1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 162.4 x 74.3 x 7.9 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and thicker, potentially less comfortable in hand; Reno11 is slimmer and more pocketable. |
| Weight | 227g | 182g | Reno11 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and less tiring to hold. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal difference in screen size; both offer immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2412 | S21 Ultra has significantly sharper display, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 515 | 394 | S21 Ultra provides a noticeably sharper visual experience, finer details on screen are visible compared to Oppo Reno11 |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, making the user experience more fluid. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1400 nits | S21 Ultra is brighter in direct sunlight, offering better outdoor visibility in sunny environments. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Reno11 has a newer chipset, showing faster app loading and smoother operation, even if it’s less flagship-level as the S21 Ultra’s Chip. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 923,559 | Reno11 demonstrates higher benchmark performance, likely leading to snappier overall usage. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Different GPU configurations; S21 Ultra's GPU is more powerful for demanding games, while the Reno 11's GPU is decent for normal gameplay |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4800mAh | S21 Ultra has slightly larger battery, potentially offering a bit more usage time. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | Reno11 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless, reverse | None | S21 Ultra offers more versatile charging options, including wireless charging and reverse charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/2" | S21 Ultra has a higher-resolution sensor and larger sensor, potentially capturing more detail and better low-light photos. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | N/A | S21 Ultra offers a dedicated telephoto camera for zoom and portrait shots, Reno11 does not have a dedicated telephoto sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74" | S21 Ultra has higher resolution and a slightly wider aperture, which can result in better selfies and low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | 32MP, f/2.0, 1/2.74" | Reno11 has better low light performance and higher resolution for telephoto/zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | S21 Ultra has a Wide Angle + Macro lens and a higher resolution, while Reno11 offers a wide-angle lens. |
| Video | Up to 8K | Up to 4K | S21 Ultra can record higher resolution video, suitable for more professional video editing. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 115, Selfie: 135 | N/A | S21 Ultra has scored well on DxOMark, suggesting superior overall camera quality, especially on the selfie camera. |
| Camera Features | More options including laser AF, Night mode, and more | More options including noise reduction | S21 Ultra has more features for the enthusiast, whereas Reno 11 provides more basic features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 14 | Reno11 ships with a newer Android version, possibly providing a more modern user experience. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the latest WiFi standards for fast and reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Both offer modern Bluetooth connectivity with similar features, the S21 Ultra has more features for bluetooth. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, L1+L5 | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Both offer comprehensive GPS support, S21 Ultra adds more bands for better accuracy, whereas Reno 11 includes the QZSS for Japan. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM capabilities for using two numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 256/512 GB | Both offer ample storage, but Reno11 starts with 256 GB. Neither device support storage expansion. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | S21 Ultra offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and resource-intensive apps. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Basic Audio | S21 Ultra offers superior audio quality with better spatial audio and clearer calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both provide basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has better screen protection for scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | Various | Various | S21 Ultra includes more environmental sensors such as a barometer, while both phones are quite similar. |
| ## 2. Key Differences Analysis |
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Higher Resolution Display: The S21 Ultra's display is significantly sharper and clearer due to its higher resolution and pixel density, providing a better viewing experience.
- Better Camera System: The S21 Ultra has a more versatile camera setup with a higher-resolution main sensor, dedicated telephoto lenses, and better selfie camera on paper, along with 8K video recording capabilities, which is also supported by the DxOMark ratings.
- More Versatile Charging Options: The S21 Ultra offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and reverse charging, enhancing its convenience.
- Better Audio: The S21 Ultra offers better audio with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res support, and stereo speakers.
- Better Build Quality: The S21 Ultra has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, providing superior scratch and drop protection.
- More RAM Options: With up to 16GB RAM, the S21 Ultra has better performance in demanding tasks.
- More Sensors: With a barometer, the S21 Ultra is better for environmental measurement.
Oppo Reno11 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: The Reno11 is significantly lighter and more compact, making it more comfortable to hold and carry.
- Faster Charging: The 67W fast charging significantly reduces charging times, allowing you to get back to using your phone faster.
- Newer Operating System: Ships with Android 14, offering a more modern software experience and potentially more future updates.
- Higher AnTuTu Score: The Reno11 has a significantly better Antutu Score.
