1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | ZTE Blade A75 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | 164.1 x 75.8 x 8.6 mm | Slightly more compact, the ZTE is thinner; Samsung is negligibly taller and narrower. |
| Weight | 227g | 189g | ZTE is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.6" | Samsung provides a slightly larger viewing area for media and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 720x1612 | Samsung's display is significantly sharper, with much greater detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 267 | Samsung's display is considerably clearer, with smoother text and sharper images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Samsung's AMOLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Samsung's 120Hz provides smoother scrolling and animations, a more fluid feel. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | Samsung is dramatically brighter, making it much easier to see outdoors in sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Samsung's 5nm chip is much more powerful, offering faster performance for all tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,000 | 240,000 | Samsung is significantly faster for gaming, multitasking, and app loading. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Samsung's more capable GPU enhances gaming and graphics-intensive application performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | Samsung captures significantly more detail in photos, enabling greater cropping and editing flexibility. |
| Telephoto Lens | Yes (x2) | No | Samsung offers optical zoom capabilities for closer shots with minimal quality loss. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | Yes | No | Samsung captures a wider field of view and close-up details. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 8MP | Samsung takes much higher-resolution selfies with more details and clarity. |
| Video Resolution | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Samsung records much higher quality videos, with options for professional-grade content. |
| DxOMark Score (Mobile) | 115 (Photo: 121, Video: 100) | N/A | Samsung offers superior camera performance based on benchmark scores. |
| DxOMark Score (Selfie) | 135 (Photo: 133, Video: 140) | N/A | Samsung offers superior selfie camera performance based on benchmark scores. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery life potential. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 22.5W Fast Charging | Samsung charges slightly faster |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | No | Samsung provides the convenience of wireless charging, and the ability to charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 13 | ZTE ships with a newer version of Android (13 vs 11). |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Samsung supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi, especially in busy networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | Samsung's newer Bluetooth offers more features and potentially better stability and energy efficiency. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | Standard | Samsung has better GPS accuracy using dual-band technology. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512GB | 128/256 GB | Samsung has a higher storage option (512GB) for users with more media. |
| RAM | 12/16GB | 4/8GB | Samsung has considerably more RAM for smoother multitasking, app switching, and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation, Stereo Speakers | DTS / DTS X | Samsung provides an immersive and higher quality audio experience |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | ZTE offers easier access to the fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Samsung’s screen is more resistant to scratches and shattering |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, AMOLED technology, higher refresh rate, and brightness make for a much better visual experience.
- Massively Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chip provides much faster processing, leading to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better gaming.
- Far Superior Camera System: Multiple telephoto lenses, higher resolution sensors, and advanced video recording capabilities make for much better photography and videography.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Adds convenience and allows the phone to act as a power bank for other devices.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 provide faster and more efficient connectivity.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers offer a superior audio experience.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection.
- Additional sensors: Compass and Barometer provide more comprehensive sensor suite.
ZTE Blade A75 4G Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for extended use and carrying around.
- Newer Android OS Out of the Box: Ships with a newer version of Android.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Potentially easier to access.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G sacrifices lighter weight and comes at a much higher price point for its substantial performance and feature advantages.
- The ZTE Blade A75 4G is more affordable and lightweight but delivers significantly lower performance, a less impressive display and camera system and lacks many advanced features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Power Users: Individuals who demand top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Those who value high-quality photos and videos with zoom capabilities.
- Media Consumers: Users who want the best possible visual experience for watching videos, playing games, and browsing content.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want cutting-edge features and the latest technologies.
- Users who prioritize build quality and durability.
Specific Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G:
- Professional photographers or videographers needing a reliable mobile camera.
- Gamers seeking the best mobile gaming experience.
- Users needing powerful performance for resource-intensive apps.
- Individuals who frequently consume media or work on their phone.
- Travelers needing an excellent camera and GPS.
Ideal User for ZTE Blade A75 4G:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals who prioritize affordability over high-end features.
- Basic Smartphone Users: Those who need a phone for basic communication, browsing, and light app usage.
- Users who prioritize lightweight phone.
Specific Use Cases for ZTE Blade A75 4G:
- Daily calling and messaging.
- Casual browsing and social media.
- Basic photo and video capture in good lighting.
- Users who need a second phone.
- First smartphone for kids or older adults.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Samsung is a significantly more expensive phone and may be a poor choice for those on a tight budget.
- How important is performance and display quality? If you prioritize a smooth, fast experience and high-quality visuals, the Samsung is the clear choice.
- What are your primary uses for the phone? If you take a lot of photos, play demanding games, or need advanced features, the Samsung is preferable. If you need a lightweight phone for basic usage, the ZTE will suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget is tight; need a basic phone. Choose the ZTE Blade A75 4G for its lower price and essential smartphone capabilities.
- Scenario 2: Want the best possible mobile experience regardless of price. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the better option with its superior display, performance, and camera.
- Scenario 3: Prioritize a good camera and media experience with powerful performance. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G provides the higher-quality photos, videos, and performance that the user needs.
- Scenario 4: Require a lightweight device and basic functionality. The ZTE Blade A75 4G is the better option as it is lighter and more comfortable for longer use.
What I would choose and why!
Given my preference for superior performance, display quality, and camera capabilities, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. While it's an older phone, the technology packed into it still surpasses the capabilities of most budget phones on the market, and it holds up against many modern flagship models. While more expensive than the ZTE Blade A75 4G, the advantages in daily use are worth the investment. For me, the superior display, excellent camera, faster performance and additional features outweigh the lighter weight and newer OS of the ZTE. I value a high-performance phone for gaming, content creation, and daily media consumption, which the S21 Ultra offers in abundance. The wireless charging and reverse charging is also a great advantage, further adding value to my daily usage of the phone.
