In the fast-evolving world of smartphones, staying updated with the latest technology is essential for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Samsung’s Galaxy S series has consistently set a benchmark for Android devices, offering both performance and innovation. With the release of the Samsung Galaxy S24, users are naturally curious about how it compares to the older yet still capable Galaxy S21 128GB model—particularly in terms of speed and software support.
Performance and Speed: S21 vs S24
When it comes to raw performance, the Galaxy S24 clearly takes the lead, but the comparison is not as straightforward as it might seem. Let’s break down the specifics:
Processor and Chipset
- Galaxy S21 128GB: Equipped with the Exynos 2100 in some regions and Snapdragon 888 in others, it offered cutting-edge performance at the time of release in early 2021.
- Galaxy S24: Comes with the ultra-efficient and powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400, depending on the region. This chipset offers significant gains in processing speed, AI capabilities, and power management over the 2021 lineup.
The new chipset in the S24 not only enhances everyday tasks like scrolling and multitasking but also greatly improves gaming performance with reduced lag and smoother frame rates. Benchmark scores show a performance jump of 30% or more when comparing S24 to S21 in CPU and GPU categories.
RAM and Storage Type
- Galaxy S21: 8GB RAM paired with 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage.
- Galaxy S24: Starts at 8GB RAM with 128GB or more options, but now uses UFS 4.0 storage on higher configurations, offering faster read/write speeds and better performance under heavy loads.
This translates into noticeably faster app loading times, improved multitasking, and more efficient use of memory on the S24 compared to the S21.
Battery Life and Charging
While battery capacity hasn’t changed dramatically between the two devices, there are meaningful improvements:
- S21: 4000 mAh battery with 25W fast charging.
- S24: Similar battery capacity but features better energy optimization due to the newer chipset and improved software algorithms.
The result? The S24 provides approximately 10-15% longer battery life under similar usage conditions, making it a more reliable daily driver, especially for users on the go.
Software Support and Updates
One of the decisive factors for phone longevity is its software lifecycle. Here’s how they stack up:
- Galaxy S21: Released in early 2021, the S21 was promised 4 years of major Android updates and 5 years of security patches. As of 2024, it has received Android 14, and will potentially stop getting major updates after Android 15.
- Galaxy S24: Samsung has committed to 7 years of OS and security updates, beginning with Android 14. This sets a new standard in Android longevity, rivaling Apple’s support model.
For users considering long-term ownership, the S24 is clearly a more future-proof device. Not only will it receive updates until at least 2031, but those updates will also take full advantage of the newer hardware.
User Experience and Interface
While both devices offer a great user experience with Samsung’s One UI, the newer version on the S24 introduces several refinements:
New Features with One UI 6.1 (S24)
- Enhanced AI-based text summarization and real-time translation.
- Smarter camera tools, including better object recognition and image segmentation.
- More intuitive gesture controls and a cleaner UI aesthetic.
The integration of AI-powered assistants and better synergy with other Samsung ecosystem products gives the S24 a notable edge in user experience, especially for power users and productivity-focused individuals.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
Both the S21 and S24 support 5G connectivity, but the S24 supports more bands and newer standards such as:
- Wi-Fi 7 (versus Wi-Fi 6 on the S21), providing higher data transfer speeds and better performance in crowded environments.
- Bluetooth 5.3 (an upgrade from Bluetooth 5.0), offering better range and improved energy efficiency.
- More advanced GPS positioning support for improved location accuracy.
If you’re planning to keep your phone for several years, the S24 will be relevant longer due to its support for these emerging standards.
Camera Processing Speed and AI Capabilities
While both devices have great cameras on paper, the S24 benefits from newer computational photography techniques:
- S21: Triple-lens system with fast autofocus, but more reliant on manual editing for enhancements.
- S24: Improved AI scene optimization, real-time image enhancement, and faster processing times, delivering sharper photos in challenging conditions.
For creators or even casual users who like to snap quick, high-quality photos and videos, the S24 offers a significantly faster and smarter camera experience.
Conclusion: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Choosing between the Galaxy S21 128GB and the Galaxy S24 depends largely on your priorities. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- You may stay with the S21: If your phone is still performant for your needs, and you’re okay with receiving major updates for just one more year.
- Upgrade to the S24: If you want faster speed, better battery life, a much longer support window, improved AI features, and more future-ready connectivity options.
In summary, the S24 is more than just a modest iteration—it’s a leap into the future with enhancements in nearly every category. While the S21 remains a reliable and capable phone in 2024, the S24 offers a package that better aligns with current and upcoming digital demands.
Ultimately, whether upgrading is the best option depends on your personal usage needs. But if you’re looking for longevity, performance, and smarter tech, the Galaxy S24 is a compelling and worthwhile choice in today’s competitive smartphone market.