1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 158.5 × 75.9 × 7.7 mm | The vivo V21 5G is slightly taller and thinner, while the S24+ is wider and thicker. The S24+ has a slightly larger overall volume, which may affect one-handed use. |
| Weight | 176g | 196g | The vivo V21 5G is significantly lighter by 20g, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S24+ screen is more scratch and shatter resistant |
Display
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.44" | 6.7" | S24+ offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | S24+ has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 513 | S24+ display appears noticeably sharper, leading to a better overall visual experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not Specified | vivo V21 5G uses AMOLED, offering deeper blacks and higher contrast, which typically translates to better color reproduction and power efficiency in dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S24+ provides smoother scrolling and animations, making the interface feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2600 nits | S24+ has drastically superior outdoor visibility in bright sunlight conditions. |
Performance
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | S24+ has a significantly more powerful and efficient processor, ensuring faster performance in apps, gaming, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 1,639,695 | S24+ offers a massive performance advantage, making it more future-proof and better suited for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 750 (1 GHz) / Xclipse 940 | S24+ provides significantly better graphics performance for smoother gaming and video editing. |
Camera
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP, f/1.79, 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.00µm, 1/1.57" sensor, Samsung GN3 | vivo V21 5G has a higher megapixel count, while the S24+ has a larger sensor and slightly smaller aperture which indicates better low light capture. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP, f/2.0, 1/2.65" sensor, Samsung S5KGH1, 0.70µm | 12MP, f/2.2, Samsung S5K3LU, Unknown pixel size | vivo V21 5G has a much higher megapixel count, while S24+ sensor details are missing. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" sensor, Samsung S5K3K1, 1.00µm | S24+ has a telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities, a feature the V21 5G lacks. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, Unknown pixel size | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor, Sony IMX564, 1.40µm | S24+ offers higher resolution and larger pixel size on its wide-angle lens for better quality images. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, Unknown pixel size | None | vivo V21 5G offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps with OIS, 1080p@30/60fps with OIS, Slow-motion: 120fps | 8K@24/30fps HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@30/60fps HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p@30/60/240fps HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound; Slow-motion: 240fps | S24+ offers much higher video recording capabilities with 8K, HDR, and enhanced stabilization. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Front Flash | Night Mode 2.0, 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | S24+ adds Night Mode 2.0, Optical Zoom, 8K Video, and RAW capture, while the vivo V21 5G has "Ultra stable video" and "Front Flash". |
Battery
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4900mAh | S24+ has a significantly larger battery, promising longer battery life on a single charge. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 45W fast charging, Li-Ion | S24+ has slightly faster charging speeds and more battery capacity. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging | S24+ has more versatile charging options with wireless and reverse charging capabilities, along with bypass charging for using the phone while plugged in. |
Other
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 14, upgradeable to 21 | S24+ has a newer version of Android, offering enhanced features, improved security, and longer software support. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/6E, Wi-Fi MiMO | S24+ supports newer WiFi standards for faster speeds and lower latency, especially with WiFi 6E |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 LE | S24+ has a newer Bluetooth version for improved connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | S24+ supports more satellite systems for more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | S24+ offers the flexibility of using eSIMs, while V21 only has physical SIM slots. |
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB or 512GB | S24+ offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | S24+ provides more RAM, improving multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio Quality | Basic | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | S24+ provides clearer calls and a richer audio experience with stereo speakers. |
| Security | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both have basic fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | S24+ features a broader set of sensors, which enable additional functionalities, especially in fitness and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter Design: The V21 5G is significantly lighter (176g vs 196g), making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use.
- Higher Resolution Front Camera: 44MP front camera offers potentially more detailed selfies than the 12MP of the S24+.
- Macro Lens: Offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, which the S24+ lacks.
- Potentially lower price: Considering it's an older phone it will likely be cheaper.
Samsung Galaxy S24+ Advantages:
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip provides a huge performance advantage, resulting in smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and much better gaming.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, higher pixel density, smoother 120Hz refresh rate, and much brighter screen make the S24+ display far superior.
- Advanced Camera System: Better main camera sensor, a telephoto lens for zoom, wider angle sensor, and superior video recording with 8K resolution.
- Larger Battery: 900mAh bigger battery capacity allows for longer usage times.
- Faster and More Versatile Charging: Faster 45W charging, along with wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- More Modern Features: Newer Android version, better Wi-Fi standards, better Bluetooth, eSIM support, stereo speakers, noise cancelling microphones, and additional sensors.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
Trade-offs:
- The vivo V21 5G sacrifices performance and features for a lighter weight and a higher resolution front camera and macro lens.
- The Samsung S24+ prioritizes performance and modern features but is slightly heavier and larger.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
vivo V21 5G Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a lighter phone and don't need cutting-edge performance.
- Individuals focused on selfie quality and the ability to capture macro shots.
- Users who are on a budget and do not need the advanced features of a high-end phone.
Use Cases for vivo V21 5G:
- Basic daily tasks like social media browsing, communication, and light app usage.
- Taking a lot of selfies and macro photography.
- Users who need a portable, light phone they can easily carry around all day.
Samsung Galaxy S24+ Ideal User:
- Users who demand top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and intensive apps.
- Individuals who value a high-quality display for media consumption and a smooth experience.
- Users who require an advanced camera system with versatile zoom capabilities and high-quality video.
- Tech-savvy individuals who want the latest features and technologies.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Mobile gamers who want the best possible performance.
- Users who watch a lot of videos and want a crisp, bright display.
- Content creators who need a high-quality camera system with 8K video.
- Power users who multitask heavily and need a phone that can keep up.
- Users who require long battery life and quick charging.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
The vivo V21 5G will likely have a lower price, but this comes with significant performance and feature trade-offs compared to the S24+. The S24+ is a more premium device, with a price tag reflecting its high-end capabilities. If budget is not a significant concern, the S24+ delivers far more value for the user.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier performance for gaming and demanding applications, or is basic performance adequate?
- Display Priorities: Is a high-resolution, bright display with a smooth refresh rate essential for your usage, or is a basic display sufficient?
- Camera Requirements: Do you need a versatile camera system with excellent zoom and video recording capabilities, or is a basic camera system adequate for your needs?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If budget is the primary concern, the vivo V21 5G will likely be the more affordable option. However, users need to understand that they are sacrificing a lot of performance and other features for the cheaper price.
- Scenario 2: Performance Enthusiast: If you need the best possible performance for gaming, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is the clear choice due to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, more RAM, better GPU, superior cooling, and the brighter higher refresh rate screen.
- Scenario 3: Photography Focus: If you need the best image quality, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ has a more advanced camera system, with telephoto and wide angle capabilities and better overall specs.
- Scenario 4: All-Around Use: If you want a balance of performance, camera, and display quality without exceeding budget, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ offers a superior overall package, but at a higher price point.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S24+. The S24+ provides a far superior overall experience. While the V21 is lighter and has a higher resolution front-facing camera, it is easily outmatched by the S24+ in practically every other category. The performance gains alone are a huge benefit, making the S24+ much more enjoyable to use on a daily basis. Furthermore, features such as 120Hz screen, brighter display, much higher quality camera and superior battery technology make it the clear choice for me.
The only scenario I would choose the vivo V21 5G would be if it was available for a significantly lower price, and the budget was the most important factor. Even then, the drastically reduced performance of the V21 would likely cause a disappointing user experience, especially if coming from a more modern phone.
