Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Honor X8b
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 161.1 x 74.6 x 6.8 mm | S21 Ultra is larger, thicker and bulkier; X8b is slimmer and lighter, easier for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 227g | 166g | X8b is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable to hold for long periods. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Negligible difference in screen size; both provide ample viewing space. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2412 | S21 Ultra offers noticeably sharper text and images, better for detailed content and VR/AR. |
| PPI | 515 | 394 | S21 Ultra has a higher pixel density, resulting in a more detailed and crisp display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, similar viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2000 nits | X8b offers significantly better visibility in bright sunlight, enhancing outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | S21 Ultra offers significantly faster processing, better for gaming and intensive tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 250,000 | S21 Ultra will handle demanding apps and multitasking significantly better; X8b is more suitable for basic use. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International (ARM Mali-G78 MC14) | Adreno 610 (Adreno 610) | S21 Ultra has a much more powerful GPU, providing smoother graphics for gaming and other graphically intensive tasks |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", Samsung S5KHM3, 0.80 µm pixel size | 108MP, f/1.75, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | Both have a high-resolution main sensor, but the S21 Ultra has a known sensor, size, and pixel size, suggesting superior image quality; X8b has a slightly wider aperture |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", Samsung S5K3J1, 1.22 µm pixel size | Not Available | S21 Ultra offers dedicated telephoto and portrait lens for better zoom and portrait capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", Samsung S5KGH1, 0.70 µm pixel size | 50MP, f/2.1, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | X8b has a higher resolution front camera, and slightly wider aperture, suggesting better low light performance; S21 Ultra has known sensor specifications |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", Samsung S5K3J1, 1.22 µm pixel size | Not Available | S21 Ultra offers a second telephoto lens for increased optical zoom range and versatility. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 5MP, f/2.2, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | X8b has a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing more of the scene. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | X8b has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, although image quality might be limited due to the low resolution. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.40 µm pixel size | Not Available | S21 Ultra has an ultra-wide with macro camera for more versatile captures. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@30/60fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p@30/60/240fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 720p@960fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra offers significantly higher video resolution and frame rates with more video recording capabilities, also features better stabilization; X8b is suitable for basic video recording only |
| DxOMark Scores | Mobile (115), Photo (121), Video (100); Selfie (135), Photo (133), Video (140) | Not Available | S21 Ultra has excellent, professional quality, camera performance |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, Optical/Digital zoom, Quad Camera, OIS, Autofocus, Manual Focus, Laser AF, RAW, Night Mode and many more | Digital zoom, Triple Camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Front Flash | S21 Ultra offers more advanced features, like optical zoom, OIS, and 8K video, for professional and versatile photography; X8b is more basic; S21 Ultra also has a dedicated night mode. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | S21 Ultra likely provides slightly longer battery life due to larger capacity. |
| Charging | 25W | 35W | X8b charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 Ultra offers more versatility with wireless and reverse charging options; Honor X8b is basic; S21 Ultra doesn't have a charger included in the box. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 13 | X8b runs a newer version of Android out of the box; S21 Ultra is upgradeable to Android 15; Android version differences are user preference |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Dual band, Hotspot, Direct, Display, MiMO | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | S21 Ultra supports Wi-Fi 6, offering faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks and Wi-Fi MiMO for better multi-device connection performance; both phones share similar capabilities for basic connectivity |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, ANT+, APT-x, SBC | 5.0 LE, A2DP, LE, SBC, AAC | S21 Ultra has a more modern version with more features such as APT-x for higher quality audio and broader device compatibility |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | A-GPS, GLONASS, GPS (L1+L5) | S21 Ultra has better global positioning capabilities with more satellite support for improved accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support dual SIM functionality, for managing multiple phone numbers; Both phones share similar capabilities for basic connectivity, |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Both offer multiple storage options for different user needs, no differences in storage options |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 8 GB | S21 Ultra provides more RAM for better multitasking and running demanding applications. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, so users must choose storage variants carefully. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | S21 Ultra has superior audio experience with immersive sound, higher quality audio, noise reduction and more advanced capabilities |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Honor X8b has a more convenient and modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor; Both offer biometric security |
Build Quality
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra provides superior scratch and damage protection on the screen; Honor X8b screen protection is unknown |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Honor X8b | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S21 Ultra offers more sensors; better for gaming, AR, and advanced environment data; S21 has Hall and Geomagnetic sensors; Honor X8b has Gravity sensor |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and larger RAM result in significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Higher Resolution Display: The 1440p display offers crisper text and images, ideal for detailed content consumption and VR/AR experiences.
