Samsung Galaxy S21 vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
Our verdict: Display is a trade-off — 7.6" on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 versus 424 PPI on the Samsung Galaxy S21. With 64MP on the rear, the Samsung Galaxy S21 has the higher-resolution camera. Front-camera quality goes to the Samsung Galaxy S21 at 10MP. If weight matters, the Samsung Galaxy S21 is easier to pocket at 171g.
10 reviews 4.0
12 reviews
Samsung Galaxy S21
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
|
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.1 10 reviews |
4.0 12 reviews |
| Screen | 6.2" | 7.6" |
| Display | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1812 x 2176 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 424 | 373 |
| Rear Camera | 64 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10 Megapixels | 4 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 | Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 256GB, 512GB |
| OS | Android 11 | Android |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6/7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with A2DP, LE | 5.2 with A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 158.5 x 67.5 x 14.5 mm |
| Weight | 171 grams | 275 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP53 - dust and splash protection | IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
| Contracts | — |
£38.94/mo
£970.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £169.99 | £569.99 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has the bigger screen at 7.6" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S21's 6.2", the Samsung Galaxy S21 has the sharper display at 424 pixels per inch versus 373, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has a Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a 64 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has a 50 Megapixels rear camera. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.
Which is cheaper to buy SIM-free, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £169.99.
What storage options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 use?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 uses the Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
It's a trade-off: the Samsung Galaxy S21 is lighter but the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is more compact. It's 104g lighter at 171 grams, though the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is actually the more compact phone at 158.5 x 67.5 x 14.5 mm, the Samsung Galaxy S21 is slimmer at 7.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is rated IP53 - dust and splash protection, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is rated IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins).
What operating system do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 run?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 runs Android 11 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.