1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 160.5 x 74.5 x 8.3 mm | S21+ is slightly wider, Note 10 is slightly thicker; overall similar size, Note 10 feels more compact |
| Weight | 200g | 178.8g | Redmi Note 10 is significantly lighter, better for extended use and one-handed operation |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | S21+ is more resistant to scratches and drops |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | S21+ has a larger display, better for media consumption and multitasking |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness for both phones. |
| PPI | 394 | 409 | Both have similar pixel density, resulting in comparable sharpness in normal use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks; expect great contrast on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21+ offers much smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experiences. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1100 nits | S21+ is noticeably brighter, offering better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G (International) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 678 (11 nm) | S21+ has a much more powerful processor, resulting in significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better gaming performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 277,254 | S21+ scores significantly higher in benchmarks, confirming the noticeable performance advantage. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 612 | S21+ has a superior GPU, offering better gaming and graphics performance. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm (Sony IMX555) | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.8µm (Sony IMX582) | Redmi Note 10 has higher resolution, S21+ has larger sensor and slightly wider aperture potentially better in low light conditions |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.8µm (Samsung Bright S5KGW2) | N/A | S21+ has dedicated telephoto zoom, enabling better zoomed photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm (Sony IMX374) | 13MP, f/2.45, 1/3.06", 1.12µm (Omnivision OV13B10) | Xiaomi has higher resolution, S21+ has slightly wider aperture, expect comparable results but with slight edge to Xiaomi |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm (Sony IMX563) | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 1.14µm (Sony IMX355) | S21+ has dedicated wide angle lens, enabling better wide angle photos. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 10 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode effects. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" (GalaxyCore GC02M1) | Redmi Note 10 has a dedicated macro lens, offering closeup photography |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ offers significantly higher video resolution capabilities and superior stabilization, and better overall quality |
| DxOMark | 111 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 89 (Video) | N/A | S21+ has been benchmarked with a good camera performance, better than most phones within it's price range, Redmi Note 10 has not been benchmarked |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 10 has a slightly larger battery, potentially providing slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | Redmi Note 10 charges faster than S21+. |
| Features | Wireless charging 15W, reverse wireless charging 4.5W, no charge in-box | None | S21+ offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, but does not come with a charger in the box. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Better Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides a much faster user experience for all tasks, including gaming, multitasking, and app loading.
- Superior Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness make for a much more fluid and enjoyable visual experience, especially noticeable in direct sunlight.
- Better Camera System: Offers more versatile camera capabilities with telephoto zoom, wider angle lens and high-quality video recording, and better low-light performance.
- Advanced Wireless Charging: Offers 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for convenience.
- More Advanced WiFi: The Wi-Fi 6 support provides faster network speed when used with compatible routers.
- Higher Storage Options: Available with higher storage option (256GB vs 128GB).
- Premium Build & Screen Protection: Utilizes Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced durability.
- eSIM Support: Offers eSIM functionality for easy carrier switching.
Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation mic provide a more immersive and clearer audio experience.
Practical Implication: The S21+ excels in demanding tasks, premium experience, better image and video quality, and offers convenient features.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Advantages:
- Lighter & More Compact Design: Easier to handle and carry for longer periods.
- Longer Battery Life & Faster Charging: Provides slightly better battery life and significantly faster charging times.
- More Comprehensive Camera System: Offers dedicated macro lens and depth sensor, as well as a wide angle, providing more creative options.
More Affordable: Typically comes at a lower price point than the Samsung.
Practical Implication: The Redmi Note 10 excels in practicality, especially in battery life, speed and versatility in photography, and comes at a lower price.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Sacrifices some battery capacity and charging speed for performance, display, and camera quality. It also doesn't include a charger in the box.
- Redmi Note 10: Offers good value for money but compromises on performance, display smoothness, and lacks premium features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Ideal Users
- Power Users: Those who demand the best performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Content Creators: Users who prioritize camera quality, especially video recording and zoom capabilities.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate a high-quality display with a smooth refresh rate and great colors.
- Professionals: Users who need a reliable device with advanced features and good overall performance.
- Use Case Examples: High-end mobile gaming, professional video editing, viewing HDR content, frequent travel (eSIM), professional photo taking.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10: Ideal Users
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Users seeking a capable phone without breaking the bank.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phone for social media, communication, and light media consumption.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with macro and depth sensors, and wide angle at an affordable price.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life and Fast Charging: Those who value long-lasting battery and quicker recharge times.
- Use Case Examples: Social media browsing, casual mobile gaming, daily communication, macro photography, regular photo taking.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Redmi Note 10 is much more budget-friendly.
- How important is performance and gaming? The S21+ excels here.
- What are my camera priorities? The S21+ has better overall image quality, more consistent shots, and advanced video recording capabilities, while the Redmi Note 10 offers creative lens options (wide-angle, macro, depth) for versatile shooting.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Best Overall Performance and Premium Experience: If money is less of an issue and you need top performance, a premium display, and advanced camera features, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- Scenario 2: Best Value and Versatile Camera System: If you're on a tight budget and prioritize longer battery life, faster charging, creative camera options, and a lightweight design, go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User who does a little of everything: If you value having more than average specs in all fields, with an emphasis on a larger screen, go for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. The superior performance, significantly better display (especially with the 120Hz refresh rate), and higher quality camera system with telephoto zoom are worth the extra cost for my use case. I do value a good screen and I play games on my phone occasionally, so the increased smoothness will be a huge plus, and I don't mind sacrificing a bit of battery life as I am close to chargers most of the time. The slightly better image quality will ensure I am more satisfied with the pictures I take, and the wireless charging is also an added benefit for me. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 is an excellent phone for the price, it doesn't quite match the premium experience I prefer in my daily driver. However, if budget is a primary concern, the Redmi Note 10 remains a very competitive option and a good choice.
