1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-09-30 | Huawei is newer, may have more updated software features. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 160 x 73.7 x 7.8 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and thicker, potentially less comfortable in hand. Nova 9 is slimmer and easier to carry. |
| Weight | 227g | 175g | Nova 9 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for long use. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.57" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2340 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display with finer detail; better for high-res content. |
| PPI | 515 | 392 | S21 Ultra has noticeably higher pixel density, leading to clearer text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra has significantly better outdoor visibility. The Nova 9's brightness is unknown and may be a problem. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 778G 4G (6 nm) | S21 Ultra has a more powerful processor, leading to faster app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| Antutu Score | 749,000 | 578,555 | S21 Ultra offers a noticeable performance advantage in daily tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 642L | S21 Ultra has better graphics performance for gaming and intensive tasks. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4300mAh | S21 Ultra should provide longer battery life under similar usage. |
| Charging | 25W | 66W | Nova 9 charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse charging | Non-removable | S21 Ultra offers more versatile charging options. The Nova 9 lack wireless charging. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/1.56" | S21 Ultra has a higher resolution sensor and slightly wider aperture with a bigger sensor for better low light performance. |
| Telephoto | 10.8MP & 10.8MP | None | S21 Ultra offers versatile optical zoom capabilities, good for capturing distant objects with detail. |
| Wide Angle | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | Huawei has a dedicated ultrawide camera for capturing landscapes and group photos, while the S21 Ultra uses its main sensor for this purpose. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2 | 32MP, f/2.0 | S21 Ultra has a higher resolution selfie sensor, though the Nova 9 has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Portrait (depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Huawei can take more accurate portrait photos with depth, whilst the S21 ultra lacks this. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Huawei has a dedicated macro camera for close-up photography. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | None | S21 Ultra has a dedicated ultrawide and macro camera for capturing landscapes, group photos, and detailed close ups. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 720p@960fps | S21 Ultra offers significantly higher resolution video recording, better for videographers. |
| DxOMark | 115 (Mobile) and 135 (Selfie) | None | S21 ultra is well-tested and performs very well in tests compared to other phones. |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| OS | Android 11, up to Android 15 | Unknown | S21 Ultra offers up-to-date Android experience, whereas the Huawei's OS is not specified. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Both have the latest WiFi, but the S21 Ultra has the benefit of MiMo. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, many profiles | 5.2, EDR | S21 Ultra has more diverse Bluetooth support for better connectivity with devices. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | QZSS | S21 Ultra offers more accurate GPS with dual-band support. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Micro + Nano SIM | S21 Ultra uses two nano SIMs at once while the Nova 9 only has a nano sim slot. |
Storage and Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512GB | 128/256GB | S21 Ultra offers larger max storage capacity; suitable for users with large media libraries. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 8GB | S21 Ultra has more RAM, suitable for heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | S21 Ultra has better audio capabilities, providing a richer multimedia experience. |
Security and Build
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei nova 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Fingerprint sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer standard biometric security. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra is more protected from scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Gravity | S21 Ultra offers more advanced sensors for added functionality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, better pixel density, and significantly higher brightness provide a sharper, clearer, and more visible display, especially outdoors.
- Better Performance: More powerful processor and GPU lead to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and superior gaming performance.
- More Versatile Camera System: Multiple dedicated lenses (telephoto, ultrawide with macro), higher resolution main sensor, and 8K video recording offer more flexibility and quality.
- Larger Battery: Larger capacity provides potentially better battery life.
- Better Software Support: Up to date Android software and more updates.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, reverse charging, and better Bluetooth support offer more convenience and connectivity.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers provide a better audio experience.
Huawei nova 9 Advantages:
- Lighter and Slimmer Design: More comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Faster Charging: 66W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Slightly larger sensor pixels
- Cheaper Price Point: Likely lower cost.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Larger, heavier, and slower charging.
- Nova 9: Lower display quality, less powerful performance, and lacks the advanced camera features of the S21 Ultra. The OS is also unknown.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Power Users: Those who demand top performance for demanding apps, multitasking, and mobile gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos with versatile zoom capabilities and more lens options.
- Multimedia Consumers: People who enjoy watching high-resolution videos and want the best display experience.
- Users Needing Superior Screen Visibility: Those often using their phone outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Users Who Want the Best Experience: Those who want the best specs on the market and are willing to pay a premium.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography
- High-end mobile gaming
- Heavy multitasking with multiple apps
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight
Ideal Users for Huawei nova 9:
- Casual Users: People who prioritize a light, comfortable phone for everyday tasks.
- Users Needing Fast Charging: Those who need to quickly charge their phone and are often on the go.
- Users Prioritizing Budget: Those who want a solid phone, with decent specs for an affordable price.
Use Cases:
- General day-to-day use
- Social media browsing and sharing
- Quick charging on the go
Price-to-Value Ratio
- Samsung S21 Ultra: Offers top-tier performance and features, justified for those with specific needs, but potentially more expensive.
- Huawei nova 9: A more budget-friendly choice for users who don't require the ultimate specs. It offers a decent feature set at a more accessible price point, but the missing brightness info is a concern.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What are my primary uses for the phone? (Gaming, photography, everyday tasks)
- How important is screen quality and brightness? (Indoor vs. outdoor use)
- What is my budget, and what value am I seeking?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-end gaming and mobile photography: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior performance, camera versatility, and high-quality display.
- Scenario 2: Everyday use, comfortable in hand with great charging speed: Choose the Huawei nova 9 if you prioritize comfort and fast charging with a decent budget.
- Scenario 3: Budget-conscious buyer focused on essential tasks: The Huawei nova 9 may suffice but the lack of screen brightness info could be a deal breaker. If the brightness is ok, it is a decent choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it is larger and heavier, the overall package of features it provides is far superior to the Huawei nova 9. The significantly better display, which is sharper and brighter, the much stronger performance, the far more versatile camera system, superior software and larger battery all make it a much more compelling device, especially considering my preference for photography and gaming.
Although the Huawei nova 9 has fast charging and is lighter, the lack of screen brightness information and the lower display quality are big drawbacks for me. I value having the best possible user experience and am willing to trade some comfort and charging speed for that, as I prioritize display quality and camera performance over weight and charging speed. The S21 Ultra’s inclusion of wireless charging and its significantly higher DxOMark scores also make it an easy choice for me.
