Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Apple iPhone 16 Plus
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the key specifications, grouped by category, with an emphasis on the practical impact of each difference:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm | S21 Ultra is taller and thicker but slightly narrower. iPhone 16 Plus is wider. S21 Ultra has a larger volume and might feel more substantial in the hand while the iPhone 16 Plus will be thinner and wider. |
| Weight | 227g | 199g | iPhone 16 Plus is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and single-handed operation. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Negligible size difference. Both are large screens suitable for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1290 x 2796 | S21 Ultra has significantly sharper visuals due to higher pixel density, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 515 | 460 | S21 Ultra's higher pixel density results in a noticeably sharper display, particularly for reading text and viewing detailed graphics. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer excellent color reproduction and deep blacks. Difference in the real world is minimal. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra offers smoother scrolling and animations, making the user interface feel more fluid, particularly noticeable while gaming or browsing. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2000 nits | iPhone 16 Plus offers significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Apple A18 (3 nm) | iPhone 16 Plus's newer chipset offers vastly superior performance, translating to faster app loading, better multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 1,753,018 | The iPhone 16 Plus achieves more than double the benchmark score, demonstrating significantly better performance across various tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Apple GPU | Apple's custom GPU offers significantly better graphics performance than the Mali-G78, resulting in better gaming and video processing performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4674mAh | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering marginally better battery life, although real-world usage can vary. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both support 25W fast charging, enabling quick power-ups. The Samsung uses a Li-Polymer while the iPhone 16 Plus uses a Li-Ion battery type. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | 25W Wireless Charging | S21 Ultra offers more wireless charging flexibility. The iPhone 16 Plus features faster wireless charging, at 25W. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" sensor, 0.80 µm pixels | 48MP, f/1.6, 1/1.3" sensor, 1.00 µm pixels | S21 Ultra has higher resolution but iPhone 16 Plus has a wider aperture and larger pixel size for potentially better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" sensor, 1.22 µm pixels | Not available | S21 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens, allowing for better optical zoom and portrait shots, which the iPhone 16 Plus lacks. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" sensor, 0.70 µm pixels | 12MP, f/1.9, pixel size unknown | S21 Ultra has a higher-resolution front camera, but the iPhone 16 Plus has a slightly wider aperture, and likely larger pixels, for potentially better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" sensor, 1.22 µm pixels | Not available | S21 Ultra includes a second telephoto lens for expanded zoom capabilities; it has two telephoto lenses. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor, 1.40 µm pixels | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor, 1.40 µm pixels | Both phones have comparable wide-angle cameras with macro functionality. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, various HDR and EIS features, 720p@960fps slow-mo | Up to 4K@60fps, various HDR features, 1080p@240fps slow-mo | S21 Ultra supports 8K video, while both have excellent 4K capabilities and video stabilization. The S21 Ultra offers 960fps slow motion while the iPhone 16 Plus offers 240 fps. |
| DXOMark Score (Mobile) | 115 (Photo: 121, Video: 100) | N/A | The S21 Ultra has a DxOMark score, while the iPhone 16 Plus does not. The S21 Ultra has been tested, it has a respectable score. |
| DXOMark Score (Selfie) | 135 (Photo: 133, Video: 140) | N/A | The S21 Ultra has a DxOMark score, while the iPhone 16 Plus does not. The S21 Ultra has been tested, it has a very impressive selfie camera score. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Cinematic Mode, Noise reduction, Face unlock, Pro Video Mode, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | S21 Ultra has a more versatile zoom system and includes Laser AF, and Quadruple camera, the iPhone 16 Plus emphasizes cinematic video recording and offers Dual Camera. |
Software, Connectivity & Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | iOS 18 | Different ecosystems: Android offers more customization, while iOS is known for its simplicity and consistent updates. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | iPhone 16 Plus supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster speeds and reduced interference. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 LE | iPhone 16 Plus has a newer Bluetooth version, offering improved efficiency and connection stability. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, BeiDou (B1), NavIC System | iPhone 16 Plus has more satellite system options, for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | The S21 Ultra has a physical Dual Sim slots, while the iPhone 16 Plus also offers Dual Sim but with one slot being eSIM, making it more convenient to switch carriers digitally. |
| Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Both have same storage options, with no expandable storage. |
| RAM | 12 GB or 16 GB | 8 GB | S21 Ultra offers more RAM, which is especially useful for intensive multitasking and gaming. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both phones have stereo speakers and noise cancellation; the S21 Ultra offers Hi-Res Audio while the iPhone 16 Plus has an additional microphone for better audio recording. |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor | Basic security features | S21 Ultra provides a fingerprint sensor for additional biometric security, the iPhone 16 Plus offers Face Unlock. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. Protection on the iPhone 16 Plus is unknown. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S21 Ultra has a more comprehensive sensor suite including Fingerprint, Hall, Geomagnetic sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Higher Display Resolution & Pixel Density: Offers a sharper and more detailed visual experience.
