1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 160.2 x 73.3 x 8 mm | S21 Ultra is larger, potentially less comfortable in hand. Realme 9 Pro+ is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 227g | 182g | S21 Ultra is significantly heavier, which might be fatiguing for long use. Realme 9 Pro+ is much more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.4" | S21 Ultra offers a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and multitasking. Realme 9 Pro+ is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2400 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display with greater detail. Text and images are significantly crisper. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 411 | S21 Ultra's display is noticeably clearer and sharper, especially for small text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but S21 Ultra's higher resolution amplifies the benefit of AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations, a better feel. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra is significantly brighter and far better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. Realme 9 Pro+ brightness is not specified, which is a significant drawback. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 920 (6 nm) | S21 Ultra's chipset provides significantly higher overall performance, faster app loading, and smoother multitasking, suitable for heavy gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 496,970 | S21 Ultra demonstrates superior overall processing power based on benchmarks, with 51% higher scores |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MC4 | S21 Ultra offers more robust graphics performance, which is particularly beneficial for gamers. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | S21 Ultra captures more detailed photos and allows for greater flexibility in cropping, and larger prints. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/1.56" | S21 Ultra has a larger sensor that captures more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP (Dedicated) | None | S21 Ultra offers dedicated telephoto and portrait capabilities for zoom and bokeh effects. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 16MP | S21 Ultra captures higher resolution selfies with greater detail, useful for printing, cropping and better image quality. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.65" | 1/3.13" | S21 Ultra selfie camera captures more light, offering better low light performance for selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP (Dedicated) | 8MP | S21 Ultra has an dedicated Ultra Wide lens. Realme 9 Pro+ has a Wide Angle lens. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | Realme 9 Pro+ provides a dedicated macro lens for very close-up shots. S21 Ultra does not have a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21 Ultra allows for 8K video recording, which may not be useful for most users, but is a notable advantage. |
| DxOMark Camera | Mobile: 115, Selfie: 135 | Not Available | S21 Ultra's camera performance is rated significantly higher (DxOMark) |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, typically resulting in longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 60W Fast Charging | Realme 9 Pro+ charges significantly faster, reducing downtime for charging. |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | None | S21 Ultra offers more versatile charging options like wireless charging and reverse wireless charging (to charge accessories) |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Max: 15 | Android 12, Max: 13 | Realme has a newer OS at launch, but S21 Ultra has a higher max OS. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support similar fast WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with advanced features | 5.2 with standard features | S21 Ultra offers more robust connectivity features, with more codecs and profiles. |
| GPS | Advanced Satellite Support | Basic Satellite Support | S21 Ultra offers more precise and reliable location services in various environments due to better GPS support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256 GB | S21 Ultra offers more storage options up to 512GB, especially beneficial for users with many photos and videos. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 6/8 GB | S21 Ultra has significantly more RAM for superior multitasking and responsiveness, especially in intensive use cases like gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Both offer high quality audio playback, but Realme 9 Pro+ has slightly better voice capture thanks to dual mics. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint, Heart Rate | Both phones offer a fingerprint sensor but Realme 9 Pro+ has an additional heart rate sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21 Ultra's screen is more durable and scratch-resistant. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Compass | Heart Rate Sensor | S21 Ultra has additional environmental sensors like a barometer and compass, Realme 9 Pro+ has a heart rate sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, brightness, and refresh rate offer a far more immersive and enjoyable visual experience, especially in bright conditions.
- Better Performance: Significantly more powerful chipset and GPU for smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and a much better gaming experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher resolution main camera, dedicated telephoto lenses, and higher resolution selfie camera with a larger sensor provide superior photo and video capabilities.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: More flexible charging options, especially useful for charging other devices on the go.
- More RAM & Storage: Offers more RAM for better multitasking and faster app switching, and a larger storage option (512GB) for users with large media libraries.
- Better Build Quality: Superior Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better scratch and drop resistance.
- Advanced Sensors: Includes a Barometer and Compass, which can be useful for advanced applications and enhanced navigation.
Realme 9 Pro+ Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Significantly more comfortable for extended use and better pocketability.
- Faster Charging: Charges much faster, reducing downtime.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Offers a dedicated macro lens for closeup photos.
- Heart Rate Sensor: Includes a heart rate sensor for health monitoring.
- Dual Microphones: Has a slightly better audio capture system
- Newer OS: Has a newer Android version at launch, although the S21 Ultra has more software updates overall.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra Trade-off: Heavier, bulkier, and more expensive.
- Realme 9 Pro+ Trade-off: Significantly inferior display, camera capabilities, and overall performance compared to the S21 Ultra. The lack of listed brightness is a major issue for outdoor visibility.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is Ideal For:
- Power Users: Professionals and enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize top-notch camera quality and zoom capabilities for various photography scenarios.
- Media Consumers: Individuals who enjoy consuming high-resolution media and require a large, vibrant, and immersive display.
- Users who need maximum screen brightness: If outdoor visibility is important this is the clear winner.
- Users who need advanced connectivity: Features like ANT+ will appeal to those who use ANT+ compatible devices.
Use Cases for S21 Ultra:
- Professional photographers and videographers who need high-resolution photos and 8K video recording.
- Gamers who require top-tier graphics performance.
- Users who need reliable performance for demanding tasks on the go.
- Outdoor use in direct sunlight where a very bright screen is needed.
Realme 9 Pro+ is Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Users who prioritize affordability but still want a decent smartphone experience.
- Users who want a compact device: Those who prefer a lighter and more portable phone with a smaller display.
- Casual Users: Individuals with basic smartphone needs who may not need top-tier performance and camera quality.
- Users looking for fast charging Those who need to be able to get back to a usable charge quickly.
Use Cases for Realme 9 Pro+:
- Everyday use for social media, messaging, and basic app usage.
- Users who need a phone with good battery life and fast charging.
- Users who want an affordable smartphone with good value.
- Users who want a smaller, lighter, more ergonomic phone.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S21 Ultra will likely be more expensive, but it provides a premium experience that matches its price tag.
- The Realme 9 Pro+ offers good value for the price, but the performance gap is considerable.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, media consumption, basic usage)
- How important is the display quality and brightness to you? (Do you need a very bright screen for outdoor use?)
- How important is overall performance and camera quality? (Do you need top tier performance or are you a casual user?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-Performance and Best Camera - If you prioritize high performance, an excellent camera, and a great display, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the obvious choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious and Lightweight Device - If your main concerns are budget, light weight, and fast charging, the Realme 9 Pro+ is the better fit.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Needs - If you require a good balance of performance, camera, and display, and cannot afford the S21 Ultra, the Realme 9 Pro+ would be acceptable given the budget constraint, but the compromises compared to S21 Ultra are very significant. However, the brightness of the display is a critical concern if you use your phone outdoors in daylight.
My Choice
Given the data, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Reasoning:
While the Realme 9 Pro+ offers a lighter design and faster charging, the S21 Ultra provides a vastly superior overall experience that aligns with my priorities. The significant difference in display quality, performance, and camera capabilities are non-negotiable for me. I also find the wireless charging and better build quality to be important. Although it's bulkier and heavier, the S21 Ultra's benefits outweigh the trade-offs, and this makes it the clear winner. The significantly higher DxOMark camera scores also solidify its edge. The lack of specified brightness in the Realme 9 Pro+ specifications is also a red flag, indicating it is not as bright as S21 Ultra, which is critical if I am using it outdoors.
Essentially, the Realme 9 Pro+ feels more like a budget-friendly option, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G represents a true flagship experience. Therefore, the added expense of the S21 Ultra is justified by its superior performance and feature set.
