1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and the Realme 8, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | S21 Ultra is larger, potentially less comfortable for smaller hands or pockets. Realme 8 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 227g | 177g | S21 Ultra is significantly heavier, which may lead to fatigue during prolonged use. Realme 8 is much lighter and easier to carry around. |
| Build Material | Not specified | Not specified | Without this information, we cannot compare durability. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.4" | S21 Ultra offers more screen real estate, better for media consumption and multitasking. Realme 8 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra's display is sharper, with finer details and clearer text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 411 | S21 Ultra has a noticeably sharper display, with images looking crisper. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but the S21 Ultra leverages its higher resolution. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21 Ultra has smoother animations, especially noticeable when scrolling or gaming. Realme 8 can appear less fluid. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1000 nits | S21 Ultra is much more readable in direct sunlight, offering better outdoor visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | S21 Ultra offers significantly faster processing, more responsive apps and smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 409,874 | S21 Ultra is much more powerful overall, suitable for demanding users. Realme 8 will have noticeable performance limitations. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G76 MC4 | S21 Ultra has a more powerful GPU, enabling higher graphics settings in games and better overall graphics performance. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Rear Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | S21 Ultra's larger sensor and higher resolution capture more detailed images, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" and 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | None | S21 Ultra offers optical zoom capabilities, crucial for lossless zooming and better portrait shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" | S21 Ultra's front camera captures much sharper selfies, with a larger sensor and better light-gathering ability. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.25 | S21 Ultra has a dedicated ultrawide lens for capturing expansive scenes. Realme 8 does have a Wide angle lens but it has a smaller sensor compared to S21 Ultra |
| Macro Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Realme 8 can take close-up macro shots, but at a lower quality. The S21 Ultra does not have a dedicated Macro Lens but uses its ultrawide angle lens for macro photography which offers better image quality. |
| Black & White Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Realme 8 has a dedicated Black and White lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 Ultra offers professional-grade video recording with higher resolution and multiple frame rates. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 115, Photo: 121, Video: 100; Selfie: Main 135, Photo 133, Video 140 | No Data | S21 Ultra has superior and well-documented camera capabilities. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, OIS, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, PDAF, Continuous shooting, Panorama, RAW, Night Mode | Ultra stable video | S21 Ultra boasts a wider set of pro-level features while Realme 8 offers ultra-stable video recording. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life under comparable usage scenarios. |
| Charging Speed | 25W | 30W | Realme 8 charges slightly faster. |
| Charging Features | Wireless Charging 15W, Reverse Wireless 9W | None | S21 Ultra can charge wirelessly and reverse charge other devices |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 11 (no upgrade info) | S21 Ultra has guaranteed software updates, offering longer-term usability. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | S21 Ultra supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for better speeds and network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | S21 Ultra has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering improved connectivity. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Single-band GPS | S21 Ultra's dual-band GPS offers more accurate location tracking. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 64/128 GB | S21 Ultra offers more storage options for users with lots of files and apps. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 4/6/8 GB | S21 Ultra offers superior RAM, enabling seamless multitasking with multiple apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio | S21 Ultra offers enhanced audio with Dolby Atmos, and stereo speakers provides a more immersive sound experience. |
Security |Feature|Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G|Realme 8|Practical Impact| |---|---|---|---| |Fingerprint Sensor|Basic Fingerprint sensor|Basic Fingerprint sensor|Both offer basic fingerprint sensor functionality.|
Build Quality |Feature|Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G|Realme 8|Practical Impact| |---|---|---|---| |Screen Protection|Corning Gorilla Glass Victus|Unknown|S21 Ultra offers superior screen protection|
Sensors |Feature|Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G|Realme 8|Practical Impact| |---|---|---|---| |Sensors|Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer|Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer|S21 Ultra offers additional environmental sensors like a barometer and compass while Realme 8 offers a magnetometer. S21 Ultra offers more sensor options useful in several applications.|
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution, higher pixel density, and a 120Hz refresh rate make it much smoother and more enjoyable for media consumption and gaming.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides vastly superior speed, handling heavy apps and multitasking without issues, making it better for gaming.