- More Versatile Camera System: It has a more versatile camera setup with dedicated telephoto lenses, optical zoom, 8K video recording, and better image quality thanks to known sensor specifications.
- Enhanced Audio: Features Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, noise cancellation microphone, and stereo speakers for a better overall sound experience.
- Advanced Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and better water and dust protection
- Better Connectivity: Offers newer WiFi and Bluetooth versions for faster speeds, lower latency, better performance
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Includes additional sensors for more advanced functionality, especially in gaming and AR applications
Honor X8b Advantages:
- Lighter and Slimmer Design: It's more comfortable to hold for longer periods due to its lighter weight and slimmer profile.
- Brighter Display: The 2000 nits brightness provides much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 35W charging allows for quicker battery replenishment.
- Newer OS: Comes with a newer version of Android out of the box.
- Wide Angle and Macro Lens: Offers more versatile photography with macro and wide angle lens
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: More ergonomic fingerprint sensor than the Galaxy S21 Ultra
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Larger, heavier, bulkier, more expensive, and has no charger in-box
- X8b: Significantly lower performance, basic camera system and no expandable storage
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Those who prioritize performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value a versatile camera system with advanced features like optical zoom, 8K video recording and excellent image quality.
- Multimedia Consumers: Individuals who appreciate a high-resolution display and enhanced audio quality for watching videos and listening to music.
- Professionals: Need advanced connectivity features like the newest WiFi standard, more satellite systems for better location accuracy.
Specific Use Cases for S21 Ultra:
- Professional photography and videography due to the quality and versatility of the camera.
- Mobile gaming at high graphics settings.
- Demanding multitasking with multiple apps running simultaneously.
- Viewing high-resolution content (like movies, and VR/AR)
- Users that need to work anywhere with the wireless/reverse wireless charging capabilities
Honor X8b Ideal User:
- Casual Users: Those who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and calls.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Users who want a good phone at a more affordable price.
- Users Prioritizing Portability: Individuals who value a slim and lightweight design.
- Outdoor Users: Those who often use their phone in bright sunlight and prioritize screen visibility.
Specific Use Cases for X8b:
- Everyday use including browsing the web, social media, and making calls.
- Casual photography with wide-angle and macro options.
- Users who want a light and portable phone for extended periods.
- For people who prioritize a brighter display for outdoor use.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is significantly more expensive than the Honor X8b.
- What is your primary use case? If you prioritize high performance for gaming and professional photography, the S21 Ultra is the better choice. If you're looking for a basic phone for day-to-day tasks, the X8b is a solid option.
- Do you prioritize performance or portability? The S21 Ultra offers superior performance, but the X8b is lighter and more comfortable to handle.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power user who needs top performance and a professional-grade camera. Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. The performance, camera system, and display make it the best choice for power users.
- Scenario 2: User looking for a basic phone for everyday use, prioritizes portability and outdoor visibility. Recommendation: Honor X8b. Its lighter design and brighter display make it more convenient and readable outdoors.
- Scenario 3: User on a budget who needs a reliable phone for casual use. Recommendation: Honor X8b. Offers a good balance of features at a more affordable price.
Final Recommendation
My Choice: If I were choosing between the two, I would personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Reasoning: While the Honor X8b is a decent budget-friendly option, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G's significantly better performance, more versatile camera system, and higher-quality display better suit my needs. I value the enhanced user experience it offers for daily multitasking, mobile gaming, and creative photography and videography. The added versatility of the wireless charging, comprehensive sensors, better connectivity, and better audio features of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G also outweighs the slightly better portability and brightness offered by the Honor X8b. Despite its higher cost, I believe the advanced features and improved performance of the S21 Ultra make it a worthwhile investment for my needs. Although it is older, it remains a premium device with flagship features.
