Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Oppo A54 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Oppo A54 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2021-04-14 | Oppo A54 5G is newer by 2 months and 16 days. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 162.9 x 74.7 x 8.4 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly larger and thicker, which might feel less comfortable in smaller hands and pockets. |
| Weight | 227g | 190g | Oppo A54 5G is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | S21 Ultra's larger screen provides more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 515 | 405 | S21 Ultra has a noticeably sharper display, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra has superior display technology with deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, and better energy efficiency with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra offers dramatically better outdoor visibility, making it much more usable in bright sunlight. The A54 5G brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 480 (8 nm) | S21 Ultra's chipset offers significantly faster performance for all tasks, especially gaming and demanding apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 216,504 | S21 Ultra is significantly more powerful, offering smoother multitasking and better overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 619 | S21 Ultra's GPU is much more powerful for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 108MP | 48MP | S21 Ultra's main camera captures much more detailed photos. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/2" | S21 Ultra's larger sensor captures more light, potentially improving low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + portrait Camera | 10.8MP | None | S21 Ultra offers dedicated telephoto capabilities, allowing for optical zoom. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 16MP | S21 Ultra captures more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.65" | 1/3.13" | S21 Ultra's larger sensor potentially performs better in low light for selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens Camera | 10.8MP | None | S21 Ultra offers a second telephoto lens for increased optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle lens Camera | None | 8MP | Oppo A54 5G has a dedicated ultrawide camera for capturing wide scenes. |
| Macro lens Camera | None | 2MP | Oppo A54 5G can take closeup macro photos. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP | None | S21 Ultra has a dedicated ultrawide + macro camera. |
| Black & white Camera | None | 2MP | Oppo A54 5G has a dedicated black & white sensor for artistic photos. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra can record significantly higher quality video, including 8K. |
| DxoMark Mobile Main Camera | 115 | None | Samsung S21 Ultra camera is extensively tested. Oppo A54 5G has not been tested by DxoMark |
| DxoMark Mobile Selfie Camera | 135 | None | Samsung S21 Ultra selfie camera is extensively tested. Oppo A54 5G has not been tested by DxoMark |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery life under normal use. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra charges faster. |
| Features | Reverse, Wireless Charging | Inbox charger 10W | S21 Ultra offers more charging options, including wireless and reverse charging, but doesn't include a charger in the box. Oppo A54 5G has an inbox charger but not as fast. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 15) | Android 11 | S21 Ultra is guaranteed more future software updates. The Oppo A54 5G max android update is unknown. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | S21 Ultra has the latest WiFi standard for faster and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.1 LE | S21 Ultra has a slightly newer Bluetooth version for better performance and power efficiency. |
| GPS | L1+L5 | QZSS | S21 Ultra offers more accurate positioning using dual-band GPS. Oppo A54 5G does not. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 64/128/256 GB | S21 Ultra offers more storage. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 4/8 GB | S21 Ultra provides superior multitasking performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | S21 Ultra provides enhanced audio quality for music, videos and calls. The Oppo A54 5G has basic audio functionality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Oppo A54 5G has a slightly more modern and convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior screen protection, making it more durable. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Gravity | S21 Ultra has more sensors and better for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Significantly higher resolution, pixel density, and AMOLED technology, offering a much more vibrant and sharp viewing experience, also great for outdoor visibility due to the 1500 nits of brightness.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and superior GPU offer a much faster and smoother experience for all tasks, especially gaming and demanding apps.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a more versatile camera system with higher resolution sensors, a dedicated telephoto zoom, and significantly better video capabilities, including 8K recording.
- Premium Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, Dolby Atmos audio, and a more robust build with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- More RAM and Storage: Has more RAM and a larger maximum storage capacity.
- Better Software Support: S21 Ultra has more guaranteed future software updates, ensuring long-term value
Practical Implications of S21 Ultra Advantages:
- Media Consumption: A far more enjoyable experience watching videos and browsing photos with the higher quality display.
- Gaming: Handles demanding games much more smoothly, offering a competitive advantage.
- Photography: Takes significantly higher quality photos and videos, with more zoom options and better low-light performance.
- Daily Use: Snappier multitasking, faster app loading, and an overall more responsive experience.
