When searching for the perfect smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S series has consistently been among the top contenders. With its state-of-the-art features, stunning design, and powerful performance, the series keeps fans coming back for more. The introduction of the Samsung Galaxy S21 brought excitement and curiosity within the tech community, particularly among users of previous models such as the S20. The question that lingers is: Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 better than the S20? In this article, we’ll delve deep into the similarities, differences, advancements, and potential drawbacks of these two flagship smartphones to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
In terms of design, both the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S20 share some traits, but there are distinct elements that set them apart.
Material and Finish
The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a glass back and a metal frame, which gives it a premium feel. The S21, however, has introduced some unique design choices.
- Samsung Galaxy S20: Glass back with Gorilla Glass 6, and an aluminum frame.
- Samsung Galaxy S21: Glass back with Gorilla Glass Victus and a recycled plastic frame, making it more eco-friendly.
While both smartphones are visually striking, the S21’s updated materials enhance durability and cater to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Colors and Variants
The Galaxy S21 comes in a wide array of colors, including Phantom Gray, Phantom White, Phantom Violet, and Phantom Pink. The S20 also offers a colorful palette but leans more toward traditional tones. Personal style can play a significant role in your choice, so consider which aesthetic aligns with you when deciding between these devices.
Display Technology
Both the S20 and S21 feature impressive AMOLED displays that elevate the viewing experience. However, there are some technological advancements and tweaks in the S21’s display.
Screen Size and Resolution
- Samsung Galaxy S20: 6.2 inches, 3200 x 1440 pixels (Quad HD+), with a pixel density of around 525 ppi.
- Samsung Galaxy S21: 6.2 inches, 2400 x 1080 pixels (Full HD+), with a pixel density of around 421 ppi.
While both devices have a similar screen size, the S21 has a lower resolution, forgoing the Quad HD+ for Full HD+. This shift aids battery saving, although it sacrifices a bit of sharpness in comparison to its predecessor. Many casual users may not notice the difference, but enthusiasts might prefer the S20’s sharper display.
Refresh Rate and Brightness
Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, which is excellent for smooth scrolling and gaming. However, the S21 boasts improved peak brightness, peaking at an astonishing 1300 nits compared to S20’s 1200 nits. This enhancement makes the S21’s display slightly more impressive in outdoor environments, proving advantageous for users who often use their phones in bright sunlight.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, performance is critical for tech enthusiasts, and both the S20 and S21 deliver impressive capabilities.
Chipset and Memory
The Samsung Galaxy S20 is powered by either the Exynos 990 or the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, depending on the region. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 utilizes the newer Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, which provides notable enhancements in processing power, efficiency, and AI capabilities.
- RAM:
- S20: Options for 8GB or 12GB of RAM.
- S21: Comes with 8GB of RAM.
Although the RAM options are the same, the new chipset in the Galaxy S21 makes it a more future-proof device, ensuring that it can handle upcoming apps and software improvements effectively.
Software Updates and Features
Both devices run on Samsung’s One UI, layered on top of Android. However, the S21 ships with Android 11 and is guaranteed to receive additional updates for a longer time compared to the S20. This is a significant plus for users who intend to keep their smartphones for the long haul.
The S21 also comes with improved software features, particularly in photography and video recording, ensuring you’ll get the most out of your device.
Camera Capabilities
One of the most compelling aspects of any flagship smartphone is its camera system.
Camera Configuration
Both smartphones feature versatile camera setups, but the S21 includes some enhancements that set it apart.
- Samsung Galaxy S20’s Camera Setup: Triple-lens system—12 MP Ultra Wide, 12 MP Wide, and 64 MP Telephoto lens.
- Samsung Galaxy S21’s Camera Setup: Triple-lens system—12 MP Ultra Wide, 12 MP Wide, and 64 MP Telephoto lens. Featuring enhanced night modes, improved autofocus, and better image stabilization.
The camera specs may appear similar on paper, but the S21’s advancements in software provide a significant upgrade in overall performance, especially in low-light conditions and video capture.
Video Recording and Special Features
Both the S20 and S21 can record video in 8K resolution, but the S21 includes enhanced features like Director’s View, which allows users to capture video from multiple lenses simultaneously. The improved software for image processing benefits video quality and dynamic range, giving an edge to the S21 documentation.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another crucial factor to consider when comparing these two devices.
Battery Capacity
- Samsung Galaxy S20: 4000 mAh
- Samsung Galaxy S21: 4000 mAh
Both devices offer a similar battery capacity, but the S21’s chipset optimizes energy efficiency. Consequently, users may experience slightly better battery life on the S21.
Charging Options
Both smartphones support fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging, so you won’t miss out on versatility regardless of the model you choose. However, note that the charging speeds may differ slightly; the S21 can manage to charge more efficiently due to hardware improvements.
Pricing and Value for Money
When debunking the “which is better” mystery, pricing plays a significant role in the decision-making process.
Current Pricing Trends
Typically, the S20 is available at a reduced price in comparison to its successor. Its lower price tag can be appealing if you’re on a budget. However, investing in the S21 might provide better long-term value due to its newer technology, guaranteed updates, and enhanced features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both the Samsung Galaxy S20 and S21 offer exceptional features and performance, the Galaxy S21 emerges as the better device across several fronts. With improved materials, enhanced display brightness, a superior chipset, and refined camera capabilities, the S21 proves to be a worthy investment for anyone in the market for a flagship smartphone.
