Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs. vivo V29
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | vivo V29 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 164.2 x 74.4 x 7.5 mm | The S21 Ultra is slightly larger, wider, and thicker than the V29, making the V29 more pocketable and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 227g | 186g | The V29 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 Ultra has better scratch and drop protection for its display |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | vivo V29 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.78" | Negligible difference in screen size, both provide ample viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1260x2800 | S21 Ultra has a sharper display with noticeably more detail. |
| Pixel Density | 515 ppi | 453 ppi | S21 Ultra has a significantly sharper screen and finer details. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1300 nits | S21 Ultra is easier to view in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | vivo V29 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | S21 Ultra's chipset is faster with slightly better app loading, smoother operation. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 617,100 | S21 Ultra offers a performance edge for gaming and demanding apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 642L | S21 Ultra has a stronger GPU for gaming, 3D rendering |
| RAM | 12 GB or 16 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | S21 Ultra offers better multitasking, smoother handling of background apps |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | vivo V29 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | S21 Ultra captures much higher resolution images with more detail, better cropping and printing |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.89 | S21 Ultra has a slightly better light gathering capability |
| Telephoto + portrait Camera | 10.8 MP, f/2.4 | Not Present | S21 Ultra has dedicated telephoto camera for better zoomed portrait shots |
| Telephoto Camera | 10.8 MP, f/4.9 | Not Present | S21 Ultra allows greater zoom range for distant objects, detailed far images |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12.2 MP, f/2.2 | 8 MP, f/2.2 | S21 Ultra has higher resolution ultrawide camera |
| Macro Camera | Not Present | 2 MP, f/2.4 | V29 allows for taking close up photos |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 50MP | V29 selfie captures higher resolution images |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.0 | V29 has better light gathering for selfie images |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | S21 Ultra has higher resolution video for professional-grade content creation |
| Slow-motion video | 960 fps | 240 fps | S21 Ultra can capture significantly slower slow motion videos |
| DXOMark (Main) | 115 | Not Available | S21 Ultra has a well rated camera system overall |
| DXOMark (Selfie) | 135 | Not Available | S21 Ultra has a very high rated selfie camera |
| Additional Features | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, RAW, Night Mode | Triple camera | S21 Ultra offers higher zoom capabilities, better focusing and manual control options |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | vivo V29 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4600mAh | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger battery for potentially longer runtime |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | V29 charges much faster |
| Additional Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, No charger in-box | None | S21 Ultra offers wireless charging, reverse charging capabilities |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness for a sharper and more vivid viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Stronger Performance: Faster processor and GPU for smoother multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
- More Versatile Camera System: Higher resolution main sensor, two dedicated telephoto lenses, and wider ultrawide camera for greater zoom range and overall image quality.
- Advanced Audio: Enhanced audio output with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio support.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Offers added convenience for charging.
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Has a barometer and other sensors helpful for various apps
- Better Build: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen protection
vivo V29 Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable for extended use and easier to carry.
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster charging speeds for quicker power top-ups.
- Macro Camera: Allows close-up photography, lacking on the S21 Ultra.
- Newer Operating System: Comes with a newer version of Android out of the box and is supported for one additional year over the Samsung.
- Potentially Lower Price: Being a newer, non-flagship device, may offer a more budget-friendly option.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Heavier, thicker, and slower charging. Lacks a Macro Camera.
- V29: Weaker performance, lower resolution display, less versatile camera setup, basic audio output, no wireless or reverse charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a versatile camera system with advanced features and zoom capabilities.
- Media Consumers: People who value a high-resolution, bright display for watching videos and enjoying content.
- Professionals: Those who need features like reverse wireless charging and RAW image capture.
- Users that want a premium build: User who require best screen protection available
Users that want best Audio: User who value high quality audio
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography.
- Mobile gaming and intensive app usage.
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight.
- Demanding multitasking on the go.
vivo V29 Ideal Users:
- Casual Users: Those who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks, social media, and basic photography.
- Style Conscious: Users who prioritize a thin, lightweight phone with a sleek design.
- Price Sensitive: Individuals seeking a good value phone with fast charging capabilities.
Users that want a newer OS: Users who want a newer version of Android and updates.
Use Cases:
- Everyday social media, browsing, and communication.
- Quick photography and video capture.
- Extended use without worrying too much about battery life.
- Close up photography
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do I prioritize performance and camera versatility, or a thinner design and fast charging? This question helps determine if top-tier performance and camera features outweigh comfort and charging speed.
- How important is display quality for my daily usage? If you consume a lot of media or use your phone outdoors, the higher resolution and brightness of the S21 Ultra may be essential.
- Am I okay with less camera zoom and missing some camera modes to achieve faster charging and a lighter phone? If you take a lot of zoomed photos or expect high camera fidelity the S21 Ultra is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User/Multimedia: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior performance, display, and versatile camera system.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Casual User/On-the-Go: Choose the vivo V29 for its lighter design, fast charging, and overall value.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its advanced camera features, high quality zoom, and image quality.
My Choice and Explanation:
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Here's why:
While the vivo V29's fast charging and lighter design are appealing, my personal priority is on having a great display, a high quality camera system, and very good performance. I frequently use my phone for media consumption, photography, and some light gaming, all of which the S21 Ultra handles better, and the build quality adds value.
I'm willing to sacrifice slightly slower charging and a heavier build for a device that provides an exceptional screen, high quality camera with multiple modes and capabilities, and the performance I need for daily use. Although the S21 Ultra is older, it is still a premium device that offers the most compelling overall experience for my needs and user profile.
