Galaxy S21+ 5G Vs Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 (released January 2024) and the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (released January 2021) represent two distinct generations of Samsung's premium smartphone line. While both devices offered leading technology at their respective launches and run the Android operating system, the Galaxy S24 benefits from three years of technological advancements, notably in processing power, display technology, and extended software support.

When considering longevity, the generational gap between these two devices becomes apparent, particularly in software support and expected practical lifespan.

• Release Timeline and Age: The Galaxy S24 was released in January 2024, making it a considerably newer device than the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G, which launched in January 2021. This age difference means the S24 will receive updates for a much longer period.
• OS Support Duration and Update Frequency: The Galaxy S24 is part of Samsung's commitment to seven years of major Android OS and security updates, potentially extending its software support until 2031. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G was promised four major Android upgrades and five years of security updates, meaning it has already received or is nearing the end of its official software update cycle, having launched with Android 11 and upgradable to Android 14.
• Repairability Scores: The Galaxy S24 boasts a high repairability score of 9 out of 10, praised for easy battery replacement and parts availability. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G also has a good repairability score of 8.2 out of 10, though its battery is more securely glued, making replacement slightly more challenging. Both devices feature IP68 dust and water resistance, providing robust protection against environmental elements.

Performance differences are significant due to the three-year gap in their release, impacting overall speed, multitasking, and power efficiency.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400, offering substantial improvements in raw processing power and graphics performance for demanding applications and smooth daily operation. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100, which were flagship processors in 2021 and are still capable for most tasks, but show their age when handling intensive gaming or future-proofed applications.
• RAM Implications and Storage Options: The Galaxy S24 typically comes with 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and offers storage options up to 512GB, utilizing faster UFS 4.0 technology for 256GB and higher variants, leading to quicker app loading and file transfers. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features 8GB of RAM and storage up to 256GB with UFS 3.1, providing ample space and decent speeds for its time.
• Battery Behavior in Typical Use: Despite the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G having a larger 4800 mAh battery compared to the Galaxy S24's 4000 mAh unit, the S24's more efficient processor and LTPO display often result in comparable or even superior real-world battery endurance for many users. Users of the S24 frequently report it lasting a full day with moderate use.

Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with high refresh rates, but the newer Galaxy S24 offers a more refined visual experience.

• Display Technology and Brightness: Both devices utilize Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. However, the Galaxy S24 significantly surpasses its older counterpart with a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, compared to the S21 Plus 5G's 1300 nits.
• Resolution, Refresh Rate, and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 features a 6.2-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels (~416 ppi) and an adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and enhanced power efficiency due to LTPO technology. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G has a larger 6.7-inch display with 1080 x 2400 pixels (~394 ppi) and a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides a fluid experience, though without the dynamic range of LTPO.
• Screen Protection: The Galaxy S24 is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced durability. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.

The camera systems of both devices offer versatile photography capabilities, with the Galaxy S24 leveraging newer sensor technology and advanced processing.

• Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 features a triple rear camera setup with a 50 MP wide lens, a 10 MP 3x optical telephoto lens, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G also has a triple camera system, comprising a 12 MP wide lens, a 64 MP 3x hybrid telephoto lens, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The S24's dedicated optical telephoto provides clearer zoomed shots.
• Low-Light and Everyday Photography: Both phones are capable of capturing detailed and vibrant images in good lighting. The S24, with its newer sensors and advanced image processing, generally offers improved low-light performance and better dynamic range in various scenarios, as noted by users. While the S21 Plus 5G performs well, it may struggle more in challenging low-light conditions compared to the newer model.
• Video Recording Quality and Front Camera: The Galaxy S24 supports 8K video recording at 30fps and features a 12 MP front camera, offering high-quality video for content creation and sharp selfies. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G offers up to 8K video recording at 24fps and includes a 10 MP front camera, suitable for video calls and everyday self-portraits.