Samsung Note 20 vs S21: Which Phone Has the Best Features? Find Out Now!

Choosing between Samsung’s Galaxy Note and S series can be a tough decision, especially when comparing the Note 20 and the S21. Both phones boast impressive features and powerful performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you understand the key differences between the Samsung Note 20 vs S21, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your individual requirements.

Design and Display: A Matter of Taste

Both the Note 20 and S21 offer sleek and modern designs, but with distinct aesthetic choices. The Note 20 embraces a more traditional rectangular form factor with a slightly larger footprint, while the S21 boasts a more compact and streamlined design with curved edges.
Note 20:

• Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus, 120Hz refresh rate
• Design: Rectangular body, flat display, plastic back, IP68 water and dust resistance

S21:

• Display: 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate
• Design: Curved edges, aluminum frame, glass back, IP68 water and dust resistance

The Note 20’s larger display offers a more immersive viewing experience, perfect for multimedia consumption and multitasking. The S21, on the other hand, prioritizes portability and one-handed usability with its smaller screen. The S21’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology also delivers superior color accuracy and brightness compared to the Note 20’s Super AMOLED Plus.

Performance and Battery: Powerhouse Performance

Both the Note 20 and S21 are equipped with powerful processors and ample RAM, ensuring seamless performance for demanding tasks. However, there are some minor differences in their specifications:
Note 20:

• Processor: Exynos 990 (International), Snapdragon 865+ (US)
• RAM: 8GB
• Battery: 4300 mAh

S21:

• Processor: Exynos 2100 (International), Snapdragon 888 (US)
• RAM: 8GB (base model), 12GB (higher variants)
• Battery: 4000 mAh

The S21’s newer Exynos 2100 (or Snapdragon 888) processor offers a noticeable performance boost compared to the Note 20’s Exynos 990 (or Snapdragon 865+). However, the Note 20’s larger battery capacity provides longer battery life, particularly for users who rely heavily on their phone for multimedia consumption and gaming.

Camera Capabilities: Capturing Memories with Clarity

Both the Note 20 and S21 boast impressive camera systems, capable of capturing stunning photos and videos. The S21, however, offers a few key upgrades:
Note 20:

• Main Camera: 12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide
• Front Camera: 10MP

S21:

• Main Camera: 12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide
• Front Camera: 10MP

The S21’s camera system is slightly more advanced, featuring a wider aperture on the main camera for better low-light performance and improved autofocus. It also offers a more intuitive user interface and advanced features like Director’s View, which allows you to switch between cameras while recording videos.

The S Pen Advantage: Note 20’s Unique Selling Point

The Samsung Note series is renowned for its iconic S Pen, and the Note 20 continues this tradition. The S Pen offers a range of features, including:

• Precise writing and drawing: The S Pen provides a natural and responsive writing experience, making it ideal for note-taking, sketching, and digital art.
• Air Actions: Perform actions like controlling presentations, taking photos, and navigating the phone with the S Pen’s remote capabilities.
• Samsung Notes: The dedicated Notes app allows you to write, draw, and annotate documents with precision.

If you value the S Pen’s unique capabilities for productivity, creativity, and accessibility, the Note 20 is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize a compact design and the latest camera technology, the S21 might be a better fit.

Software and Features: A Seamless User Experience

Both the Note 20 and S21 run on Samsung’s One UI, which provides a clean and intuitive user interface. The S21, however, benefits from the newer One UI 3.1, which introduces subtle improvements and refinements to the overall user experience.
Note 20:

• Operating System: Android 10 with One UI 2.5
• Features: Samsung DeX, Bixby, Samsung Pay, Samsung Health

S21:

• Operating System: Android 11 with One UI 3.1
• Features: Samsung DeX, Bixby, Samsung Pay, Samsung Health, Google Assistant

Both phones offer a range of features, including Samsung DeX for desktop-like functionality, Bixby for voice control, Samsung Pay for contactless payments, and Samsung Health for fitness tracking. The S21’s newer software version offers a more refined and intuitive user experience, with improved performance and new features.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Samsung Flagship

Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung Note 20 and S21 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Note 20 if:

• You value the unique capabilities of the S Pen for productivity, creativity, and accessibility.
• You prefer a larger display for multimedia consumption and multitasking.
• You prioritize longer battery life.

Choose the S21 if:

• You prioritize a compact and portable design.
• You desire the latest camera technology and performance enhancements.
• You prefer a more refined and intuitive user experience.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Note 20 and S21 are excellent choices, it’s worth considering other Samsung flagships like the Galaxy S20 FE or the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. The S20 FE offers a compelling value proposition with its impressive features at a lower price point, while the Note 20 Ultra provides a premium experience with a larger display and a more advanced S Pen.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which phone has a better camera?
A: The S21 boasts a slightly more advanced camera system with a wider aperture on the main camera for better low-light performance and improved autofocus. It also offers a more intuitive user interface and advanced features like Director’s View.
Q: Does the Note 20 have 5G?
A: Yes, both the Note 20 and S21 support 5G connectivity.
Q: Which phone is better for gaming?
A: The S21’s newer processor offers a slight performance advantage, making it a better choice for demanding games. However, both phones offer excellent gaming experiences.
Q: Can I use the S Pen with the S21?
A: No, the S Pen is exclusive to the Note series. The S21 does not support the S Pen.
Q: Which phone is better for multitasking?
A: The Note 20’s larger display and the S Pen’s unique capabilities make it a better choice for multitasking. However, the S21 still offers a smooth and efficient multitasking experience.