1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers unique form factor for portability and novelty. |
| Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 165.2 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Galaxy Z Flip4 is taller, narrower, and slightly thinner when unfolded. V21 5G has a larger overall volume, Z Flip 4 has better portability when folded. |
| Weight | 176g | 187g | vivo V21 5G is slightly lighter, may be more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.44" | 6.7" | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Galaxy Z Flip4 has a sharper display, although the difference is not huge. |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 426 PPI | Both offer very sharp displays, difference not noticeable in everyday use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | vivo V21 5G has superior display technology for deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is significantly brighter and much better for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a vastly superior processor, better for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 1,050,371 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and more future-proof performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 730 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a significantly more powerful GPU, ideal for graphics-intensive applications and gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 64MP | 12.2MP | vivo V21 5G has a much higher megapixel count, potentially capturing more detail in well-lit conditions. |
| Standard Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | vivo V21 5G has a slightly wider aperture, which can help in low light. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | Unknown | 1/2.55" | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has larger sensor size than the vivo V21 5G which is good for low light. |
| Standard Camera Pixel Size | 0.80µm | 1.40µm | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has larger pixels which are generally better in low light conditions |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 44MP | 10MP | vivo V21 5G has much higher resolution for detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.4 | vivo V21 5G has a wider aperture which can help in low light conditions. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.65" | 1/3.2" | vivo V21 5G has a larger sensor size for better image quality |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 0.70µm | 1.22µm | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a bigger pixel size for better low light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens Resolution | 8MP | 13MP | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a higher resolution wide angle lens for more detailed shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | vivo V21 5G offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, which is missing from Z Flip4. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps with OIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | Both phones can record high quality videos with good stabilization |
| DxoMark Score | Not Tested | 112 (Mobile) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a tested and rated camera, while V21 5G is untested. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 3700mAh | vivo V21 5G has a slightly larger battery, which might result in marginally longer battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | vivo V21 5G charges faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Wireless charging | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has more versatile charging features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 runs a newer operating system and has more guaranteed updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has newer WiFi standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 | Both have similar Bluetooth versions |
| GPS | Basic GPS | Dual Band GPS | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers more accurate location tracking |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has an eSIM for digital carrier switching |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers a higher maximum storage option. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | Both provide sufficient RAM for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a slightly better audio experience with stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a more practical side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Basic Sensors | Advanced Sensors | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a more comprehensive sensor suite for better functionality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Slightly lighter and smaller, which can make it more comfortable for single-handed use.
- Potentially Better Selfie Camera: Higher resolution and wider aperture on the selfie camera, which could lead to more detailed and better low-light selfies.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging, can recharge the phone quicker.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: For close-up photography.
- Lower Price Point: Most likely a lower price point.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor for portability and novelty.
- Significantly Better Performance: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset provides vastly superior processing power and graphics performance.
- Superior Display: Brighter display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals and better visibility outdoors.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor size and pixel size for better image quality.
- More Versatile Charging: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and bypass charging features.
- More Future Proof: Supports newer Wifi standards, more accurate GPS, newer OS with more updates, more storage, more advanced sensors and better build quality.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers for better audio immersion
Significant Trade-offs:
- vivo V21 5G: Trades raw processing power and display quality for a more conventional form factor, potentially better selfie camera, a slightly larger battery, and faster charging.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4: Trades slightly bulkier form factor for a foldable design, much better performance, and an overall more future-proof device.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
vivo V21 5G - Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Prioritizes affordability while still getting a capable device.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: Values a high-resolution front camera for detailed photos.
- Users who prefer a standard form factor: Dislikes foldable phones.
- Users Who value fast charging: Those who want the phone to charge quickly
- Casual Gamers: Okay with light to moderate gaming on a mid-range processor.
Use Cases:
- Everyday social media browsing and content creation.
- Taking lots of selfies in various lighting conditions.
- Standard smartphone usage without pushing the device too hard.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 - Ideal User:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Values the latest technology, innovative designs, and performance.
- Power Users: Needs top-tier performance for demanding apps, gaming, and multitasking.
- Users who want maximum portability: The foldable design provides a unique form of portability
- Users who want future proof: The newer tech and features will keep this phone running for longer.
- Multimedia Consumers: Appreciates a high refresh rate, bright screen, and good audio for watching videos or playing games.
Use Cases:
- Heavy gaming, photo editing, and video editing.
- Multitasking between several apps for productivity.
- Frequent outdoor use in bright conditions.
- Anyone looking for a novelty phone with great features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? (The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is a premium phone and will cost more than the V21 5G)
- Do you value a unique form factor over raw performance? (The V21 5G has a standard form factor while the Z Flip4 has a foldable form factor)
- How important is gaming and heavy multi-tasking to you? (The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is far superior in this regard)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget Conscious User: If the budget is the primary concern and you need a good, basic phone, choose the vivo V21 5G.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Future Proofing: If performance, a great display, and features are your priority, choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
- Scenario 3: Unique Experience: If you are looking for a novelty form factor and great features, choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
While the vivo V21 5G has its strengths such as a potentially better selfie camera, faster charging, and a likely lower price point, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers a superior overall experience. Its significantly more powerful processor, brighter and smoother display, more versatile charging options, and more future-proof technology make it a much better investment for the long term.
The foldable design, while a novelty, also adds a practical element of portability. The comprehensive sensor suite, better audio, and advanced camera features all add to its appeal. Even if the price is higher, the overall package offers greater value for those looking for a high-performing and feature-rich device. I value performance, display quality and features over a slightly better selfie camera. For me, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 provides a much better, more enjoyable, and longer-lasting user experience.
