Galaxy S21 5G Vs Galaxy S22+ 5G

Galaxy S21 5G
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£133.00

Versus £829.00 new

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Galaxy S22+ 5G
Galaxy S22+ 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£167.00

Versus £1,174.01 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G (2021) and the Galaxy S22+ 5G (2022) represent consecutive generations of Samsung's flagship smartphone line. While they share a similar design language and run the Android operating system with the One UI interface, they cater to different user preferences regarding physical size and material construction. The Galaxy S21 5G is designed for portability and ease of use with one hand, whereas the Galaxy S22+ 5G offers a larger canvas for media consumption and productivity, alongside updated internal hardware and enhanced display brightness.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S22+ 5G differ in their physical resilience and the length of time they will receive official software support.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S22+ 5G was released a year later, meaning it typically receives an additional year of security patches and operating system updates, extending its functional lifespan. This makes the S22+ a strong candidate for those seeking longevity.
  • Material Construction: The Galaxy S21 5G features a reinforced polycarbonate back that is resilient against impacts, while the Galaxy S22+ 5G utilises glass on both sides for a different tactile feel and scratch resistance.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Both models share a similar internal architecture, and while they do not have the highest repairability scores, common maintenance tasks can be performed by qualified technicians to ensure the device remains operational for years.

Year of Release

2021

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Everyday tasks and multitasking are handled efficiently by both devices, though the Galaxy S22+ 5G benefits from newer internal components for demanding apps.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22+ 5G features updated internals that allow it to manage heavy multitasking with more fluidity, while the Galaxy S21 5G remains highly capable for standard daily activities. This ensures that the device remains fast even as apps become more demanding over time.
  • Battery Endurance: With a larger internal battery, the Galaxy S22+ 5G is better suited for users who spend long days away from a power source compared to the Galaxy S21 5G.
  • Storage and Memory: Both smartphones provide ample memory for switching between apps, ensuring that the system remains responsive even when multiple background processes are running, and offer various storage capacities to house photos and videos.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is a primary differentiator between these two models, focusing on screen size and visibility in different lighting conditions.

  • Outdoor Visibility: Both screens use AMOLED technology, but the Galaxy S22+ 5G features a higher peak brightness, making it easier to read content clearly when used outside in direct sunlight. This is particularly beneficial for users who frequently use their phones for navigation or reading while outdoors.
  • Size and Immersion: The 6.6-inch display of the Galaxy S22+ 5G offers a more immersive experience for media, while the 6.2-inch screen of the Galaxy S21 5G prioritises reachability and compact dimensions.
  • Motion Smoothness: Each device supports a dynamic 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring that scrolling through feeds and navigating the interface feels fluid and responsive to every touch input.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Photography enthusiasts will find that while both phones are versatile, the Galaxy S22+ 5G introduces hardware changes that impact image detail and zoom.

  • Main Sensor Performance: The Galaxy S22+ 5G employs a higher-resolution primary sensor that captures more detail, particularly in low-light environments where it produces clearer images with less visual noise.
  • Zoom Capabilities: The Galaxy S22+ 5G utilises a dedicated optical zoom lens for sharper results when photographing distant subjects, whereas the Galaxy S21 5G relies on a high-resolution sensor for hybrid zoom. The inclusion of a dedicated lens provides a more traditional photography experience.
  • Video and Audio: Both models record high-quality video with stable footage and clear audio capture via multiple microphones, while their stereo speakers provide a balanced sound experience for media consumption.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical elements like connectivity and physical handling play a significant role in the daily user experience of these two flagship smartphones.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both devices support 5G networks, but the Galaxy S22+ 5G includes support for newer Wi-Fi standards, which can result in more stable internet connections in homes with compatible routers.
  • Physical Handling: The Galaxy S21 5G is notably lighter and narrower, making it a preferred choice for users who value comfort during one-handed use, while the Galaxy S22+ 5G is more substantial. The compact nature of the S21 makes it ideal for fitting into smaller pockets.
  • Security and Ports: Each phone features an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for secure access and a USB-C port for charging, alongside sensors that enable features like facial recognition and motion detection.

Weight

169 g

195 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.6

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Based on user feedback from online forums, the Galaxy S21 5G is frequently praised for its ergonomic design and the durability of its polycarbonate back, which many find practical for daily life. Conversely, the Galaxy S22+ 5G receives positive mentions for its expansive, bright display and its more modern camera system. Some users have noted that the Galaxy S21 5G can warm up during intensive tasks, while the Galaxy S22+ 5G is often cited for its faster charging capabilities and premium feel.

Users who prioritise a compact form factor and a device that is easy to manage with one hand will find the Galaxy S21 5G to be a suitable fit for their lifestyle. Those who prefer a larger screen for media, better outdoor visibility, and a slightly longer window of software support may find the Galaxy S22+ 5G more aligned with their needs. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model is a sustainable choice that helps reduce electronic waste while providing a reliable mobile experience. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value portability or a larger, more advanced display and camera system.

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