Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Nokia G21
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Nokia G21 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | Similar size, S21 Ultra slightly thicker, G21 slightly narrower. |
| Weight | 227g | 190g | S21 Ultra is significantly heavier, G21 more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 720x1600 | S21 Ultra offers much sharper, clearer visuals. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 270 PPI | S21 Ultra provides significantly greater detail and clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits (Value is missing, assuming lower) | S21 Ultra is significantly brighter and more visible in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | S21 Ultra offers significantly faster processing for apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 253,300 | S21 Ultra is significantly faster in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MP1 | S21 Ultra provides superior graphics performance for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera (Main) | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | S21 Ultra captures more detailed images, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | 10.8MP (x2), f/2.4 & f/4.9 | Not available | S21 Ultra offers optical zoom for better close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | Not available | S21 Ultra captures wider scenes. |
| Macro Camera | Not available | 2MP, f/2.4 | G21 captures close-up details. |
| Portrait Mode Camera | Not available | 2MP, f/2.4 | G21 has dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.0 | S21 Ultra captures much higher resolution selfies. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra provides significantly better video quality, including 8K and advanced stabilization. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | 115 (Overall), 121 (Photo), 100 (Video) | Not tested | S21 Ultra has been tested and scores well in camera performance. |
| DXOMark (Selfie) | 135 (Overall), 133 (Photo), 140 (Video) | Not tested | S21 Ultra has been tested and scores well in selfie camera performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5050 mAh | Similar battery capacity, comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra charges slightly faster. |
| Charging Features | Wireless 15W, Reverse Wireless 9W, No charger in box | In-box charger 10W | S21 Ultra offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, but no charger included; G21 has charger in the box |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | S21 Ultra has longer software support with Android 15. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11n 5GHz | S21 Ultra offers faster Wi-Fi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | S21 Ultra offers better connectivity and features. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Single-band GPS | S21 Ultra provides greater location accuracy and faster GPS fix. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 64/128 GB | S21 Ultra has significantly higher storage options. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 4/6 GB | S21 Ultra offers substantially more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | 2 Microphones | S21 Ultra has higher audio fidelity, clearer sound, and a better stereo experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | G21 has a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Accelerometer | S21 Ultra has more sensors for advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED, higher resolution, higher refresh rate, and much higher brightness for excellent visuals and outdoor use.
- Significantly Faster Performance: Much more powerful processor and GPU, making it ideal for heavy apps and gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher resolution main sensor, additional telephoto and wide-angle lenses, significantly better video recording and stabilization capabilities and better overall Dxomark scores.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: Supports faster 25W charging, and includes convenient 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- More RAM and Storage: Higher RAM options for better multitasking, and higher internal storage options.
- Advanced Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions for faster speeds and better compatibility.
- Better Audio: Enhanced sound quality with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers.
- Longer Software Support Future software support with Android 15.
- Better build quality Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better protection
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra is a top-tier device, excellent for power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who values top-of-the-line performance. The display alone provides a noticeably superior visual experience.
Nokia G21 Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable to hold for longer periods.
- Lower Price: Significantly more affordable, making it accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
- In-box charger: Charger included in the box.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor More advanced fingerprint sensor.
- Macro and Portrait camera The phone includes Macro and portrait mode cameras.
Practical Implications: The Nokia G21 is a good choice for users who need a reliable phone for basic tasks, with decent battery life, and a focus on budget. The inclusion of a charger in the box is a nice bonus.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Display: The Nokia G21's display is noticeably inferior to the S21 Ultra, with lower resolution, brightness, and contrast.
- Performance: The Nokia G21 is significantly slower and not suitable for demanding applications or gaming.
- Camera: The Nokia G21's camera system is much less versatile and has significantly lower image quality.
- Charging: Nokia G21's charging speeds are significantly lower.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, gamers, professional photographers, videographers, those who want the best possible user experience, or anyone who wants to have a top-tier smartphone.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Professional photography and videography
- Demanding multitasking
- High-quality media consumption
- Outdoor use with excellent visibility
- Value: High price, but delivers a premium experience. Excellent if the budget allows.
Nokia G21:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious individuals, first-time smartphone users, people who need a basic smartphone for calling, texting, and light social media use.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday communication
- Casual web browsing and social media
- Light app usage
- Long battery life needs
- Users who appreciate the inclusion of a charger.
- Value: Budget-friendly price, good for basic tasks.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The S21 Ultra is significantly more expensive than the G21.
- What are your primary use cases? Do you need top-tier performance and camera quality, or is basic functionality enough?
- How important is display quality and brightness? The S21 Ultra's screen is significantly superior.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional Photography/Videography: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior camera capabilities, including 8K video, optical zoom, and better image quality.
- Scenario 2: High-End Gaming: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its powerful processor, GPU, and high refresh rate display.
- Scenario 3: Budget-Conscious User: Choose the Nokia G21 as it provides basic functionality at a much lower price.
- Scenario 4: Bright Sunlight Outdoor Use: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its very high peak brightness display.
- Scenario 5: Basic Smartphone User with Long Battery Needs: Choose the Nokia G21 for its long battery life and practical features.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it's significantly more expensive, the sheer difference in performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and overall user experience is worth the investment, assuming the budget is available. I value the ability to take high-quality photos and videos, engage in some mobile gaming, and enjoy a smooth and responsive user interface. The superior display on the S21 Ultra is a significant factor in my decision, as I spend a considerable amount of time using my phone for media consumption. The wireless charging, advanced connectivity options, and overall feature set also make it a superior phone despite its age. The Nokia G21 is a good budget phone, but it cannot compete with the level of technology and overall user experience that the Samsung offers.
