1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | OnePlus 9R | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and slightly thicker, may feel less comfortable for small hands or one-handed use. |
| Weight | 227g | 189g | OnePlus 9R is significantly lighter, leading to better comfort during extended use and portability. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | OnePlus 9R | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.55" | S21 Ultra's larger display is better for media consumption, multitasking, and gaming, though less pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra's higher resolution results in noticeably sharper images and text, leading to a more refined visual experience. |
| PPI | 515 | 402 | S21 Ultra's higher pixel density offers a crisper display, especially noticeable in detailed images and small text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones provide smooth scrolling and animations, enhancing the user experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra's substantially higher brightness makes it much better for outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | OnePlus 9R | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Different chips, with Snapdragon 870 on 9R having a performance advantage in benchmarks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 821,600 | OnePlus 9R has slightly better benchmark performance, implying marginally faster app loading and gaming performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 650 | Different GPU configurations, but both handle modern games well. Specific performance can vary based on game optimization. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | OnePlus 9R | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2" | S21 Ultra captures more detailed images with its higher resolution and larger sensor, especially in good lighting, but 9R's wider aperture might be slightly better in low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | N/A | S21 Ultra offers dedicated zoom capabilities and better portrait shots, a feature the 9R lacks. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | S21 Ultra captures more detailed selfies with a wider aperture, though not necessarily better in all conditions. |
| Telephoto lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | N/A | S21 Ultra features a dedicated telephoto lens, allowing for greater zoom capabilities without major quality loss. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09" | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated ultrawide camera, capturing expansive landscapes and group photos, a feature missing on the S21 Ultra, though S21 Ultra has a wide angle lens as a part of its additional wide angle + macro lens. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | OnePlus 9R enhances portrait mode effects using a dedicated depth sensor, whereas S21 Ultra may use software-based blurring. |
| Macro lens | N/A | 5MP, f/2.4 | OnePlus 9R can take dedicated close-up photos with its macro lens, something the S21 Ultra cannot do without its wide angle + macro lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | N/A | Samsung S21 Ultra can take wide angle and macro shots through a dedicated lens, which allows it to take a more consistent picture than the 9R in certain use cases. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra can record higher resolution videos, making it a good choice for videographers and content creators who need higher quality. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 | N/A | S21 Ultra has a solid camera rating according to DxOMark. 9R doesn't have any data. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 135 | N/A | S21 Ultra has a very high selfie camera score compared to the industry average. 9R doesn't have any data. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | OnePlus 9R | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, likely resulting in longer battery life between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9R charges significantly faster, allowing for quicker top-ups. |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | N/A | S21 Ultra offers convenient charging options that the OnePlus 9R lacks. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, sharper images, and significantly higher brightness for better outdoor visibility.
- More Versatile Camera System: Multiple telephoto lenses, higher resolution main and front cameras, and 8K video recording capabilities. The inclusion of a dedicated wide angle + macro camera also provides more flexibility in certain use cases.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Adds convenience for charging and sharing power with other devices.
- Larger Battery: Likely better endurance.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Better audio playback quality for audiophiles.
- Enhanced Sensor Suite: Includes additional sensors like a Barometer and Hall Sensor for more advanced functionalities
- Software: Newer version of Android.
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: More comfortable for one-handed use and pocketable.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging can top the battery up very quickly.
- Better Benchmark Performance: Slightly better performance in benchmarks, which could translate to smoother gaming in some instances.
- Dedicated Ultrawide Camera: Ability to take ultrawide pictures that the S21 Ultra can't.
- Lower Price: Typically available at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung S21 Ultra sacrifices portability and is heavier and larger.
- The OnePlus 9R lacks the advanced camera capabilities and high-resolution display of the S21 Ultra.
- The OnePlus 9R lacks wireless charging, reverse charging, and has a smaller battery compared to the S21 Ultra.
- The OnePlus 9R lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts/Videographers: Need the most versatile camera system, including high-quality zoom and 8K video.
- Power Users: Value the highest resolution display, wireless charging, and a large battery for demanding tasks and longer use.
- Media Consumers: Benefit from the large, high-resolution, and bright AMOLED display.
- Users who want a more premium device: The S21 Ultra boasts a premium feel with its build and materials.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and video recording.
- Gaming and running demanding applications.
- Long days with heavy smartphone use.
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight.
- Users who listen to music using wired headphones and want to use lossless audio.
OnePlus 9R Ideal Users:
- Users seeking a lighter and more ergonomic device.
- Gamers: Wanting great performance on a budget.
- Value-Conscious Consumers: Prefer a balance of features and performance at a lower cost.
- Users who need very fast charging times.
- Social media users: Want a good overall camera system and a dedicated ultrawide camera.
Use Cases:
- Casual photography, especially for capturing group photos and landscapes.
- Quick gaming sessions and general use.
- Everyday use with the need for fast charging.
- Users who prefer a more compact and lightweight phone.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The OnePlus 9R offers strong performance and good battery life at a more competitive price.
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra offers premium features, a superior camera, and display technology, but it comes at a higher cost.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is camera quality? If having the most advanced, versatile camera is a priority, the S21 Ultra is the better choice.
- Is portability and charging speed a priority? If a lighter device with very fast charging is more important, the OnePlus 9R is the better choice.
- What is my budget? The OnePlus 9R offers better value if cost is a major concern.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: A professional photographer/videographer who needs the best possible camera and display – Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
- Scenario 2: A casual user who wants a reliable phone for daily use, social media, and some gaming, and prefers fast charging - OnePlus 9R.
- Scenario 3: A user who spends a lot of time outdoors and needs a display that remains visible in bright sunlight - Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While the OnePlus 9R has some advantages like faster charging and being more lightweight, the S21 Ultra wins in more important areas such as camera versatility, display quality, and battery capacity. I would be more willing to deal with the larger size and slower charging for the superior performance in the camera and display departments. As a user who values taking high-quality photos and enjoys watching videos on a vivid display, the S21 Ultra would serve my needs far better.