However, if budget constraints are a concern, and you’re satisfied with the features that the S20 provides, that model may still be a viable option. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether you’re seeking the latest advancements and features or trying to get the best value for your money.
As smartphone technology continues to evolve rapidly, decisions that were once difficult are easier than ever, thanks to comprehensive comparisons like this. Whether you go for the S20 or the S21, you will undoubtedly be thrilled with the power and performance of a Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
What are the main differences in design between the Galaxy S21 and S20?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a more refined design with a flatter edge display and a unique contour cut camera housing that blends seamlessly into the bezels. It has a matte finish on the plastic back for a modern look, while the S20 carries a glass back that offers a premium feel but can be more prone to fingerprints and smudges. The weight and dimensions of both models are similar, but the S21 feels slightly lighter due to its materials.
In terms of dimensions, the S21 measures 71.2 x 151.7 x 7.9 mm and weighs around 169 grams, while the S20 is 69.1 x 151.7 x 7.9 mm and weighs slightly more at 163 grams. Both phones come with Gorilla Glass protection for durability and are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance. However, users may prefer the slightly more modern aesthetics of the S21 due to its updates in design language.
How do the cameras on the Galaxy S21 and S20 compare?
Both the Galaxy S21 and S20 are equipped with impressive camera systems, but the S21 features some enhancements that improve overall performance. The S21’s rear camera setup includes a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, a 12 MP wide-angle lens, and a 64 MP telephoto lens, similar to the S20 which sports an ultra-wide, a wide, and a 64 MP telephoto camera. Both devices support 3x hybrid zoom and 30x digital zoom; however, the S21 offers improved low-light performance with better night mode capabilities.
In addition, the S21 introduces new software enhancements like Director’s View and Single Take mode, which makes shooting videos and capturing multiple photo styles easier and more fun. Overall, while both devices perform admirably in photography, the S21’s camera upgrades and software improvements give it an edge, especially for users looking to take advantage of the latest in mobile photography.
What are the differences in display quality between the S21 and S20?
The display on the Galaxy S21 is a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, while the S20 has a slightly larger 6.2-inch display, but both offer the same resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. Both devices support a 120Hz refresh rate, making them great for fast scrolling and gaming. However, the S21 also includes enhancements in color accuracy and outdoor visibility, giving it an edge in certain lighting conditions.
Despite the similarity in size and resolution, users may notice the S21’s adjustments in display technology, which contribute to improved brightness levels and contrast ratio. The adaptive refresh rate in the S21 is also more efficient, which can help preserve battery life during everyday use. In conclusion, while both phones boast excellent displays, the S21 offers subtle yet notable improvements that enhance the viewing experience.
Which device offers better battery performance?
When it comes to battery life, the Galaxy S21 features a slightly smaller 4000 mAh battery compared to the S20’s 4000 mAh battery. However, the S21 optimizes battery life more effectively due to its new processor, the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, depending on the region, which is more power-efficient than the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 used in the S20. Real-world tests show that users often experience longer usage times and less need for frequent charging with the S21.
Additionally, both devices support 25W fast charging and wireless charging, but the S21 introduces more advanced battery management features that help prolong overall battery health. Users have reported that the S21 performs well under various conditions, making it an excellent choice for heavy users or those who rely on their devices throughout the day. Overall, the S21 is better positioned for longevity and efficiency, making it the preferred option for battery performance.
Are there significant differences in software features between the two models?
Both the Galaxy S21 and S20 shipped with Samsung’s One UI, but the S21 launched with One UI 3.1, which comes with several new features and optimizations. These include enhancements to privacy settings, better widget customization, and innovative features like Object Eraser, which allows users to easily remove unwanted objects from photos. These software improvements make the S21 more appealing due to added functionality and user-friendly features.
Furthermore, the Galaxy S21 will receive software updates for a longer duration compared to the S20. As newer models typically get priority for the latest software innovations, the S21’s additional updates promise access to future features and security enhancements. This difference may be a crucial factor for users keen on keeping their device as cutting-edge as possible for several years.
How do the prices of the Galaxy S21 and S20 compare?
When initially released, the Samsung Galaxy S21 had a starting price that was lower than the launch price of the Galaxy S20. The S21 started at approximately $799, while the S20 debuted at around $999. This pricing strategy was meant to make the S21 more accessible, especially considering the improvements in performance and camera capabilities over its predecessor.
Even though the S20 might be available at a more affordable price now due to its age, the value proposition of the S21, with its better performance, design changes, and longer software support, may lead consumers to opt for the newer model. Price differentials can fluctuate based on promotions and retail offers, so it’s essential to consider both devices based on current pricing and future cost-effectiveness.
Which one is better for gaming, the Galaxy S21 or S20?
Both the Galaxy S21 and S20 are equipped with powerful hardware suitable for gaming, including high-refresh-rate displays and cutting-edge processors. The S21 features the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100, depending on the region, that provides improved graphics performance, better thermal management, and optimizations for gaming applications. These enhancements lead to smoother gameplay and less lag when compared to the S20’s Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990.
However, the S21 takes the lead by introducing Game Booster features, which optimize resources when running demanding applications, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience. While both devices handle graphically intensive games well, the S21’s advanced processing capabilities and software features make it a better choice for gamers who want a high-performance device tailored for gaming.