- More Advanced Camera System: Multiple telephoto lenses, a higher-resolution primary sensor, and more advanced video features make it a versatile option for photography and videography.
- Better Battery Features: Offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, allowing users to charge other devices.
- Longer Software Support: Guaranteed upgrades to Android 15 and a likely longer update period overall.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers provide a much more immersive audio experience.
- Superior screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers better protection against scratches and drops.
- Additional Sensors: Offers environmental sensors such as a barometer and compass for advanced applications and improved navigation.
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry around, making it more comfortable for extended use.
- Faster Charging: Has a slightly faster charging speed, making it quicker to top-up the battery.
- Lower Price: Typically available at a much lower price point, making it accessible to a broader audience.
- Macro Lens: Realme 8 offers a dedicated macro camera that the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra does not possess
- Black & White Lens: Realme 8 has a dedicated Black and white lens.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21 Ultra: Heavier, bulkier, and considerably more expensive than the Realme 8.
- Realme 8: Significantly less powerful, has a lower-quality display, and a less versatile camera system.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who demand high performance for gaming, video editing, or heavy multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value a versatile camera system with great zoom capabilities, high quality images, and multiple pro-level features.
- Media Consumers: Users who watch videos or play games frequently, and desire a large, high-quality screen with a smooth refresh rate.
- Users desiring the best of the best: Users who need and want the best features on the market.
Specific Use Cases for S21 Ultra:
- Professional Photography: High-quality images, RAW support, and advanced zoom for professional use.
- Mobile Gaming: High frame rates and smooth graphics due to the powerful chipset and display.
- Video Editing: Smooth editing experience due to the powerful processor and larger screen.
- Content Creation: Recording high-quality 8K videos and capturing pro level videos.
Realme 8 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a capable smartphone at a more affordable price point.
- Everyday Users: People who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and basic communication.
- Users who prioritize portability: Those who prefer a lightweight and comfortable phone for one-handed use.
- Those who are keen on Macro Photography: Users who enjoy close-up photography may benefit from the dedicated Macro lens.
Specific Use Cases for Realme 8:
- Daily Communication: Reliable for calls, texting, and social media.
- Casual Photography: Decent performance for everyday photos and videos.
- Basic Gaming: Suitable for less demanding games and casual gameplay.
- Macro Photography: Capturing close-up images using its dedicated macro lens
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- S21 Ultra: Offers premium features and top-tier performance but comes at a higher cost. Good value for those who need the best features.
- Realme 8: Provides a solid experience for its price, making it an attractive option for users on a tight budget.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions potential buyers should ask themselves:
- What is your budget? If the budget is limited, the Realme 8 offers a capable experience for much less.
- How important is performance? If you need a phone that can handle demanding tasks and gaming, the S21 Ultra is the clear choice.
- How important is camera quality? If photography is a priority, the S21 Ultra's advanced camera system is unmatched.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional Photographer: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra for its versatile camera system and professional-level features.
- Scenario 2: Casual User on a Budget: Choose the Realme 8 for its affordability and reliable everyday performance.
- Scenario 3: Mobile Gamer: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra for its high-performance chipset, high refresh rate display, and superior graphics capabilities.
- Scenario 4: Macro Photography Enthusiast: Choose the Realme 8 for its dedicated macro lens.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would opt for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While the Realme 8 is a good budget phone, the S21 Ultra offers a significantly better overall experience that matches my needs and preferences. My main priorities are:
- Top-Tier Performance: As someone who uses my phone for a variety of demanding tasks like occasional gaming and video editing, the Exynos 2100 is much better than the Helio G95.
- Excellent Camera Quality: I appreciate the versatility of the S21 Ultra's camera system and the ability to capture high-quality images and videos.
- Superior Display: I often consume a lot of media and play games, making the large, sharp, and smooth 120Hz AMOLED display a great feature for my needs.
- Longer Software Support: The knowledge that the phone will be supported with the latest software for a longer time is important for me.
- Premium Audio and other features: I love the inclusion of Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging.
While the S21 Ultra is more expensive, the premium features, superior performance, and future proofing make it the better choice for my specific use case. The Realme 8, while a great device for the price, simply does not offer the same level of performance or the same feature set.
