Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Locked AT&T

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

• Release and Software Support: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, released in January 2021, launched with Android 11 and was initially promised four major Android updates, extending its operating system support up to Android 15. Apple's iPhone SE 2022, released in March 2022 with iOS 15, typically receives major iOS updates for approximately 5 to 7 years, suggesting support potentially until iOS 20-22.
• Practical Lifespan: Both devices are designed for durability, with the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G featuring Gorilla Glass Victus on its display and back, and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone SE 2022 incorporates dual-ion exchange-strengthened glass and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. Users can expect several years of practical use from either device, with software updates playing a crucial role in maintaining security and compatibility with new applications.
• Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, both manufacturers offer repair services. The availability of parts and service for both models is generally good, especially for a quality-assured refurbished option, which can extend the life of these devices sustainably.

The performance of a smartphone significantly impacts daily user experience, from app responsiveness to multitasking capabilities.

• Processor Capabilities: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is equipped with a powerful processor designed to handle demanding applications and intensive multitasking. This allows for smooth navigation, efficient processing of complex tasks, and a responsive gaming experience. The iPhone SE 2022 features a current-generation Apple processor, which provides robust performance for its operating system and applications, ensuring a fluid user experience and efficient handling of everyday tasks and many graphically intensive games.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G houses a large 5000 mAh battery, which typically provides extended usage times, often lasting a full day or more for many users. The iPhone SE 2022, due to its smaller form factor, has a more compact battery, which users generally report as sufficient for a day of moderate use, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging.
• Storage and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers various storage options up to 512GB and up to 16GB of RAM, facilitating extensive app installations and seamless multitasking. The iPhone SE 2022 comes with storage options up to 256GB and 4GB of RAM, which is optimized for iOS to maintain system responsiveness and efficient app management.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and these two models offer distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a large 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. In contrast, the iPhone SE 2022 utilizes a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD, which offers accurate color reproduction and good viewing angles, though it does not achieve the same level of contrast as an OLED panel.
• Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G boasts a high resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a very sharp and detailed image with a pixel density of 515 pixels per inch. The iPhone SE 2022 has a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 pixels per inch, which is clear for its size but less dense than the Ultra's display.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, providing smooth scrolling and animations, along with a peak brightness of 1500 nits for excellent outdoor visibility. The iPhone SE 2022 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate and a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, which is adequate for most indoor and outdoor conditions but may struggle in direct sunlight compared to the Ultra.

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and these devices offer different photographic strengths.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung 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 configuration allows for a wide range of photographic styles, from expansive landscapes to detailed distant subjects. The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera with optical image stabilization, which excels in good lighting conditions and produces color-accurate images.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G's advanced hardware and software processing contribute to detailed images across various lighting scenarios, including enhanced low-light performance. The iPhone SE 2022, while producing good images in adequate light, lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can result in darker and grainier photos in very low-light environments.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both devices are capable of high-quality video recording. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G can record up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second, while the iPhone SE 2022 supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, with users often praising its video quality for its price point. Both phones offer stereo speakers for media consumption, and their microphones are suitable for calls and basic recording.

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0 or newer standards, ensuring fast wireless communication. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G uses a USB-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone SE 2022 retains Apple's Lightning port. Neither device includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Biometric Security and Sensors: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone SE 2022 utilizes Touch ID, integrated into its home button, for fingerprint recognition. Both phones include a standard array of sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and compasses.
• Design and Handling: The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is a larger and heavier device, weighing 227-229 grams with dimensions of 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm, offering a substantial feel and a large viewing area. The iPhone SE 2022 is significantly more compact and lighter at 144 grams, with dimensions of 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm, making it easier for one-handed use and pocketability. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G also supports the S-Pen for enhanced productivity, a feature not present on the iPhone SE 2022.