Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A72

1. Specifications Comparison

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:

• Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers significantly faster processing speed, better multitasking, and superior gaming performance compared to the Snapdragon 720G.
• Significantly Better Display: Higher resolution, higher pixel density, higher brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate make the display much sharper, smoother, and better in outdoor conditions.
• More Advanced Camera System: The S21 Ultra offers higher resolution standard, telephoto, and selfie cameras, along with a dedicated telephoto lens, more advanced video capabilities (including 8K), and better overall image quality.
• Better Battery Features: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging add convenience that the A72 lacks, but does not come with a charger in the box.
• More Future-Proof: With a newer OS and higher maximum upgrade version, better WiFi version, Bluetooth version, the S21 Ultra will likely receive updates and be relevant for longer.
• Hi-Res Audio: Enhanced audio experience with Hi-Res audio capabilities and noise cancelling microphone.
• Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection offers enhanced durability.

Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:

• Lighter and Potentially More Comfortable: The A72 is noticeably lighter than the S21 Ultra, which might be preferred by users who prioritize comfort and ease of handling.
• Includes a charger in-box: A72 includes a 15W Fast Charger in-box.
• Dedicated Macro and Wide Angle Lens: If you frequently take close-up or wide-angle shots, the A72's dedicated lenses might appeal. While the S21 Ultra offers wide angle and macro combined, it is not separated.

Significant Trade-offs:

• Performance vs Price: The S21 Ultra offers high-end performance at a premium price, while the A72 sacrifices some performance for a more affordable price.
• Camera Versatility vs Quality: While the A72 has dedicated wide angle and macro lens, the S21 Ultra's camera system is significantly better in terms of overall image and video quality.
• Premium Build vs Practicality: The S21 Ultra offers a more premium build with better screen protection, while the A72 prioritizes comfort and lightweight design.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:

• Power Users: Those who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
• Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize image quality and want the best possible camera experience on a smartphone.
• Professional Users: Those who need a high-resolution display, advanced connectivity features and video capabilities.
• Users wanting more features: People who prefer to have more features on their phone regardless of price point.
• Tech-Savvy Individuals: Users who appreciate the latest technology and don't mind paying a premium for it.
  • Specific Use Cases:
    • Demanding mobile gaming with high frame rates.
    • Capturing and editing high-resolution photos and 8K videos.
    • Working on the go with resource-intensive applications.
    • Outdoor use in bright sunlight.

Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:

• Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want a reliable smartphone with a good set of features at a more affordable price.
• Everyday Users: Individuals who need a comfortable and capable phone for daily tasks like browsing, social media, and casual photography.
• Users Who Prioritize Battery Life and Ergonomics: People who value lightweight design and comfortable handling, along with a charger in-box.
  • Specific Use Cases:
    • Casual photography, including macro and wide-angle shots.
    • Everyday tasks, like social media browsing, emails, and calls.
    • Users who don't need the highest possible performance and are ok with mid-range performance.
    • Users who need a charger included in the box.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

1. What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, general use, work)
2. What is your budget? (Do you prioritize performance or cost?)
3. What are your priorities? (Premium features, battery, comfort, size)

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

• If you prioritize ultimate performance, camera quality, and a premium display, and don't mind paying a premium, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the best choice.
• If you want a good all-around phone with a comfortable design, a decent camera and are on a tighter budget, the Samsung Galaxy A72 is a great option.
• If you frequently take close-up or wide-angle shots, and prefer a dedicated macro and wide lens, the Samsung Galaxy A72 could be considered.
• If battery features like wireless and reverse wireless charging are important, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is better.

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. My reasons are as follows:

• Performance is a priority: I frequently run demanding apps, game, and multitask, so the S21 Ultra's superior processor and RAM are critical.
• Camera versatility: While the A72 has dedicated macro and wide-angle, the S21 Ultra’s camera system provides vastly superior image and video quality, and while I do not use macro and wide angle shots frequently, I prioritize overall camera quality.
• Display Quality: The sharper, brighter display with a higher refresh rate would significantly improve my user experience, especially for outdoor use and content consumption.
• Future proofing: The S21 Ultra comes with better WiFi and Bluetooth technologies, more OS upgrades and better software features.

While the A72 is lighter and comes with a charger in-box, the benefits of the S21 Ultra's performance, display, camera, and overall premium experience outweigh the additional cost for me. Although the price of the S21 Ultra is higher, the phone is significantly superior in several areas that are important to me.