Galaxy S21 5G • Unlocked vs iPhone 12 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, and the Apple iPhone 12, launched in October 2020, are both prominent smartphones from their respective manufacturers. While both devices offer 5G connectivity and robust performance, they differ significantly in their operating systems, camera systems, and display technologies. The Galaxy S21 5G runs on Android, offering a customizable experience, whereas the iPhone 12 operates on Apple's iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem.

When considering the longevity of these devices, both the Galaxy S21 5G and the iPhone 12 offer several years of software support, though their timelines differ due to their respective ecosystems.

• Software Updates: The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, typically receives major iOS updates for 5-7 years and security updates for 6-8 years, potentially extending its usability until 2027-2030 for security patches. The Galaxy S21 5G, launched in January 2021, was promised four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security updates. Its last major OS update is likely Android 15 (One UI 7), with security updates expected to conclude around January or February 2026.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust builds. The iPhone 12 incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover and an aluminum frame, offering enhanced drop performance. The Galaxy S21 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and an aluminum frame, with a plastic back. Both are rated IP68 for dust and water resistance.
• Expected Lifespan: Users can expect several years of practical use from either device. The iPhone 12 generally offers a longer period of major software updates, which can be a factor for users prioritizing the latest features and security. The Galaxy S21 5G, while having a slightly shorter major OS update cycle, still provides a substantial period of support.

Both the Galaxy S21 5G and the iPhone 12 deliver strong performance for everyday tasks, though they approach it with different hardware and software optimizations.

• Processing Power: The iPhone 12 is equipped with a powerful chip that ensures smooth navigation, quick app launches, and efficient handling of demanding applications and games. The Galaxy S21 5G features a current-generation processor that provides a responsive user experience, capable of managing multitasking and graphically intensive tasks without significant slowdowns.
• Memory and Storage: The Galaxy S21 5G typically comes with 8GB of RAM, which aids in keeping multiple applications open and switching between them fluidly. The iPhone 12 has 4GB of RAM, but iOS's memory management allows it to maintain a comparable level of multitasking efficiency. Both devices offer various internal storage options, starting from 64GB or 128GB, suitable for most users' app and media needs.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 5G houses a 4000 mAh battery, generally providing a full day of use for moderate users, though heavy usage, especially with the 120Hz display, may require more frequent charging. The iPhone 12 has a 2815 mAh battery, which for many users provides sufficient power for a day, but some users have noted that its battery life is less robust compared to previous iPhone models or when heavily utilizing 5G.

The display is a primary interaction point for any smartphone, and both the Galaxy S21 5G and iPhone 12 offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels, resulting in a sharp 460 pixels per inch (ppi). The Galaxy S21 5G sports a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, offering 421 ppi. Both technologies deliver excellent contrast and color accuracy.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: A key difference lies in the refresh rate; the Galaxy S21 5G boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations appear smoother and more fluid. The iPhone 12 maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate. In terms of brightness, both offer high peak brightness for HDR content, with the Galaxy S21 5G reaching up to 1300 nits and the iPhone 12 up to 1200 nits, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.
• Viewing Experience: The slightly larger screen of the Galaxy S21 5G, combined with its higher refresh rate, can offer a more immersive and responsive experience for media consumption and gaming. The iPhone 12's OLED display, while at 60Hz, is still highly regarded for its color fidelity and clarity, providing a premium viewing experience for general use.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though they differ in their hardware configurations and photographic approaches.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S21 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens capable of 3x hybrid optical zoom. This provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios, from expansive landscapes to distant subjects. The iPhone 12 comes with a dual-camera system, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 5G is praised for its excellent camera quality, particularly its ultrawide lens and features for different video modes. It also offers 8K video recording. The iPhone 12's camera system is known for its consistent image processing, producing photos with natural colors and strong low-light performance through features like Night mode. It excels in video recording, offering 4K HDR video with Dolby Vision.
• Front Camera and Audio: Both devices include capable front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls; the Galaxy S21 5G has a 10MP front camera, while the iPhone 12 features a 12MP TrueDepth camera. For audio, both provide stereo speakers for media consumption.