Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Vs iPhone 14 Pro

Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£200.32

Versus £999.00 new

See options
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:£323.00

Versus £1,099.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G (2021) and the iPhone 14 Pro (2022) are flagship smartphones that cater to users seeking high-performance mobile technology. While the Galaxy S21 Ultra offers an expansive screen and advanced zoom capabilities, the iPhone 14 Pro provides a more compact design with a focus on seamless software integration and video quality. The Galaxy operates on the Android platform with Samsung’s custom interface, whereas the iPhone runs iOS, offering distinct user experiences in terms of customisation and ecosystem connectivity.

Scores

Durability

The two devices differ in their release timelines and expected software support, which impacts their long-term utility for users.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 14 Pro, being a year newer, is expected to receive official operating system updates for a longer period, typically reaching six or seven years of support. The Galaxy S21 Ultra, launched in 2021, is closer to the end of its major update cycle, though it continues to receive critical security patches.
  • Build and Repair: Both phones feature robust glass and metal constructions, but the iPhone 14 Pro uses a stainless steel frame compared to the aluminium used on the Galaxy. Repairing these devices is possible through professional services, though the intricate internal layouts mean that screen and battery replacements require careful handling.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect several more years of reliable service from both models, provided the batteries are maintained, making them viable choices for those looking for a device that lasts.

Year of Release

2021

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance on these handsets remains fluid for modern applications, though they handle multitasking and power management in different ways.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 14 Pro delivers a smooth experience with rapid app launching and consistent frame rates during intensive tasks like mobile gaming. The Galaxy S21 Ultra utilises its high amount of temporary memory to keep multiple large apps open in the background without needing to reload them.
  • Battery Behaviour: With a larger physical battery, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is well-suited for users who spend a lot of time away from a charger, especially when using productivity tools. The iPhone 14 Pro is efficient, managing its power consumption effectively to ensure it lasts through a standard day of mixed use.
  • Storage and Utility: Both devices offer various internal storage capacities to house photos and videos, though neither allows for expandable storage, meaning users should select a capacity that fits their long-term needs.

Memory

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display technology in both phones is designed to provide clear, vibrant visuals, but the viewing experience differs significantly in scale and shape.

  • Display Scale and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 Ultra features a large, slightly curved 6.8-inch display that provides an immersive experience for watching videos or reading documents. In contrast, the iPhone 14 Pro uses a smaller 6.1-inch flat screen that is easier to navigate with one hand while still maintaining high pixel density for sharp text.
  • Outdoor Visibility: Both screens are capable of reaching high brightness levels, making them easy to read even under direct sunlight. The iPhone 14 Pro introduces an always-on feature that allows users to see the time and notifications at a glance without waking the device.
  • Motion Smoothness: Each phone employs a high refresh rate that adjusts based on the content being viewed, ensuring that scrolling through social media or playing games feels fluid and responsive.

Resolution

1440 x 3200

1179 x 2556

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these devices are tailored toward different photographic styles, from long-distance captures to professional-grade video.

  • Zoom and Versatility: The Galaxy S21 Ultra is equipped with a sophisticated dual-telephoto system that allows for clear photos of distant subjects, a feature that remains a standout for nature or sports photography. The iPhone 14 Pro focuses on a balanced triple-lens setup that excels in producing natural colours and consistent exposure across all lenses.
  • Video and Audio: For those who record a lot of video, the iPhone 14 Pro offers advanced stabilisation and a cinematic mode that creates a soft background blur. The Galaxy S21 Ultra provides high-resolution video recording and clear microphone pickup, which is useful for capturing detailed interviews or ambient sounds.
  • Low-Light Performance: Both smartphones use large sensors to capture more light, resulting in clear photos during the evening or in dimly lit indoor environments without excessive graininess.

Main camera

108 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical features like connectivity and physical handling play a significant role in the daily user experience of these two flagships.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S21 Ultra uses a standard USB-C port for charging and data transfer, which is compatible with a wide range of modern accessories. The iPhone 14 Pro utilises the Lightning port and includes MagSafe technology, which allows for easy attachment of magnetic chargers and wallets.
  • Biometrics and Sensors: Security is handled differently on each; the Galaxy uses an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor hidden under the screen, while the iPhone relies on facial recognition technology housed within the Dynamic Island at the top of the display.
  • Handling and Weight: The Galaxy S21 Ultra is a substantial device that may feel heavy during prolonged use, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro is more compact but still has a noticeable weight due to its dense steel frame.

Weight

227 g

206 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

In summary, the choice between the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and the iPhone 14 Pro often comes down to a preference for screen size and ecosystem. User discussions on community forums frequently highlight the Galaxy S21 Ultra for its exceptional zoom capabilities and the utility of its large display, which even supports a stylus for note-taking. Conversely, the iPhone 14 Pro is often praised for its reliable video performance, compact size, and the intuitive nature of the Dynamic Island. Some users have noted that the Galaxy can feel cumbersome in smaller hands, while some iPhone users mention that the lack of a dedicated long-range zoom lens is a trade-off for the smaller form factor.

Users who prioritise a large-screen experience for media consumption and need powerful zoom for photography may find the Galaxy S21 Ultra better suited to their needs. Those who prefer a device that is easier to use with one hand and offers a highly integrated software experience for video creation will likely lean toward the iPhone 14 Pro. Both devices represent a quality-assured refurbished option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. Choosing an eco-friendly alternative like these ensures that high-performance technology is reused effectively while providing a reliable smartphone experience for years to come.

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