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: Provides smoother animations and a more fluid user interface.
- More RAM (up to 16GB): Better suited for heavy multitasking and demanding applications.
- Versatile Camera System: Includes dual telephoto lenses and Laser AF, offering superior zoom capabilities.
- 8K Video Recording: Allows for capturing video with the highest resolution for professional-grade use.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Convenient for charging other devices wirelessly.
- Fingerprint sensor: Offers a very reliable security feature.
Apple iPhone 16 Plus Advantages:
- Significantly Faster Processor: The Apple A18 chip offers superior performance for all tasks.
- Significantly better benchmark score: The Apple iPhone 16 Plus has a much better benchmark score, showing the massive difference in processing power.
- Lighter & Thinner Design: More comfortable for extended use and single-handed operation.
- Higher Display Brightness: Better visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
- Newer Software: Runs the latest iOS 18, with a streamlined user experience.
- Better Bluetooth version: Uses the latest Bluetooth version for connection stability and performance.
- Better GPS support: Uses a range of location services for superior accuracy.
- Better wireless charging: Wireless charging at 25W.
- Additional Microphone: The iPhone 16 Plus offers a 3 microphone array for better audio recordings.
- Cinematic Mode: Offers enhanced video recording modes with creative control.
- eSIM support: Provides digital carrier switching convenience.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21 Ultra 5G: Older chipset, heavier, may not perform as well in extreme brightness.
- Apple iPhone 16 Plus: Lower display resolution, lower refresh rate, lacks versatile zoom and reverse wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-resolution displays, smooth scrolling, and versatile camera capabilities including zoom.
- Power Users: Individuals who require heavy multitasking and appreciate the larger RAM capacity.
- Photography and Videography: Users who need a versatile zoom, 8K video, and professional-grade camera features.
- Android Purists: Users who prefer the customization options of the Android ecosystem.
- Users looking for an older device but still high performance.
Ideal Users for Apple iPhone 16 Plus:
- Casual Users: Individuals who prefer a seamless and easy-to-use interface, excellent performance, and a lighter device.
- Users who prioritize video quality: Users who value cinematic video capabilities.
- Mobile Gamers: Users who want the latest mobile gaming experience and a device that can handle the latest games and graphics settings without issue.
- Ecosystem Loyalists: Users who are integrated into the Apple ecosystem and value seamless integration.
- Users who like a light weight and thin device.
- Users who require excellent performance without a need for a versatile zoom
Specific Use Cases:
- S21 Ultra 5G:
- Professional photography or videography on the go.
- Mobile gaming at high refresh rates.
- Heavy multitasking, running multiple demanding apps.
- Users that want to reverse wireless charge.
- iPhone 16 Plus:
- Daily use for social media, browsing, and communication.
- Mobile gaming with superior performance and graphics.
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration with other Apple devices.
- Users that want to digital carrier switch.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize the best performance and the latest chipset or a versatile camera and display experience?
- Are you more comfortable with the Android or iOS ecosystem?
- How important are factors like weight, display quality, zoom capabilities, battery flexibility, and high refresh rate for you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Best Performance and Software Experience: Choose the iPhone 16 Plus for its superior processor, software experience, and performance.
- For Versatile Camera and Display: Select the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its high-resolution display, versatile zoom capabilities, and 8K video.
- For a Light Weight and thin phone: Select the iPhone 16 Plus for its light weight and thin build.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would select the Apple iPhone 16 Plus. While the Samsung S21 Ultra 5G has some very compelling features like the 120Hz refresh rate, 8k video, and a versatile zoom system, for my personal needs, the superior performance of the A18 chipset, the lighter form factor, and the overall smoothness of the iOS ecosystem are the key points for my preference. The higher brightness and advanced connectivity are also important factors. I also prefer the user experience on iOS over Android, making the iPhone 16 Plus the better choice for me.
