Samsung S21 vs S20: Which Samsung Phone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when you’re deciding between flagship models from the same brand. The Samsung Galaxy S21 and the Samsung Galaxy S20 both offer premium features and performance, but which one truly comes out on top? This in-depth comparison will help you navigate the differences and find the perfect phone for your needs.
We’ll delve into the key aspects that matter most to users, from design and display quality to camera capabilities and processing power. The Samsung S21 brought a fresh design and updated features, while the S20 remains a strong contender. Both phones boast impressive specs, making the decision a tough one.
Get ready to explore the nuances of each device as we break down the strengths and weaknesses of the Samsung Galaxy S21 versus the Samsung Galaxy S20. We’ll analyze everything from battery life to software updates. By the end, you’ll be equipped to make an informed choice and choose the device that best suits your lifestyle.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | S21 | S20 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels | 3200 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 11, upgradable to Android 14 | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build Quality
- Samsung S21: Features a redesigned camera bump that seamlessly blends into the frame, offering a more modern aesthetic. It uses a plastic back on some models (vs glass) which can be less prone to shattering but feels less premium.
- S20: Maintains a more traditional design with a distinct camera module. It features a glass back and metal frame, providing a premium feel but is more susceptible to damage from drops.
- Winner: Tie (preference-based)
Display
- Samsung S21: Offers a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and animations. The base model has a lower resolution than the S20.
- S20: Also sports a Dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth performance. It has a higher resolution than the base S21.
- Winner: S20 (for higher resolution)
Processor
- Samsung S21: Powered by the latest Snapdragon or Exynos processor (depending on region), offering improved performance and efficiency.
- S20: Equipped with a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, which is still a powerful processor, but slightly older technology.
- Winner: S21
Camera System
- Samsung S21: Features a triple-lens camera system with improvements to image processing and a refined software experience. The telephoto lens offers improved zoom capabilities.
- S20: Boasts a versatile triple-lens camera system capable of capturing excellent photos and videos.
- Winner: S21 (slightly better software and zoom)
Battery Life
- Samsung S21: Battery life is generally improved, particularly with the variable refresh rate optimizing power consumption.
- S20: Battery life is decent, but can be a weak point depending on usage and refresh rate settings.
- Winner: S21
Software and Updates
- Samsung S21: Comes with One UI 3.1 based on Android 11 (or later), offering a refined user interface and more years of software updates.
- S20: Initially launched with One UI 2.5 based on Android 10, and has received updates to later versions, but will likely have fewer updates remaining.
- Winner: S21
Price
- Samsung S21: Launched at a slightly lower price point than the S20, making it more accessible.
- S20: Originally more expensive, but has become more affordable on the used market.
- Winner: S21 (at launch) / S20 (now, used market)
5G Connectivity
- Samsung S21: Supports 5G connectivity for faster data speeds, where available.
- S20: Also supports 5G connectivity, offering similar benefits.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | Samsung S21 |
| Display Resolution | Samsung S20 |
| Value | Samsung S20 |
| Design | Samsung S21 |
| Software Updates | Samsung S21 |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones boast vibrant Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, offering rich colors and excellent contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S21 and S20 support 5G, ensuring fast download and streaming speeds where available.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68 rated, providing protection against water and dust, offering peace of mind in various environments.
- Main Camera System: Both phones feature a versatile triple-camera system, including a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens, enabling users to capture a variety of shots.
- Wireless Charging: Both models support wireless charging, providing convenient charging options without the need for cables.
Samsung S21 Vs S20 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The Samsung Galaxy S21 boasts a more advanced processor, either the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100, depending on the region, offering a significant performance boost over the S20’s Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990. This results in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. The S21’s optimized software further enhances this, providing a more responsive and efficient user experience. This difference is noticeable in demanding applications and graphically intensive games, making the S21 the superior choice for performance enthusiasts. The S21 generally handles tasks with greater ease.
Camera Capabilities and Features
While both phones share similar camera hardware, the S21 benefits from improved image processing and new software features. The S21 offers enhanced modes like Director’s View and improved portrait mode capabilities. The S21’s upgraded image signal processor (ISP) delivers better low-light performance and more vibrant colors. Both phones capture excellent photos, but the S21’s software enhancements provide a slight edge in overall image quality and creative options. The S21 allows for more creative control and generally produces slightly better results in challenging lighting situations.
