Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Nokia C32
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Nokia C32 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly thicker, but both are similar in size. |
| Weight | 227g | 199.4g | Nokia C32 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and single-handed operation. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | S21 Ultra offers a slightly larger display, offering more visual space for content consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 720x1600 | S21 Ultra has significantly sharper display, offering much clearer text and images, with 300% more pixels. |
| PPI | 515 | 270 | S21 Ultra provides a much crisper display with significantly higher pixel density for superior visual clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra offers much better blacks, contrast, and color reproduction. AMOLED is also more power-efficient with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations, resulting in a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra offers dramatically better visibility in bright sunlight, making it far more usable outdoors. Nokia C32's brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) | S21 Ultra has a much more powerful and efficient processor, leading to smoother and faster performance in all tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 109,200 | S21 Ultra is significantly faster, handling demanding apps and games with ease. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | IMG8322 (PowerVR GE8322) | S21 Ultra's GPU delivers superior graphics performance, crucial for gaming and graphically intense applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones offer the same battery capacity. Real-world battery life will be impacted by other specs. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 Ultra has wireless charging, reverse charging, and faster charging but no in-box charger |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP | S21 Ultra provides more detailed images with higher resolution. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | None | S21 Ultra has telephoto capabilities for zoomed shots, portrait mode. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 8MP, f/2.2 | S21 Ultra has much higher resolution selfies with better detail. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | None | S21 Ultra can zoom further without losing as much image quality. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Nokia C32 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, S21 Ultra lacks this feature. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | S21 Ultra has a wide-angle lens for capturing more in a single shot, also doubles as macro. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra is capable of significantly higher quality video recording, for more professional-level videos. |
| DXoMark | Mobile: 115, Photo: 121, Video: 100, Selfie: 135, Photo: 133, Video: 140 | Not tested | S21 Ultra is a proven performer in camera quality, Nokia C32 is not tested by DxOMark |
| Features | 4K/8K video, Optical Zoom, OIS, Laser AF, RAW | Dual camera, front flash | S21 Ultra provides higher video and photo quality, more manual controls and more flexibility in shooting, where C32 has the basic features, with front flash. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 13 | Nokia C32 has a more recent OS but S21 Ultra has a guaranteed upgrade path to Android 15, both will have the latest apps. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band | 802.11b/g/n | S21 Ultra offers faster and more stable wireless connectivity, better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 4.2 | S21 Ultra has a more recent standard offering improved speed, stability, and range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | S21 Ultra has support for more satellite systems and dual-band GPS for increased location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both offer dual SIM capability, letting users use two numbers simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 64/128 GB | S21 Ultra has more options for internal storage, essential for large files, apps and media. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 3/4 GB | S21 Ultra can handle many more apps running simultaneously without slowdown, better multitasking and gaming performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | S21 Ultra provides much better sound quality, suitable for high quality audio listening and watching videos. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Nokia C32 has a more advanced fingerprint scanner, more convenient, faster, and more modern. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has a far superior screen protection, more scratch and impact-resistant. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer | S21 Ultra has a comprehensive suite of sensors, supporting advanced features and applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Significantly higher resolution, pixel density, and refresh rate with AMOLED technology, offering a much better visual experience.
- Massively Higher Performance: Flagship-level chipset and GPU provide superior speed, responsiveness, and gaming performance.
- Professional-Grade Camera System: More versatile camera system, including high resolution, Telephoto, Wide angle and Macro lenses, superior video recording capabilities, and better image quality.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: Offers significantly faster charging speeds and the convenience of wireless charging.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards, along with a more precise GPS system.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and Stereo Speakers provide a richer audio experience.
- Better Build Quality: Superior screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
- More RAM: Much more RAM than the Nokia C32, resulting in smoother performance when running multiple apps, especially when gaming.
Nokia C32 Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for extended use and easier to handle.
- More Recent Android OS: Ships with Android 13, a more recent version, although Samsung provides update to Android 15.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Considered to be more convenient and modern than rear-mounted sensors.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro camera, which the S21 Ultra lacks.
- Lower Price: More affordable
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Nokia C32 compromises heavily on performance, display quality, and camera capabilities to achieve a lower price point.
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is significantly more expensive but offers a premium experience in almost every aspect.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Power Users: Demanding users who need maximum performance for gaming, multitasking, and resource-intensive apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize high-quality photos and videos with lots of shooting options.
- Media Consumers: Users who want a high-quality display for watching movies, browsing, and playing games.
- Professionals: Individuals who need a device that can handle their work tasks smoothly, from editing documents to presenting videos.
Use Cases for Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Mobile gaming with demanding graphics
- Capturing high-resolution photos and videos in various scenarios
- Editing photos and videos on the go
- Business professionals needing high productivity
- Consuming media with top-notch visuals and sound
- Using GPS and map apps in urban settings and hiking trails
Nokia C32 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for an affordable phone for basic everyday tasks.
- Light Users: Those who primarily use their phone for calling, texting, and basic social media.
- First-Time Smartphone Users: Those who are new to smartphones and looking for an easy-to-use device.
Use Cases for Nokia C32:
- Basic communication and web browsing
- Casual photography in daylight conditions
- Media consumption with a decent screen for its price
- Daily driver for first-time smartphone users
- Budget-friendly device for basic smartphone tasks
- When a light and basic phone is required
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The S21 Ultra is significantly more expensive than the Nokia C32.
- What is my primary use case? Do you prioritize gaming, photography, or everyday tasks?
- How important is display quality and performance? Do you need a high-resolution, high-refresh-rate display and top-tier performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-Performance and Versatile Use: If budget is not the primary concern, and you need a powerful phone for gaming, photography, media consumption and multitasking, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the clear winner.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious and Basic Usage: If you prioritize affordability and only need a smartphone for basic tasks, the Nokia C32 is a suitable choice. It offers a functional experience but lacks the power and features of the S21 Ultra.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Video: The S21 Ultra has the most professional-grade camera and the superior video capabilities. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is a better option.
My Choice:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it is significantly more expensive, the vast difference in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience justifies the price for my use case. I frequently use my phone for photography, gaming, and media consumption, and the S21 Ultra's superior capabilities in these areas are essential to me. I also appreciate the faster charging and the convenience of wireless charging. Although the Nokia C32 has a more modern fingerprint scanner and is lighter, those benefits pale in comparison to the S21 Ultra's overall performance and feature set. The older OS on the Samsung is not a major concern because of the guaranteed upgrade path.
