1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 mm | Xiaomi is slightly taller and thicker, may feel less sleek in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 201.8g | Negligible difference; both feel similar in weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Minimal difference, both provide similar viewing experiences. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness; both offer clear, crisp visuals. |
| PPI | 394 | 395 | Negligible difference; both displays are equally sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1200 nits | S21+ is slightly brighter, better for outdoor visibility under sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | S21+ has a significantly more powerful chip for smoother multitasking and demanding apps/games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 397,200 | S21+ is noticeably faster in real-world usage. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 618 | S21+ provides superior graphics performance for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 108MP f/1.9, 1/1.52" | Xiaomi captures more detail in good light; S21+ excels in low light and has better dynamic range. |
| Telephoto | 64MP f/2.0 | N/A | S21+ offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle | N/A | 8MP f/2.2 | Xiaomi provides ultrawide shots. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 5MP f/2.4 | Xiaomi provides close-up shots. |
| Depth Sensor | N/A | 2MP f/2.4 | Xiaomi offers better portrait mode with depth mapping. |
| Front Camera | 10MP f/2.2 | 16MP f/2.45 | Xiaomi has more megapixels for selfies, but S21+ performs better in low light due to larger pixels and aperture. |
| Wide + Macro | 12.2 MP f/2.2 | N/A | S21+ can take ultrawide and macro images with this camera. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ offers higher video resolution and better stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 (Mobile) | N/A | S21+ has a certified higher camera quality |
| OIS | Yes | No | S21+ has OIS, minimizing blurry shots and shaking videos. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5020 mAh | Redmi has slightly larger battery, potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | Redmi charges much faster than S21+. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | No | S21+ supports wireless charging. |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | 4.5W | No | S21+ can charge other wireless devices. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21+ is confirmed to receive up to Android 15. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 (ac) | S21+ has faster Wi-Fi speeds and better performance in crowded areas. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Redmi has a slightly newer Bluetooth version with minor differences. |
| GPS | More satellite support | Standard GPS | S21+ offers more precise location tracking with dual-band GPS. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ offers eSIM functionality in addition to physical SIM slots. |
| Storage & Audio | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both available in similar storage sizes. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6/8 GB | S21+ always offers 8 GB, while the Redmi may have 6GB in some variants. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers SD card support. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Hi-Res Audio | S21+ provides enhanced audio quality with Dolby Atmos. |
| Security & Build | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Redmi offers a more convenient and faster fingerprint reader. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21+ has stronger screen protection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers significantly better performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and smoother multitasking.
- Better Camera System: While the Redmi has a high-resolution main sensor, the S21+ has a more versatile camera system, including a telephoto lens, better low-light performance, and higher video quality.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Wireless Charging: These are convenient for those who use wireless charging accessories and need to top up other devices.
- Advanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and more satellite support for GPS provide faster, more reliable connections and accurate location tracking.
- Future-Proof Software: Guaranteed Android updates up to version 15.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and a noise-canceling microphone offer superior sound quality.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus provides greater drop and scratch protection.
- Camera OIS: Optical image stabilization for better images and video, especially in low light.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 67W charging is considerably faster than the S21+'s 25W, useful for those who need quick power-ups.
- Larger Battery: A slightly bigger battery might offer a bit more battery life.
- Ultrawide Camera: Adds versatility with wide-angle shots.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: A faster and more convenient placement of the fingerprint sensor.
- Macro and Depth Sensor: Offers more options for creative photography.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S21+ sacrifices fast charging for better overall performance, wireless charging, and a more refined camera experience.
- The Redmi, while having faster charging, compromises on performance, camera versatility, and advanced connectivity.
- The S21+ lacks a dedicated macro lens for extreme close-ups.
- The Redmi lacks wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is ideal for:
- Power users and gamers: Those who need the fastest performance and smooth multitasking for demanding apps and games.
- Photography enthusiasts: Users who value a versatile camera system with excellent image quality, especially in low light, and require optical zoom.
- Users who value advanced features: Such as wireless charging, Dolby Atmos audio, and eSIM support.
- Users who prioritize video quality: Those who want to shoot high-quality video.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is ideal for:
- Users on a budget: Those seeking good value for money with a focus on essential features.
- Users needing long battery life: Those who need a larger battery and fast charging.
- Casual photographers: Users who want a variety of camera options, including ultrawide and macro, though not as sophisticated as the S21+.
- Users who prefer a side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Those who find the side-mounted sensor more convenient.
Use Cases:
- S21+: Gaming, professional photography and video, multitasking between heavy apps, travel (reliable GPS, eSIM).
- Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: Daily social media, casual photography, general use on the go, long work days without charging.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Priority: Do you need the fastest performance for gaming and demanding applications, or is general usage sufficient?
- Camera Versatility: Do you need a versatile camera with telephoto zoom, or are you happy with standard, ultrawide, and macro options?
- Charging & Battery: Do you prioritize fast charging above all else, or is wireless charging and better battery life preferred?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gaming & Performance: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for its superior processing power and graphics.
- Scenario 2: Budget Conscious, All Day Battery: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G for its better value and fast charging.
- Scenario 3: Camera Variety & Quality: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for overall better image quality, versatility and better zoom.
- Scenario 4: Long lasting software support: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for guaranteed long lasting software updates.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
Here's why:
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers a compelling package, especially with its fast charging and larger battery, my personal priorities lean more towards performance and camera quality. The Exynos 2100 chipset in the S21+ provides a significant advantage in terms of speed and responsiveness, which is critical for my usage involving multitasking and gaming. Additionally, the more versatile camera system with the telephoto lens and better low-light performance aligns with my needs as someone who values a higher quality photography experience. Also, the S21+ having confirmed Android 15 is a big plus. The wireless charging and advanced GPS is an added convenience.
Although fast charging on the Xiaomi is appealing, the superior performance, overall camera quality, and advanced features of the S21+ are more important to me. For someone looking for a more budget-friendly and fast charging phone, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G would be a great option. However, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G, despite being older, still offers a more complete and premium experience that aligns better with my needs and preferences.