Design and Display Quality
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a redesigned camera module and a sleeker overall aesthetic. The S21 adopts a flat display, while the S20 has a curved display. Both phones have stunning AMOLED displays with high refresh rates, providing smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. The S21’s display is slightly brighter and more power-efficient. The design is a matter of personal preference, with the S21 offering a more modern look. The S21’s flat screen is preferred by some for its lack of accidental touches.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The battery life of both phones is comparable, with both lasting a full day under moderate use. However, the S21 might have a slight advantage due to the more power-efficient processor. Both phones support fast charging and wireless charging. The charging speed is similar between the two models. The S21’s optimization may contribute to marginally longer battery life in some scenarios. The battery performance is generally very similar between the S21 and S20.
Software and Updates
The Samsung Galaxy S21 launched with Android 11 and receives more software updates than the S20, which launched with Android 10. Samsung provides several years of software updates and security patches, ensuring the S21 remains up-to-date for a longer period. This means the S21 will benefit from new features and security enhancements for a longer time. The S21 offers a more modern user experience due to its newer software. The longer software support makes the S21 a better long-term investment.
Value for Money and Pricing
The price of the Samsung Galaxy S20 is generally lower now, as it is an older model. Considering the performance and features offered by the S21, the value proposition depends on the price difference. If the price difference is significant, the S20 can still be a good deal. However, the S21 offers improved performance and a more modern feature set. The S21 is the better choice if you prioritize the latest features and longer software support, and the price difference is acceptable. Evaluate the prices to make an informed decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Samsung S21 If…
- You want the latest processor for improved performance.
- You prioritize a slightly more compact design.
- You value the newer software experience with Android 11 (upgradable).
- You prefer a more modern aesthetic.
Buy Samsung S20 If…
- You want a higher resolution display.
- You want to save money.
- You need more storage options (512GB).
- You don’t mind a slightly older design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Samsung S21 and S20?
The S21 features a newer processor, improved camera software, a redesigned aesthetic, and longer software support. The S21’s processor offers a performance boost, leading to faster app loading and improved gaming. The S21’s camera software delivers better image processing and creative features. The S21 has a more modern design, while the S20 has a curved display. The S21 also benefits from extended software updates.
Does the S21 have a better camera than the S20?
The S21’s camera hardware is very similar to the S20, but the S21 benefits from improved image processing and new software features. This results in slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Features like Director’s View and enhanced portrait modes are also available on the S21, offering more creative control. Both phones capture excellent photos, but the S21 has a slight edge.
Is the S21’s display better than the S20’s?
Both phones have excellent AMOLED displays with high refresh rates, providing smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. The S21’s display is generally slightly brighter and more power-efficient, contributing to a better viewing experience. The design is different, with the S21 having a flat display and the S20 having a curved display. The differences are subtle, but the S21 is slightly better.
How does the battery life compare between the S21 and S20?
The battery life of both phones is comparable, with both lasting a full day under moderate use. The S21 might have a slight advantage due to the more power-efficient processor. Both phones support fast charging and wireless charging. The actual battery life will depend on individual usage patterns and settings. The difference in battery life is minimal in most cases.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The S21 is the better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor. This results in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. The S21’s optimized software further enhances the gaming experience. The S21 generally handles graphically intensive games with greater ease and offers a more responsive experience. The S21 is the better gaming phone.
Is the S21 worth the upgrade from the S20?
The S21 is worth the upgrade if you prioritize performance, a more modern design, and longer software support. The performance boost from the newer processor is noticeable, especially in demanding applications. The S21’s updated software features and improved camera capabilities offer a better user experience. However, if the price difference is significant, the S20 remains a capable device. Consider your budget and priorities.
Which phone is more future-proof?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is more future-proof due to its newer processor, longer software support, and improved features. The S21 will receive software updates and security patches for a longer period, ensuring it remains up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements. The S21’s more powerful processor will also handle future applications and games more effectively. The S21 is the better choice for long-term use.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S21 offers improvements in performance, camera capabilities, and design compared to the S20. While the S20 remains a capable device, the S21’s newer processor, software enhancements, and extended software support make it the superior choice. The S21 provides a more modern and future-proof experience, making it the better overall phone.
Winner: Samsung S21