1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 162.9 × 76 × 8.9 mm | Xiaomi slightly taller and thicker, may feel more bulky. |
| Weight | 200g | 208.4g | S21+ is a bit lighter, better for extended handling. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Negligible size difference, both are large for comfortable media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp images. |
| PPI | 394 | 395 | Almost identical sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 900 nits | S21+ significantly brighter, better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | S21+ generally faster in app loading and overall performance, based on benchmark scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 573,100 | S21+ offers a noticeable performance advantage for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MC4 | S21+ has a more powerful GPU for gaming and graphic-intensive apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Standard | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", Sony IMX555, 1.8µm | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4", Samsung ISOCELL HPX, 0.56µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has much higher resolution and larger sensor for potentially better detail and low-light performance. |
| Rear Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", Samsung S5KGW2, 0.8µm | Not Available | S21+ has dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom and better portraits. |
| Rear Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.4µm | Not Available | S21+ has a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing larger scenes, although the resolution is lower. |
| Rear Wide Angle | Not Available | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX355, 1.14µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ features a dedicated wide-angle lens to capture more in a single shot. |
| Rear Macro | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", GalaxyCore GC02M1, 1.75µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", Sony IMX374, 1.22µm | 16MP, f/2.45 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has higher resolution selfie camera; the S21+ has a wider aperture. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ can record higher resolution videos suitable for professional use; both have good stabilization. |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | 111 | 113 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has slightly better overall camera score. |
| DXOMark Video Score | 89 | 117 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ shows superior video performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly larger battery, potentially longer usage. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 120W fast charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ charges much faster. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging | None | S21+ offers more versatile charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | S21+ will receive one more OS update compared to Redmi Note 12 Pro+. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Display | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Display, Wi-Fi MiMO | Similar standards, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has additional Wi-Fi MiMO for improved signal. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a more up-to-date Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS, multi-band Galileo | Basic GPS | S21+ offers more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ has eSIM for more flexibility with carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Equal storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB/12GB | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ can have up to 12GB of RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | No ability to add more storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | S21+ offers better audio experience with noise cancellation microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ side sensor is usually faster and more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21+ has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | S21+ has more sensors including a barometer for atmospheric pressure sensing. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display Brightness: Significantly brighter display (1300 nits vs. 900 nits), much better for outdoor visibility.
- Higher Performance: Faster processor (Exynos 2100) and GPU (Mali-G78 MP14), offering a smoother experience with demanding apps and games.
- Better Video Recording: Capable of recording 8K video, beneficial for pro-grade video.
- More versatile charging: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- More precise GPS: Dual-band GPS and multi-band Galileo for superior location tracking.
- eSIM Support: For added flexibility with carrier plans.
- More OS updates: Guaranteed one more OS update compared to Redmi Note 12 Pro+.
- Better Build: Superior screen protection and additional environmental sensors.
- Better audio: Noise cancellation microphone
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 120W fast charging, significantly quicker than the S21+'s 25W.
- Higher Camera Resolution: 200MP main camera, capturing more detail in photos.
- Better Camera Video Score: Higher video score of 117 on DXOMark than 89 on Samsung S21+.
- More RAM (Optional): Available with 12GB RAM variant for better multitasking.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 LE for a more up-to-date experience.
- Side mounted fingerprint sensor: Faster and more convenient access.
Trade-offs:
- The S21+ has better performance and display but lacks the faster charging and higher camera resolution of the Redmi Note 12 Pro+.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a better video performance, while the S21+ offers a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities.
- The S21+ has wireless charging, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has much faster wired charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize performance, outdoor visibility, and camera quality.
- Use Cases:
- Gamers looking for smooth graphics.
- Outdoor enthusiasts needing a bright screen for direct sunlight.
- Those who need pro-level video recording capabilities.
- Users who need wireless charging, eSIM support, and robust GPS.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize fast charging, camera resolution, and multitasking without necessarily demanding peak performance.
- Use Cases:
- Users who need their phone always charged quickly.
- Photography enthusiasts who want high-resolution images.
- Users who want an updated Bluetooth experience.
- Users who do not need wireless charging and extra sensors.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions buyers should consider:
- How important is display brightness for outdoor usage? If you frequently use your phone outdoors, the S21+'s superior brightness is a significant advantage.
- Do you prioritize charging speed or wireless charging? If fast charging is a must, go for the Redmi Note 12 Pro+. If wireless charging is important, go for the S21+.
- Is peak performance or high-resolution camera more important? For performance and smoother graphics, choose S21+. For high-res, choose the Note 12 Pro+.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Outdoor Photographer: If you often take photos and videos outdoors, the S21+ is the better choice due to its high-brightness display.
- Scenario 2: On-the-Go Professional: If you constantly need fast charging to keep you going throughout the day, the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the more practical option.
- Scenario 3: Gaming and Media Enthusiast: If gaming performance is a priority, the S21+ offers a smoother experience, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a solid, but slightly less performant experience for gaming.
- Scenario 4: Budget-conscious buyer: If the user does not prioritize the features offered by S21+ and would like to save some money, Note 12 Pro+ will be the better choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G.
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers some compelling advantages like faster charging and a higher resolution camera, the S21+ provides a more rounded premium experience that better aligns with my personal use case. I often use my phone outdoors, where the S21+'s brighter screen is a significant advantage. The S21+'s better performance, along with the extra GPS features, wireless charging, and slightly better audio features, gives it an edge for me.
