1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 155.6 × 73.2 × 8.7 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and may be less comfortable for smaller hands or pockets. |
| Weight | 227g | 197g | Pixel 7 is significantly lighter, better for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.3" | S21 Ultra has a larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra offers sharper visuals with higher pixel density, great for detailed content. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 416 PPI | S21 Ultra's display is noticeably sharper, clearer text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra provides smoother animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1400 nits | S21 Ultra offers better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Pixel 7's Tensor G2 is optimized for AI tasks, while S21 Ultra's is a general-purpose performer. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 827,033 | Pixel 7 shows a slight performance edge based on benchmark scores. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Different GPU architectures, both capable of running modern games smoothly. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (Main) | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31", 1.20µm | S21 Ultra has higher resolution, but Pixel 7 has larger pixels, better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Not available | S21 Ultra has dedicated telephoto capabilities, better zoom quality. |
| Selfie | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 0.7µm | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | S21 Ultra has higher selfie resolution; Pixel 7 has larger pixels for better quality |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Not available | S21 Ultra has dedicated telephoto capabilities, better zoom quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not available | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3", 1.55µm | Pixel 7 has a dedicated ultrawide lens, captures wider scenes. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | Not available | S21 Ultra captures macro images with wide-angle camera. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra records higher-resolution video; both have excellent stabilization. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 | 140 | Pixel 7 offers superior camera quality overall. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 135 | 138 | Pixel 7 marginally better in selfie camera quality. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4355 mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, likely better battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast | 20W Fast, 23W Wireless | S21 Ultra charges faster wired; Pixel 7 supports wireless charging. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 9W Reverse | 23W Wireless, Reverse | Pixel 7 has faster wireless charging; both can wirelessly charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 13 (Upgradable to 14) | Pixel 7 ships with a newer version of Android; S21 Ultra will receive more Android updates |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 + MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both have similar WiFi capabilities, but S21 Ultra supports Wi-Fi MiMO. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE + Extensive Codecs | 5.2 LE + LDAC, AAC | S21 Ultra has a slight advantage with wider Bluetooth codec support |
| GPS | Dual-Band GPS | Multiple Systems incl. QZSS | Pixel 7 may have more reliable location accuracy |
| SIM | Nano SIM + Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 7 offers eSIM flexibility; S21 Ultra uses two physical SIM cards |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | Up to 512 GB | Up to 256 GB | S21 Ultra has more maximum internal storage. |
| RAM | Up to 16 GB | 8 GB | S21 Ultra offers higher RAM configurations, better for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Larger and Sharper Display: The 6.8" 1440p 120Hz screen provides a more immersive experience for media and gaming.
- Superior Zoom Capabilities: Dedicated telephoto lenses offer enhanced zoom without significant quality loss.
- Higher RAM Options: Up to 16GB of RAM provides better multitasking and app performance, especially for power users.
- Bigger Battery: 5000mAh battery provides better endurance for all-day use.
- 8K Video Recording: Capable of recording video at 8K resolution.
- Wider Bluetooth Support: More bluetooth audio codecs.
Google Pixel 7 Advantages:
- Newer Software: Ships with a more recent version of Android; also likely to receive updates faster.
- Lighter and More Compact: More comfortable for one-handed use and easier to carry.
- Superior Overall Camera Quality: Higher DxOMark score reflects better overall image and video quality.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Larger pixels in the main camera sensor excel in low-light situations.
- Faster Wireless Charging: 23W wireless charging offers convenience.
- eSIM support: Adds flexibility in managing mobile plans.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Sacrifices portability for a larger screen, battery and zoom capabilities. Older software at launch.
- Pixel 7: Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, smaller screen, slightly less battery capacity and lower RAM. Also has less internal storage options.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Media Consumers: Users who heavily consume videos and movies, benefit from the larger, high-resolution screen and better audio quality.
- Power Users & Gamers: Benefit from the large RAM and fast processor, great for multitasking and gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize zoom capabilities and diverse camera options will appreciate the S21 Ultra.
- Users who Need Long Battery Life: Those who prioritize all-day battery performance.
Google Pixel 7 Ideal Users:
- Casual Users: Looking for a reliable phone with an excellent camera for everyday photography.
- Those Prioritizing Software: Users who value the latest Android version and quick updates.
- One-Handed Users: Prefer a lighter, more compact phone.
- AI-Driven Features Enthusiasts: Those that enjoy features driven by Google’s Tensor chip (like call screen).
- Users Focused on Camera Quality: Those who prioritize image and video quality overall, especially in low-light situations.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Screen Size Preference: Do you prefer a larger, more immersive screen or a smaller, more portable device?
- Camera Priorities: Do you prioritize zoom capabilities and diverse camera options, or overall image quality and low-light performance?
- Battery Needs: Do you need a device that lasts an entire day with intensive use, or is moderate battery life sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Media Consumption & Gaming: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its larger, sharper display, ample RAM, and bigger battery, especially if zoom is also a need.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Photography & Convenience: Choose the Google Pixel 7 for its superior camera quality, smaller size, and the latest Android version.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Performance & Features: Consider the trade-offs, but the Pixel 7 offers the most well-rounded experience if you prioritize software and camera above all else. The S21 Ultra could be better if you prefer screen size, RAM, zoom or battery life.
- Scenario 4: Best Battery and Power: S21 Ultra is the clear winner here with a larger battery and more RAM.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Google Pixel 7.
While the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has some advantages in terms of screen size, zoom capabilities, battery size, and RAM, the Pixel 7 offers a more compelling package for my use case. I value having the most up-to-date software and a superb camera that excels in most situations, especially low-light. I also prefer the more compact and lightweight form factor of the Pixel 7. Although the Pixel 7 lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, its overall camera performance is superior, and I appreciate the Google Tensor G2's AI-driven features. For me, the trade-offs of a slightly smaller screen, a little less battery life, and slightly less RAM are worth it for the superior software and camera performance of the Pixel 7.
