1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 163.3 × 75.6 × 8.2 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly taller and thicker, might feel a bit more bulky. Neo 3 is slimmer. |
| Weight | 227g | 188g | Realme GT Neo 3 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for longer use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal difference; almost identical viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2412 | S21 Ultra offers noticeably sharper images and text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 394 | S21 Ultra display appears more detailed and refined. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks typical of AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1000 nits | S21 Ultra is much better for outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 8100 (5 nm) | Different chipsets; GT Neo 3 has better benchmark scores. Real-world performance may vary based on usage. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 855,842 | GT Neo 3 shows better overall performance in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G610 MC6 | Different GPU configurations; GT Neo 3 has a more modern GPU architecture. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | S21 Ultra allows for more detailed images and larger prints. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/1.56" | S21 Ultra can capture more light, better low-light performance. |
| Standard Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.00 µm | GT Neo 3's larger pixels capture more light individually. |
| Telephoto Camera | Yes | No | S21 Ultra offers more optical zoom options. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes | Yes | Both have ultrawide lenses but S21 Ultra uses it also for macro shots |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes | GT Neo 3 has a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 16MP | S21 Ultra captures more detail for selfies and video calls. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.65" | 1/3.1" | S21 Ultra can capture more light on the front camera. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.45 | S21 Ultra lets more light enter the sensor for better low-light. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra offers higher resolution video recording. |
| DxOMark Camera Score | Mobile: 115, Selfie: 135 | Not Available | S21 Ultra's camera has been rated as high-end by DxOMark while the GT Neo 3 hasn't been tested. |
| Camera Features | More features including OIS and Digital Image Stabilization | More features including OIS and Digital Image Stabilization | Both support core photography features, but with differing strengths. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life expected under typical usage. |
| Charging Speed | 25W | 80W | GT Neo 3 charges much faster. |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (15W) | No | S21 Ultra offers wireless charging capability. |
| In-box Charger | No | Yes | GT Neo 3 includes a charger, while the S21 Ultra does not. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 12 (Upgradable to 13) | Realme GT Neo 3 is slightly more up-to-date at launch; S21 Ultra will have longer support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Similar WiFi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | GT Neo 3 uses a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Dual-band GPS | GT Neo 3 supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support Dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | Up to 512GB | Up to 512GB | Similar storage options. |
| RAM | Up to 16GB | Up to 12GB | S21 Ultra has more RAM for demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both offer high-quality audio. Realme GT Neo 3 includes two microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint-based security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | S21 Ultra has stronger screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | More sensors including Compass and Barometer | Basic Sensors | S21 Ultra has a more comprehensive set of sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and brightness offer a sharper, more visible screen, especially outdoors.
- More Versatile Camera System: Includes telephoto lenses for better zoom, higher-resolution sensors, and advanced features like 8K video recording. It also has a higher DxOMark camera score.
- More RAM: Up to 16 GB for smoother multitasking.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Provides convenient charging options.
- More Robust Build: Superior Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection and additional sensors.
- Longer Software Support: Android 15 upgradable.
Realme GT Neo 3 Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 80W charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Lighter and Slimmer Design: More comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Better Benchmarking Performance: Higher AnTuTu score indicates better processing power in benchmarks.
- In-box charger: Includes an 80W charger in the box.
- Newer Bluetooth: The newer Bluetooth 5.3 may offer better connectivity in some scenarios.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Allows for close-up photography.
- Lower price: Typically sold for less than the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Heavier and bulkier; slower charging.
- GT Neo 3: Lower-resolution display; less versatile camera system; no wireless charging; limited software updates.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, photographers, videographers, content creators, users who prioritize a premium display, those who prefer the Samsung ecosystem, users who value comprehensive features and excellent camera quality.
- Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography, capturing 8K video.
- Extensive multitasking, running demanding apps, and gaming.
- Outdoor usage in bright sunlight for navigation or reading.
- Users who need the ability to reverse charge accessories or other phones wirelessly.
- Price-to-Value: High price point, but justified for those who need a premium all-rounder with top-tier features.
Realme GT Neo 3:
- Ideal User: Gamers, users focused on performance, those who value quick charging, cost-conscious buyers, users who prefer a lighter design.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming, benefiting from the fast charging, lighter design and better performance in benchmarks.
- Everyday use where fast charging is critical.
- Users looking for a good value-for-money option with a decent camera system.
- Users who need a lighter smartphone for one-handed use.
- Price-to-Value: Better value for money for the specs it provides.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Realme GT Neo 3 is generally more affordable.
- How important is camera quality and versatility? The S21 Ultra offers a more comprehensive and feature-rich camera system.
- Do I value fast charging or wireless charging more? The GT Neo 3 offers significantly faster wired charging, while the S21 Ultra provides wireless charging.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For a power user or content creator: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior display, camera versatility, more RAM and additional features such as wireless charging.
- For gamers or users who prioritize performance and fast charging: Choose the Realme GT Neo 3 for its faster charging, better performance in benchmarks and lighter design.
- For a user on a budget looking for a reliable all-rounder: Choose the Realme GT Neo 3 offering faster charging, a good price-to-performance ratio and a decent camera.
My Choice
I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While the Realme GT Neo 3 has a lot of compelling features, particularly its faster charging, my usage needs lean more towards the premium experience that the S21 Ultra provides. I value a top-tier display for media consumption and detailed work, and the more versatile camera system is crucial for my photography needs. The wireless charging and higher RAM are also features that fit my needs better. Although it's a bit heavier and charges slower, the overall package provides better value for my specific use case as a power user. The longevity of software updates is also an important consideration, with the Samsung S21 Ultra 5G offering a longer period of support. While the GT Neo 3 excels in gaming and charging speed, the Samsung S21 Ultra is the winner for overall capabilities.
