Galaxy S21+ 5G vs iPhone XR

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G, released in January 2021, and the Apple iPhone XR, launched in October 2018, represent different generations and operating systems within the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G offers a more contemporary Android experience with advanced display and camera technology, the iPhone XR provides a streamlined iOS experience with a focus on reliability. These devices cater to users with distinct preferences for software ecosystems and hardware capabilities.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G was released in January 2021, making it a significantly newer device compared to the iPhone XR, which launched in October 2018. This age difference impacts their remaining software support and overall practical lifespan.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G received its final major Android OS update (Android 15) in May 2025 and ceased receiving software updates, including security patches, in February 2026. The iPhone XR received major iOS updates through 2024, with iOS 18 being its final major software update. It was not eligible for iOS 26 in 2025 but continued to receive security updates as of early 2026, with app compatibility expected to last until at least the end of 2026.
• Repairability: Both devices are considered moderately repairable. The iPhone XR scored 6 out of 10 on iFixit's repairability test, noting that its modular display makes screen replacement relatively straightforward. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G also has replaceable internal parts, though battery replacement can be challenging due to strong adhesive.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is powered by a processor from its release year (either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, depending on region), which handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone XR features the A12 Bionic chip, a capable processor from its 2018 release, providing a fluid experience for general use and many applications.
• System Responsiveness: Users of the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G often report a fast and responsive experience, with smooth app loading and efficient handling of multiple applications simultaneously, supported by 8GB of RAM. The iPhone XR, with 3GB of RAM, offers consistent performance for everyday tasks, though it may show its age with very demanding modern applications compared to newer devices.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is equipped with a 4800 mAh battery, which typically provides a full day of heavy use and potentially two days with lighter usage. The iPhone XR, with a 2942 mAh battery, was noted for its strong battery life at its release, often lasting longer than other iPhones from its generation, and can still provide reliable power for a full day of moderate use.

The visual experience is largely defined by the display technology and its characteristics.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. It has a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, providing a clear viewing experience. The iPhone XR comes with a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, which delivers accurate colors and good brightness, though its resolution of 828 x 1792 pixels is lower than the S21 Plus 5G.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G boasts a peak brightness of up to 1300 nits, making it highly visible in bright outdoor conditions, and features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The iPhone XR has a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is suitable for most viewing environments but less fluid than higher refresh rate displays.
• Viewing Experience: The larger AMOLED screen of the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G provides an immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. The iPhone XR's LCD screen, while smaller and with a lower resolution, still offers a good viewing experience for general use, with many users finding its size comfortable for one-handed operation.

For many users, the camera system is a primary consideration, influencing how they capture and share moments.

• Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features a versatile triple-camera system on the rear, including a 12 MP wide-angle lens, a 64 MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The iPhone XR has a single 12 MP wide-angle rear camera.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G delivers good image quality across various lighting conditions, with improved low-light performance and the flexibility of multiple lenses for different perspectives. Its portrait mode is also well-regarded. The iPhone XR's single camera is praised for producing natural-looking photos, especially in good lighting, and utilizes software for portrait mode effects.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video. The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G supports up to 8K at 24fps and 4K at 30/60fps, offering advanced video features. The iPhone XR records 4K video at up to 60fps and includes optical image stabilization for smoother footage. Both phones offer clear microphone quality for calls and recordings, and their speakers provide a satisfactory audio experience for media consumption.