Galaxy S21 5G • Unlocked vs Google Pixel 9 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro, launched in September 2024, represent different generations of Android smartphones. While both devices offer a premium experience, the Pixel 9 Pro benefits from several years of technological advancements, particularly in its camera system, processing power, and long-term software support. Both run on the Android operating system, but the Pixel 9 Pro integrates Google's latest software innovations and AI features more deeply.

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, their respective release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators.

• Release Timeline and OS Support: The Galaxy S21 5G, released in early 2021, received four major Android OS updates, concluding with Android 15 (One UI 7.0) in May 2025. Its security updates transitioned to a quarterly schedule in February 2025 and officially ended in January 2026. In contrast, the Google Pixel 9 Pro, launched in late 2024 with Android 15, is guaranteed seven years of OS and security updates, extending its support until at least August 2031. This provides the Pixel 9 Pro with a significantly longer period of official software longevity.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 5G generally received moderate repairability scores, with some assessments noting it as fairly repairable due to an easily removable back plate and replaceable parts, though the battery can be difficult to access due to strong adhesive. Other teardowns gave it a lower score, highlighting challenges with screen and battery removal. The Pixel 9 Pro has also shown mixed repairability assessments; some reports indicate difficulties with battery removal and display fragility, despite some modular internal components.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: For users prioritizing the latest software features and security, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a considerably longer practical lifespan due to its extended update commitment. The Galaxy S21 5G, having reached its end-of-life for major software and security updates, may still function but will not receive new features or critical security patches, potentially impacting its long-term usability and security.

The performance capabilities of these two smartphones reflect the advancements in mobile technology over several years.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 5G is powered by a capable processor from early 2021, which delivered strong performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications at its release. The Pixel 9 Pro features a modern, AI-focused processor from late 2024, designed for enhanced efficiency, advanced computational tasks, and integrated artificial intelligence features. This newer hardware provides a noticeable advantage in raw processing power and specialized AI acceleration.
• System Responsiveness and Multitasking: The Pixel 9 Pro typically offers a smoother and more responsive user experience, especially when handling multiple applications simultaneously or engaging in graphically intensive gaming, thanks to its more recent processor and higher RAM configurations (up to 16GB). The Galaxy S21 5G, with 8GB of RAM, was responsive for its time, but may show signs of slower app loading or less fluid multitasking compared to the newer Pixel, particularly with more demanding modern applications.
• Storage Options: Both devices offer various internal storage options, with the Galaxy S21 5G available in 128GB and 256GB configurations. The Pixel 9 Pro provides more expansive choices, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and even 1TB, catering to users with larger storage needs. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.

Both smartphones feature high-quality displays, but the Pixel 9 Pro incorporates newer display technologies that offer enhanced visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 5G features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Pixel 9 Pro comes with a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display, which offers similar benefits but with improved power efficiency and potentially more precise color reproduction. The Pixel 9 Pro also boasts a higher resolution of 2856 x 1280 pixels (495 ppi) compared to the S21's 1080 x 2400 pixels (421 ppi), resulting in a sharper image.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices offer a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for fluid scrolling and animations. However, the Pixel 9 Pro's LTPO technology allows its refresh rate to dynamically scale down to as low as 1Hz, conserving battery life when static content is displayed. The Pixel 9 Pro also achieves significantly higher peak brightness levels, reaching up to 2000-3000 nits, which improves outdoor visibility compared to the Galaxy S21 5G's 1300 nits.
• Screen Size and Viewing Experience: The Pixel 9 Pro offers a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen compared to the S21's 6.2-inch display, providing a marginally more expansive viewing area. Both displays are protected by durable glass, with the S21 using Gorilla Glass Victus.

The camera systems on both phones are designed to capture high-quality images, but the Pixel 9 Pro benefits from more recent sensor technology and advanced computational photography.

• Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 5G features a versatile triple camera setup with a 12 MP wide, 64 MP telephoto (offering 3x hybrid optical zoom), and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Pixel 9 Pro also sports a triple camera system, typically including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto lens, often with 5x optical zoom. The Pixel 9 Pro's higher megapixel counts on its secondary lenses can provide more detail and flexibility.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 5G was praised for its good everyday photography, versatile zoom capabilities, and features like Director's View and Pro Video mode at its launch. However, some users noted that its camera might not be as sharp as newer devices. The Pixel 9 Pro is known for its excellent photos with natural colors, strong low-light performance, and advanced AI enhancements that improve image quality across various scenarios.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both phones are capable of high-resolution video recording, with the S21 supporting up to 8K video at 24fps. The Pixel 9 Pro also offers robust video capabilities, often with AI-driven stabilization and enhancements. For audio, both devices provide a good media consumption experience through their speakers, and their microphones are suitable for calls and recording.