1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2024-01-29 | The Realme 12 Pro+ is a significantly newer device with potentially more up-to-date features and software. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | The S21 Ultra is slightly larger and bulkier, while the Realme 12 Pro+ is more compact and potentially more comfortable to hold for extended periods. |
| Weight | 227g | 196g | The Realme 12 Pro+ is noticeably lighter, making it more convenient for daily carry and use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Negligible difference in screen size for everyday use. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2412 | The S21 Ultra has a much sharper display, noticeable in finer details and text clarity. |
| PPI | 515 | 394 | The S21 Ultra's higher pixel density results in a significantly crisper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks associated with AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | The S21 Ultra's significantly higher brightness is crucial for outdoor visibility in bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Qualcomm SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) | The S21 Ultra's chipset provides better overall performance based on benchmark scores, resulting in snappier app launches and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 603,400 | The S21 Ultra is expected to perform better in demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 710 | S21 Ultra has a stronger GPU, leading to better graphics performance for gaming and GPU-intensive apps |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones should offer similar battery life under typical usage scenarios. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 67W fast charging | The Realme 12 Pro+ charges much faster, allowing for quick top-ups. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W | None specified | The S21 Ultra provides added convenience of wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" | The S21 Ultra's main camera has higher resolution and a larger sensor, potentially capturing more detail and performing better in low light. |
| Telephoto + portrait Camera | 10.8MP | None | The S21 Ultra includes a dedicated telephoto camera for portrait shots and optical zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74" | The S21 Ultra boasts higher resolution, a wider aperture and a larger sensor, resulting in better selfies, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | 64MP, f/2.6, 1/2" | The Realme 12 Pro+ features a significantly higher resolution telephoto lens and wider aperture, offering better zoom capabilities in practical use. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | The S21 Ultra's wide-angle has higher resolution and larger sensor for better wide angle photography. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | The S21 Ultra offers higher resolution video recording, which is significant for users who prioritize video quality. |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 115 | Not available | The S21 Ultra demonstrates overall impressive results in terms of camera quality. |
| DxOMark Selfie Score | 135 | Not available | The S21 Ultra delivers excellent selfie performance. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 14 | The Realme 12 Pro+ has a more recent Android OS, potentially offering improved features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Similar high-speed WiFi capabilities |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Both offer similar bluetooth features, however, the Samsung offers more bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, BeiDou (B1) | The Realme 12 Pro+ supports more satellite systems for potentially more accurate positioning. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Both phones offer the same range of storage options. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | The S21 Ultra offers more RAM, benefiting heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, potentially limiting long-term storage needs. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo speakers, 2 microphones | Both phones offer high-quality audio experiences, however the Realme 12 Pro+ may have better voice capture due to 2 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones use standard fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | The S21 Ultra's screen is more durable due to Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | The S21 Ultra includes a barometer and compass, which are useful in outdoor activities and navigation. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density result in a crisper, more detailed viewing experience.
- Superior Screen Brightness: The 1500 nits brightness is crucial for excellent outdoor visibility, even in direct sunlight.
- Better Overall Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers higher benchmark scores and a stronger GPU, providing a snappier user experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a high-resolution main camera, dedicated telephoto lenses, and higher video recording capabilities, including 8K video.
- Wireless and Reverse Wireless Charging: Adds convenience for users accustomed to wireless charging and sharing power with other devices.
- More RAM (16GB Option): Allows for smoother multitasking and better performance with resource-intensive applications.
- Advanced Sensors: Includes a barometer and compass for more accurate environmental readings and navigation capabilities.
- Better Front Camera: Higher resolution and a larger sensor for better selfie quality.
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen protection compared to unknown screen protection on Realme.
- Detailed camera testing: DXoMark scores indicate camera performance capabilities.
Realme 12 Pro+ Advantages:
- Newer Device: Launched 3 years later than the S21 Ultra with more up-to-date software (Android 14).
