1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 157.8 × 76.2 × 7.6 mm | The vivo V21 5G is slightly taller and thinner, while the S23+ is wider and thicker. S23+ has a larger overall volume. V21 5G is easier to handle single-handedly, while the S23+ might feel more substantial. |
| Weight | 176g | 196g | The vivo V21 5G is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, especially one-handed. S23+ is heavier, potentially feeling more premium but less comfortable for long periods. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The S23+ offers significantly better scratch and drop protection with the latest Gorilla Glass, making it more durable in daily use. V21 5G screen protection is unknown, may need additional screen protection. |
Display
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.44" | 6.6" | The S23+ has a slightly larger display for a more immersive viewing experience for multimedia, gaming, and browsing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer very similar FHD+ resolution, providing sharp visuals for daily use. |
| PPI | 409 | 393 | Both have very similar pixel density. The difference will be barely noticeable in daily use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast for a high-quality viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The S23+'s 120Hz display offers smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming. The 90Hz refresh rate on V21 5G is still smooth but not as fluid as S23+. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | The S23+ has dramatically higher brightness for excellent outdoor visibility, even in bright sunlight, while vivo V21 5G's brightness is not listed. This difference is significant for usability outdoors. |
Performance
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | The S23+'s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 offers much higher performance, faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming. V21 5G is good for day-to-day use but will struggle with demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 1,508,732 | The S23+ has significantly higher benchmark scores, indicating superior performance for resource-intensive tasks. S23+ provides a better experience in demanding applications and future-proofing. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 740 | The Adreno 740 in S23+ is significantly more powerful, resulting in superior graphics performance for gaming and video editing. |
Camera
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 0.8µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.0µm pixels | While the V21 5G has higher resolution, the S23+ uses a larger sensor with bigger pixels, resulting in better low-light performance, and dynamic range. S23+ camera utilizes a higher quality sensor (Samsung GN5) vs an unknown sensor in V21 5G. |
| Selfie Camera | 44MP, f/2.0, 0.7µm pixels | 12MP, f/2.2, unknown pixel size | V21 5G has higher resolution for selfies. However, S23+ with better image processing and sensor quality may provide better overall quality in varied lighting conditions. |
| Telephoto Lens | Not Available | 10MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm pixels | The S23+ includes a telephoto lens offering optical zoom capabilities, allowing for high quality zoomed images, a feature missing from V21 5G. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, unknown pixel size | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1.4µm pixels | S23+ has slightly higher resolution and a larger sensor for wide-angle shots, providing better image quality and a wider perspective. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, unknown pixel size | Not Available | V21 5G has dedicated macro lens which allows for close up shots, which is not present on S23+. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with OIS, 1080p@30/60fps with OIS | 8K@24/30fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@30/60fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p up to 960fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | The S23+ provides significantly better video capabilities, with up to 8K recording, HDR, and various high-frame rate options, offering more flexibility and professional quality. Both have video stabilization. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, OIS, Ultra stable video, Autofocus, PDAF, etc. | 4K/8K Video, Digital/Optical zoom, Triple camera, OIS, Autofocus, PDAF, Continuous autofocus, RAW, Night Mode, etc. | Both have robust camera features, S23+ has better zoom (optical), continuous autofocus, manual focus, RAW support, and Night Mode. Vivo has digital image stabilization and an ultra-stable video mode. |
| DxOMark | Not Tested | 133 (Mobile) | The S23+ has a tested score of 133, indicating a superior camera quality compared to vivo V21 5G which hasn't been tested. |
Battery
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4700mAh | The S23+ has a significantly larger battery, providing longer battery life and less frequent charging, especially for heavy users. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | 45W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | The S23+ has faster-charging speeds, reducing downtime. S23+ also has additional charging features. |
| Features | Non-Removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, 10W Wireless (Qi/PMA), 4.5W Reverse Wireless, Non-Removable | The S23+ offers advanced features like bypass charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging, enhancing convenience and versatility. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable for single-handed use.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Potentially better detail in selfies (though image quality depends on multiple factors).
- Dedicated Macro Camera: Allows for close-up photography, which is not available on the S23+.
- Potentially Lower Price: May be more budget-friendly.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: Faster chipset for smoother multitasking and gaming.
- Much Brighter Display: Excellent outdoor visibility.
- Smoother Display: 120hz Refresh rate for smoother animations.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor with bigger pixels offers better overall image quality, especially in low light.
- Telephoto Lens: Offers optical zoom for better quality zoomed pictures.
- Superior Video Recording: Up to 8K video with additional features like HDR, EIS, and stereo sound.
- Larger Battery and Faster Charging: Longer battery life and quicker recharge times.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Charging: More convenient charging options and can charge other devices.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers superior screen protection.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Faster Wi-Fi and more comprehensive Bluetooth profiles.
- More Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers
- Better software: Newer Android version and OS upgrade path.
Trade-offs:
- The vivo V21 5G compromises on processing power and camera capabilities for a lighter design and possibly lower price.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is heavier and bulkier, but offers a premium experience with significant improvements in performance and features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for vivo V21 5G:
- Casual Users: Those who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic photography.
- Users Prioritizing Lightness and Comfort: Those who prefer a light and thin phone for ease of handling.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who are looking for an affordable phone and are not interested in high-end specs.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize high-resolution selfies.
Use Cases:
- Basic social media browsing and communication.
- Casual photography and selfies.
- Everyday app usage.
- Reading and content consumption.
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S23+:
- Power Users: Those who demand top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Those who want excellent image quality, advanced video capabilities, and optical zoom.
- Users Who Value Display Quality: Those who want a large, bright, and smooth display for media consumption.
- Users who want the latest features: Wireless charging, better build quality, better audio, and comprehensive connectivity options.
- Users willing to pay a premium: Those who are willing to pay extra for a high-quality experience and features.
Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming.
- Professional-quality photography and videography.
- Resource-intensive tasks like video editing or multitasking.
- Content creation and consumption.
- Use outdoors with bright sunlight.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The vivo V21 5G is likely to offer a better price-to-value ratio for budget-conscious users who don't need high-end specs.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23+ offers a better overall experience and feature set, justifying its higher price for users who need high-end performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is performance to you? If you are a gamer or use demanding apps, the S23+ is the clear winner. For basic use, the vivo V21 5G may suffice.
- How much do you value camera quality? If photography and video are priorities, the S23+ is a better choice due to its better sensors and additional features.
- What is your budget? If budget is a primary concern, the vivo V21 5G may be more suitable. The Samsung S23+ is a premium phone and comes with a higher price.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy gamer and content creator. Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23+ for its performance, superior display, and high-end camera.
- Scenario 2: Casual user who prioritizes comfort and affordability. The vivo V21 5G would be a better option due to its lighter design and potential lower cost.
- Scenario 3: Photography and videography enthusiast on a budget. The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is still the better choice because of the superior main camera, additional telephoto lens, video quality, and tested performance, but consider the additional cost.
- Scenario 4: User needing the best screen for bright sunlight conditions. The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a better choice for its superior brightness outdoors.
- Scenario 5: User who prioritizes battery life. The Samsung Galaxy S23+ has a much larger battery and additional charging features.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S23+. While the vivo V21 5G offers a lighter form factor and a higher-resolution selfie camera, the Samsung S23+ is a superior device in nearly every other aspect. The significantly faster processor, better display with higher brightness and refresh rate, far superior camera system with optical zoom, larger battery, and wireless charging, along with better build quality and a longer software support make it the clear winner for my needs. While it comes at a premium, the performance and features are well worth the additional cost.