- Better Telephoto Lens: The Reno 11 has better low light and higher resolution for telephoto pictures.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: The heavier weight and larger size may not be suitable for everyone. Slower charging time, older software, and more expensive on average.
- Reno11: The camera system is less versatile compared to the S21 Ultra. Lacks many of the premium features like wireless charging, superior screen protection, and the highest quality audio, and lacks a barometer sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera with excellent image quality, zoom capabilities, and professional video recording.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who appreciate high-quality displays for watching videos, playing games, and viewing content.
- Power Users: Those who need ample RAM and robust performance for multitasking and resource-intensive applications.
- Users Prioritizing Build Quality: Users who want the best possible protection against scratches and drops.
Users who want a premium experience: Those who prefer features such as a higher quality audio system, wireless charging, and a more versatile set of sensors.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography
- Gaming on high settings
- Running multiple apps simultaneously
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight
- Long trips where wireless charging is convenient.
Oppo Reno11 Ideal User:
- Everyday Users: Users who prioritize convenience, comfort, and fast charging.
- Social Media Enthusiasts: Users who take lots of selfies or enjoy sharing photos.
- Users with Budget Constraints: Those looking for a modern phone with good performance at a competitive price.
Users who value newer software Those who want a modern software experience and potentially more future updates.
Use Cases:
- Daily communication and social media
- Casual gaming
- Quickly charging before heading out
- Comfortable to use for extended periods
- Telephoto photos in low light situations.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize camera quality and versatility above all else? If yes, the S21 Ultra's superior camera system, including its higher resolution, telephoto lenses, and professional video capabilities, might be worth the cost.
- How important is portability and handling? If you value a lightweight, comfortable phone that is easy to carry and use, the Reno11 is a better option, despite its lack of many of the features of the S21 Ultra.
- Is fast charging a crucial requirement? If you need a phone that can quickly recharge, then the Reno11 is better with its 67W charging speed.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional Photography: If you need the best camera for professional work, the S21 Ultra is the better choice with higher resolution, telephoto lens, 8K video recording, and its DxOMark ratings.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use: If you primarily use your phone for social media, daily tasks, and want something easy to carry, the Reno11 offers a more convenient experience, with good performance and fast charging.
- Scenario 3: Gamers: The S21 Ultra would be better for high graphic gaming due to its more powerful GPU and more RAM, but the Reno11 would also be adequate for less intensive games with its more powerful chipset.
- Scenario 4: Battery and Charging: If battery life is crucial and you don’t have access to a plug very often the S21 Ultra would be better, but if you do have access to a plug, the Reno11 would be better due to its significantly faster charging.
- Scenario 5: Budget Conscious Buyer: If price is a major consideration, the Reno11 would be more cost-effective without sacrificing too much in daily performance.
What I would Choose and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, despite it being an older model. Here's why:
My Priorities:
- Camera Versatility and Quality: As someone who enjoys photography and video, the S21 Ultra's superior camera system, including its multiple lenses, high-resolution sensors, and 8K video capabilities, are very important to me.
- Display Quality: The higher resolution and pixel density of the S21 Ultra display would be significantly better for daily use.
- Build Quality: Having better screen protection is very useful in preventing scratches and accidental damage.
- Premium Features: I value having features such as wireless charging, reverse charging, and the higher quality audio system for a more premium experience.
- Slightly Better Performance: While the Reno11 is likely to have better everyday performance, the more powerful GPU on the S21 Ultra, especially when paired with the extra RAM, makes it better for more demanding tasks such as gaming, which is important to me.
Why Not the Oppo Reno11?
- Camera Limitations: While the Reno11's camera is good, it is not as versatile or capable as the S21 Ultra's, especially when it comes to telephoto and video recording.
- Lack of Premium Features: I would miss the convenience of wireless charging, and the higher quality audio features.
Conclusion: While the Reno11 has the benefits of a newer operating system, a significantly faster charging speed, and lighter build, these do not outweigh the benefits provided by the S21 Ultra, particularly in terms of display quality, camera performance and features, build quality, and overall premium feel. The S21 Ultra is more suitable for my needs, focusing on overall performance, camera quality, and the high-end experience, making it the better choice despite being an older device.
