1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-01-10 | Realme 9i is a newer device, but this does not always mean better. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 164.4 x 75.7 x 8.4 mm | Similar size, S21 Ultra is slightly thicker and has a larger overall volume; Realme 9i is more comfortable for long use because of it being lighter. |
| Weight | 227g | 190g | Realme 9i is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.6" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2412 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer images and text. |
| PPI | 515 | 400 | S21 Ultra's higher pixel density provides a noticeably crisper viewing experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 Ultra's AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | S21 Ultra's display is much more visible in bright sunlight; Realme 9i's is not known. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 (6 nm) | S21 Ultra's chipset offers significantly better performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and overall app loading speeds. |
| Antutu Score | 749,000 | 216,850 | S21 Ultra's benchmark score is substantially higher, indicating superior real-world performance and faster processing power. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International (ARM Mali-G78 MC14) | Adreno 610 | S21 Ultra's GPU is considerably more powerful, translating to smoother gaming and graphic-intensive applications. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life, assuming comparable software optimization. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Realme 9i charges slightly faster; Both feature non-removable batteries; |
| Battery Features | Reverse, Wireless, Reverse Wireless, No Charger in-box | Non-removable | S21 Ultra offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities, while the Realme 9i does not. S21 Ultra does not ship with a charger in the box. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme 9i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | S21 Ultra captures more detailed images due to a higher megapixel count and larger sensor; Realme 9i will struggle more with low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | N/A | S21 Ultra has dedicated telephoto for better zooming and portrait shots; Realme 9i does not have this. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 0.70µm | 16MP, f/2.1, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | S21 Ultra captures more detailed selfies due to the higher megapixel count. The Realme 9i has larger pixels and a slightly wider aperture, which may perform better in low light. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | N/A | S21 Ultra offers a dedicated telephoto lens for superior zoom capabilities. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | Realme 9i offers macro lens for close-up photography. S21 Ultra does not have this. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | N/A | S21 Ultra offers a wide-angle lens for capturing more of the scene, also doubles as a macro lens for close-ups. |
| Black & white | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | Realme 9i offers a black & white lens for creative shots |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 Ultra offers much higher video recording resolutions, with more advanced features like HDR and EIS. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 115, Selfie: 135 | Not available | S21 Ultra has demonstrated higher image and video quality in independent tests. |
| Camera Features | Comprehensive, incl. OIS, 4K,8K, Optical zoom, RAW, Night Mode | Basic features | S21 Ultra offers many features to enhance photo quality, while Realme 9i only offers some of the basics |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, AMOLED technology, higher refresh rate, and higher brightness, resulting in a much better viewing experience.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset and Mali-G78 GPU provide vastly superior performance for all tasks, from daily usage to demanding gaming.
- More Versatile Camera System: Offers a more versatile camera system with telephoto, wide-angle, and higher-resolution sensors, resulting in better photo and video quality.
- Advanced Features: Features like wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, better Wi-Fi standards, and an extensive sensor suite add to its premium appeal.
- Higher DXOMark scores: Higher image and video quality.
Realme 9i Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for extended use.
- Faster Charging: Faster charging speed for quicker battery replenishment, although the difference is not substantial.
- Macro and Black and White Cameras: Offers macro and black and white lenses for creative shots.
- Lower price: Significantly more affordable than the S21 Ultra.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G: The major trade-off is its higher price, bulkier design and weight.
- Realme 9i: The main trade-off is significantly lower performance and a much inferior display compared to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. The cameras are also much less capable.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who demand top-tier performance for multitasking, gaming, and other demanding tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a highly versatile camera system for capturing high-quality photos and videos in various scenarios.
- Media Consumers: People who consume a lot of media and appreciate a vibrant, high-resolution display with smooth refresh rates.
- Users who Value Premium Features: Those who seek advanced features like wireless charging, superior audio quality, and top-notch performance.
- Business Professionals: Users who require a premium device with excellent performance and features to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Users who want to futureproof themselves: Users who want the latest in technology.
Use Cases: Professional photography, high-end mobile gaming, immersive media consumption, seamless multitasking, high quality work, long term use.
Realme 9i Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: People looking for a capable smartphone at an affordable price.
- Everyday Users: Users who need a reliable device for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and communication.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: People who prefer a good battery life over top-tier performance and advanced features.
Users who want a lighter device: Users who are looking for a phone they can use without feeling discomfort.
Use Cases: Basic web browsing, social media, day-to-day communication, light gaming, casual photography.
Price-to-Value:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers a premium experience with top-tier performance and features, but at a much higher price point.
- The Realme 9i provides excellent value for its price, offering a good enough experience for basic users without breaking the bank.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The S21 Ultra is significantly more expensive, so budget is a primary factor.
- What is my primary use case? Will you be gaming, watching videos, or using basic apps?
- How important are display quality and camera performance? If these are crucial, the S21 Ultra is a clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User, High Budget: If you need top-tier performance, a great display, and excellent cameras, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the best choice, without a doubt.
- Scenario 2: Budget User, Basic Needs: If you prioritize affordability and a lightweight design with a decent camera for basic use, the Realme 9i is a practical choice.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User, Moderate Budget: If you need something in the middle with a decent experience but aren't willing to pay a premium, the Realme 9i is a good option. However, you will be making several compromises in quality compared to the S21 Ultra.
My Choice and Why
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it's undeniably more expensive, the sheer difference in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities is too significant to ignore, especially for a user like me who would value these qualities. I prioritize a smooth and powerful experience, which the S21 Ultra offers in spades. The additional features like wireless charging and the comprehensive camera system further justify its higher cost for my use case. Although it is not the newest phone, it was a top of the line device at its time and has aged like fine wine. In my view the compromises made on the Realme 9i are far too significant for me to consider it when a device like the S21 Ultra exists.
