1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Huawei P50 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 158.8 x 72.8 x 8.5 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and slightly thicker, may be less comfortable for smaller hands or pockets. P50 Pro is more compact. |
| Weight | 227g | 195g | P50 Pro is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. S21 Ultra is heavier, may feel more premium but can cause fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.6" | S21 Ultra has slightly more screen real estate for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1228 x 2700 | S21 Ultra has a significantly sharper display, noticeably better for reading text and viewing detailed images/videos. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 450 | S21 Ultra's higher PPI translates to sharper images and text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer excellent color reproduction and contrast; minimal practical difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 1500 | 0 | S21 Ultra has dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, a critical advantage. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Kirin 9000 (5 nm) | Different chipsets; S21 Ultra has a slight performance edge in benchmark tests. |
| Antutu Score | 749,000 | 697,566 | S21 Ultra is marginally faster for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G78 MP24 (Adreno 660) | Different GPUs; S21 Ultra is marginally faster, although real-world differences may be less pronounced. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | S21 Ultra has higher resolution, slightly larger sensor. Huawei has larger individual pixel size. Both perform well in standard conditions. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | None | S21 Ultra provides additional zoom and portrait capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 0.7µm | 13MP, f/2.4 | S21 Ultra offers higher resolution and slightly wider aperture for better selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | 64MP, f/3.4, 1/2", 0.7µm | P50 Pro has significantly higher resolution and wider aperture telephoto. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | S21 Ultra has a larger sensor; Huawei has a 1MP resolution advantage. |
| Black & White | None | 40MP, f/1.6, 1/1.7", 1.0µm | P50 Pro captures detailed monochrome photos. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra offers higher resolution 8k recording; both offer high quality videos. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 | 143 | P50 Pro shows superior camera performance in photos and video based on DxOMark scores. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 135 | 144 | P50 Pro shows superior selfie camera performance based on DxOMark scores. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4360mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, likely providing better battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 66W Fast Charging | P50 Pro charges much faster. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 50W | P50 Pro has much faster wireless charging. |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | 9W | Yes | Both offer reverse wireless charging but S21 Ultra provides a wattage. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Unknown | S21 Ultra offers a more current Android experience with guaranteed updates. P50 Pro operating system is not specified. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer similar, modern Wi-Fi support. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 | Both offer similar, modern Bluetooth support. |
| GPS | Comprehensive Support | Comprehensive Support | P50 Pro has a slight edge supporting additional satellite systems for enhanced accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support Dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Both offer same storage options. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | S21 Ultra offers more RAM for heavy users and multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | S21 Ultra offers a slightly more comprehensive audio experience with Hi-Res and noise cancelling mic. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra is more scratch resistant. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive | Comprehensive | Both phones have a comprehensive set of sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density provide a more detailed and crisp viewing experience, great for text and detailed images.
- Brighter Display: Significantly higher brightness makes it far better for outdoor use in bright sunlight.
- Larger Battery: Larger battery capacity implies potentially longer battery life, beneficial for all users.
- More RAM: Up to 16GB of RAM means better multitasking capabilities and smoother performance in demanding applications.
- 8K Video Recording: Capability to record 8K video which is beneficial for professional content creators.
- More Comprehensive Audio: Includes features like Hi-Res Audio and noise cancellation microphone for superior sound quality and call clarity.
- Gorilla Glass Victus: Provides enhanced protection against scratches and drops.
- More Defined OS Support: Uses Android with guaranteed updates.
- More Detailed Bluetooth features: More defined features for audio and device connectivity.
- More Comprehensive Camera Lens: Additional camera lens for better portrait shots.
Huawei P50 Pro Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: More comfortable to hold and carry, especially for smaller hands.
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster wired and wireless charging; more convenient.
- Superior Camera Performance: Higher DxOMark scores indicate overall better image quality and better photo and video results, especially in low-light conditions.
- Better Telephoto Lens: Higher resolution telephoto lens offers great zoom capabilities.
- Dedicated Black & White Lens: Captures detailed monochrome images.
- More Accurate GPS: Better location accuracy due to supporting more satellite systems.
- Ultra Stable Video: Provides additional stabilization features.
- More Advanced Autofocus: Provides features like Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF).
- Dual Front Camera: Additional front-facing camera lens.
- Significantly Better Video Results: Much higher DxOMark score for videos indicating better quality recordings.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Heavier and larger, potentially less convenient for some users. Lower camera performance and slower charging speeds.
- P50 Pro: Less detailed display, lower outdoor brightness, and a less defined operating system with potentially limited future updates.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is Ideal For:
- Power Users: People who need top-tier performance, multi-tasking, and appreciate the large RAM.
- Outdoor Users: Those who often use their phone in bright sunlight will appreciate the superior display brightness.
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos or movies will benefit from the sharper and detailed display.
- Pro Content Creators: Those who create video content as professionals will appreciate 8K recording and better audio features.
Specific Use Cases:
- Playing graphically intensive games
- Editing photos and videos on-the-go
- Using productivity apps for work
- Navigating in bright outdoor settings
Huawei P50 Pro is Ideal For:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize mobile photography, especially low-light and zoom capabilities.
- Users Who Value Comfort: Those who prefer a lighter and more compact phone.
- Users Who Need Quick Charging: People who want a phone that charges very fast.
Specific Use Cases:
- Capturing high-quality photos in various conditions
- Taking zoom photos
- Making phone calls without distractions with the noise cancellation microphone
- Fast charging while travelling and in a hurry
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S21 Ultra may offer slightly more performance per dollar if display sharpness and outdoor visibility are important.
- The P50 Pro may offer a higher value in terms of camera quality and fast charging if price is similar.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality and brightness? (S21 Ultra excels in these)
- Do you prioritize camera quality or fast charging? (P50 Pro excels in these)
- Is a smaller size/lighter weight more important than the best specs? (P50 Pro is more compact and lighter).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- If you prioritize screen quality, outdoor visibility, and raw power: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
- If you prioritize camera quality, fast charging, and a lighter phone: Choose the Huawei P50 Pro.
- If you need 8K video recording and excellent audio: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
- If you want the best GPS accuracy: Choose the Huawei P50 Pro.
What I Would Choose and Why:
I would choose the Huawei P50 Pro. My reasoning is based on a few key factors that align with my typical usage patterns and priorities in a smartphone:
- Camera Superiority: The significantly better DxOMark scores, especially in video, strongly influence my choice. As someone who uses their smartphone for both photography and video, the P50 Pro's camera system provides a superior experience, particularly in low-light conditions and when zooming. The inclusion of a dedicated black and white sensor also interests me.
- Ergonomics: I also prefer the P50 Pro's lighter weight and more compact size. The S21 Ultra, while packed with features, is physically large and heavy, which can become cumbersome for daily use, especially when holding and using the phone for extended periods.
- Charging Convenience: The faster charging capabilities of the P50 Pro (both wired and wireless) offer a significant advantage. I prefer a device that can be quickly topped up.
- Practical Usage: While the S21 Ultra has a fantastic display, my daily use cases do not consistently push its capabilities to the limit. The benefits of better ergonomics and better camera quality are more beneficial to me than the additional sharpness and brightness the S21 Ultra provides.
- Trade-off Acceptability: While I would prefer more detailed OS support, I find the trade-offs with the P50 Pro more manageable than sacrificing camera and convenience of use.
While the S21 Ultra is a very capable phone, the Huawei P50 Pro fits my preferences better based on my need for a superior camera, quick charging, and a more comfortable physical design.
