Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Vs iPhone 13 Pro

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

£183.00

£1,149.00 new

See options
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro
Starting at

£252.00

£949.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and the iPhone 13 Pro, both released in 2021, represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology from their respective manufacturers. While the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers a large-format experience with advanced zoom capabilities and stylus compatibility, the iPhone 13 Pro provides a more compact design integrated into the iOS ecosystem. Both devices run on their respective modern operating systems—Android and iOS—offering distinct user interfaces and app ecosystems tailored to different preferences and professional requirements.

Scores

Durability

Both the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and the iPhone 13 Pro were designed with longevity in mind, though their software support paths and physical durability features differ slightly.

  • Software Support: The iPhone 13 Pro typically benefits from Apple's long-term update cycle, often receiving major iOS updates for six years or more from its release date. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G follows Samsung's commitment to four years of major Android updates and five years of security patches, ensuring it remains functional and secure for a significant period.
  • Build and Repairability: Both phones feature robust glass and metal constructions with high water and dust resistance ratings. While professional repair services are widely available for both, the iPhone's internal modularity is often cited as slightly more straightforward for specific component replacements, whereas the Galaxy's complex internal layout reflects its high-density feature set.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain highly capable for several years, with the iPhone potentially offering a slightly longer window of official software compatibility for those who keep their devices for the long term.

Year of Release

2021

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

These devices are engineered to handle demanding tasks with ease, though they manage power and multitasking in different ways to suit different user habits.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 13 Pro is known for its fluid animations and immediate response when launching apps or switching between tasks. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G matches this smoothness, particularly when navigating its feature-rich interface, and excels at keeping multiple apps open simultaneously due to its high memory capacity.
  • Battery and Power: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G houses a large battery designed to support its expansive screen through a full day of intensive use. The iPhone 13 Pro, despite a physically smaller battery, benefits from highly efficient software integration that provides reliable endurance for standard daily activities and professional workflows.
  • Storage and Utility: Both models offer various storage tiers to accommodate large photo libraries and high-definition video files, ensuring users have ample space for their digital lives without needing external expansion or frequent cloud offloading.

Memory

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is one of the most significant differences between these two flagship models, catering to different visual preferences and usage styles.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a massive, curved display that uses advanced organic light-emitting diode technology to produce deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 13 Pro uses a flat panel with similar technology, focusing on color accuracy and high brightness for clear visibility in direct sunlight.
  • Smoothness and Clarity: Both screens offer high refresh rates that make scrolling through social media or playing games feel fluid. The Galaxy provides a higher pixel density for sharper details on its larger canvas, while the iPhone's intelligent refresh technology adjusts the speed to save power when high speeds aren't needed.
  • Viewing Experience: Users who enjoy watching movies or multitasking with split-screen apps will appreciate the Galaxy's expansive real estate. Those who prefer a device that is easier to navigate with one hand will find the iPhone's more traditional size more comfortable for daily use.

Resolution

1440 x 3200

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and video are central to both devices, with each offering a unique set of tools for capturing memories and professional content.

  • Zoom and Versatility: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is distinguished by its dual-telephoto lens system, allowing for clear photos of distant subjects that other phones might struggle to capture. The iPhone 13 Pro focuses on a balanced triple-lens setup that excels in consistent color reproduction across all cameras.
  • Low-Light Performance: Both smartphones use sophisticated processing to brighten dark scenes and reduce graininess in night-time photos. The iPhone is frequently praised for its natural-looking skin tones and reliable focus in dim environments, while the Galaxy offers a dedicated night mode that can reveal impressive detail in near-total darkness.
  • Video and Audio: For video creators, the iPhone 13 Pro offers specialized modes that mimic professional film techniques, such as shifting focus between subjects. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G provides high-resolution recording options and directional microphones that help isolate sound when filming in noisy environments.

Main camera

108 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, several practical features influence the daily handling and connectivity of these smartphones in real-world scenarios.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support modern high-speed cellular networks and the latest wireless standards for fast internet at home. The Galaxy uses a universal USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone utilizes the proprietary Lightning connector, which is compatible with a wide range of existing accessories.
  • Security and Sensors: The iPhone 13 Pro relies on advanced facial recognition for secure unlocking, which works quickly even in the dark. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G uses an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor built directly into the screen, providing a fast and secure way to access the device even when wearing a face covering.
  • Physical Design: The Galaxy is a substantial device, weighing more and requiring a larger pocket, but it offers the unique ability to use a stylus for note-taking. The iPhone is more compact and features a stainless steel frame that feels sturdy and balanced in the hand during extended use.

Weight

227 g

203 g

Width

7,56 cm

7,15 cm

Height

16,15 cm

14,67 cm

Depth

0,89 cm

0,76 cm

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

Choosing between the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and the iPhone 13 Pro often comes down to a preference for screen size and ecosystem. User feedback on community forums suggests that those who choose the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G are often drawn to its exceptional zoom capabilities and the immersive nature of its large display. However, some users find its size cumbersome for one-handed use. Conversely, iPhone 13 Pro users frequently highlight the device's reliable performance and the seamless way it works with other products in the same ecosystem, though some miss the more advanced zoom features found on the Samsung.

Users prioritizing a cinematic screen, long-distance photography, and the productivity of a stylus will likely find the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G more aligned with their needs. Those who prefer a more manageable size, consistent video quality, and long-term software support may lean toward the iPhone 13 Pro. For those looking to make a sustainable choice, both models are available as a quality-assured refurbished option, providing a high-performance experience while reducing electronic waste. Ultimately, both devices remain powerful contenders that serve different professional and personal lifestyles effectively. Choosing an eco-friendly alternative like a refurbished model ensures these high-quality electronics continue to provide value for years to come.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons