1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Realme GT2 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2022-01-08 | The Realme GT2 Pro is approximately 11 months newer, potentially offering more up-to-date features and software support. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 163.2 x 74.7 x 8.2 mm | The Realme GT2 Pro is slightly smaller and thinner, potentially making it easier to handle and carry. |
| Weight | 227g | 199g | The Realme GT2 Pro is noticeably lighter, improving comfort during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Both phones offer large, immersive displays, with a negligible size difference. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1440x3216 | Both have very sharp displays; a minimal difference. |
| PPI | 515 | 526 | Both have very high pixel density, ensuring very sharp images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unspecified | Samsung's AMOLED offers superior contrast, black levels and vibrant colors, crucial for HDR content and viewing experience. Realme's display technology is not specified making it impossible to compare effectively. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, with a fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1400 nits | The Samsung S21 Ultra has slightly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in the Realme GT2 Pro offers a more powerful CPU and GPU for faster app loading, multitasking and improved gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 1,054,189 | The Realme GT2 Pro has a significantly higher benchmark score, indicating better overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 730 | The Adreno 730 in the Realme GT2 Pro is generally more powerful, delivering better graphics performance in gaming and other demanding tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" | Samsung's main camera has a higher resolution, but Realme's has larger pixels, which often results in better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Lens | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | None | Samsung has an additional dedicated Telephoto + portrait lens, enabling more versatility and zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74" | The Samsung selfie camera has a higher resolution, wider aperture for better low-light performance, and a larger sensor. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | None | Samsung has an additional dedicated telephoto lens, enabling more optical zoom range. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76" | Realme has an ultra-wide lens to capture more of a scene, which Samsung lacks. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/3.0, 1/5" | The Realme has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, which Samsung lacks. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | The Samsung has a wide angle and macro capabilities in a single lens, offering an alternative perspective which Realme lacks. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, comprehensive HDR/EIS support | Up to 8K@24fps, EIS support | Both offer high-resolution video recording, but Samsung includes more extensive HDR/EIS features, potentially resulting in better video quality and smoother footage. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 115 overall, 121 photo, 100 video | Not tested | Samsung's camera is well-tested, providing a benchmark of performance. Realme's camera is untested on DXOMark. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 135 overall, 133 photo, 140 video | Not tested | Samsung's selfie camera is well-tested, providing a benchmark of performance. Realme's selfie camera is untested on DXOMark. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | Realme GT2 Pro charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse/wireless charging | Dual-cell battery | Samsung offers more flexible charging, while Realme has a faster charging system. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 15 | Android 12, Upgradable to 13 | Realme GT2 Pro ships with a more recent version of Android. Samsung is likely to have longer software support and updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual-band | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual-band | Both have latest WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, extensive profiles | 5.2, key profiles | Both have modern Bluetooth, but Samsung has a more extensive list of compatible profiles. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Realme supports more satellite navigation systems, which might be useful in areas with challenging GPS reception. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM operation. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Both have the same storage capacity options, meaning that user can choose one that suits their needs. |
| RAM | 12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | Samsung provides more RAM, which can improve multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage via SD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone, 2 microphones | Both have premium audio, but Realme includes dual microphone for enhanced clarity for calls and recordings, making it a slightly better overall audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both include basic fingerprint sensor for biometric unlock. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both have top-tier scratch protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | The Samsung includes a barometer sensor that the Realme doesn't include. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display Technology: AMOLED display offers better colors, contrast, and power efficiency compared to Realme GT2 Pro whose display technology is unspecified.
- More Camera Versatility: Includes multiple telephoto lenses and dedicated wide-angle + macro lens, providing a more flexible shooting experience.
- Better Selfie Camera: Higher resolution, wider aperture, and larger sensor for better image quality.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Offers convenient wireless charging options.
- Additional Sensors: Barometer provides advanced environmental data.
- More Extensive Bluetooth Profiles: Supports more devices, making it compatible with a broader range of accessories.
- Higher RAM options: Up to 16 GB of RAM allows the phone to maintain more apps active in the background.
- Better Software Support: Likely to receive more software updates and security patches in the long run.
