Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Apple iPhone 13 mini
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 13 mini | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-09-24 | iPhone 13 mini is newer by ~8 months, potentially having longer software support. |
| Size | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.7 mm | S21 Ultra 5G is much larger, less pocketable, but provides a bigger screen. 13 mini is smaller, more comfortable to use one-handed. |
| Weight | 227g | 141g | S21 Ultra 5G is significantly heavier, potentially causing fatigue during prolonged use. The iPhone 13 mini is much lighter, very comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 5.4" | S21 Ultra 5G provides a significantly larger display for immersive media consumption and multitasking. 13 mini is much more compact, better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2340 | S21 Ultra 5G offers a sharper display, resulting in crisper text and images, better for detailed content viewing. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 476 PPI | S21 Ultra 5G has a slightly sharper display, which is beneficial for users sensitive to image clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. Minimal difference in real-world experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra 5G provides much smoother scrolling and animations, a noticeable difference for gaming and general use. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1200 nits | S21 Ultra 5G is much brighter, enhancing visibility in direct sunlight, making outdoor use much easier. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) | A15 Bionic is significantly faster in benchmarks, providing better performance for demanding apps and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 1,250,240 | iPhone 13 mini scores much higher, translating to smoother overall performance and more responsive apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Apple GPU (4-core) | Apple GPU performs significantly better in graphics-intensive tasks, resulting in better gaming experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 12MP | S21 Ultra 5G captures more detail, allowing more flexibility in cropping; however, the 13 mini's bigger pixel size can result in better low-light. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.6 | iPhone 13 mini has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor | Samsung S5KHM3 | Sony IMX603 | Different sensor technologies, making direct comparison difficult without testing. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm pixel size | 1.70 µm pixel size | iPhone 13 mini has larger pixels, potentially capturing more light, beneficial in low light. |
| Telephoto + portrait Camera | 10.8MP | Null | S21 Ultra 5G offers dedicated zoom capabilities, a feature the 13 mini lacks. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 12MP | S21 Ultra 5G can capture more detailed selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP | Null | S21 Ultra 5G has an additional telephoto zoom, improving flexibility in taking zoomed photos. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Null | 12MP | iPhone 13 mini offers a wider perspective with its dedicated ultrawide lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP | Null | S21 Ultra 5G offers an ultrawide with macro capabilities, better for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra 5G records 8K for pro-level footage, the 13 mini has better overall stabilization and video quality, according to DxOMark. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 | 125 | iPhone 13 mini scores significantly better for overall image quality. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 135 | 134 | S21 Ultra has a slight edge in photo score, iPhone 13 mini in video score, minimal real-world difference in quality |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 2438mAh | S21 Ultra 5G has a much larger battery, potentially offering longer usage time. Actual endurance varies with usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra 5G has marginally faster charging, though the difference may not be that noticeable in practical terms. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, 15W wireless, 9W reverse wireless | 15W MagSafe, 7.5W Qi wireless | S21 Ultra 5G offers more versatile wireless charging capabilities, while 13 mini benefits from MagSafe ease of use. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | iOS 15 (upgradable to 18) | Different ecosystems. Android is more customizable, iOS has a simpler user experience and better app quality, overall. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Similar Wi-Fi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 | S21 Ultra 5G has a slightly newer Bluetooth, potentially offering more features and efficiency. |
| GPS | Multiple | Multiple | S21 Ultra 5G includes more satellite systems, potentially improving location accuracy in specific areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | S21 Ultra 5G supports two physical SIMs, while iPhone 13 mini offers eSIM flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512GB | 128/256/512GB | Same storage options available. No expandable storage for either. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 4GB | S21 Ultra 5G has significantly more RAM, benefiting multitasking and heavy apps. iOS manages memory more efficiently. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both feature high-quality audio; iPhone 13 mini offers better spatial sound and better audio capture with its 3 mics. |
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | S21 Ultra 5G offers a fingerprint sensor for security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra 5G screen is protected by a robust Gorilla Glass Victus. Lack of information on the iPhone 13 mini's protection is a limitation. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer | S21 Ultra 5G has more sensors, which helps with gaming and other advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Larger and Sharper Display: Provides a more immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption and multitasking. The higher resolution is better for detailed visuals.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother animations and a more fluid user experience, especially noticeable when scrolling.
- Brighter Screen: Offers superior outdoor visibility, making it easier to use in bright sunlight.
