When Samsung released the S21 series, many fans and critics were left wondering if it was an upgrade or a downgrade from its predecessor, the S20. With the S20 being a powerhouse of a device, it’s natural to have high expectations from the S21. But, as we dive deeper into the features and specifications of both devices, it becomes clear that the S21 has some significant differences that might make it a better or worse choice for some users.
The Design: A Sleeker and More Refined Look
One of the first things you’ll notice about the S21 is its design. Samsung has refined the look and feel of the device, making it sleeker and more premium. The S21 has a slightly smaller footprint than the S20, which makes it easier to hold and use with one hand. The curved edges and glass back give it a more luxurious feel, and the new matte finish helps reduce fingerprints and smudges.
However, some users might miss the more angular and boxy design of the S20, which gave it a more rugged and masculine look. The S21’s design is more streamlined and refined, but it also makes it look more fragile and prone to scratches.
The Display: A Brighter and More Vibrant Screen
The S21 boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, which is slightly larger than the S20’s 6.1-inch screen. The new display is brighter, with a maximum brightness of 1,300 nits, compared to the S20’s 1,200 nits. This makes it easier to use the device in bright sunlight, and the colors are more vivid and lifelike.
However, the S21’s display has a lower resolution than the S20, with a resolution of 1080 x 2240 pixels compared to the S20’s 1440 x 3200 pixels. This might be a concern for users who want the highest possible resolution for gaming and video streaming.
The Refresh Rate: A Smoother Experience
The S21 has a variable refresh rate, which can adjust from 48Hz to 120Hz depending on the content being displayed. This makes the device feel smoother and more responsive, especially when scrolling through social media or gaming.
In contrast, the S20 has a fixed refresh rate of 60Hz, which can make it feel less responsive and smoother. However, the S20’s refresh rate is still high enough to provide a great user experience, and some users might not notice the difference.
The Performance: A Faster and More Efficient Processor
The S21 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, which is a significant upgrade from the S20’s Snapdragon 865 processor. The new processor provides a 25% boost in performance and a 30% increase in power efficiency.
This means that the S21 can handle demanding tasks like gaming and video editing with ease, and it’s also more power-efficient, which translates to longer battery life. However, the S20’s processor is still fast and efficient, and it can handle most tasks with ease.
The RAM and Storage: More Options for Power Users
The S21 comes with more RAM and storage options than the S20. The base model starts at 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the top-of-the-line model has 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
In contrast, the S20 starts at 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and the top model has 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The S21’s extra storage options make it a better choice for power users who need more storage for their files and apps.
The Battery Life: A Longer-Lasting Battery
The S21 has a slightly larger battery than the S20, with a capacity of 4,500mAh compared to the S20’s 4,000mAh. This translates to longer battery life, with the S21 lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge, compared to the S20’s 10 hours.
However, the S21’s battery life is still affected by the device’s display and processor, which can drain the battery faster than the S20. Additionally, the S21’s fast charging capabilities are slower than the S20’s, with a maximum charging speed of 25W compared to the S20’s 45W.
The Cameras: A Better Camera System with New Features
The S21 has a quad-camera system, with a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP front camera, and support for 8K video recording at 30fps. The camera system has been improved with new features like a 108MP mode, which allows users to capture high-resolution photos.
The S20 also has a quad-camera system, but with a 12MP primary sensor and a 10MP front camera. While the S20’s camera system is still excellent, the S21’s new features and higher resolution make it a better choice for photography enthusiasts.
The Zoom: A Better Telephoto Lens
The S21 has a better telephoto lens than the S20, with a 30x digital zoom compared to the S20’s 20x digital zoom. This makes it easier to capture distant objects with more clarity and detail.
However, the S21’s telephoto lens is still digital, and it can’t match the quality of a dedicated telephoto lens like the one on the S20 Ultra.
The Software: A New User Interface with More Features
The S21 runs on Android 11 out of the box, with Samsung’s One UI 3.1 skin on top. The new software brings a fresh user interface, with new features like a revamped notifications panel, improved multitasking, and better customization options.
The S20, on the other hand, runs on Android 10, with Samsung’s One UI 2.1 skin. While the S20’s software is still excellent, the S21’s new features and user interface make it a better choice for users who want the latest and greatest.
The Verdict: Is the S21 Worse than the S20?
So, is the S21 worse than the S20? The answer is a resounding no. While the S21 has its drawbacks, like a lower resolution display and slower fast charging, it also has several significant upgrades over the S20.
The S21’s new design, brighter display, faster processor, and improved camera system make it a better choice for users who want the latest and greatest. However, the S20 is still an excellent device, and users who don’t need the latest features might find it a better value.
