1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.1 × 75.6 × 8.9 mm | 163.2 × 76 × 7.7 mm | S21 Ultra is slightly taller and thicker, might feel more substantial in hand. Poco F4 is thinner and slightly more pocketable. |
| Weight | 227g | 195g | Poco F4 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for long usage. S21 Ultra might feel hefty. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus Front | Gorilla Glass 5 Front | S21 Ultra has superior screen protection. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.67" | S21 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, offering a more immersive experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2400 | S21 Ultra has a much sharper display. Text and images will appear clearer, especially noticeable when viewing high-resolution content. |
| PPI | 515 | 395 | S21 Ultra has significantly higher pixel density. This translates to a noticeably sharper and more detailed display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both have smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1300 nits | S21 Ultra offers better visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Different architectures and fabrication processes. Poco F4 generally benchmarks better |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 861,200 | Poco F4 shows better benchmark scores, suggesting better overall performance and smoother experience in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 650 | Different GPU configurations, both capable for gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | S21 Ultra captures more detailed photos with its higher resolution and larger sensor; Poco F4 has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto | 10.8MP (x2) | None | S21 Ultra provides optical zoom capability for better quality at distance. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP | 8MP | S21 Ultra has a Wide Angle + Macro lens, while the Poco F4 has a dedicated Wide Angle lens. |
| Macro | None | 2MP | Poco F4 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Selfie | 44MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2" | S21 Ultra captures more detailed selfies with a higher resolution sensor. Poco F4 has a larger sensor, which could be beneficial for low-light performance. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21 Ultra can record in higher resolution, making it more suitable for professional video use. |
| DxoMark Mobile | 115 | Not Available | S21 Ultra has a superior camera score according to DxoMark. |
| DxoMark Selfie | 135 | Not Available | S21 Ultra has a very high Selfie camera score. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | S21 Ultra has a larger battery, likely providing longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Poco F4 charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse Charging | None | S21 Ultra offers more charging flexibility, including reverse wireless charging |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 15 | Android 12, Upgradable to 13 | Poco F4 launches with a newer OS, but S21 Ultra will receive more updates, ultimately. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the latest WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 + Advanced Codecs | 5.2 + basic codecs | S21 Ultra supports more advanced bluetooth codecs for higher fidelity audio. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Dual-band GPS | Both provide accurate location data. Poco F4 has more systems supported. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both offer dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | 128/256/512GB | 128/256GB | S21 Ultra offers higher storage option of 512GB. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 6/8/12GB | S21 Ultra's options include more RAM, which will be helpful for demanding users. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
Audio, Security, and Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, 2 Microphones | Both provide good quality audio and stereo speakers; S21 Ultra's Noise cancellation microphone and additional audio features give it an edge for users who value audio quality. |
| Security | In-Display fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Poco F4 has a faster side-mounted sensor. |
| Sensors | Barometer | Ultrasonic Proximity | S21 Ultra includes more environmental sensors, useful for outdoor enthusiasts. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and pixel density result in a sharper, more detailed screen.
- More Versatile Cameras: Offers more lenses, including two telephoto options for optical zoom, superior image quality and high-resolution video recording capabilities (up to 8K).
- Advanced Audio Features: Noise cancellation microphone offering higher quality audio playback and clearer calls.
- Bigger Battery: Provides a larger 5000mAh battery offering longer battery life than the Poco F4.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: Adds more charging flexibility with wireless and reverse wireless charging, useful in various situations.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen scratch and drop protection.
- More RAM & Storage Options Includes models with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage.
- More Software Updates Will receive more years of software support (Android 15 vs. 13)
Practical Implications: The S21 Ultra excels in visual quality, photography and videography. Also excels at providing more features such as wireless charging and a larger capacity battery for heavy users.
Xiaomi Poco F4 Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable to hold and easier to carry for extended periods.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Better Benchmark Performance Achieves better benchmark scores meaning smoother experience.
- More GPS Systems: Supports more GPS systems for improved accuracy.
- Dedicated Macro Lens Has a dedicated macro camera for close up photos
Practical Implications: The Poco F4 offers better ergonomics, faster charging, improved performance at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- S21 Ultra: Larger, heavier, slower charging
- Poco F4: Lower camera quality, fewer features, basic battery features
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Users who need the best camera quality and versatility, including high-resolution video recording.
- Power Users: People who demand peak performance, larger RAM and storage and long battery life with wireless charging features.
- Media Consumers: Those who want the best display quality for watching videos, playing games, and browsing.
- Users that want a premium flagship experience
Use Cases:
- Professional photography or videography, requiring advanced zoom and high-resolution shooting.
- Daily use, including heavy multitasking, demanding gaming, and prolonged media consumption.
- Frequent travelers who need dependable battery life and wireless charging convenience.
Xiaomi Poco F4 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize value and are looking for a good performing phone for the price.
- Gamers: Those who need good performance at a lower price.
- Casual Users: People who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks.
- Users who prioritize ergonomics Lighter, thinner design appeals to those with comfort in mind.
Use Cases:
- Casual gaming and social media usage.
- General daily tasks and media consumption without needing top-tier specifications.
- Users who prefer fast charging to minimize downtime.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Xiaomi Poco F4: Provides excellent performance and fast charging at a more affordable price point.
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G: Justifies its premium price with a superior display, camera system, and overall feature set.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is camera quality and versatility to you? (S21 Ultra excels here)
- Do you prioritize battery life and wireless charging convenience? (S21 Ultra has a larger battery and additional features)
- How much value do you place on price vs. performance and premium features? (Poco F4 is the better budget option, S21 Ultra is the premium choice)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional photographer needing high image quality and versatility: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G for its superior camera system.
- Scenario 2: Gamer on a budget who wants maximum performance for the price: Choose the Xiaomi Poco F4 for its faster charging, and better benchmark performance.
- Scenario 3: Everyday user wanting a balanced experience without breaking the bank: Choose the Xiaomi Poco F4 for its lighter design and fast charging.
- Scenario 4: User who needs top quality screen and top software support: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G.
Here's why:
While the Poco F4 is a good option for its price point, my priorities lean towards a premium experience. The S21 Ultra's superior display, more versatile camera system, and additional features like wireless charging are all aspects I value more than just raw performance and a lighter phone. I also appreciate that it will continue to receive updates, extending it's lifecycle for longer. While the Poco F4 is more affordable and has fast charging, the S21 Ultra’s superior screen and camera performance makes it worth the additional cost for my specific needs. I also value the additional battery capacity and wireless charging features, as I find them convenient and would utilize them often. For me, the S21 Ultra provides a more holistic and premium experience, aligning with my priorities as a user who appreciates high-quality displays and robust camera capabilities.
