Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Google Pixel 6 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 163.9 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly taller, but overall similar size. Negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 227g | 210g | Pixel 6 Pro is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphone designs. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal difference in screen size, practically identical viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1440x3120 | Similar sharpness and detail; both offer excellent image quality. |
| PPI | 515 | 512 | Virtually identical pixel density, indistinguishable to the human eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant, high-contrast displays with deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and fluid animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra significantly brighter, much better outdoor visibility in sunlight. The Pixel 6 Pro brightness is not specified, this could be a critical difference, potentially making the screen hard to see outdoors. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) | Different processors, but both offer flagship-level performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 721,000 | Comparable performance; both handle demanding tasks well. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Minor differences in GPU; both handle gaming and graphics well. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life; expect all-day use with moderate activity. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Pixel 6 Pro charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | Reverse charging, Non-removable, 23W Wireless charging | S21 Ultra offers more wireless charging options. Both lack in box charger. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31", 1.20µm | S21 Ultra has higher resolution, Pixel 6 Pro has larger pixel size for better low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | N/A | S21 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto portrait lens; pixel 6 pro lacks one |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 0.70µm | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.93", 1.22µm | S21 Ultra has a higher resolution, Pixel 6 Pro has larger pixels for better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | 48MP, f/3.5, 1/2", 0.80µm | Pixel 6 Pro has higher resolution and wider aperture for better zoom photos. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9", 1.25µm | Both phones have a ultrawide lens however, the S21 Ultra has an addittional Macro feature. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps HDR, EIS | 4K@60fps, OIS, EIS | S21 Ultra supports 8K recording and more resolution options, Pixel 6 Pro has OIS for more stable video |
| DXOMark Mobile | 115 (Photo: 121, Video: 100) | 134 (Photo: 138, Video: 133) | Pixel 6 Pro performs better in image quality and video. |
| DXOMark Selfie | 135 (Photo: 133, Video: 140) | 138 (Photo: 135, Video: 143) | Pixel 6 Pro performs slightly better in the selfie category, but the difference is minimal. |
Software, Connectivity & Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Pixel 6 Pro starts with a newer OS, but S21 has the higher max version. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Both have fast and reliable Wi-Fi capabilities |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with multiple profiles | 5.2 with multiple profiles | Both have advanced features and connectivity |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo | Both have accurate GPS and location services |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 6 Pro has eSIM support for added flexibility. |
| Internal Storage | 128 GB/256 GB/512 GB | 128 GB/256 GB/512 GB | Both offer ample storage options. |
| RAM | 12 GB/16 GB | 12 GB | S21 Ultra has higher RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports microSD cards. |
Audio, Security, Build & Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | S21 Ultra has slightly better audio features. |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both have similar fingerprint technology. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both have robust screen protection. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Both have a comprehensive sensor suite for advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Brighter Display: The 1500 nits brightness provides superior outdoor visibility, a crucial advantage for users in sunny environments.
- More versatile Camera system: Dedicated Telephoto + Portrait Lens, as well as higher resolutions in the Selfie Camera.
- Higher RAM option: The availability of a 16 GB RAM option allows for smoother multitasking and better performance in memory-intensive applications.
- More Wireless Charging Options: Includes wireless charging, reverse charging, and reverse wireless charging features.
- Advanced Audio: Includes Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and a noise cancellation microphone.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Advantages:
- Lighter design: More comfortable for extended use due to being 17g lighter.
- Newer OS: Starts with Android 12 offering a modern user experience.
- Faster Charging: 30W fast charging compared to 25W for quicker top-ups.
- Superior Camera Performance In DXOMark ratings, the Pixel 6 Pro scored higher in photo and video quality.
- Wide Angle Lens: An additional Wide Angle lens is available in the Pixel 6 Pro, although the S21 Ultra has a Macro lens in its Wide Angle.
- eSIM Support: Provides greater flexibility with carrier options and international travel.
- Advanced Video Stabilization: With OIS and EIS, the Pixel 6 Pro offers very stable video recording.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Samsung S21 Ultra 5G The large, heavy design and lack of an in-box charger can be inconvenient.
- Google Pixel 6 Pro: The lack of brightness rating is a cause for concern. The telephoto lens is superior to the S21 Ultra but does not include a dedicated portrait lens, along with less diverse options for wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Those who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Content Creators: Users who need high resolution video recording with 8K capabilities
- Power Users: Users who need the absolute most powerful and capable phone with extra RAM.
- Those who prefer the Samsung ecosystem.
Specific Use Cases:
- Outdoor photography: Taking photos and videos in bright environments.
- Demanding Gaming: Smooth gameplay with high-performance needs.
- Video recording: Capturing high-resolution videos for personal or professional use.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize excellent photo and video quality.
- Users focused on software: Users who prioritize Google’s user experience, and a cleaner, faster experience.
- International Travelers: Benefit from eSIM and flexible carrier options.
- Users who want the latest in software: Users who want a very up-to-date software experience and frequent upgrades from Google directly.
- Users wanting a lighter, more convenient phone: Those who prioritize a lighter device for comfort and ease of use.
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday Photography: Taking high-quality photos and videos with ease.
- International Travel: Easily switching between carriers with eSIM support.
- Reliable Software Experience: Enjoying a bloat-free and fluid software experience
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How often do you use your phone outdoors in bright sunlight? (Consider the S21 Ultra for superior brightness.)
- Which is more important - software or hardware? (Pixel 6 Pro excels in software; S21 Ultra has more powerful hardware.)
- What are your priorities for mobile photography and videography? (Pixel 6 Pro is great for video and casual photography, S21 Ultra is more versatile)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Bright Sunlight Use: If you frequently use your phone outdoors, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G's superior display brightness is essential.
- Scenario 2: Camera Enthusiast: If you prioritize photo and video quality, the Google Pixel 6 Pro is the superior choice due to higher scores in DXOMark tests.
- Scenario 3: Power User: If you require maximum performance, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G with a higher RAM option would be ideal.
- Scenario 4: Travel Enthusiast: If you need more flexibility in carrier options and international travel, the Google Pixel 6 Pro's eSIM support would be very useful.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would personally pick the Google Pixel 6 Pro. While the Samsung S21 Ultra offers a technically superior display for brightness and a more versatile camera system with additional lenses, the Pixel 6 Pro strikes a better balance for my needs.
Here's why:
- Camera Quality: The DXOMark scores show a notable advantage for the Pixel 6 Pro in both photo and video quality. I prefer the simplicity and consistency of the Pixel's camera system, particularly the video stability for everyday use.
- Software Experience: Google's clean Android experience and software updates are more important to me than Samsung's bloatware.
- Lighter Design: The Pixel 6 Pro is significantly lighter, which makes it more comfortable for extended use.
- eSIM Support: As someone who travels internationally, eSIM is incredibly valuable for me.
While the lack of a dedicated portrait lens might be a drawback and the brightness is unknown (assuming it is low due to it not being specified), for everyday use, casual photography, and overall user experience, the Google Pixel 6 Pro is a better fit for my needs and preferences. Additionally, its newer software experience and faster charging are enticing factors.
