1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Pixel Fold offers a larger screen that folds, providing tablet-like experience while the S21 Ultra is a standard phone. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 139.7 × 158.7 × 5.8 mm | S21 Ultra is taller and thicker, while Pixel Fold is wider when unfolded and thinner. Folded Pixel Fold is thicker, both can be considered quite bulky in pocket. |
| Weight | 227g | 283g | S21 Ultra is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use. Pixel Fold may feel heavier and require two hands for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 7.6" | Pixel Fold's larger display provides a more immersive experience for media consumption, gaming and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1840x2208 | S21 Ultra has a higher resolution display with more detail, resulting in a sharper image. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 378 | S21 Ultra's higher pixel density means sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | S21 Ultra's AMOLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. The Pixel Fold's screen technology is not specified, this could be a drawback | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both displays offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1500 nits | Both phones have similar peak brightness and perform well in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Both chipsets are powerful, offering smooth performance. The Tensor G2 is optimized for Google's AI/ML tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 793,800 | Pixel Fold has a marginally higher benchmark score suggesting slightly better performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Different GPU configurations, both capable of handling demanding tasks and graphics intensive games. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP (f/1.8, 1/1.33") | 48MP (f/1.7) | S21 Ultra has a significantly higher resolution main camera. Pixel Fold has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP (f/2.4, 1/2.65") | None | S21 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens for portrait photography and optical zoom. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP (f/2.2, 1/2.65") | 8MP (f/1.9) | S21 Ultra has a much higher resolution selfie camera. Pixel Fold has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP (f/4.9, 1/2.65") | 10.8MP (f/3.0) | Both have a 10.8MP Telephoto camera. The Pixel Fold has a wider aperture for better low-light zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 10.8MP (f/2.2) | Pixel Fold has a dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55") | None | S21 Ultra has a dedicated ultrawide lens with macro capabilities. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra supports 8K recording for high-resolution video. Pixel Fold maxes out at 4K. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 (Main), 121 (Photo), 100 (Video) | 133 (Main), 137 (Photo), 131 (Video) | Pixel Fold generally performs better across all camera categories in tests. S21 Ultra selfie camera was not tested on DxOMark. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Quadruple camera, Manual focus, Laser AF, RAW, Night Mode | Face unlock, Triple camera, Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF) | S21 Ultra offers more features for photography enthusiasts. Pixel Fold's focus system provides enhanced subject tracking. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4821mAh | Similar battery capacity, both should provide a full day of use for most users. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Pixel Fold charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Reverse, wireless 15W & 9W, no charger in box | None | S21 Ultra has additional charging features such as wireless and reverse charging. The Pixel Fold is missing these features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Pixel Fold ships with a more modern Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6E | Pixel Fold supports faster and more reliable WiFi connection. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 (with a wider range of profiles) | 5.2 (LE, A2DP) | S21 Ultra supports a wider range of Bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, QZSS, Galileo | Both offer comprehensive GPS and location services, with minor differences. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel Fold's eSIM allows for a secondary virtual line. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512GB | 256/512GB | Both have the same maximum storage capacity. The S21 Ultra offers a 128GB variant for lower prices. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 12GB | S21 Ultra can have up to 16GB RAM for power users. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | S21 Ultra offers superior audio features with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, and a noise-cancelling microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Pixel Fold has a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both have the same screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer | Both have comprehensive sensor suites. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density provide a clearer and more detailed visual experience.
- Superior Camera System: Includes 108MP main sensor, dual telephoto lenses, dedicated ultrawide with macro, 8K video recording, and advanced photography features such as RAW support and manual controls.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and noise cancellation microphone offer an enhanced audio experience for both media consumption and voice communication.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Offers convenience in charging with wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Wider Bluetooth Profile Support: This may be significant for power users who rely on advanced audio codecs or have older devices to connect to.
Google Pixel Fold Advantages:
- Foldable Form Factor: Provides a larger tablet-like display for enhanced productivity and media consumption.
- Wider Aperture on Main and Telephoto: Slightly better low-light performance.
- Wide-Angle Camera: Offers a dedicated lens for capturing expansive scenes.
- Faster Charging: With 30W charging, the Pixel Fold recharges slightly faster.
- More Modern Software: Ships with Android 13 for the latest features and updates.
- Better Benchmarks and Camera Performance: Slightly better performance in benchmarks and better image quality based on DxOMark scores.
- WiFi 6E: Supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster and more reliable network connections.
- eSIM Support: Useful for travelers and those needing multiple numbers.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: A more modern location and method for fingerprint security.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Lacks the foldable display of the Pixel Fold, making it less ideal for multitasking and immersive media consumption. Heavier than most phones, less ergonomic for some.
- Pixel Fold: Heavier than the S21 Ultra, potentially bulkier in a pocket, and lacks some of the camera versatility and advanced audio features of the S21 Ultra. The screen tech is unknown, which may be a disadvantage. Missing wireless and reverse charging, features that are pretty standard on flagship phones.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value a comprehensive camera system with high resolution, dual optical zoom, and advanced features like RAW capture.
- Audio Lovers: Users who appreciate high-quality audio playback and the advanced features of Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res.
- Power Users: Users who need robust battery features such as wireless charging, reverse charging and can benefit from up to 16 GB of RAM.
- Users who prefer a standard form factor: Those who do not need or want the benefits of a foldable display.
Google Pixel Fold Ideal User:
- Multitaskers: Users who need a large display for improved productivity and multitasking.
- Media Consumers: Users who prioritize immersive experiences for videos, books, games.
- Travelers and those with multiple numbers: Users who benefit from the added flexibility of eSIM support.
- Users who want the latest software and technology: Those who prioritize the latest versions of Android and more modern components such as WiFi 6E and side fingerprint sensor.
Specific Use Cases:
- S21 Ultra: Perfect for professional photography, capturing high-resolution video, and enjoying high-fidelity music on the go.
- Pixel Fold: Ideal for reading e-books, watching videos, running multiple apps side-by-side, and for tasks like presentations and note-taking.
Price-to-Value Ratio: The S21 Ultra was released earlier, so it would be more affordable than the Pixel Fold, making it more accessible to budget-conscious users who need a high-end camera. The Pixel Fold is designed for a niche segment willing to pay more for the foldable technology and tablet-like experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Do you prioritize a large, foldable display for multitasking and media consumption, or a traditional smartphone experience with better camera and audio features?
- How important is wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and superior audio capabilities?
- Is having the latest Android OS and WiFi technology a critical factor?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional Photographer/Videographer - The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the better choice due to its superior camera system, including 8K video, manual controls, and RAW capture capabilities.
- Scenario 2: Productivity Power User - The Google Pixel Fold is the better choice due to its larger display, which makes it easier to multitask.
- Scenario 3: Budget-Conscious User - The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is more suitable as it is an older device and therefore more affordable, while still offering a high end experience.
- Scenario 4: Technology Enthusiast - The Google Pixel Fold is the better choice due to its foldable form factor, more modern Android OS, and better WiFi technology.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Google Pixel Fold. While the S21 Ultra has a compelling camera system and superior audio, the foldable form factor of the Pixel Fold would provide a unique experience that I would find invaluable for both work and entertainment. The ability to use it as a tablet for reading, watching media, and working on documents would significantly enhance my daily use. Additionally, I prefer the more modern software, side-mounted fingerprint scanner, and the flexibility of eSIM. Although the S21 Ultra has a sharper display and more camera features, the Pixel Fold's larger display, slightly better general camera performance, and newer tech would have a bigger impact on my daily needs and preferences. The loss of wireless charging is a drawback but not a dealbreaker in comparison to the benefits I would get from the foldable design.
