possible smartphone experience with newer technologies.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S21+ has a more flexible camera system with the inclusion of a dedicated macro lens, whereas the S24+ has a wide angle lens instead.
- The S21+ provides superior audio experience due to Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a versatile camera system with macro capabilities, alongside high-quality audio playback.
- Users who are not particularly demanding on processing performance and do not need the latest software.
- Users who prefer slightly more photography control options with manual focus.
- Budget conscious buyers
Specific Use Cases:
- Hobbyist photographers interested in close-up macro photography.
- Music enthusiasts who want better audio quality.
- Users who do not require the latest performance.
Samsung Galaxy S24+:
Ideal User:
- Users who want the best overall performance and a high-quality display.
- Gamers and power users who need a powerful device for demanding tasks.
- Users who prioritize longevity and future software updates.
- Users who need better outdoor screen visibility.
- Users who desire the best connectivity options, including the latest standards of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Specific Use Cases:
- Mobile gamers who want a smooth gaming experience.
- Professionals who need fast processing and excellent multitasking capabilities.
- Users who often use their phone outdoors or in bright environments.
- Users who want to be on the cutting edge of connectivity technology.
- Users who want the most up to date software and support.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S21+ is typically available at a lower price, offering good value for users who don't require the absolute best performance or the latest tech.
- The S24+ commands a higher price but offers a significant upgrade in performance, display, and connectivity.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is the camera system for you? (Do you need a macro lens and/or would you prefer a telephoto and wide angle lens? Do you prioritize professional control options?)
- How important is top-tier performance? (Do you need a device for demanding tasks, or is general use sufficient?)
- How important is future software support and the latest connectivity standards? (Do you want a device that will receive OS and security updates longer, and faster connectivity?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Budget-conscious user who enjoys photography: The S21+ offers a better price-to-performance ratio. Users who like photography may still prefer the flexibility of the macro camera lens, alongside high-quality audio playback.
Scenario 2: Power user or mobile gamer: The S24+ is a much better option with its significantly better chipset and graphics performance. The high refresh rate display provides a smooth experience.
Scenario 3: Long-term phone user: The S24+ will receive more OS and security updates, alongside better connectivity with future proofing for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It also offers more storage capacity and RAM which will provide an overall better performance for longer.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24+. While the S21+ has a few advantages, particularly its audio capabilities, the S24+ offers a more compelling package overall. The vastly superior processing power, higher resolution and brighter display, faster charging, and more future-proof software and connectivity options make it the better choice for the long term. As a regular mobile gamer, the significant performance boost is a key factor for me, and the higher brightness screen would improve outdoor visibility. While I would slightly miss a dedicated macro lens, the wide angle lens of the S24+ is a welcome addition. The longer software support also provides better future-proofing, so despite the higher price, I believe the S24+ offers better value in the long run for my specific use case.
