1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Razr 50 offers a compact form when folded, S21 Ultra is a traditional slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 171.3 × 74 × 7.3 mm | Razr 50 is taller and thinner but less wide; S21 Ultra is more voluminous. |
| Weight | 227g | 188.4g | Razr 50 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.9" | Razr 50 has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2640 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| PPI | 515 | 413 | S21 Ultra offers a noticeably sharper picture with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not specified | S21 Ultra has superior color reproduction and contrast with AMOLED; Razr 50 display tech is unclear |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 3000 nits | Razr 50 is significantly brighter, improving outdoor visibility in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7300X (4 nm) | S21 Ultra has a more powerful chip overall, but the Razr 50 chip is more recent |
| Antutu Score | 749,000 | 620,395 | S21 Ultra offers smoother performance in demanding tasks & gaming, but both are capable for daily use. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G615 MC2 | S21 Ultra has a more powerful GPU for better gaming performance and graphics-intensive applications. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | S21 Ultra captures more detailed images; better for large prints and cropping. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP | None | S21 Ultra offers dedicated zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2 | 32MP, f/2.4 | S21 Ultra captures higher resolution selfies and has slightly better low light performance (wider aperture). |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9 | None | S21 Ultra offers greater optical zoom range. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP, f/2.2 | Razr 50 allows users to capture wider scenes. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | None | S21 Ultra excels in capturing macro detail. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 Ultra offers more versatile video recording options with higher resolutions and frame rates. |
| DXOMark Score (Mobile) | 115 (Photo: 121, Video: 100) | 92 (Photo: 0, Video: 0) | S21 Ultra has a significant edge in camera quality, particularly in photos and video. Razr 50 has not been fully tested. |
| DXOMark Score (Selfie) | 135 (Photo: 133, Video: 140) | Not tested | S21 Ultra's selfie camera performance is excellent. Razr 50 has not been tested. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4200mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, likely leading to longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Razr 50 charges slightly faster than S21 Ultra. |
| Features | Wireless 15W, Reverse wireless 9W | Wireless 15W | S21 Ultra supports reverse wireless charging. |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 14 | Razr 50 comes with a newer Android version, likely with more recent features and security updates. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6E | Razr 50 has better Wi-Fi, faster speeds, and lower latency; less congested network. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Razr 50 has a more recent Bluetooth version, but both will connect to wireless devices. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | SUPL | S21 Ultra has more accurate location tracking with more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM / eSIM | Razr 50 has the flexibility to use a digital SIM. |
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512GB | 256/512GB | Both have similar storage options but Samsung has a lower base option. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 8/12GB | S21 Ultra has more RAM (16GB), ideal for heavy multitasking and demanding games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports SD cards for additional storage. |
Audio, Security & Build
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Motorola Razr 50 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, 3 mics | S21 Ultra has slightly enhanced audio features. |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Razr 50 has more convenient fingerprint scanner access. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones offer the same level of screen protection. |
| Sensors | Barometer | Gravity Sensor | S21 Ultra offers additional environmental sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display Quality: Higher resolution and pixel density provide a significantly sharper and more detailed visual experience. AMOLED technology provides vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- More Powerful Performance: Higher benchmark scores indicate faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming capabilities.
- More Versatile Camera System: Quad camera setup with higher resolution sensors, telephoto lenses, and advanced features like 8K video recording.
- Larger Battery Capacity: The 5000mAh battery provides longer battery life.
- Additional Audio Features: Hi-Res Audio and noise-canceling microphone provide an enhanced sound experience.
- More RAM: Up to 16GB for better performance
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra excels in tasks requiring visual fidelity, processing power, and advanced photography capabilities. Ideal for power users, photographers, and gamers.
Motorola Razr 50 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Compact form factor when folded, offering increased portability and novelty.
- Brighter Display: 3000 nits brightness makes it significantly better for outdoor use in bright sunlight.
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 14, likely offering more features and extended software support.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging gets the phone back to full power faster.
- eSIM support: More flexibility in using the phone with different carriers.
- Newer WiFi: Supports WiFi 6E which is less congested
- Lighter and thinner: Much more pocketable than S21 Ultra.
Practical Implications: The Razr 50 is aimed at users who prioritize portability, outdoor visibility, and the latest software features. The foldable design appeals to those looking for a unique smartphone experience.
Trade-offs
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G: Loses out on the compact portability and novelty of a foldable device, and the screen isn't as bright. Older software.
- Motorola Razr 50: Loses out on the higher performance, more advanced camera system and overall display quality compared to the S21 Ultra. Smaller battery.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Professional Photographers/Videographers: The advanced camera system offers versatile features and high-quality output, ideal for photography and videography enthusiasts.
- Power Users: The powerful chipset and larger RAM make it suitable for heavy multitasking, gaming, and resource-intensive applications.
- Media Consumers: The superior display quality is excellent for watching videos, browsing, and reading.
Specific Use Cases:
- Capturing high-resolution photos and videos for professional use or hobbies.
- Playing graphically demanding games.
- Multitasking with several apps simultaneously without performance issues.
- Enjoying high-quality videos and streaming content.
Motorola Razr 50 Ideal Users:
- Fashion-Conscious Users: The foldable design and unique form factor make it a stylish statement piece.
- Users Prioritizing Portability: The compact folded size makes it easy to carry in pockets.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: The ultra-bright display is ideal for viewing content in bright sunlight.
- Users wanting newer software: Comes with Android 14
- Users wanting newer WiFi: Supports WiFi 6E
Specific Use Cases:
- Making calls and browsing the web on the go.
- Taking photos outdoors in bright light.
- Consuming media in varied environments.
- Prioritizing ease of handling over high-end performance.
- Desire for a unique and innovative smartphone design.
Price-to-Value
- The Samsung S21 Ultra is a high-end older flagship so the price should be more reasonable now.
- The Motorola Razr 50 is newer so the price is likely to be higher, but brings new tech features with the folding screen.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is portability and a unique design? If a compact, foldable design is a priority, the Razr 50 is the clear choice.
- How much do I value camera quality and performance? If high-quality photos, videos, and heavy app usage are vital, the S21 Ultra is better.
- Is display brightness and newer software a top priority? The Razr 50 has a significantly brighter display for outdoor visibility and runs on Android 14, which may be preferred.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Professional photographer needing high-quality images and videos.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, with its advanced camera system and 8K video capabilities, will provide higher quality content.
Scenario 2: User frequently outdoors and prioritizes screen visibility in bright sunlight.
- Recommendation: Motorola Razr 50, thanks to its significantly brighter 3000 nit display.
Scenario 3: User looking for a compact, stylish phone for basic tasks and wants something different than a standard phone.
- Recommendation: Motorola Razr 50 because of its foldable form factor and modern design.
Scenario 4: User who prioritizes performance and raw power.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G because of the better performance with larger RAM and a higher-end chipset.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. My reasoning is as follows:
While the Motorola Razr 50's foldable design and brighter display are intriguing, the core functionalities of a smartphone, such as camera quality, performance, and display sharpness, are where I prioritize my needs. The S21 Ultra offers a more powerful and versatile experience in these areas. I value the higher resolution display for viewing content, the superior camera system for capturing detailed photos and videos, and the overall faster performance for smooth multitasking. The Razr 50, while being the newer device, lacks the sheer power and image quality of the S21 Ultra. Although the Razr has a newer version of Android and a brighter screen it isn't compelling enough to make me choose that over the S21 Ultra.
