Choosing a new smartphone can be a daunting task, especially when two compelling options like the OnePlus 8 and the Samsung Galaxy S21 are on the table. Both devices promise top-tier performance and innovative features, but they cater to slightly different user preferences and budgets.
Are you looking for a smooth, clean Android experience with a focus on speed and value, or do you crave the feature-rich ecosystem and cutting-edge camera technology that Samsung is known for? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
We’ll dive deep into their displays, processing power, camera capabilities, battery life, and overall user experience. Get ready to find out which of these powerful smartphones is the perfect fit for your needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | oneplus 8 | s21 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED | 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Display Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz Adaptive |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB |
| Rear Camera (Main) | 48MP | 12MP |
| Rear Camera (Ultrawide) | 16MP | 12MP |
| Rear Camera (Telephoto) | 8MP | 64MP |
| Front Camera | 16MP | 10MP |
| Battery Capacity | 4300 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 30W Warp Charge | 25W Super Fast Charging |
| Water Resistance | No official rating | IP68 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Oneplus 8: Features a 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It offers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling, but lacks HDR10+ support found in higher-end devices.
- S21: Boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and HDR10+ support. This results in exceptionally smooth visuals, deeper blacks, and brighter highlights.
- Winner: s21
Processor
- Oneplus 8: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855+ chipset. This processor provides excellent performance for everyday tasks and gaming, though it’s a generation older than the S21’s.
- S21: Equipped with either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 or Samsung’s Exynos 2100 (region dependent). Both offer top-tier performance, excelling in demanding applications and multitasking.
- Winner: s21
RAM & Storage
- Oneplus 8: Available in configurations with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. It does not offer expandable storage via microSD.
- S21: Comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. Similar to the OnePlus 8, it also lacks microSD card expansion.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- Oneplus 8: Features a triple rear camera setup: a 48MP main sensor, a 16MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. Image quality is generally good in daylight, but can struggle in low light and lacks telephoto capabilities.
- S21: Offers a versatile triple rear camera system: a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid zoom. This setup provides superior flexibility, better low-light performance, and more capable zoom options.
- Winner: s21
Battery Life & Charging
- Oneplus 8: Houses a 4300mAh battery with support for 30W Warp Charge wired charging. Battery life is typically good for a full day of moderate use, and charging is impressively fast.
- S21: Equipped with a 4000mAh battery and supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. Battery life can be a bit tighter for heavy users, but the charging options are more diverse.
- Winner: oneplus 8
Build Quality & Design
- Oneplus 8: Features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, offering a premium feel. Its design is sleek and modern, though the curved display can sometimes lead to accidental touches.
- S21: Utilizes a plastic (Glasstic) back with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus on the front. While the plastic back might feel less premium, it’s more durable. The flat display avoids accidental touches.
- Winner: s21
Software Experience
- Oneplus 8: Runs OxygenOS on top of Android, known for its clean interface, minimal bloatware, and smooth performance. OnePlus has a good track record for timely updates.
- S21: Runs Samsung’s One UI on top of Android, which is feature-rich but can feel more complex than OxygenOS. Samsung has also improved its update commitment significantly.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Oneplus 8: Generally available at a lower price point, especially now that it’s an older model, offering excellent value for its performance and features.
- S21: Launched as a flagship device and typically commands a higher price, reflecting its more advanced specifications and newer technology.
- Winner: oneplus 8
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | s21 |
| Performance | s21 |
| Camera System | s21 |
| Battery Life | oneplus 8 |
| Build & Durability | s21 |
| Software Experience | oneplus 8 |
| Charging Speed | oneplus 8 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both devices feature high-quality AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
- Performance: They are both powered by flagship processors of their respective generations, ensuring smooth multitasking, demanding gaming, and quick app loading times.
- Wireless Charging: Both the OnePlus 8 and the S21 support wireless charging, adding convenience for powering up without the need for cables.
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones are equipped with 5G capabilities, allowing for faster download and upload speeds where supported by network carriers.
