1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S, focusing on practical implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | S21+ is slightly larger but thinner; Note 12S is more compact and slightly thicker, affecting pocketability and single-hand use |
| Weight | 200g | 176g | Note 12S is lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | S21+ offers a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption and multitasking |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have sharp displays; similar clarity for text and images |
| Pixel Density | 394 PPI | 409 PPI | Very similar sharpness; differences negligible for the human eye |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ provides smoother animations and scrolling, resulting in a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | S21+ is significantly brighter, offering better outdoor visibility under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Helio G96 (12 nm) | S21+ has a much more powerful processor, resulting in faster app launches, better multitasking, and higher gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 412,400 | S21+ provides a significantly smoother and more responsive experience, while the Note 12S is adequate for daily tasks but not demanding ones |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MC2 | S21+ has a much more capable GPU, leading to better graphics performance in gaming and demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.52" | Note 12S has a much higher resolution main sensor, potentially capturing more detail in good lighting conditions. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | S21+ includes a telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities and portrait shots. |
| Selfie Lens | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 16MP, f/2.4 | Note 12S has a higher-resolution selfie camera, but the S21+ has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2 | S21+ has a dedicated wide angle lens, while Note 12S has a wide angle sensor. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Note 12S has a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots, but the quality may be limited by low resolution. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K | Up to 1080p | S21+ offers superior video recording capabilities, including higher resolution and frame rate options. |
| DxOMark | 111 (Mobile) | Not tested | S21+ has a tested and verified camera quality, the Note 12S has no tests, so its overall performance is unknown. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5000 mAh | Note 12S has a slightly larger battery, potentially resulting in slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | Note 12S charges faster, reducing the time spent plugged in. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse | Reverse | S21+ has more flexible charging options with wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, up to 15 | Android 13 | Note 12S has a newer OS out of the box, but the S21+ is expected to get updates, it's just more outdated. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21+ offers better speeds and efficiency in congested networks. The Note 12S has MIMO for better connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Note 12S has a more up-to-date version, may have a slight edge in power efficiency and connection stability, while S21+ has more profiles. |
| GPS | L1+L5 | L1 | S21+ has dual-band GPS which can improve location accuracy, especially in dense urban areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ offers the option of an eSIM for more flexibility when switching between carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Both have 256GB max, but the Note 12S has an option with 64GB, giving a wider range of options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6/8 GB | S21+ only offers 8GB which is less flexible than the 6/8 GB options available for the Note 12S |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage, so you're limited to the internal storage options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo, Noise Cancelling Mic | Hi-Res, Stereo | S21+ provides higher audio quality with Dolby Atmos support, noise cancellation, and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint | Note 12S has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21+ has superior screen protection, offering better resistance to scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Variety | Extensive | Basic | S21+ offers additional sensors like barometer for more accurate environmental data. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Brighter, Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits brightness make the S21+ display more enjoyable and visible in bright sunlight.
- Advanced Camera System: Includes a dedicated telephoto lens, better video recording capabilities up to 8K, and OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for sharper photos and videos.
- Premium Features: Offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and an eSIM option for more flexibility.
- Better Screen Protection: Uses Gorilla Glass Victus, which is much more scratch-resistant and durable.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: The Note 12S is more portable and easier to handle, especially for those with smaller hands.
- Slightly Larger Battery: Offers a slightly larger battery, which might translate to a bit longer battery life and faster charging at 33W.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 108MP main sensor can capture more detailed photos in ideal conditions.
- More Up-to-date Software: Comes with a newer Android 13 version.
- More Modern Fingerprint: The side-mounted fingerprint is a more modern and practical implementation.
Trade-offs:
- The S21+ trades a larger size and weight and slightly smaller battery for performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- The Note 12S trades performance and camera prowess for comfort, battery, and software version.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is Ideal For:
- Power Users and Gamers: Those who need a phone for heavy multitasking, resource-intensive apps, and demanding gaming.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize image quality, zoom capabilities, and high-resolution video recording.
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos, prefer a larger screen, and need a display that performs well in all lighting conditions.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who value premium features like wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and an eSIM option.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for a good value, compact phone with a decent camera and solid battery.
- Casual Users: People who primarily use their phones for communication, social media, and web browsing.
- Users Who Prefer Compact Phones: Those who prefer lighter, smaller devices that are easier to carry and use with one hand.
- Users Who Value Latest Software: Those who prefer the most up-to-date Android experience, even if performance lags.
Specific Use Cases:
- S21+: Ideal for high-quality video creation, mobile gaming, using multiple apps simultaneously, outdoor use in bright sunlight, and enjoying high-quality media playback.
- Note 12S: Ideal for day-to-day communication, browsing, social media, capturing occasional photos, and users who prefer a lighter and more compact device.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider Before Buying:
- What is my primary use case? (Gaming, photography, basic daily use)
- How important is performance and display quality to me? (Do you prioritize smooth performance or are you okay with average?)
- What is my budget and how much weight do I give price-to-value? (Is top performance worth a higher price, or are you looking for a good phone on a tighter budget?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Performance and Camera are Paramount
- Recommendation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Its more powerful chipset, better camera system, and superior display make it the clear choice if performance and photo quality are crucial.
Scenario 2: Budget and Portability are More Important
- Recommendation: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. It is a great budget option for everyday use. It is lighter and easier to handle for on-the-go use.
Scenario 3: Balance of Features at a Mid-Range Price
- Recommendation: Both phones are not good mid-range options because they heavily favor one feature set or the other. If you are a more price-conscious user, the Redmi Note 12S offers a better user experience at a lower price point.
What I would choose and why!
If I were to choose, I would personally pick the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is a capable phone, the S21+ offers a significantly better user experience overall for the following reasons:
- Performance: As someone who uses their phone for multiple tasks, gaming, and productivity, the powerful Exynos 2100 chipset is a big advantage.
- Display Quality: The 120Hz refresh rate and high brightness are noticeable upgrades that make daily usage much more pleasant, especially when viewing media.
- Camera Quality: I enjoy taking photos and videos, and the S21+'s telephoto lens and superior video recording capabilities would come in handy.
- Premium Feel: I value premium features like wireless charging and better durability.
Although it is a slightly older model, the S21+ still holds up incredibly well in comparison to the newer Note 12S, offering a noticeable bump in performance and display quality. Despite a slightly higher price tag (though pricing will vary, and may have changed since its release), the performance, features, and more premium experience makes it a worthwhile investment.