Oppo A54 5G Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for extended use and portability.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: More convenient to unlock in various situations
- Inbox charger: Includes a charger in the box, reducing the need for an additional purchase.
- Wide Angle, Macro and Black & White camera sensors: Offers more camera sensor diversity.
- Lower Price Point: Offers a more budget friendly price.
Practical Implications of A54 5G Advantages:
- Comfort: Easier to handle and carry, especially for users who prioritize ergonomics.
- Convenience: Ready to use out of the box
- Photography: Takes diverse shots with different sensors, but won't be on par with the S21 Ultra.
- Budget: More accessible for users with a tighter budget.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Significantly higher price, heavier and bulkier.
- Oppo A54 5G: Much weaker performance, lower quality display, and a less versatile camera system.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who demand the best performance for multitasking, gaming, and resource-intensive applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos, with diverse zoom capabilities.
- Media Consumers: Users who heavily watch videos, browse photos, and appreciate high-quality display experiences.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest technology and premium features.
- Long-term Users: Users who want a phone that is future-proof and will receive several software updates.
Specific Use Cases for S21 Ultra:
- Professional Photography/Videography: Creating high-quality visual content with diverse zoom options and 8K video.
- Mobile Gaming: Playing graphics-intensive games at the highest settings with smooth performance.
- Productivity on the Go: Heavy multitasking with smooth switching between demanding apps and tasks.
- High-Quality Media Consumption: Watching movies and videos with an excellent display and sound.
Oppo A54 5G Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want a 5G smartphone without breaking the bank.
- Basic Smartphone Users: Those who primarily use a phone for communication, social media, and basic tasks.
- Users Prioritizing Comfort: Those who prefer a lighter, more ergonomic device.
- Users who like to take varied photos with different lenses: Users who like diverse photos with multiple cameras.
- Users who want a charger included: Users who want a charger in the box.
Specific Use Cases for A54 5G:
- Everyday Communication: Sending texts, emails, and making calls.
- Social Media Browsing: Checking social media updates.
- Casual Photography: Taking snapshots and everyday photos with multiple cameras.
- Light Gaming: Playing less-demanding mobile games.
Price-to-Value:
- S21 Ultra: Justified for users who need top-tier performance and features, but requires a significant investment.
- Oppo A54 5G: Offers good value for the price, especially for users with basic needs.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone?
- Performance Needs: Do you require top-tier performance for gaming and demanding apps?
- Camera Importance: How important is a high-quality camera with various zoom options for you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget is Main Concern): If the primary concern is budget, the Oppo A54 5G is the more sensible choice, providing 5G capabilities at a lower price. It is suitable for users with basic smartphone needs.
- Scenario 2 (Premium Features and Performance): If top-tier performance, a superior display, and an advanced camera system are crucial, and budget is less of a constraint, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced Approach): If a balance between price and performance is desired, it's important to remember that the Oppo A54 5G has significant trade-offs in performance, display, and camera quality. The S21 Ultra offers a vastly superior experience in these areas if the budget is available.
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Given the choice, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. My decision is based on the following key factors:
- Superior Display Quality: As someone who consumes a lot of media and appreciates a sharp, vibrant screen, the S21 Ultra's AMOLED display with its higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness is a significant advantage. The better outdoor visibility is also very important for my usage.
- High Performance: I regularly use my phone for multitasking, gaming, and running demanding apps, so the S21 Ultra's Exynos 2100 chipset and 12GB or 16GB of RAM will provide a much smoother and responsive experience.
- Advanced Camera System: I place high value on the versatility of the camera. The S21 Ultra's camera system, with its higher resolution sensors, dedicated telephoto lenses, and excellent video capabilities, is much better suited for my use case. The S21 Ultra has better selfie and main cameras, as shown by the DxoMark scores.
- Future-Proofing: The S21 Ultra offers better software support compared to the Oppo A54 5G, making it a better investment over time.
- Comprehensive Features: I prefer the additional features like wireless charging, reverse wireless charging and better build quality
While the Oppo A54 5G is certainly more budget-friendly, the significant trade-offs in display quality, performance, and camera capabilities make the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G a better long-term investment for my needs. The S21 Ultra provides a superior overall experience that justifies its higher price point. The missing charger in the box is not a major issue for me.