- Larger Battery: Offers potentially much longer battery life, suitable for power users.
- Versatile Camera System: Multiple lenses provide greater flexibility for different photography scenarios, including telephoto zoom and macro capabilities.
- Higher RAM: The higher RAM means better multitasking, especially when running multiple apps simultaneously.
- More Sensors: Wider range of sensors for a better gaming experience and for additional features.
Apple iPhone 13 mini Advantages:
- Compact and Lightweight: Extremely pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use.
- Superior Performance: The A15 Bionic chip provides excellent performance, especially in gaming and app loading, according to benchmarks.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor pixels on the main camera allow for better low-light performance and image clarity, supported by DxOMark scores.
- Better Audio Capture: 3 microphones on the 13 mini, for better audio recording and video calls.
- MagSafe Ecosystem: Offers the convenience of MagSafe accessories and charging.
- Newer Software: Launched later, meaning longer software updates and potential for the latest features.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra 5G: Sacrifices pocketability and one-handed use for a larger screen, suffers in raw performance benchmarks, and is heavier.
- iPhone 13 mini: Sacrifices a larger display for a more compact design, has less battery life, has less versatile camera system, and is much more limited in RAM.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos or movies on their phones and require a large, high-resolution screen with a high refresh rate and good speakers.
- Heavy Multitaskers: Users who frequently switch between apps and need a phone that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, with a large amount of RAM.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with multiple lenses for different scenarios, including zoom and macro capabilities.
- Power Users: Users who need a large battery to last through a full day of intensive use.
- Android Users: Users who are accustomed to the Android ecosystem and its flexibility.
Ideal User for Apple iPhone 13 mini:
- Users Who Prioritize Portability: Users who want a compact phone that is easy to carry and use with one hand.
- Casual Gamers/Power Users: Users who need a fast and reliable phone for everyday tasks, including gaming, and also value the simplicity of the iOS experience.
- Users Who Prefer iOS: Users who value a simple, intuitive user experience and access to the iOS ecosystem.
- Users Who Need Good Low-Light Camera: Users who often take photos in low-light conditions and want good image quality.
- Users invested in MagSafe: Users who want the ease of use of MagSafe and Apple ecosystem.
Specific Use Cases:
- S21 Ultra 5G: Watching movies on long flights, taking professional-quality photos with optical zoom, playing demanding mobile games, editing large documents on a phone, using a phone as a mobile workstation.
- iPhone 13 mini: Quickly capturing photos and videos during everyday life, one-handed navigation and messaging, mobile gaming, using MagSafe ecosystem for charging and accessories.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is screen size and immersion vs. portability? A larger screen means a more immersive experience but a less portable phone.
- How important is camera versatility vs. low-light performance? The S21 Ultra offers more camera flexibility, while the iPhone 13 mini offers better image quality in low-light.
- What operating system do I prefer? Android offers more customization while iOS offers simplicity and better app quality.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're a heavy media user and gamer: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the better option with its much larger, higher refresh rate screen, and great battery life.
- Scenario 2: You prioritize portability and one-handed use: The Apple iPhone 13 mini is the obvious choice, with a small form-factor and great performance.
- Scenario 3: You need a high-quality camera for everyday use: The Apple iPhone 13 mini edges out the S21 Ultra 5G with better overall image quality in its main camera and video stabilization.
- Scenario 4: You're looking for the most versatile camera system: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the clear winner with its telephoto lens, wide-angle + macro and many options for the camera system.
- Scenario 5: You're an Android user and like its customizability: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the only option, since the iPhone 13 mini runs iOS.
- Scenario 6: You prefer the iOS ecosystem: The Apple iPhone 13 mini is the only option here, as the S21 Ultra 5G runs Android.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Apple iPhone 13 mini.
Here's why:
While the Samsung S21 Ultra 5G offers a larger screen and a more versatile camera, my personal priorities lean towards portability and ease of use, and the iPhone 13 mini excels in both. I also prefer the iOS ecosystem and appreciate the seamless experience it provides, as well as its app quality. While the battery and the camera system are not as impressive on paper, for my use case the iPhone 13 mini offers a more practical and balanced experience. The superior performance of the A15 chip and the better video recording quality also make it an appealing choice. Furthermore, the lighter weight and smaller form-factor are more practical for my everyday use, allowing me to use the phone comfortably one-handed.
Therefore, despite the S21 Ultra 5G's advantages in certain areas, the iPhone 13 mini aligns better with my needs and preferences.
