Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip3 offers unique portability and a compact form when folded; S21 Ultra is a traditional, larger slab. |
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 166 × 72.2 × 6.9 mm | S21 Ultra is wider and thicker, making it feel bulkier; Z Flip3 is slimmer and more pocketable when unfolded, very compact when folded. |
| Weight | 227g | 183g | Z Flip3 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable to hold and carry for extended periods. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal size difference; both offer large screens suitable for media consumption and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2640 | S21 Ultra offers a noticeably sharper, more detailed display; better for high-resolution content and detailed viewing. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 426 PPI | S21 Ultra has higher pixel density, resulting in a crisper image and smoother text rendering. |
| Technology | AMOLED | S21 Ultra has superior display technology; deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors and power efficiency. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations; suitable for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1200 nits | S21 Ultra is significantly brighter, providing better visibility in direct sunlight, ideal for outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Z Flip3 generally has marginally better raw performance; both offer flagship-level speed for everyday tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 898,700 | Z Flip3 scores higher, translating to slightly smoother and faster performance in demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Adreno 660 | Different GPUs, both offering high-end graphics performance; Z Flip3's Adreno 660 is slightly more optimized for some games. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.8µm | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | S21 Ultra has significantly higher resolution, larger sensor for better detail and low-light performance; Z Flip3 has larger pixel size, useful in low-light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Not present | S21 Ultra has dedicated telephoto lens for zoom capabilities and portrait mode with background blur. Z Flip3 lacks a dedicated telephoto lens. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 0.70µm | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | S21 Ultra offers superior resolution and wider aperture, leading to more detailed and better-lit selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 10.8MP, f/4.9, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Not present | S21 Ultra has additional telephoto lens for greater zoom range. Z Flip3 does not have a telephoto zoom camera. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not present | 13MP, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | Z Flip3 offers a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing expansive scenes; S21 Ultra doesn't offer wide angle lens as dedicated sensor. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm | Not present | S21 Ultra offers a dedicated wide-angle lens with macro capabilities; Z Flip3 does not have a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | S21 Ultra offers higher video resolution for professional-grade videography, while both provide excellent video quality with HDR and stabilization. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | Main: 115, Photo: 121, Video: 100 | Main: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 110 | S21 Ultra has slightly better photo score, while Z Flip3 has better video quality score; S21 Ultra has better overall camera performance compared to Z Flip3 based on DxoMark scores. |
| DXOMark (Selfie) | Main: 135, Photo: 133, Video: 140 | Not tested | S21 Ultra excels in selfie capabilities, offering impressive photo and video quality. |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, Optical Zoom, Quadruple Camera, Laser AF, OIS, RAW, Night Mode | 4K Video, Dual Camera, OIS | S21 Ultra offers a more feature-rich camera system with advanced options like 8K video, optical zoom, raw capture, and dedicated night mode; Z Flip3 excels in the basic functionality and image processing. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3300mAh | S21 Ultra has a significantly larger battery, offering potentially longer battery life, especially for heavy use. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | S21 Ultra charges faster, reducing the time needed to fully charge the device. |
| Features | Wireless Charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | Reverse charging, Non-removable, No charger in-box | S21 Ultra provides more versatile charging options, including wireless and reverse wireless charging. No charger comes in the box for both phones. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness make it significantly better for visual experience, especially outdoors.
- Advanced Camera System: Boasts a more versatile system with multiple zoom lenses, higher resolution sensors, and additional features, leading to better photo and video capabilities.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Provides longer battery life, reducing the need to frequently recharge throughout the day.
- Faster Charging: Allows faster charging times, useful for topping up quickly.
- More RAM: Offers more RAM for better multitasking, allowing multiple apps to run smoothly.
- Enhanced Audio: Features Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and noise-canceling mic for better sound quality.
- More Storage Option: The option for 512 GB provides a lot more storage than the Z Flip3.
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra is geared towards users who need a powerful multimedia device with top-tier camera capabilities, excellent display quality, and long battery life.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Advantages:
- Unique Foldable Design: Offers unparalleled portability and a unique user experience with a compact form factor when folded.
- Lighter and Thinner: Significantly more comfortable to hold and carry around due to its lower weight and slimmer profile.
- Slightly Better Performance (Benchmark): Scores slightly higher in benchmarks for improved gaming experience.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Offers a more convenient and ergonomic unlocking experience.
- Wider Angle Lens: The inclusion of a dedicated wide angle lens.
Practical Implications: The Z Flip3 is designed for users who prioritize portability, a unique form factor, and a stylish design with good performance.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Bulkier and heavier, sacrificing portability for superior specs.
- Z Flip3: Lacks the camera versatility and battery life of the S21 Ultra.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want the best possible camera system with zoom capabilities.
- Power Users: Users who require top performance, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Media Consumers: Users who enjoy watching high-resolution videos and require a vibrant, bright display.
- Professionals: Users who need a reliable device with long battery life, superior screen, great speakers and camera.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography
- Gaming and resource-intensive tasks
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight due to higher display brightness
- Frequent travelers who need long battery life
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Ideal Users:
- Fashion-Conscious Users: Users who value a unique, stylish device that makes a statement.
- Users Prioritizing Portability: Users who want a compact phone that easily fits in pockets or small bags.
- Social Media Creators: Users who require a unique form factor for content creation and social media usage.
- Users who like the folding experience: Users who want a unique, foldable experience with a smaller form factor when not in use.
Use Cases:
- Easy one-handed operation when folded
- Taking quick photos using the outer display
- Selfie and video blogging with the phone folded
- Users who value portability
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize portability and a unique design over raw specifications? If yes, the Z Flip3 is compelling. If not, the S21 Ultra may be better.
- How important is camera quality and versatility? If you're a heavy user of the camera, the S21 Ultra is superior.
- Do you need all-day battery life without frequent charging? The S21 Ultra provides much better battery life due to the larger battery capacity.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Professional Photographer: Choose the S21 Ultra for its superior camera system, including telephoto and macro lenses.
- For the Frequent Traveler: Choose the S21 Ultra for its longer battery life.
- For the Casual User who values a stylish and portable phone: Choose the Z Flip3 for its portability, unique design and overall good experience.
- For the Power User who cares about Raw Performance: Choose the Z Flip3 for its better chipset and benchmarks.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While the Z Flip3's foldable design is certainly innovative and very practical in terms of portability, my personal needs and preferences lean more towards the S21 Ultra's strengths.
Here's why:
- Camera Versatility: As someone who enjoys photography, the S21 Ultra's superior camera system, with its multiple zoom lenses, higher resolution sensors, and additional shooting features, would be invaluable to me.
- Display Quality: I consume a lot of media on my phone, and the S21 Ultra's higher resolution, brighter display, and better color accuracy would enhance my viewing experience significantly.
- Battery Life: I often find myself away from a charger for long periods, and the S21 Ultra's larger battery capacity would give me peace of mind and reduce the need to constantly worry about battery levels.
- Performance: As a power user, I often use several apps simultaneously and play demanding games. The additional RAM and the higher AnTuTu scores would allow for smoother multitasking and gameplay.
While I acknowledge the Z Flip3's appeal as a stylish, portable phone with unique design, its weaker camera, smaller battery, and lack of advanced features are deal-breakers for me. The S21 Ultra, while bulkier and heavier, offers a more complete and powerful package that caters better to my specific usage patterns. In my opinion, the trade-offs for the superior performance and camera are worth the extra bulk and weight.
