1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2023-02-17 | S23 is significantly newer with likely better long-term software support |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 146.3 × 70.9 × 7.6 mm | S21 Ultra is larger and bulkier, S23 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 227g | 168g | S23 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.1" | S21 Ultra offers more immersive viewing; S23 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2340 | S21 Ultra offers sharper text and images |
| Pixel Density | 515 ppi | 425 ppi | S21 Ultra's display is noticeably sharper |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical display technology with vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1750 nits | S23 offers better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | S23 chipset provides faster performance, more efficient power management |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 1,456,671 | S23 is significantly faster and smoother for gaming and demanding apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 740 | S23 has a more powerful GPU, better for graphics-intensive tasks |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3900mAh | S21 Ultra has a much larger battery for potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both offer similar fast charging, but the S23 might charge faster due to smaller battery. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 9W Reverse Wireless | 10W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, Bypass Charging | S21 Ultra has slightly faster wireless charging; S23 offers bypass charging (powering the phone without charging battery while plugged in) |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" | S21 Ultra has higher resolution but S23 might have better low-light and dynamic range performance |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | Not Available | S21 Ultra offers dedicated portrait mode, more flexibility in zooming |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 12MP, f/2.2 | S21 Ultra has higher selfie resolution. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65" | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" | S23 has wider aperture, better low-light zoom; S21 Ultra has larger sensor |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | S23 has a dedicated wide-angle camera. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | Not Available | S21 Ultra has a macro lens, useful for close-up photography. |
| Video | Up to 8K | Up to 8K | Both offer similar high-quality video recording capabilities |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | 115 Main Score, 121 Photo, 100 Video | 133 Main Score, Photo and Video not available | S23 has higher main score, S21 Ultra has individual photo and video scores which is higher for photo and lower for video. |
| Features | Quadruple Camera, Laser AF | Triple Camera, Night Mode 2.0 | S21 Ultra has more camera hardware features; S23 has improved Night Mode processing. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 13 (Upgradable to 17) | S23 has a more recent Android version and longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Identical WiFi capabilities |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | S23 has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1+L5, E1+E5a, GLONASS L1 | S23 offers slightly more accurate location tracking via more satellite compatibility. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM/eSIM | S23 offers eSIM support for more flexibility |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512GB | 128/256/512GB | Same storage options |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 8GB | S21 Ultra provides more RAM for better multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither has expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers | S21 Ultra offers a superior audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both use standard fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S23's screen protection is newer, likely more resistant to scratches and drops |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.8" screen offers a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming.
- Higher Resolution Display: The 1440x3200 resolution provides sharper text and images.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery potentially offers longer battery life.
- More RAM: Up to 16GB of RAM enables better multitasking and handling of demanding applications.
- Dolby Atmos & Hi-Res Audio: Enhanced audio quality for a superior media experience.
- Additional Camera Lenses: Dedicated telephoto, portrait and macro lenses for added versatility.
- Higher Selfie Camera Resolution: 44MP selfie camera for more detailed selfies.
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra is better for users who prioritize a large screen, higher visual quality, extended battery life, advanced camera capabilities, and enhanced audio experience.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Advantages:
- Newer Processor: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset provides superior performance and efficiency.
- Lighter and More Compact: More comfortable and easier to handle, especially for smaller hands.
- Brighter Display: 1750 nits for better outdoor visibility.
- eSIM Support: Offers the convenience of digital carrier switching.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connectivity.
- Dedicated Wide Angle Camera: Offers an additional shooting perspective.
- Night Mode 2.0: Enhanced low-light image processing.
- Longer Software Support: Newer phone with extended software update support.
- Bypass Charging: Powers the phone directly from the charger, reducing battery wear.
- Higher DXOMark score for overall mobile
Practical Implications: The S23 is better suited for users who need top-tier performance, a compact design, the latest software features, better wide-angle and low-light photography, and value newer technology and features.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Larger size and weight make it less pocketable. Its older processor is less efficient than the S23.
- S23: Smaller battery and lack of advanced telephoto, portrait, and macro lenses mean potentially shorter battery life and less camera versatility for some specific scenarios.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who frequently watch videos and enjoy the larger, higher-resolution display and superior audio.
- Power Users: Users who need ample RAM for multitasking and running demanding applications.
- Photography Buffs: Users who prioritize versatile camera setup with macro, portrait, and telephoto capabilities.
- Users needing long battery life: Users that want the longest possible battery life without frequent charging.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies or TV shows on a larger display with better audio.
- Playing graphics-intensive games that benefit from more RAM and a larger screen.
- Taking detailed photos using diverse lenses and zoom capabilities.
- Extended usage without needing to recharge frequently.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ideal Users:
- Performance Seekers: Users who want the fastest processor for gaming and demanding tasks.
- Users with Smaller Hands: People who value a compact, lightweight, and pocketable design.
- Mobile Photographers: Users who prioritize a better wide-angle camera and improved low-light performance.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who prefer the latest technology, including software and Bluetooth.
- Users looking for the latest features: Users who want the latest technology like eSIM and bypass charging.
Use Cases:
- Playing demanding mobile games with the best performance.
- Capturing high-quality photos in various lighting conditions, especially wide-angle shots.
- Using the phone with one hand and easily fitting it in a pocket.
- Wanting the latest Android software and features.
Price-to-Value Ratio: The S23 is likely to be priced higher due to its newer technology. The S21 Ultra might offer better value for users who are not as concerned with having the absolute latest features but want premium features for a lower price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your priority – a larger screen and versatile camera or a compact form factor and top-tier performance?
- Is battery life a higher priority than having the latest technology features?
- Is the price difference worth the added performance and software support?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Consumption & Photography Focus: If you watch movies and TV shows, or need versatile zoom and macro features the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is recommended.
- Scenario 2: Performance & Portability Focus: If you play games and need a phone that's easy to carry, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is a better choice.
- Scenario 3: Latest Technology & Software: If you prioritize having the latest Android features and performance, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is the recommended option.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious but want premium experience: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G can be found cheaper than the S23 while still offering a great premium experience.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S23. Although the S21 Ultra has its strengths like a larger screen, more RAM and a better audio experience, the S23 offers a more balanced package. Its performance is significantly better and future-proof with a newer chip and longer software support. The more compact design is also very appealing to me since I prefer a phone that's comfortable to hold and carry. While I appreciate the extra lenses on the S21 Ultra, the camera on the S23 is still excellent, and the dedicated wide-angle lens and improved Night Mode 2.0 are useful upgrades. The higher brightness is also a big benefit for me because I'm frequently outside. Finally, the eSIM and bypass charging features on the S23 are nice additions that I find beneficial. Overall, the S23's combination of performance, design, and software updates makes it the better choice for my needs.