- More Comprehensive Camera Features: Includes Laser AF and Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF)
- Well-tested Camera Performance: DxOMark scores provide a benchmark of camera performance.
- More Camera Features: Supports features like RAW images for professional editing.
Realme GT2 Pro Advantages:
- Newer Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 provides significantly better performance than the Exynos 2100, leading to a snappier experience.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly quicker than 25W charging.
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable to hold for longer periods.
- More Satellite Navigation Support: Better GPS accuracy in various environments.
- Dedicated Wide-Angle and Macro Lens: Offers a dedicated camera for ultra-wide and close-up shots, which the Samsung lacks as standalone lens.
- More Modern Operating System: Ships with Android 12.
- Dual Microphone: Improved audio clarity and noise cancellation when recording.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung S21 Ultra 5G: Older chipset and slower charging for better display and camera system.
- Realme GT2 Pro: Less versatile camera system and unknown display technology for a newer chipset and faster charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality, zoom capabilities, and comprehensive features like RAW images.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who value a high-quality display, ideal for watching movies or editing photos/videos.
- Power Users: Benefit from the higher RAM options, especially for those who multitask heavily.
- Ecosystem Users: Those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem may appreciate the seamless integration with other devices, and the software support offered by Samsung.
- Business Professionals: Users who appreciate the additional sensors, more comprehensive Bluetooth profiles, and overall premium feel.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography.
- High-resolution multimedia consumption.
- Heavy multitasking with multiple apps.
- Extensive travel, and requiring a reliable companion with the added benefit of the extra sensors.
Realme GT2 Pro Ideal Users:
- Gamers: Users who prioritize high performance and smooth gameplay thanks to the newer chipset.
- Power Users: Who want fast charging without the need for wireless capabilities.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who value the latest technology and features.
- Content Creators: Those who would benefit from dual microphone and the enhanced audio experience.
- Budget-Conscious: Users who want a flagship experience without the price tag of premium brands, and willing to trade other capabilities to make it affordable.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and demanding applications.
- Quick charging, and limited downtime.
- Everyday use with smooth performance and reliability.
- Travel and outdoors using the more accurate GPS for navigation and other activities.
Price-to-Value:
- The Realme GT2 Pro typically offers a better price-to-performance ratio, especially for gaming and everyday tasks.
- The Samsung S21 Ultra 5G has premium capabilities, and for users needing a better camera and more software support, it might be worth the extra cost.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your main priority: camera or performance?
- If camera versatility and quality is your priority, go for the Samsung.
- If raw performance and fast charging are more important, the Realme is the better choice.
- Do you need wireless charging or expandable storage?
- If wireless charging is crucial, the Samsung is the only option.
- Neither phone supports expandable storage so that should not be a deciding factor.
- How important is software support?
- Samsung provides longer software support, a factor to take into consideration.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional photographer/videographer: The Samsung S21 Ultra 5G is the better choice due to its superior camera versatility, higher camera quality and extensive software support.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer/Tech Enthusiast: The Realme GT2 Pro will be the more enjoyable experience thanks to its newer and more powerful chipset, fast charging and latest software.
- Scenario 3: Budget Conscious power user: The Realme GT2 Pro provides flagship performance at a better price. The user will have to sacrifice wireless charging capabilities, camera quality and versatility, and also less software support.
- Scenario 4: Heavy Multitasking User: The Samsung S21 Ultra 5G, with its higher RAM option and well optimized software will provide a better overall experience.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. Despite the Realme GT2 Pro having a newer chipset, the S21 Ultra's superior AMOLED display technology, versatile camera system with dual telephoto lenses and a dedicated wide-angle/macro lens, better selfie camera, wireless charging capabilities, more extensive bluetooth profiles and more sensors align with my personal preferences and typical use cases. While the Realme has significantly faster charging speeds, the S21 Ultra's battery life is sufficient, and I am willing to accept a slower charging speed for the other features, specifically the screen quality and camera versatility that it offers, and the likely longer software support from Samsung, which are critical for my overall user experience. Ultimately, the better camera versatility is a key consideration for me.
