1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Realme 12+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-05-06 | 2024-03-02 | Realme 12+ is significantly newer, likely with newer software and features |
| Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 163 × 75.5 × 7.9 mm | Realme 12+ is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use |
| Weight | 176g | 190g | vivo V21 5G is lighter, which might be preferred for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.44" | 6.67" | Realme 12+ has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness; both are Full HD |
| PPI | 409 | 395 | Similar pixel density, meaning both displays will appear similarly sharp |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both displays |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12+ offers smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ is dramatically brighter, ideal for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. The V21 5G has an unknown max brightness value, making it difficult to recommend for bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Realme 12+ has a newer, more efficient chipset leading to better performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 601,000 | Realme 12+ is significantly faster for apps, multitasking, and gaming |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Realme 12+ has a more powerful GPU, resulting in better gaming performance |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera Res. | 64MP, f/1.79 | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/2", Sony LYT-600 | vivo V21 5G has higher resolution but Realme 12+ has a larger sensor and might perform better in low light |
| Front Camera Res. | 44MP, f/2.0, 1/2.65", Samsung S5KGH1 | 16MP, f/2.45 | vivo V21 5G has a much higher resolution front camera, potentially capturing more detailed selfies |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both have similar wide-angle capabilities |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have similar macro capabilities |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps OIS | 4K@30fps EIS | Both record 4K but V21 5G offers Optical Image Stabilization while Realme 12+ has Electronic Image Stabilization. OIS is generally better. |
| Camera Features | Ultra stable video, Continuous shooting, Front Flash | No mention | V21 5G offers more software features |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12+ has a significantly larger battery, likely providing longer battery life |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Realme 12+ charges much faster |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Realme 12+ has a much newer Android version with added features and security updates |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | up to 802.11ac | up to WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Realme 12+ has WiFi 6, providing faster and more reliable connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC | 5.2, LE, EDR, HID | Realme 12+ has a newer Bluetooth version, with additional profile support, though V21 5G has additional codec support |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | vivo V21 5G supports more satellite systems, potentially more accurate location |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB | Realme 12+ offers a 512GB option, which is better for those who need more storage |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB or 12GB | Realme 12+ has a 12GB RAM option, offering better performance for multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Realme 12+ has superior audio capabilities |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection details are not provided for either device |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both have the same sensor suite |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and Slimmer: More comfortable to hold for some users.
- Higher Resolution Front Camera: Better for selfies with more detail.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Generally superior stabilization for videos
- More Satellite Support for GPS: Galileo support provides potentially better location accuracy.
- Additional Camera Features: More camera software features such as Continuous Shooting and Front Flash
Realme 12+ Advantages:
- Newer Device: Released significantly later, benefiting from newer technologies.
- Significantly More Powerful Processor: Better performance for all tasks.
- Larger Display with 120Hz Refresh Rate: Smoother visuals and more screen real estate.
- Much Higher Brightness: Superior outdoor visibility.
- Larger Battery with Faster Charging: Longer battery life and quicker recharge times.
- Newer Android OS: More up-to-date software and security features.
- WiFi 6 Support: Faster and more reliable WiFi connectivity.
- Superior Audio Quality: Better audio playback and clearer calls.
- Option for Higher RAM and Storage: 12GB RAM and 512GB storage options available.
Trade-offs:
- vivo V21 5G sacrifices overall performance and battery life for a lighter design and better selfie camera.
- Realme 12+ is slightly bulkier but has significant advantages in other categories like performance, battery, and display brightness. It lacks OIS for the main camera and the very high resolution selfie camera present in the vivo phone.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for vivo V21 5G:
- Selfie Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize front camera quality and take many selfies.
- Users Who Prefer Lighter Phones: Those who prioritize comfort for long usage periods and a smaller device.
- Users who value OIS: Those looking for the best video stability for filming.
- Users on a Budget: It's likely that the vivo V21 5G will be available at a lower price.
Use Cases for vivo V21 5G:
- Social media content creation focused on selfies and front camera video recording.
- Everyday use for users who prioritize comfort and portability.
Ideal User for Realme 12+:
- Power Users: Individuals who need high performance for gaming, multitasking and intensive apps.
- Multimedia Consumers: People who watch videos or play games and need the better audio and smoother display.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a display that is visible in bright sunlight.
- Users Needing Longer Battery Life: Users who need to be able to use their phone for a whole day without needing to recharge.
Use Cases for Realme 12+:
- Mobile gaming and demanding application usage.
- Outdoor photography and video recording in varied conditions.
- Longer usage periods without needing to charge.
- Streaming content with enhanced audio quality.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Realme 12+ provides a much better price-to-value ratio due to its superior processing power, battery life, display, and modern software and connectivity. While the vivo V21 5G may be available at a lower price now, the performance difference is significant.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your priority: performance or camera? If performance is more important, then Realme 12+ is better. If you need a great selfie camera, then vivo V21 5G should be considered.
- How important is battery life and charging speed? If you need long battery life, fast charging then the Realme 12+ is a better option.
- How important is having the latest Android software? If you want the latest OS with the latest features and security updates then Realme 12+ will be the preferred choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Basic Use): For simple everyday use, both phones will be acceptable, but the Realme 12+ is still better due to its more modern platform and battery.
- Scenario 2 (Heavy Use): If you play games, multitask or need to use your phone for demanding apps, the Realme 12+ is the superior choice because of its better processor, RAM and display.
- Scenario 3 (Selfie Focused): If the primary use is taking selfies, then the vivo V21 5G's higher resolution front camera might be preferable. However, the Realme 12+ provides better performance overall.
- Scenario 4 (Outdoor Use): If bright sunlight visibility is crucial then the Realme 12+ is the clear winner thanks to its higher brightness display.
My Choice and Why
I would choose the Realme 12+. The performance difference between the two phones is considerable, and the Realme 12+ offers a better user experience in almost every category besides the front camera. The significantly superior chipset, display with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness, larger battery with fast charging, newer Android version and better audio quality outweigh the vivo V21 5G's advantages of being slightly more portable, having a higher resolution selfie camera and OIS for video. While the V21 5G has a better selfie camera and OIS, the overall performance and longevity of the Realme 12+ make it a more compelling purchase in the long run. The V21 5G is dated and for most users the additional features it offers will not compensate for the gap in performance, battery life, and software. The Realme 12+ is a more future-proofed and versatile choice, and I value a good all-rounder.