- Multiple Rear Cameras: Each device boasts a versatile multi-camera setup on the rear, including main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
Oneplus 8 Vs S21 Buying Guide
Camera Enthusiasts
For those prioritizing photography, the Samsung Galaxy S21 generally takes the lead. Its versatile triple-lens system, featuring a dedicated telephoto lens with optical zoom, offers superior flexibility for capturing distant subjects and achieving professional-looking portraits. While the OnePlus 8’s camera is capable, it often falls short in low-light performance and zoom capabilities compared to the S21’s more advanced sensor technology and image processing. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Performance and Gaming
Both devices offer excellent performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. However, the Snapdragon 888 in the S21 provides a slight edge in raw processing power and graphics rendering over the Snapdragon 855 in the OnePlus 8. This translates to smoother gameplay and faster app loading times on the S21. For power users and avid mobile gamers, the S21’s superior chipset will be more noticeable.
Display and Multimedia
The OnePlus 8 boasts a vibrant and smooth 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display, which is excellent for general use and media consumption. The Samsung Galaxy S21, however, elevates this with a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. This higher refresh rate offers an even more fluid scrolling experience and can make animations appear exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall visual experience for watching videos and playing games.
Value and Budget
When considering price, the OnePlus 8 often presents a more budget-friendly option. It provides a strong flagship experience at a lower cost, making it an attractive choice for those seeking premium features without the absolute top-tier price tag. The S21, being a newer and more feature-rich device, typically commands a higher price point, making the OnePlus 8 the better value proposition for many consumers. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy oneplus 8 If…
- You prioritize a smoother, more consistent display experience with a 90Hz refresh rate.
- You want a clean software experience with minimal bloatware.
- You value fast wired charging to quickly top up your battery.
- You’re looking for a slightly larger display for media consumption.
Buy s21 If…
- You desire the absolute best display technology with an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate.
- You need official IP68 water and dust resistance for peace of mind.
- You want a more compact and pocketable device.
- You prefer the Samsung ecosystem and its features, including DeX.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better battery life?
Battery life can vary based on usage patterns. Generally, the OnePlus 8, with its slightly larger battery capacity and lower refresh rate display by default, might offer slightly longer endurance for moderate users. However, the S21’s adaptive refresh rate can help conserve power during less demanding tasks, potentially bridging the gap. For heavy users, both will likely require daily charging.
Is the S21’s camera significantly better than the OnePlus 8’s?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S21’s camera system is generally considered superior. It offers more versatility with its telephoto lens for optical zoom, better low-light performance, and more advanced image processing. While the OnePlus 8’s camera is good for everyday shots, the S21 provides a more professional and flexible photography experience, especially when dealing with challenging lighting or distant subjects.
Which phone is better for gaming?
For the most demanding mobile games, the Samsung Galaxy S21 holds an advantage due to its more powerful Snapdragon 888 processor and its higher 120Hz display. This combination allows for smoother frame rates, faster loading times, and a more immersive gaming experience. While the OnePlus 8 can handle most games well, the S21 offers a more refined and future-proofed gaming platform. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which phone has a better build quality?
Both phones offer premium build quality. The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a more modern design with a plastic back and an aluminum frame, offering good durability and a comfortable in-hand feel. The OnePlus 8 typically uses a glass back and aluminum frame, which can feel more premium but is also more prone to breakage if dropped. The S21’s design is often considered more contemporary.
Is the OnePlus 8 still a good buy in 2024?
Absolutely. The OnePlus 8 remains a capable smartphone for its price. It offers a great display, solid performance for everyday tasks, and a clean software experience. While it lacks some of the cutting-edge features of newer devices like the S21, it provides excellent value for users who don’t need the absolute latest technology and are looking for a reliable and enjoyable smartphone experience at a more affordable price point.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S21 emerges as the more capable and feature-rich device, excelling in camera performance, processing power, and display technology. While the OnePlus 8 offers compelling value and a smooth user experience, the S21’s advancements in key areas make it the superior choice for those seeking the best overall smartphone experience. Its versatility and cutting-edge features justify its higher price point for enthusiasts and power users alike.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S21