1. Specifications Comparison
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Launch Date | 2021-05-06 | 2024-03-28 | The Samsung Galaxy M55 is significantly newer, likely having more up-to-date software and features. |
Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 163.9 × 76.5 × 7.8 mm | The M55 is slightly larger and thicker, potentially making it less comfortable for single-handed use. |
Weight | 176g | 180g | Both have a very similar weight, with a negligible difference. |
Display | |||
Size | 6.44" | 6.7" | The M55 offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both displays offer the same level of sharpness, with clear visuals. |
PPI | 409 | 393 | The V21 has a negligibly higher pixel density, which won't be noticeable in day to day use. |
Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use AMOLED for vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The M55 has a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is unknown for both, making outdoor visibility performance unclear. |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4 nm) | The M55's newer Snapdragon chip offers significantly better performance, faster app loading, and better power efficiency. |
AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 698,000 | The M55 has more than double the benchmark score, indicating much better overall performance. |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 644 | The M55's Adreno GPU provides superior gaming performance and better graphics rendering. |
Camera | |||
Standard Lens | 64MP f/1.79 | 50MP f/1.8 | The V21 has a higher resolution sensor and slightly wider aperture; the practical difference will depend on image processing algorithms. |
Selfie Lens | 44MP f/2.0, 1/2.65", 0.70µm | 50MP f/2.2 | The M55 has higher resolution, but the V21 has a wider aperture and larger sensor; low-light performance may differ significantly between them. |
Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2, 1.12µm | Both have comparable wide-angle cameras; the M55 has larger pixel size. |
Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both have basic macro lenses for close-up shots. |
Video | Up to 4K@30fps with OIS | Up to 4K@30fps with OIS, EIS | Both offer similar quality recording, but the M55 has both OIS and EIS, potentially offering more stable video. |
Slow-Motion Video | 120 fps | 240 fps | The M55 can record higher framerate slow-motion video. |
Camera Features | OIS, PDAF, HDR, digital zoom etc; Additional features: Ultra stable video, Front Flash | OIS, EIS, PDAF, HDR, digital zoom etc | The V21 has an additional front flash and "ultra stable" mode; the M55 has EIS. |
Battery | |||
Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | The M55 has a significantly larger battery, leading to longer battery life. |
Charging | 33W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 45W fast charging, Li-Ion | The M55 charges faster and has a more modern charging technology. |
Software | |||
OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | The M55 has a much newer Android version, providing access to the latest features and security updates. |
Connectivity | |||
WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | The M55 supports faster and more efficient WiFi 6. |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.2 | The M55 has a newer Bluetooth standard offering better reliability and range. |
GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC System | The M55 has a more comprehensive GPS system with support for additional satellite systems, leading to better location accuracy. |
SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality for two phone numbers on one device. |
Storage | |||
Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both come with similar storage options, either 128GB or 256 GB. |
RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | Both have 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for smooth multitasking and app performance. |
Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
Audio | |||
Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos | The M55 offers superior audio quality with Dolby Atmos support. |
Security | |||
Fingerprint | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both have standard fingerprint sensors. |
Build Quality | |||
Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | The M55 uses Gorilla Glass 5 which provides a much more durable screen. |
Sensors | |||
Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Geomagnetic | The M55 has a geomagnetic sensor offering more functionality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Potentially Better Selfie Camera (Low-Light): Although lower resolution, the larger sensor and wider aperture may provide better selfie quality in low light conditions, but without tests, this can't be concluded.
- Front Flash: Useful for better selfies in very dark conditions.
- Slightly Lighter: Weighs slightly less than the Samsung Galaxy M55.
Samsung Galaxy M55 Advantages:
- Significantly Better Performance: The Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chipset provides a much faster and smoother experience in all tasks.
- Longer Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery provides noticeably better endurance for all-day usage.
- Faster Charging: 45W charging reduces the amount of time the phone needs to be plugged in.
- Newer Software: Android 14 provides the latest features and security updates.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for a more fluid visual experience.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos provides an enhanced audio experience for music and videos.
- Superior Connectivity: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 offer faster and more efficient wireless connections.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 ensures better protection from scratches and damage.
- More Accurate GPS: Supports more satellite systems for better location tracking.
- More Stable Video Recording: Offers both OIS and EIS for smoother video footage.
Trade-offs:
- The V21 has a slightly better selfie camera on paper and slightly better primary camera, however, the M55 makes up for it with better post-processing capabilities.
- The M55 is slightly larger and heavier than the V21.
- The V21's advantage is that it has a front-facing flash which might be important for some users.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
vivo V21 5G Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize selfie quality and may often take photos in low-light environments.
- Users who don't need the very best in performance and are willing to trade performance for potentially better front camera.
- Users who prefer slightly lighter devices.
- Users on a tight budget looking for an older device.
Use Cases:
* Casual social media users focused on selfies and everyday snapshots.
* Users who prioritize basic smartphone functionality and are less demanding of processing power.
Samsung Galaxy M55 Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize overall performance and want a snappy and responsive experience.
- Users who value a smooth display for media consumption and gaming.
- Users who need all-day battery life and faster charging.
- Users who value the latest software features and security updates.
- Users who want the best video recording experience with both OIS and EIS.
- Users who play mobile games and want the best gaming experience in the budget segment.
- Users who prioritize more modern connectivity standards such as WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
Use Cases:
* Frequent gamers or users who run demanding applications.
* Users who watch a lot of videos or consume multimedia.
* Users who rely heavily on their smartphones throughout the day and want long battery life.
* Users who record a lot of videos and value stability.
* Users who travel a lot and need the best possible GPS.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: How important is high performance for my daily tasks and gaming?
- Battery Life: Do I prioritize battery endurance and fast charging for all-day use?
- Software Preference: Do I need the latest features and security updates provided by Android 14?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If you're on a very tight budget and need a basic phone with a decent front-facing camera, the vivo V21 5G might be a reasonable option, but keep in mind that its performance and software are outdated.
- Performance and Multimedia User: If you need the best performance for gaming and multimedia, along with long battery life and modern features, the Samsung Galaxy M55 is the clear choice.
- Selfie Lover (Low Light): If you prioritize selfie quality, especially in low light, the vivo V21 might be a better choice. However, the actual low light capabilities of each phone can vary based on post processing.
My Choice: I would choose the Samsung Galaxy M55. While the vivo V21 5G has some advantages in the front camera, the overall package of the Samsung Galaxy M55 is far superior for the average user. The significantly better performance, longer battery life, faster charging, newer software, smoother display, better connectivity, and enhanced audio experience makes it a more future-proof and all-around better phone. The M55 also has a more comprehensive GPS system, more stable video recording, and better screen protection. The newer chipset and software on the M55 will ensure a smoother user experience and will also receive more updates compared to the much older V21 5G. While the V21's selfie camera has some potential, the superior performance and the additional features offered by the M55 make it the better choice for me.