Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G • Unlocked vs Google Pixel 7 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, released in January 2021, and the Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, represent distinct approaches to the premium smartphone experience. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers a feature-rich, expansive design with a highly versatile camera system, whereas the Pixel 7 focuses on a streamlined software experience powered by advanced computational photography.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G was introduced in January 2021, making it an older model compared to the Google Pixel 7, which arrived in October 2022. This difference in release date directly impacts their remaining software support.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G typically receives major Android operating system updates for four generations from its release, extending its support into the near future. The Google Pixel 7, being a newer device, is expected to receive three major Android updates, potentially extending its software longevity further than the S21 Ultra 5G due to its later launch.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on their front and back panels, offering a similar level of scratch and drop resistance. They also share an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The Pixel 7 has a repairability score of around 6.5 to 7 out of 10, with some challenges noted for battery replacement and a soldered USB-C port.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is equipped with a high-end processor from its release year, designed to handle demanding applications and complex operations efficiently. The Google Pixel 7 features Google's Tensor G2 processor, which is optimized for machine learning tasks and provides a fluid user experience for everyday activities. While raw benchmark scores might vary, both processors deliver smooth performance for typical smartphone usage.
• Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G typically comes with 12GB or 16GB of RAM, allowing for extensive multitasking without significant slowdowns. It offers storage options up to 512GB. The Pixel 7 includes 8GB of RAM and storage options up to 256GB, which is sufficient for most users but offers less headroom for heavy multitasking or large media libraries compared to the S21 Ultra 5G.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G houses a 5000 mAh battery, generally providing ample power for a full day of moderate to heavy use. The Pixel 7 has a 4355 mAh battery, which for many users provides sufficient power for a full day, though heavy usage scenarios might require a midday top-up. Some users have reported varying battery performance with the Pixel 7, with some experiencing quicker drain under certain conditions.

The visual experience is a primary interaction point, and both devices offer distinct display characteristics.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing an expansive viewing area. The Google Pixel 7 has a more compact 6.3-inch AMOLED display.
• Resolution and Clarity: The S21 Ultra 5G boasts a QHD+ resolution (3200x1440 pixels), resulting in a very sharp and detailed image. The Pixel 7 offers a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), which is clear for most content but less pixel-dense than the S21 Ultra 5G.
• Brightness and Smoothness: The S21 Ultra 5G can reach a peak brightness of 1500 nits and features an adaptive refresh rate that scales from 10Hz to 120Hz, offering very smooth scrolling and animations while conserving power. The Pixel 7 reaches a peak brightness of 1400 nits and has a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a responsive and bright viewing experience, though not as adaptive or high as the S21 Ultra 5G.

Both smartphones offer advanced camera systems, but they excel in different aspects of photography and videography.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a versatile quad-camera setup, including a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses offering 3x and 10x optical zoom. This provides extensive flexibility for various shooting distances. The Google Pixel 7 has a dual-camera system with a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens. While it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, it utilizes computational photography for a 2x Super Res Zoom that aims to deliver high-quality zoomed images.
• Photography Performance: The S21 Ultra 5G delivers detailed images across its multiple lenses, with strong performance in various lighting conditions. The Pixel 7 is highly praised for its computational photography, which excels in producing natural-looking photos, particularly in challenging low-light environments and with features like Photo Unblur.
• Video Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G supports 8K video recording at 24 frames per second, alongside 4K at 60 frames per second. The Pixel 7 records 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and includes features like Cinematic Blur for video, which adds a depth-of-field effect.
• Front Camera: The S21 Ultra 5G has a 40MP front camera, while the Pixel 7 features a 10.8MP front camera, both capable of capturing detailed selfies and video calls.