Galaxy S21 5G Vs iPhone 11 Pro

Galaxy S21 5G
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£133.00

Versus £829.00 new

See options
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:£151.00

Versus £639.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G (2021) and the Apple iPhone 11 Pro (2019) represent two different eras of flagship smartphone design. While the Galaxy S21 5G brings modern connectivity and a high-refresh-rate display, the iPhone 11 Pro remains a popular choice for those who prefer a more compact form factor and the iOS ecosystem. These devices cater to different user needs, with the Samsung focusing on contemporary features like 5G, while the iPhone prioritises a consistent, high-quality experience in a smaller package. Both smartphones continue to be relevant for users seeking reliable performance without needing the absolute latest release.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S21 5G and iPhone 11 Pro differ significantly in their release dates and construction materials, which impacts their long-term utility and software support.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 5G was released in 2021, making it two years newer than the iPhone 11 Pro. This typically translates to a longer window of security updates and operating system support from the manufacturer, ensuring the device remains compatible with the latest apps for more years.
  • Build Materials: The iPhone 11 Pro features a stainless steel frame and glass back, providing a dense and sturdy feel, whereas the Galaxy S21 5G uses a reinforced polycarbonate back which is more resistant to cracking if dropped.
  • Repairability: Both manufacturers have established repair networks, though the iPhone 11 Pro's older design is well-understood by technicians, making it a reliable quality-assured refurbished option for those seeking a device that can be maintained over several years.

Year of Release

2021

2019

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Everyday responsiveness and battery management are handled differently by these two devices, reflecting the hardware standards of their respective launch years and operating systems.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S21 5G handles demanding multitasking and modern applications with ease, benefiting from more recent internal hardware that ensures smooth operation during heavy use and gaming.
  • Battery Efficiency: While the Galaxy S21 5G has a larger physical battery, its high-speed display and 5G connectivity require more power; in contrast, the iPhone 11 Pro is known for efficient power management that comfortably lasts through a standard workday for most users.
  • Storage and Multitasking: The Galaxy S21 5G offers higher memory capacity for keeping multiple apps open simultaneously, while the iPhone 11 Pro relies on deep software integration to keep the user experience fluid even with lower memory specifications.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is a major point of divergence, with the Galaxy S21 5G offering modern smoothness and the iPhone 11 Pro focusing on color accuracy and compact dimensions.

  • Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 5G features a display that updates 120 times per second, resulting in much smoother scrolling and animations compared to the standard 60Hz screen found on the iPhone 11 Pro.
  • Display Technology: Both devices use OLED technology, which provides deep blacks and high contrast, but the iPhone 11 Pro's screen is smaller and more compact, making it easier to use with one hand while maintaining high clarity.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy S21 5G can reach higher peak brightness levels, which is particularly helpful for reading text or viewing maps under direct sunlight without straining the eyes.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1125 x 2436

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and video capabilities remain strong on both models, though they excel in different areas of media creation and everyday usage.

  • Zoom and Detail: The Galaxy S21 5G includes a high-resolution telephoto sensor that allows for clearer zoomed-in photos, making it useful for capturing distant subjects at events or outdoors with more preserved detail.
  • Video Consistency: The iPhone 11 Pro is frequently praised for its natural color reproduction and smooth transitions between its three lenses when recording video, providing a professional look for social media content and home movies.
  • Low-Light Performance: Both smartphones feature dedicated night modes that help brighten dark scenes, though users often report that the iPhone 11 Pro maintains more natural textures in dim environments.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical features like connectivity and physical dimensions play a significant role in how these devices fit into a user's daily routine and professional life.

  • Connectivity Standards: The Galaxy S21 5G supports the latest high-speed mobile networks, whereas the iPhone 11 Pro is limited to 4G LTE, which may be a consideration for users in areas with robust 5G infrastructure.
  • Biometric Security: Samsung uses an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner built into the screen for quick access, while Apple utilises facial recognition technology which many users find seamless for unlocking and authenticating apps.
  • Physical Handling: The iPhone 11 Pro is noticeably shorter and narrower, appealing to those who prefer smaller phones, while the Galaxy S21 5G is taller but lighter due to its different build materials.

Weight

169 g

188 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

5.8

Mobile network

5G

4G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback from various online communities highlights distinct preferences for both the Galaxy S21 5G and the iPhone 11 Pro. Owners of the Galaxy S21 5G often praise the fluid 120Hz display and the flexibility of the Android operating system, though some note that the battery can drain quickly when using 5G and high refresh rates simultaneously. Conversely, iPhone 11 Pro users frequently highlight the device's manageable size and the consistent quality of its camera system, even several years after its initial release. Some users mention that the lack of 5G is a trade-off for the device's otherwise excellent reliability and build quality.

Users who prioritise modern screen technology and the fastest possible mobile data speeds will likely find the Galaxy S21 5G better suited to their needs. Those who prefer a compact, premium-feeling device with a highly integrated ecosystem may lean toward the iPhone 11 Pro. Choosing a sustainable choice like a refurbished model allows users to access these high-end features while reducing environmental impact. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether a user values the newer display and connectivity of the Samsung or the compact efficiency and software longevity of the iPhone. Both devices remain capable tools for communication, photography, and productivity in the current year.

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