Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at
£171.33£1,290.00 new
Google Pixel 5
Starting at
£122.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S21 5G and Google Pixel 5?
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 5 starts at £122, £49.33 less than the Galaxy S21 5G. The Galaxy S21 5G is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Refresh rate
- Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G, Qualcomm SM7250 Snapdragon 765G 5G (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 5.
- Battery: 4000 mAh on the Galaxy S21 5G, 4080 mAh on the Google Pixel 5.
- The Galaxy S21 5G has a bigger screen: 6.2 inch vs 6 inch.
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 specs
The Galaxy S21 5G and Google Pixel 5 both run Android and support 5G, but they differ in several ways that suit different users. The Galaxy S21 5G offers a slightly larger and smoother screen experience with a 120 Hz refresh rate and a 6.2 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It also has a more powerful chipset option and comes in two storage sizes. The Pixel 5 has a slightly bigger battery and a lighter, more compact design which may appeal if you prefer a smaller phone with good battery life. Camera resolutions are similar with a small difference in megapixels. The Galaxy S21 5G supports dual physical SIM cards, while the Pixel 5 has one physical SIM. Both devices are good choices depending on whether you prioritise screen and performance or size and battery.
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 price
Colour
Storage
- 128GBSold out
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 battery life and software updates
Battery capacity, operating system, SIM options and release year all contribute to how long and comfortably each phone lasts in daily use.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 5 has a 4080 mAh battery, which is slightly larger than the Galaxy S21 5G's 4000 mAh. This difference may translate to a bit more screen time or standby on the Pixel 5, suiting those who prioritise longer battery life without charging.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S21 5G supports dual physical SIM cards plus eSIM, making it a good option if you use two physical SIMs regularly, for example for work and personal use. The Pixel 5 offers one physical SIM plus eSIM, which works well if you need only one physical SIM.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 performance
Performance depends on chipset power, RAM and storage options. Both phones have 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly, but their processors and storage choices differ.
Chipset Power
The Galaxy S21 5G features either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset, both built on a 5 nm process, which generally provide faster and more efficient performance. The Pixel 5 uses the Snapdragon 765G chipset on a 7 nm process, suited for everyday use and moderate multitasking. Users needing more processing power for demanding apps may find the Galaxy S21 5G better suited.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S21 5G comes in 128GB and 256GB storage versions, giving more flexibility if you store many photos, videos or apps. The Pixel 5 is available in 128GB, which is ample for most users but without the option for higher capacity.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 screen
Screen size, resolution, type and refresh rate affect how content looks and feels on each device. The Galaxy S21 5G offers a slightly larger and smoother display.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S21 5G has a 6.2 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, offering a bit more viewing area and slightly taller display compared to the Pixel 5's 6 inch screen at 1080 x 2340. This makes the Galaxy S21 5G better for watching videos and browsing with extra screen space.
Refresh Rate
The Galaxy S21 5G supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, which makes animations and scrolling feel smoother. The Pixel 5's 90 Hz refresh rate is still fluid but less so, suiting users who prefer a balance between smoothness and battery efficiency.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S21 5G uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which can offer brighter colours and deeper blacks. The Pixel 5 has an OLED screen, which also delivers rich colours and contrast. Both types provide good visual quality but the Galaxy S21 5G's screen tech may produce a more vivid display.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 camera
Camera resolution on the front and main cameras helps determine photo and video detail. Both phones have similar main cameras, with small differences on the front.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S21 5G has a 10 megapixel front camera, slightly higher resolution than the Pixel 5's 8 megapixels. This can capture more detail in selfies or video calls, making it suitable for those who often use the front camera.
Main Camera Resolution
The Pixel 5 has a 12.2 megapixel main camera, while the Galaxy S21 5G has a 12 megapixel main camera. The difference is small and both are capable of taking detailed photos, so users can expect good image quality from either phone.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 size and design
Other practical differences include size, weight, SIM options and physical dimensions, which affect how the phones feel in your hand and fit in your pocket.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy S21 5G measures 151.7 mm tall, 71.2 mm wide, and 7.9 mm deep, weighing 169 g. The Pixel 5 is more compact at 144.7 mm tall, 70.4 mm wide, and 8 mm deep, and lighter at 151 g. The Pixel 5 suits users preferring a smaller, lighter phone, while the Galaxy S21 5G offers a larger form factor.
SIM Card Configuration
The Galaxy S21 5G supports dual physical SIM cards plus eSIM, which is useful for users needing two physical SIMs at once. The Pixel 5 supports one physical SIM plus eSIM, which fits users with simpler SIM needs.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S21 5G or Google Pixel 5: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S21 5G if
- you want a bigger screen (6.2 inch vs 6 inch)
- you want a smoother screen (120 Hz vs 90 Hz)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (10 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
Buy the Google Pixel 5 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £122, £49.33 less than the Galaxy S21 5G
- you want a lighter build (151 g vs 169 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S21 5G often mention its excellent condition and like that it looks and feels almost new. Many appreciate the battery life, describing it as good or excellent, and the phone's smooth performance. Some buyers value the dual SIM capability and the larger screen size. The overall build and condition receive strong praise, with several customers recommending it for its reliability and quality.
Pixel 5 customers highlight the phone's good battery life and compact size. Many mention the device works well and looks like new, with a few noting its suitability for everyday use. Some experience minor issues, but many find it a practical choice for those who want a lighter phone with a solid camera and sufficient performance.
Both phones attract users who want reliable refurbished devices. The Galaxy S21 5G suits those who prefer a larger screen, more powerful chipset, and dual SIM options. The Pixel 5 fits those who want a lighter, smaller device with good battery life and straightforward performance.
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 FAQs
Galaxy S21 5G vs Google Pixel 5 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G, Qualcomm SM7250 Snapdragon 765G 5G (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 5. Battery: 4000 mAh on the Galaxy S21 5G, 4080 mAh on the Google Pixel 5.
The Google Pixel 5 is cheaper refurbished, from £122 compared with £171.33 for the Galaxy S21 5G.
The Galaxy S21 5G has 4000 mAh and the Google Pixel 5 has 4080 mAh.
The Galaxy S21 5G has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 5 has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S21 5G ended in Feb 2026. Updates for the Google Pixel 5 ended in Nov 2023. Its last version is Android 14.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 5G comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the Google Pixel 5 in 128GB.
