1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly taller and thicker, but narrower. Note 12 G96 is wider. |
| Weight | 227g | 185g | S21 Ultra is noticeably heavier, less comfortable for prolonged use. Note 12 G96 is lighter and more portable. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal difference; both offer large screens. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra has much sharper text and images, more detail. Note 12 G96 is less sharp, but still FHD. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 393 PPI | S21 Ultra's screen looks significantly crisper, especially for reading and media. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks, similar quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming and general use. Note 12 G96 is less fluid. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 650 nits | S21 Ultra is much more viewable outdoors in sunlight. Note 12 G96 will struggle under bright light. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | S21 Ultra offers significantly faster processing and better performance in all tasks. Note 12 G96 is noticeably slower. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 307,000 | S21 Ultra will handle demanding apps and games effortlessly, multitasking is smooth. Note 12 G96 will struggle with heavy use. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MC2 | S21 Ultra has superior graphics for smooth, high-fidelity gaming. Note 12 G96 will be limited with graphically intensive games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | S21 Ultra captures more detailed images, better for prints and cropping. Note 12 G96 is decent but less detailed. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.6 | Note 12 G96 has a slightly wider aperture which might result in slightly better low-light performance (though other factors also play a role). |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/2.76" | S21 Ultra has a larger sensor, which allows it to capture more light and detail, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | Yes (2 lenses) | No | S21 Ultra offers superior zoom capabilities, allowing for lossless zoom. |
| Wide Angle Camera | Yes | No | S21 Ultra can capture much wider scenes. |
| Portrait Mode | No | Yes (depth sensor) | Note 12 G96 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode effects, S21 Ultra relies on software. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 16MP | S21 Ultra takes much higher resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.0 | Note 12 G96 has a slightly wider aperture potentially better low light. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K | Up to 1440p | S21 Ultra allows for higher resolution and more professional video recordings. Note 12 G96 is limited to 1440p. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | S21 Ultra provides smoother video recordings. |
| Camera Features | Extensive | Basic | S21 Ultra has significantly more camera features such as OIS, Laser AF, RAW, etc. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both offer similar battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | Note 12 G96 charges faster. |
| Charging Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging | None | S21 Ultra has more convenient charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 12 | Note 12 G96 comes with a newer OS but with an unknown max version |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11n 5GHz | S21 Ultra has faster and more reliable WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | S21 Ultra has newer Bluetooth with more features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS | S21 Ultra is more accurate in location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB | S21 Ultra provides significantly more storage options, great for storing more photos and videos. |
| RAM | 12 GB, 16 GB | 4 GB, 6 GB, 8 GB | S21 Ultra allows better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone can expand storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | S21 Ultra offers superior audio for both playback and calls. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Note 12 G96's side mounted sensor is faster and more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra screen is much more scratch resistant. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive | Basic | S21 Ultra has more sensors that enhance features such as navigation and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, refresh rate and brightness offer much better image clarity, smoother experience and visibility outdoors.
- Much Faster Performance: Powerful chipset and GPU make it ideal for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- Professional-Grade Camera System: Offers much greater versatility with better detail, multiple zoom levels, wide angle, and 8K video recording.
- Advanced Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, better GPS, and more advanced audio with Dolby Atmos.
- Premium Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus provides enhanced screen protection.
- More RAM and Storage: Offers larger storage options and significantly more RAM
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra is a top-tier phone offering a superior user experience, especially for power users, content creators, and gamers.
Infinix Note 12 G96 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Comfortable: Easier to hold and use for extended periods.
- Faster Charging: Charges the battery quicker with 33W compared to S21 Ultra's 25W.
- Newer Operating System: Ships with a slightly newer OS version than the S21 Ultra.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Faster and more convenient unlocking.
- Wider Camera Aperture: Better low light performance.
Practical Implications: The Note 12 G96 is a budget-friendly option that is comfortable to use and charges quickly, suitable for casual users with a focus on portability and value.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra sacrifices weight and size for its superior screen and performance. It is also missing a headphone jack, and does not ship with a charger in box.
- Note 12 G96 trades off performance and camera quality for a lower price and lighter design.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who demand top-tier performance for demanding tasks, multitasking, and heavy app usage.
- Gamers: Individuals who require high refresh rates, excellent graphics capabilities, and smooth gameplay.
- Content Creators: Users who need a high-quality camera system for photos and videos, including features like 8K recording, multiple zoom options, and advanced audio capture.
- Professionals: Individuals who need a device with fast processing, excellent display quality, and reliable connectivity for work and productivity.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who frequently watch movies, videos, and need a vibrant display for the best visual experience
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming with high graphic settings
- Shooting 8K professional videos
- Multitasking heavy productivity apps
- Editing photos and videos on the go
- Using resource-intensive applications
Infinix Note 12 G96 Ideal Users:
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for browsing, social media, and basic tasks.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking a cost-effective device that offers a large display and decent everyday performance.
- Users Prioritizing Portability: People who value a lighter phone that is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
- Users Requiring Fast Charging: Those who need a quick power-up option for their phones.
Use Cases:
- Social media browsing
- Web browsing
- Basic photo and video capture
- Streaming basic multimedia content
- Everyday communication tasks
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G: Premium price, but justifies the cost with cutting-edge features, top-tier performance, and a professional-grade camera system.
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Excellent value for money, offering essential smartphone features at a lower price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for the phone? (Gaming, content creation, casual use, etc.)
- How important is display quality to you? (Sharpness, brightness, smoothness, etc.)
- What is your budget? (Are you willing to pay more for premium features?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gaming and Content Creation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior processing power, display quality, and camera system.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious Casual User: Choose the Infinix Note 12 G96 for its affordability, lightweight design, and decent performance for everyday tasks.
- Scenario 3: Need a Great Display and Camera: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, even if you don't need the processing power, the display and camera justify the cost.
- Scenario 4: Focus on Portability and Fast Charging: Choose the Infinix Note 12 G96 for its lighter design and quicker charging capabilities.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would select the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, despite its higher price and older launch date.
Here's why:
- Display Quality: As someone who consumes a lot of media, reads on their phone and enjoys high-fidelity gaming, the superior display quality on the S21 Ultra is a major draw. The higher resolution, pixel density, and 120Hz refresh rate significantly impact the overall visual experience.
- Performance: The Exynos 2100 chip provides substantially better performance and the better GPU is important for demanding applications and gaming.
- Camera System: The versatility and capabilities of the camera are crucial for me. Having multiple lenses (telephoto, wide-angle) along with 8K video recording is very valuable.
- Features: I appreciate the additional features such as wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and enhanced audio (Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res).
- Build Quality and Sensors: The S21 Ultra's superior build with Gorilla Glass Victus, and more comprehensive sensor suite provide an enhanced user experience.
While I acknowledge the lighter design and faster charging of the Infinix Note 12 G96, the overall experience provided by the S21 Ultra, particularly in display quality, performance, and camera capabilities, outweighs those considerations for my needs. The premium price is justified by the higher-quality features. However, the lack of a charger in the box is a negative point that could be a problem for some consumers.
