Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Oppo A96
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Oppo A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-03-16 | Oppo A96 is a newer model, potentially with longer software support |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 164.4 × 75.7 × 8.4 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly thicker and has larger overall volume, A96 is lighter and slightly more compact. |
| Weight | 227g | 191g | A96 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.59" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2412 | S21 Ultra has much sharper and detailed images. |
| PPI | 515 | 401 | S21 Ultra has a noticeably crisper display with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra has superior blacks, contrast, vibrant colors, and better power efficiency (with dark themes). |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra has slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra has dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. Note: Brightness for Oppo A96 is missing/unavailable |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | S21 Ultra has significantly better performance for demanding apps and games, faster app loading, smoother multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 218,000 | S21 Ultra is much faster and more future-proof. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 610 | S21 Ultra's GPU is much more powerful, leading to better gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have comparable battery life, assuming similar software optimizations. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | A96 charges faster. |
| Features | Wireless 15W, Reverse, No Charger | Non-removable | S21 Ultra offers convenient wireless and reverse charging. A96 is standard battery features. S21 Ultra doesn't have a charger in the box. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", S5KHM3 | 50MP, f/1.8, Unknown | S21 Ultra captures much more detailed images, larger sensor size |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", S5K3J1 | None | S21 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed shots and portraits. |
| Selfie | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", S5KGH1 | 16MP, f/2.0, Unknown | S21 Ultra has significantly higher resolution, A96 slightly better in low-light situations with slightly wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", S5K3J1 | None | S21 Ultra has an additional telephoto lens for further zoom capabilities. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4, Unknown | A96 has depth sensor for portrait effects. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", IMX563 | None | S21 Ultra offers ultra-wide and macro photography capabilities. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra records much higher quality videos with HDR, better stabilization and slow-motion. |
| DxOMark Mobile | Main: 115, Photo:121, Video: 100 | None | S21 Ultra's camera performance is officially tested. |
| DxOMark Selfie | Main: 135, Photo: 133, Video: 140 | None | S21 Ultra's selfie camera performance is officially tested. |
| Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, RAW, Night Mode | Dual Camera, Stabilization | S21 Ultra has more advanced features like OIS, RAW capture, and a dedicated Night mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21 Ultra will receive more software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, MIMO | WiFi 5 | S21 Ultra supports the latest WiFi standards, offering faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.0 LE | S21 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version with more advanced audio codec support. |
| GPS | Dual band GPS, Galileo | Standard GPS | S21 Ultra has more accurate and faster location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512GB | 128GB | S21 Ultra offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 6/8GB | S21 Ultra has more RAM, better multitasking, and smoother performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Basic | S21 Ultra offers much better audio experience with enhanced sound quality, noise cancellation, and stereo output. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | A96 has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint scanner. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior scratch and damage protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Gyroscope, Barometer, Compass | Accelerometer, Gravity, Pedometer | S21 Ultra has a more comprehensive sensor suite (compass, barometer, gyro) for advanced applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Much higher resolution, pixel density, AMOLED technology, higher refresh rate, and significantly higher brightness. This means a sharper, more vibrant, and easily viewable screen, especially outdoors.
- Significantly Higher Performance: Far more powerful processor and GPU, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Superior main sensor, dedicated telephoto lenses (multiple), wider angle lens, higher resolution selfie camera, 8K video recording, better stabilization, and more features such as OIS, RAW capture, and Night mode.
- Better Audio Experience: Includes Hi-Res audio, stereo speakers, and Dolby Atmos for immersive sound.
- More Software Support: Will receive more software updates and newer versions of android.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, newer WiFi standard.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection, which is much more resistant to scratches.
Oppo A96 Advantages:
- Lighter and slightly more compact: More comfortable for extended use and easier to handle.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging, which charges the phone more rapidly.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: More convenient than a basic rear-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Potentially Lower Price: Could be a more budget-friendly option, though the price is not specified in provided information.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Much heavier and thicker, no included charger and higher price (assumed).
- Oppo A96: Inferior display quality, much lower performance, lower-quality camera system, basic audio features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, mobile photographers/videographers, gamers, media enthusiasts, users who prioritize a premium experience.
- Use Cases:
- High-end gaming with smooth frame rates and crisp graphics.
- Professional-grade mobile photography and videography with 8K recording.
- Demanding multitasking, running multiple apps seamlessly.
- Enjoying high-quality HDR content on a vibrant and bright display.
- Using advanced features for productivity, entertainment and high connectivity.
- Price-to-Value: Higher price point, but justifies the cost for those who need top-tier performance and features.
Oppo A96:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users, casual users, those who prioritize battery life and a lightweight design, and do not need to perform intensive tasks on their phones.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks such as social media, browsing, and communication.
- Extended usage without the need for frequent charging, such as traveling or basic work usage.
- Users seeking a budget-friendly phone with basic features and a functional camera.
- Price-to-Value: Good value for those looking for a basic and reliable smartphone with a good battery.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The S21 Ultra is likely more expensive.
- How important is display quality? The S21 Ultra has a far superior display.
- How important is performance? The S21 Ultra is significantly faster.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: If a premium experience with top-end features and performance is critical: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. It excels in display quality, performance, camera quality, and software capabilities. The S21 Ultra will also have greater longevity due to its better processor and superior technology.
- Scenario 2: If a budget-friendly option with good battery life is a priority: Choose the Oppo A96. It offers adequate performance for daily use with a convenient charging speed.
- Scenario 3: If you want a balanced phone with good performance and camera at a lower price: Neither of these phones is the right fit. Other phones in the same price bracket should be evaluated.
My Choice and Why
Given the information provided, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it is likely to be more expensive and is bulkier and heavier, the vast improvements in display quality, processing power, camera capabilities, software updates, and overall premium experience far outweigh the downsides for me. I prioritize having a smooth, fast phone that can handle anything I throw at it, while also offering a top-tier photography and videography experience. The S21 Ultra's display is so superior that it would make daily use much more enjoyable. The advanced connectivity features like WiFi 6 and dual-band GPS, make it a more versatile option as well.