Ultimately, the choice between the S21 and S20 depends on your needs and priorities. If you want the latest features and a more premium design, the S21 is the better choice. But if you’re on a budget and don’t need the latest features, the S20 is still an excellent option.
| Feature | S21 | S20 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Resolution | 1080 x 2240 pixels | 1440 x 3200 pixels |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 |
| Ram | Up to 16GB | Up to 16GB |
| Storage | Up to 512GB | Up to 512GB |
| Camera Resolution | 50MP | 12MP |
| Battery Capacity | 4,500mAh | 4,000mAh |
In conclusion, the S21 is not worse than the S20, but rather a different device that caters to different needs and priorities. While it has its drawbacks, it also has several significant upgrades that make it a better choice for users who want the latest and greatest.
What is the main difference between S21 and S20?
The main difference between S21 and S20 lies in their camera capabilities. The S21 has a more advanced camera system with a higher megapixel count and improved low-light performance. Additionally, the S21 has a larger primary sensor, which allows for better image quality. On the other hand, the S20 has a more compact design and a lower price point.
However, the differences go beyond camera capabilities. The S21 has a faster processor, more storage options, and a larger battery. It also features a more modern design with a Dynamic AMOLED display and a higher refresh rate. In contrast, the S20 has a more dated design and a lower refresh rate. Overall, the S21 is a more feature-rich device, but it comes at a higher price.
Is the S21 camera really better than the S20?
The S21 camera is indeed better than the S20 camera in many ways. With a higher megapixel count and a larger primary sensor, the S21 is capable of capturing more detailed and higher-quality images. Additionally, the S21’s camera software has been improved, allowing for better low-light performance and more features such as 8K video recording. The S21’s camera is also more versatile, with a wider range of features and modes.
That being said, the S20’s camera is still a high-quality camera that can take excellent photos and videos. The S20’s camera is more than capable of meeting the needs of most users, and it’s still a great option for those who don’t need the latest and greatest camera technology. Ultimately, whether the S21’s camera is better than the S20’s depends on individual needs and preferences.
Does the S21 have any new features?
Yes, the S21 has several new features that set it apart from the S20. One of the most notable features is its support for 5G connectivity, which provides faster data speeds and lower latency. The S21 also has a larger battery, which provides all-day battery life and even longer battery life with moderate use. Additionally, the S21 has a faster processor, which provides a smoother and more responsive user experience.
Another new feature of the S21 is its improved biometric security. The S21 has a more advanced fingerprint sensor that is faster and more secure than the S20’s. The S21 also has improved facial recognition software, which provides an additional layer of security. Furthermore, the S21 has new software features such as a redesigned user interface and improved multitasking capabilities.
Is the S21 worth the upgrade from the S20?
Whether the S21 is worth the upgrade from the S20 depends on individual needs and preferences. If you’re due for an upgrade and want the latest and greatest technology, the S21 may be a good option. The S21’s improved camera, faster processor, and larger battery make it a more feature-rich device than the S20.
However, if you’re happy with your S20 and don’t need the latest features, it may not be worth the upgrade. The S20 is still a high-quality device that can meet most users’ needs, and the cost of upgrading to the S21 may not be justified. Additionally, if you’re on a budget, the S20 may be a more affordable option.
How does the S21’s battery life compare to the S20?
The S21’s battery life is generally better than the S20’s. With a larger battery and more power-efficient processor, the S21 is capable of providing all-day battery life and even longer battery life with moderate use. The S21’s battery life is also more consistent, with fewer dips in performance throughout the day.
That being said, the S20’s battery life is still respectable, and it can provide a full day’s use with moderate to heavy use. However, the S20’s battery life may not be as consistent as the S21’s, and it may require more frequent charging. Ultimately, the S21’s battery life is a significant improvement over the S20’s, but it’s not a game-changer.
Can I still buy the S20?
Yes, the S20 is still available for purchase from many retailers and carriers. Although it’s no longer the latest model, the S20 is still a high-quality device that can meet most users’ needs. Additionally, the S20’s lower price point makes it a more affordable option than the S21.
That being said, the S20’s availability may be limited, and it may not be available from all retailers or carriers. Additionally, the S20 may not receive the same level of software support as the S21, which could impact its performance and security over time.
What is the price difference between the S21 and S20?
The price difference between the S21 and S20 varies depending on the storage capacity, condition, and retailer. Generally, the S21 is priced higher than the S20, with a base model starting at around $799. The S20, on the other hand, can be found for around $599.
However, prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer, promotions, and availability. It’s recommended to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. Additionally, it’s worth considering the cost of any accessories or add-ons, such as cases or screen protectors, which can add to the overall cost.