Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy S21+
The Verdict
iPhone SE (4th gen) delivers impressive value at $499 with its modern A18 chip, vibrant 6.1-inch OLED display, and capable 48MP camera system. However, Galaxy S21+ commands double the price with superior specifications across multiple dimensions: larger 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen, quad camera setup with 3x zoom and 8K video, significantly larger 4800mAh battery, and faster 25W charging. Samsung's display refresh rate advantage and multi-lens photography prowess appeal to power users, while the iPhone SE excels in processing efficiency and software optimization. Battery endurance favors S21+ by substantial margin due to capacity difference. Build quality matches closely with IP68 ratings on both. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing core performance and modern features, iPhone SE represents exceptional value. Serious camera enthusiasts and those wanting premium display fluidity should opt for Galaxy S21+. iPhone SE wins on value proposition; Galaxy S21+ dominates on specifications.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) if…
- →First SE with an OLED display, a generational leap over prior LCD
- →A18 chip enables Apple Intelligence at the entry price point
- →Face ID replaces Touch ID with modern full-screen front design
Buy the Samsung Galaxy S21+ if…
- →Large 4800 mAh battery with great endurance
- →120Hz AMOLED display
- →Gorilla Glass Victus durability
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPhone SE (4th generation)
Pros
- First SE with an OLED display, a generational leap over prior LCD
- A18 chip enables Apple Intelligence at the entry price point
- Face ID replaces Touch ID with modern full-screen front design
- USB-C replaces Lightning for universal compatibility
- Most affordable iPhone with A18 performance
Cons
- No telephoto or ultrawide camera — single rear lens only
- Capped at 60Hz with no ProMotion
- No Dynamic Island; uses standard notch
- No MagSafe support, only standard Qi wireless
- Modest battery life compared to standard iPhone 16
Samsung Galaxy S21+
Pros
- Large 4800 mAh battery with great endurance
- 120Hz AMOLED display
- Gorilla Glass Victus durability
- Good triple camera system
- Flat display is easier to use with screen protectors
Cons
- FHD+ only, no QHD option
- Plastic back on some regions (Glasstic)
- Slow 25W charging
- No microSD card slot (removed in S21 series)
- No charger in the box
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) | Samsung Galaxy S21+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 167 g | 200 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 138.7 x 67.3 x 7.9 mm | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 12 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 10 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps |
| Telephoto | — | 64 MP, f/2.0, 3x hybrid zoom |
| Ultrawide | — | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | ~3279 mAh | 4800 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | 15W wireless |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 | 2400 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1200 | 1300 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz + 3x2.42 GHz + 4x1.8 GHz) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Adreno 660 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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