Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Nokia C21 Plus
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 164.8 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm | S21 Ultra is negligibly thicker (0.3mm) and both are very similar in size. |
| Weight | 227g | 178g | Nokia C21 Plus is significantly lighter (49g), more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.52" | S21 Ultra offers slightly more screen real estate for content consumption. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 720x1600 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display with significantly more detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 269 | S21 Ultra offers noticeably crisper text and images, especially for reading and detailed visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra has richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast. Also more efficient for dark modes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra has much smoother scrolling and animations, enhances gaming and general UI experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra is significantly better for outdoor use under bright sunlight. Nokia C21 Plus brightness not specified, likely very poor. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | S21 Ultra’s chipset is much faster and more power efficient, enabling smoother app performance and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 109,200 | S21 Ultra offers much better overall speed, multitasking, and gaming performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | IMG8322 | S21 Ultra’s GPU is significantly more powerful for graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear Camera | 108MP, f/1.8 | 13MP | S21 Ultra captures much more detailed photos, especially in good lighting. |
| Telephoto/Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4 | None | S21 Ultra has optical zoom capabilities and better portrait shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | S21 Ultra produces much higher resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9 | None | S21 Ultra provides additional zoom versatility. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Nokia C21 Plus has a dedicated depth sensor. S21 Ultra uses other lenses and software for depth effects. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | None | S21 Ultra offers ultra-wide and macro photo capabilities. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra can record much higher quality video with better stabilization. |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 115 | Not Available | S21 Ultra's camera performance is confirmed to be high quality. Nokia C21 Plus is not tested |
| DxOMark Selfie Score | 135 | Not Available | S21 Ultra's selfie camera is confirmed to be very high quality. Nokia C21 Plus is not tested |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K video, OIS, zoom, raw, night mode | PDAF, HDR, front flash | S21 Ultra is much more capable for photography enthusiasts, with more advanced features. Nokia C21 has less features overall. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4000mAh | S21 Ultra potentially offers longer battery life. Actual endurance depends on usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra charges significantly faster. |
| Battery Features | Wireless charging, reverse charging | None (non-removable) | S21 Ultra has advanced wireless charging capabilities, can act as a wireless power bank. Nokia C21 is basic, with no frills. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgrade to 15 | Android 11, no upgrade specified | S21 Ultra will receive more OS and security updates, longer software lifespan. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), MIMO | 802.11n | S21 Ultra offers faster Wi-Fi speeds, better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 4.2 | S21 Ultra has a more modern Bluetooth standard with more features and lower power consumption. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a), Beidou, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, SUPL | S21 Ultra offers better location accuracy using more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512GB | 32/64GB | S21 Ultra has significantly more storage capacity. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 2/4GB | S21 Ultra is much better for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, stereo speakers | Basic audio features | S21 Ultra offers superior audio quality, more immersive sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer fingerprint unlock functionality. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity | Proximity, Accelerometer | S21 Ultra has a more complete sensor suite for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Significantly higher resolution, AMOLED technology, 120Hz refresh rate, and much higher brightness for a premium viewing experience.
- Exceptional Performance: Much more powerful chipset, GPU, and RAM, providing a smooth and responsive experience for all tasks, including demanding games.
- Advanced Camera System: Versatile quad-camera setup with high-resolution sensors, optical zoom, and advanced features for photography and videography.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Capabilities: 25W fast charging, plus wireless and reverse wireless charging for more flexible power options.
- Better Audio: Superior audio quality with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio, and stereo speakers for an immersive listening experience.
- Advanced Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards for faster speeds and better performance.
- Longer Software Support: Guaranteed software updates for longer compared to the Nokia.
- Build Quality: Premium screen protection for added durability.
- Comprehensive Sensors: Wider range of sensors for enhanced features.
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra is for users who demand top-tier performance, camera quality, display excellence, and advanced features for power users.
Nokia C21 Plus Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for extended use and carrying in a pocket.
- Lower Price: More accessible to budget-conscious users.
Practical Implications: The C21 Plus caters to users who prioritize basic functionality, portability, and cost-effectiveness over high-end features.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Significantly higher price, larger and heavier, with no expandable storage.
- Nokia C21 Plus: Much lower performance, inferior display, limited camera capabilities, and lack of advanced features and modern standards.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want top-tier camera quality, zoom capabilities, and advanced features for creative photography and videography.
- Mobile Gamers: Users who need the best performance for graphically intensive mobile games.
- Power Users: Users who multitask heavily, need fast app loading times, and want a lag-free experience.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who enjoy watching high-resolution videos, streaming content, and value a vibrant display.
- Professionals: Those requiring high-quality video recording for work purposes, or fast reliable performance.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want cutting-edge technology and all the latest features in their smartphone.
Specific Use Cases for S21 Ultra:
- Capturing detailed professional-looking photos and videos.
- Playing graphics-intensive games at high refresh rates.
- Using multiple apps simultaneously without lag.
- Watching HDR videos with vivid colours and deep blacks.
- Working on the go, creating or editing documents and videos.
Ideal Users for Nokia C21 Plus:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users who are looking for the most affordable smartphone option.
- Basic Users: Users who primarily use their phones for basic communication, browsing, and simple apps.
- First-Time Smartphone Owners: Users who are new to smartphones and don't need advanced features.
- Users Who Prioritize Portability: Users who need a lightweight, easy-to-handle phone.
Specific Use Cases for C21 Plus:
- Making calls, sending texts, and checking emails.
- Browsing the web and social media.
- Using basic apps like maps and music.
- Taking occasional photos and videos for sharing online.
Price-to-Value:
- S21 Ultra: Offers a premium experience with top-tier performance, camera, and display, but at a much higher price.
- Nokia C21 Plus: Provides basic functionality at a very low price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone?
- Primary Use: What will you mainly use your smartphone for? (photography, gaming, basic tasks)
- Importance of Features: How important are advanced features like high-quality display, camera, and performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High Performance and Camera are Crucial: If you need the best performance, camera quality, and display technology, and budget isn't a major concern, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget is Paramount: If your budget is extremely limited and you only need a phone for basic tasks, the Nokia C21 Plus is a budget-friendly option.
- Scenario 3: Balance of Features and Cost: If you are looking for a more mid range option with better features than the Nokia, but still a lower price than the Samsung, other phones should be explored.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would unequivocally choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While the Nokia C21 Plus has the advantage of being significantly cheaper and lighter, the S21 Ultra is superior in almost every other aspect. My personal use case involves a lot of photography, video recording, and mobile gaming, all of which the S21 Ultra excels at. The much better performance, screen quality and camera capabilities of the S21 Ultra make it worth the extra price for me. The longer software support and more comprehensive features also mean that it will be more future-proof and enjoyable to use for many years to come, rather than using a device with very limited features. While the price is a lot higher than the Nokia, I believe the S21 Ultra provides significantly more value over the longer term, making the additional expense worthwhile. The S21 Ultra offers a premium smartphone experience without compromise.
