Galaxy A73 5G vs Galaxy S21+ 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G are two distinct smartphones from Samsung's lineup, released in March 2022 and January 2021, respectively. While both offer 5G connectivity and a large display, they cater to different user expectations, with the S21 Plus 5G representing a former flagship experience and the A73 5G positioned as a capable mid-range device. Both devices operate on the Android platform, featuring Samsung's One UI for a consistent user experience.

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical durability.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G was released in January 2021, making it approximately 14 months older than the Galaxy A73 5G, which launched in March 2022. This age difference impacts their respective software support cycles.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy A73 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive up to four major Android OS updates, extending its support to Android 16 (One UI 8), with security updates scheduled until April 2027. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G, released with Android 11, received its final major Android OS update (Android 15/One UI 7) in May 2025, and its security updates concluded in February 2026. This means the A73 5G offers a longer period of official software and security support.
• Repairability: The Galaxy A73 5G generally presents a moderate repairability score, with components like the battery and screen being relatively accessible, though adhesive use can complicate repairs. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G, however, is noted to be more challenging to repair, with strong adhesives securing the battery and display, and the volume key flex cable requiring display removal for service.

Evaluating the performance of these devices involves looking at their processing capabilities, storage, and battery behavior in typical usage scenarios.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G, equipped with a higher-tier processor from its generation, generally offers more robust performance for demanding applications and intensive multitasking. Users often report smooth operation and responsive handling of various tasks. The Galaxy A73 5G features a capable mid-range processor that handles everyday apps and general multitasking smoothly, with users noting good overall performance for its class.
• Multitasking and Storage: Both devices typically come with 8GB of RAM, providing sufficient capacity for running multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. The Galaxy A73 5G offers storage options of 128GB and 256GB, with the added flexibility of expandable storage via a microSD card up to 1TB. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G also comes with 128GB or 256GB internal storage but lacks a microSD card slot for expansion.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A73 5G houses a larger 5000mAh battery, which users frequently praise for providing a full day of use, even with moderate to heavy activity. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G has a 4800mAh battery, and while some users find its battery life sufficient, others report it can be less consistent, particularly with heavy usage or certain software updates. Both support 25W fast charging.

The visual experience on a smartphone is largely defined by its display technology, resolution, and responsiveness.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The Galaxy A73 5G uses a Super AMOLED Plus display, which also delivers rich colors and good contrast. Both displays offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080x2400 pixels), resulting in sharp and clear visuals for everyday viewing.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices boast a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid user interface experience. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G can reach higher peak brightness levels, which can be beneficial for outdoor visibility in bright conditions.
• Screen Size and Protection: Both phones feature a 6.7-inch screen, providing an expansive viewing area for media consumption and productivity. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, offering enhanced durability against scratches and drops. The Galaxy A73 5G uses Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection.

The camera systems on both devices offer distinct capabilities for capturing photos and videos.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A73 5G features a quad-camera setup with a high-resolution 108MP main sensor, accompanied by a 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 5MP depth sensor. The 108MP main sensor includes optical image stabilization (OIS) for clearer shots. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G has a triple-camera system, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens with OIS, offering 3x hybrid optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The A73 5G's high megapixel count on its main sensor can capture detailed images in good lighting, and users generally find its cameras to be good for its segment. The S21 Plus 5G's camera system is praised for its versatility and consistent image quality across its lenses, with good performance in various conditions, including improved night mode and portrait shots.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G supports video recording up to 8K at 24fps, along with 4K at 30/60fps, providing more advanced video capabilities. The Galaxy A73 5G records video at 4K at 30fps. For selfies, the A73 5G has a 32MP front camera, while the S21 Plus 5G features a 10MP front camera.