Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2023-10-16 | The Tab S9 FE is significantly newer (approx. 2 years), potentially having more up-to-date software and features. |
| Form Factor | Standard Smartphone | Standard Tablet | The S21+ is designed for pocketability, while the Tab S9 FE is for larger screen experiences. |
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 254.3 x 165.8 x 6.5 mm | S21+ is much smaller and easier to handle one-handed. Tab S9 FE is significantly larger. |
| Weight | 200g | 523g | S21+ is much lighter, more portable and comfortable for extended use. Tab S9 FE is substantially heavier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 10.9" | Tab S9 FE has a much larger screen, ideal for media consumption and multitasking. S21+ is smaller for one-hand use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x2304 | Tab S9 FE has a higher resolution, resulting in more detailed images. |
| PPI | 394 | 249 | S21+ has a sharper display due to higher pixel density. Tab S9 FE has a less sharp display |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21+ has better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors due to AMOLED. Tab S9 FE display is less vibrant. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ has a smoother display experience, with less motion blur. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ has dramatically better outdoor visibility under sunlight. The brightness spec for Tab S9 FE is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | S21+ generally offers snappier performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 507,000 | S21+ generally scores higher, indicating better performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MP5 | S21+ GPU should give an edge in graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 8000mAh | Tab S9 FE has a much larger battery, likely giving substantially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Tab S9 FE charges faster with higher wattage, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse Charging, Wireless Charging 15W, Reverse Wireless Charging 4.5W | Bypass Charging | S21+ has more charging options while Tab S9 FE has Bypass Charging which might be useful when used as a workstation. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 12MP, f/2.0 | S21+ captures better low-light images with wider aperture. Tab S9 FE sensor size is not available. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | Not Available | S21+ offers a dedicated telephoto camera for optical zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 8MP | S21+ has a slightly higher resolution selfie camera. Sensor size not available for Tab S9 FE |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | Not Available | S21+ offers a dedicated wide-angle camera for capturing a larger field of view. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | S21+ records higher quality video with more options, especially for professional use. |
| Slow Motion | 960 fps | 60 fps | S21+ records much higher frame rate slow-motion video. |
| DXOMark | 111 | Not Available | S21+ camera scores higher in overall image quality, as tested by DXOMark. |
| Camera Features | Multiple Features including OIS, RAW, Night mode | Basic features | S21+ offers a more comprehensive set of camera features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Max version 15 | Android 13, Max version 17 | Tab S9 FE has a newer OS, with more recent software features and longer support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Similar Wi-Fi standard. S21+ includes Wi-Fi Hotspot; Tab S9 FE supports Wi-Fi MiMO. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Tab S9 FE has a newer version with improved range and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS etc | GPS | S21+ has more GPS systems, improving location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Not Available | S21+ can use two physical SIMs and an eSIM for more flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | S21+ is equipped with 8GB while the Tab S9 FE may have 6GB or 8GB |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | S21+ has better audio quality due to Hi-Res audio and noise-cancellation mic. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Tab S9 FE has a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ has superior screen protection, offering better durability. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Motion, Environmental | Biometric, Proximity, Motion | S21+ features more sensors, such as barometer, gyroscope and compass for more advanced functionality and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher pixel density (sharper) and brightness for better visual experience, especially outdoors.
- Better Camera System: More versatile camera setup with a telephoto lens, higher resolution selfie camera, better low light performance, and advanced video recording.
- Stronger Performance: Higher benchmark scores, indicating faster overall performance and better gaming experience.
- More Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging and wider range of sensors
- Higher Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection
- More Portability: Significantly lighter and smaller, more comfortable for daily use.
- Better Audio Quality: Hi-Res Audio and Noise cancellation microphone
- More GPS Support: more satellite systems for better location accuracy
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Advantages:
- Larger Display: Larger screen is ideal for media consumption, multitasking, and productivity.
- Larger Battery: Significantly higher battery capacity, likely giving longer battery life, useful for heavy usage away from a charger.
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging compared to 25W in the S21+ reduces charging time.
- Newer Software: Launched with Android 13, with a potential for more updates in the future, making it more future-proof
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Generally easier to access.
- Bypass Charging: Allows for extended operation while plugged in without charging the battery, useful for workstation setups.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Compromises battery life and screen size for better portability and camera quality.
- Tab S9 FE: Sacrifices camera capabilities, screen sharpness, and portability for a larger screen and battery life.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize a high-quality camera and display.
- Those who need a compact phone with flagship-level performance.
- Users who appreciate wireless charging capabilities.
- Users who regularly use their phone for photography and video recording.
- Those who need a portable device for daily use.
- Use Cases:
- High-quality photography and videography
- Mobile gaming
- Outdoor usage in bright conditions
- Daily smartphone tasks
- Price-to-Value: Suitable for those who value premium features in a portable design. It may be an affordable option given that it is an older phone.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE:
- Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize a large screen for media consumption and multitasking.
- Those who need extended battery life and prefer tablets for productivity.
- Users who need a more affordable tablet.
- Use Cases:
- Watching movies and videos
- Multitasking and document editing
- Reading and web browsing
- Long commutes or travel usage
- Price-to-Value: Better for those who prioritize screen size and battery life over high-end camera and display features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your primary use case? (e.g., photography, entertainment, productivity)
- What screen size is most important to you? (Compact for daily carry, or large for media?)
- Do you prioritize camera quality or battery life?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Photographer/Videographer: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its superior camera system and video recording capabilities make it a clear choice for those who prioritize photography and video.
- Scenario 2: Media Consumption & Productivity: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE. The larger screen and longer battery life are ideal for these tasks.
- Scenario 3: Daily Usage with Portability: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. It is much lighter and easier to carry around all day.
My Choice:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
Here's why: While the larger screen and battery of the Tab S9 FE are tempting, my primary use case leans towards a high-quality, portable device with a top-tier camera system. The S21+'s superior display quality (AMOLED, higher PPI, higher brightness), significantly better camera, and faster performance make it a better fit for my needs. Although the battery capacity is smaller, I am willing to compromise for its other strengths and will happily recharge it when needed. The S21+ also has a better build quality and a more advanced sensor array, which would improve its overall user experience. The fact that it's also much lighter and more compact, making it far more convenient for daily carry, further tilts my decision. The Tab S9 FE is more of a secondary device, while the S21+ is a much better all-around device.
