What to know
- The Note 20 Ultra features a triple-lens rear camera setup with a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom.
- If you prioritize battery life, the S Pen, and a slightly larger display, the Note 20 Ultra is the better option.
- If you value a more compact design, a wider range of color options, a higher peak brightness display, and a slightly longer telephoto zoom, the S21 Ultra is the better choice.
Samsung’s Note and S series smartphones represent the pinnacle of mobile technology, offering cutting-edge features and unparalleled performance. In this detailed comparison, we’ll pit the Samsung Note 20 Ultra against the S21 Ultra, two formidable contenders in the flagship market. We’ll delve into their key specifications, design, display, camera capabilities, performance, battery life, and other crucial aspects to determine which device emerges victorious.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra boast premium designs with sleek metal frames and elegant glass backs. However, there are subtle differences in their overall aesthetics. The Note 20 Ultra features a more boxy design with sharp edges, while the S21 Ultra has a curvier profile with rounded corners. The S21 Ultra also comes in a wider range of colors, including Phantom Black, Phantom White, Phantom Silver, Phantom Violet, and Phantom Navy.
Display
The Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra both sport stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with QHD+ resolution. However, the Note 20 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.9-inch screen compared to the 6.8-inch display on the S21 Ultra. Both displays offer incredibly vivid colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. The S21 Ultra has a slightly higher peak brightness, making it more suitable for outdoor use.
Camera
The camera systems on the Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra are among the best in the smartphone market. The Note 20 Ultra features a triple-lens rear camera setup with a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The S21 Ultra has a similar triple-lens setup, but with a slightly wider 120MP main sensor and a 10MP telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom.
In terms of image quality, both devices capture exceptional photos with vibrant colors, sharp details, and good dynamic range. The Note 20 Ultra has a slight edge in low-light photography due to its larger main sensor. The S21 Ultra’s longer telephoto lens provides more flexibility for distant subjects.
Performance
The Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra are powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, ensuring blazing-fast performance. Both devices handle demanding tasks effortlessly, from multitasking to gaming. The S21 Ultra comes with a slightly faster variant of the processor, which may provide a marginal performance advantage in certain scenarios.
Battery Life
The Note 20 Ultra has a larger 4,500mAh battery compared to the 4,000mAh battery on the S21 Ultra. In real-world usage, the Note 20 Ultra offers slightly longer battery life, lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. Both devices support fast charging and wireless charging.
S Pen
One of the key differentiators between the Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra is the S Pen. The Note 20 Ultra comes with a built-in S Pen, which provides a range of productivity and creative features. The S Pen has a lower latency compared to previous models, making it even more responsive and precise. The S21 Ultra does not support the S Pen.
Software
The Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra run on Android 10 with Samsung’s One UI 2.5 custom skin. Both devices will receive updates to Android 11 and One UI 3.0 in the future. One UI offers a user-friendly interface with a host of customization options.
Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra depends on individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize battery life, the S Pen, and a slightly larger display, the Note 20 Ultra is the better option. If you value a more compact design, a wider range of color options, a higher peak brightness display, and a slightly longer telephoto zoom, the S21 Ultra is the better choice. Both devices offer exceptional performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: Which device has a better display?
A: Both devices have excellent displays, but the S21 Ultra has a slightly higher peak brightness, making it more suitable for outdoor use.
Q2: Which camera system is better?
A: Both devices have exceptional camera systems, but the Note 20 Ultra has a slight edge in low-light photography due to its larger main sensor. The S21 Ultra’s longer telephoto lens provides more flexibility for distant subjects.
Q3: Which device has better battery life?
A: The Note 20 Ultra has a slightly larger battery and offers longer battery life compared to the S21 Ultra.
Q4: Does the S21 Ultra support the S Pen?
A: No, the S21 Ultra does not support the S Pen.
Q5: Which device is more suitable for productivity?
A: The Note 20 Ultra is more suitable for productivity thanks to its built-in S Pen, which provides a range of productivity and creative features.