1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 162.9 × 75.8 × 9 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly taller but both are similar in width and thickness. Minimal real-world difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 227g | 199.8g | Realme GT Neo2 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus front | Unknown | S21 Ultra has superior scratch and shatter resistance on the screen; Realme GT Neo2's screen durability is unknown. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.62" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, potentially better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | S21 Ultra's higher resolution means sharper images and text, especially noticeable with small details. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 398 PPI | S21 Ultra has significantly sharper text and image clarity, resulting in a much crisper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent contrast and vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1300 nits | S21 Ultra is more visible under direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Different chipsets. The Snapdragon 870 is generally considered more reliable and efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 794,643 | Realme GT Neo2 benchmarks higher, suggesting slightly better performance for demanding tasks like gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 (International) | Adreno 650 | Different GPUs, real-world performance will vary depending on specific game and application optimizations; the Adreno is generally better optimized. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" sensor | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.72" sensor | S21 Ultra captures more detail and performs better in low light due to its higher resolution and larger sensor. |
| Telephoto (x1) | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" sensor | N/A | S21 Ultra offers optical zoom for lossless magnification; Realme has no dedicated telephoto. |
| Telephoto (x2) | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" sensor | N/A | S21 Ultra provides further optical zoom for distant subjects; Realme has no dedicated telephoto. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor | 8MP, f/2.3, 1/4" sensor | S21 Ultra has a higher resolution ultra-wide sensor, potentially better image quality. |
| Macro | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensor | Realme GT Neo2 has a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots; S21 Ultra does not. |
| Selfie | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" sensor | 16MP, f/2.5, 1/3.13" sensor | S21 Ultra captures more detail with its higher resolution sensor, performs better in low light due to its wider aperture and larger sensor. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, with HDR, EIS, stereo sound, slow-motion up to 960fps | Up to 4K@60fps with EIS, slow-motion up to 240 fps | S21 Ultra offers significantly higher video resolution and higher slow-motion capabilities, making it suitable for more demanding video needs |
| DXOMark | Mobile: 115, Photo: 121, Video: 100, Selfie: 135, Photo: 133, Video: 140 | N/A | S21 Ultra has a tested and established camera performance advantage, Realme GT Neo2 lacks review on performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer similar battery life, depending on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | Realme GT Neo2 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | Non-removable, | S21 Ultra has more features, including wireless charging and reverse charging for accessories |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT Neo2 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (Up to 15) | Android 11 (Up to 12) | S21 Ultra offers longer software support and updates. |
| Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256 GB | S21 Ultra has a 512GB option for users needing more storage. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 6/8/12 GB | S21 Ultra offers more RAM, better for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, limiting user options. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | Realme GT Neo2 has a higher capacity, offers more options and will likely have a more accurate GPS signal. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 Microphones | Realme GT Neo2 has better audio quality due to its 2 microphones. |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Both phones have a basic fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Samsung has a compass and barometer as an added bonus. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Significantly higher resolution and pixel density, resulting in a much sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a more versatile camera setup with two telephoto lenses for enhanced zoom capabilities, a higher-resolution main sensor, and better video recording capabilities.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Wireless Charging: Offers convenient wireless and reverse wireless charging, allowing the phone to charge other devices.
- Premium Build Quality: Features Gorilla Glass Victus for superior screen protection and an overall more premium feel.
- Better Software Support: Offers longer software support with updates up to Android 15.
- More RAM: Comes in a 16GB RAM version for better multitasking.
- Additional Sensors: Compass and Barometer are added bonuses.
Realme GT Neo2 Advantages:
- Lighter Design: Noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging significantly reduces charging times.
- Higher Benchmark Performance: Slightly higher benchmark scores, indicating marginally better performance for gaming and demanding applications.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro camera for close-up shots.
- Better Audio: Better overall audio due to its 2 microphones.
- More Accurate GPS: Supports more satellite systems for a more accurate signal.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Heavier and bulkier, slower charging, and generally more expensive.
- Realme GT Neo2: Lacks the premium display and camera system of the S21 Ultra, as well as wireless charging and reverse charging, less software support.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is ideal for:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera versatility, zoom capabilities, and image quality.
- Media Consumers: Those who value a high-resolution display for watching movies and videos.
- Power Users: Individuals who require heavy multitasking capabilities.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who prefer premium build quality and features like wireless charging.
Use Cases:
- Professional photographers who need a versatile camera system with different focal lengths.
- Users who want a top-tier display for enjoying high-resolution content.
- Professionals who need a device that can handle demanding tasks and multiple applications.
- Users who prefer a more premium phone with advanced features.
Realme GT Neo2 is ideal for:
- Gamers: Users who prioritize smooth performance and fast charging.
- Value-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking excellent performance at a lower price.
- Users who prefer light phones: Those who value a light phone more than premium features.
- Users who use Macro Lenses: Those who like to take photos close up.
- Users who value audio quality: Those who prefer an overall great audio experience.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gamers who need a fast and responsive device with quick charging.
- Users who want a high-performing phone without paying a premium price.
- Those who need a reliable and fast-charging phone for daily use.
- Users who prioritize a light device.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is camera quality and versatility? (S21 Ultra is superior here)
- How important is charging speed, and do you need wireless charging? (Realme GT Neo2 charges faster, but S21 Ultra offers wireless and reverse charging)
- How important is having the best screen quality? (S21 Ultra has a much sharper screen).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Best Camera: If your priority is photography and videography with optical zoom and the best video quality, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
- Scenario 2: Best Value: If you want the best performance-to-price ratio, prioritize fast charging, and prefer a lighter device, choose the Realme GT Neo2.
- Scenario 3: Best Screen: If having a top tier display with the sharpest image is your main focus, choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
- Scenario 4: Balanced User: If you have a more balanced approach and prioritize a well-rounded experience, carefully consider the trade-offs and your budget.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would personally go for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Reasoning:
While the Realme GT Neo2 offers better value for performance and charging speed, my main priorities in a smartphone are camera quality, display experience, and overall software support. The S21 Ultra's significantly better camera system, premium display and higher software support make it worth the extra cost for my use case. I value a phone with a quality display and versatile camera more than fast charging capabilities.