- Faster Charging: The 67W fast charging is significantly faster than the S21 Ultra's 25W, reducing charging times.
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to hold and carry for extended periods.
- Better Telephoto Lens: Higher resolution and wider aperture provide a better zoom experience.
- More GPS Satellite Support: Potentially more accurate positioning due to a wider array of supported GPS satellite systems.
- Improved Audio: Enhanced spatial audio due to 2 microphones.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- S21 Ultra: Heavier and bulkier, slower charging speeds, older OS (though upgradeable).
- Realme 12 Pro+: Lower display resolution, significantly lower screen brightness, inferior chipset, basic sensors, camera system is not as comprehensive, no wireless charging, no information regarding screen protection.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is Ideal For:
- Power Users and Multitaskers: Users who frequently switch between demanding applications and need the extra RAM.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Individuals who prioritize high-quality photos and videos, including those who need 8K recording capabilities.
- Users in Bright Environments: Those who frequently use their phones outdoors in bright sunlight and need excellent screen visibility.
- Users who value wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- Users who want to take advantage of Samsung's ecosystem of apps.
Use Cases:
- Professional photographers and videographers needing high-resolution captures and advanced camera features.
- Mobile gamers requiring smooth graphics and quick load times.
- Individuals working outdoors who rely on bright display visibility.
- Users wanting all the bells and whistles with excellent screen, camera, and performance.
Realme 12 Pro+ is Ideal For:
- Users Seeking a More Modern Device: Buyers who prefer the latest Android version and updated features.
- Users Prioritizing Fast Charging: Individuals who need to quickly charge their phone and do not want to deal with lengthy charging times.
- Users who value light weight and ergonomics
- Users looking for a strong zoom experience
- Users who want a good phone that balances price and performance.
Use Cases:
- Everyday use where portability and ergonomics are essential.
- Users who often need to quickly top up their battery throughout the day.
- Casual photographers who value zoom capabilities
- Users who need accurate location services.
Price-to-Value:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is a premium, high-end device with more advanced features but may be available at a reduced price now due to its age.
- The Realme 12 Pro+ is a more modern mid-range device with good value for money, with a focus on fast charging and a strong zoom lens.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? (Resolution, brightness, sharpness)
- How crucial is fast charging versus wireless charging?
- What are the primary uses of the camera? (Basic snapshots, advanced photography, video recording)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Outdoor Use & Media Consumption - Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior screen brightness and sharper display, ensuring excellent visibility and media consumption in bright sunlight.
- Scenario 2: Fast-Paced, Daily Use - Choose the Realme 12 Pro+ for its significantly faster charging, making it ideal for on-the-go users who need quick battery top-ups.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Video Production - Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its high-resolution main and telephoto cameras, 8K video capabilities, and better selfie camera.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious Consumer - Choose the Realme 12 Pro+ for its great value, with the trade-off of some features.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would personally lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, even though it is the older device.
My Reasoning:
- Display Quality is Paramount: As someone who values sharp, clear visuals for reading, browsing, and content consumption, the higher resolution and pixel density of the S21 Ultra make a significant difference. The extra screen brightness is also very important to me as I spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Camera Versatility: The more advanced camera system of the S21 Ultra, with multiple telephoto lenses and 8K video, caters to my occasional photography and videography needs.
- Overall Performance: I prioritize smooth and snappy performance, and the Exynos 2100, while older, still provides plenty of power for my needs.
- Wireless Charging: Wireless charging is a feature I've grown accustomed to and find incredibly convenient.
- Ecosystem: The Samsung ecosystem is something that I've become used to and prefer over the Realme ecosystem.
While the Realme 12 Pro+'s faster charging is appealing, it does not outweigh the significant advantages offered by the S21 Ultra in display quality, camera capabilities, overall performance and wireless charging. Given that the S21 Ultra is now available at a lower price point compared to its launch, it presents excellent value for the money.
