Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at
£171.33£1,290.00 new
iPhone 13 mini
Starting at
£230.09£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S21 5G and iPhone 13 mini?
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 5G starts at £171.33, £58.76 less than the iPhone 13 mini.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G, Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13 mini.
- The Galaxy S21 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S21 5G has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 2438 mAh.
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini specs
The Galaxy S21 5G offers a larger screen with a faster refresh rate and more RAM, suited to those who want a spacious display and smooth multitasking on Android. The iPhone 13 mini is smaller and lighter, with a higher resolution front camera and iOS, ideal for buyers who prefer a compact phone with Apple's ecosystem. Battery capacity is higher on the Galaxy S21 5G, which could support longer use between charges. Storage options on the iPhone 13 mini extend up to 512GB, giving more room for apps and media.
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini price
Colour
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and build features. Battery capacity differs, which affects how long you can use each device between charges.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S21 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which suits users who need longer battery life for heavy daily use. The iPhone 13 mini's 2438 mAh battery fits buyers looking for a smaller phone that balances size with battery endurance.
Operating System
The Galaxy S21 5G runs Android, offering flexibility and wide app variety. The iPhone 13 mini uses iOS, which appeals to those invested in the Apple ecosystem or who value the specific features of Apple's software.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options. Each phone uses a different chipset and offers different memory and storage configurations that suit different user needs.
Chipset
The Galaxy S21 5G comes with either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset, both built on 5 nm technology, which supports smooth operation for demanding tasks on Android. The iPhone 13 mini uses the Apple A15 Bionic chipset, also 5 nm, designed for efficient and fast performance within the iOS environment.
RAM
With 8 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S21 5G is suited to users who run multiple apps or heavier tasks simultaneously. The iPhone 13 mini has 4 GB of RAM, which supports everyday use and is optimised for iOS performance.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S21 5G is available with 128GB or 256GB of storage, suitable for most users who store apps, photos, and media. The iPhone 13 mini adds a 512GB option, which is ideal for users who need extra space for large files or extensive media collections.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with the phone. Size, refresh rate, resolution, and screen type vary between these models, fitting different viewing preferences.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S21 5G has a 6.2 inch screen, offering more room for videos, games, and browsing. The iPhone 13 mini's 5.4 inch display suits those who want a compact phone that fits comfortably in one hand or pocket.
Refresh Rate
With a 120 Hz refresh rate, the Galaxy S21 5G provides smoother scrolling and more responsive animations, which benefits users who value fluid visuals. The iPhone 13 mini's 60 Hz display is standard and fits users who prioritise other features over refresh rate.
Resolution and Screen Type
Both phones have similar resolutions around 1080 pixels wide, with the Galaxy S21 5G at 1080 x 2400 and the iPhone 13 mini at 1080 x 2340. The Galaxy's Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen is designed for vibrant colours and brightness, while the iPhone's Super Retina XDR OLED screen offers sharp image quality tailored to iOS.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini camera
Audiovisual features focus on camera capabilities, important for photography, video calls, and selfies. Both phones have similar main cameras but differ in front camera resolution.
Front Camera
The iPhone 13 mini offers a 12 megapixel front camera, which suits users who want detailed selfies and video calls. The Galaxy S21 5G has a 10 megapixel front camera, still delivering good quality images but with a slightly lower resolution.
Main Camera
Both phones have 12 megapixel main cameras, capable of capturing clear photos and videos. This makes each suitable for everyday photography and sharing moments.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini size and design
Other features include network and SIM support, connector type, size, and weight. These details affect compatibility, convenience, and how the phones feel in your hand.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S21 5G supports Dual Physical SIM and eSIM, which is useful for users who want to manage two physical SIM cards plus a digital one. The iPhone 13 mini supports one physical SIM plus eSIM, fitting users who prefer a more straightforward SIM setup.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S21 5G uses USB Type-C, a common standard that works with many accessories and chargers. The iPhone 13 mini features the Lightning connector, which fits users invested in Apple accessories.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S21 5G measures 151.7 mm in height, 71.2 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 169 g. This gives a larger and slightly heavier phone. The iPhone 13 mini is smaller and lighter at 131.5 mm tall, 64.2 mm wide, 7.5 mm deep, and 140 g, making it easier to hold for long periods or fit in smaller pockets.
Unlocked and 5G
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, giving you flexibility in choosing a mobile carrier and access to faster mobile internet speeds.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S21 5G or iPhone 13 mini: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S21 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £171.33, £58.76 less than the iPhone 13 mini
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4000 mAh vs 2438 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 13 mini if
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 10 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Feb 2026)
- you want a lighter build (140 g vs 169 g)
What our customers say
Customers praise the Galaxy S21 5G for its excellent condition, with many saying it looks like new and the battery performs well. Several note that the phones arrive in great shape with no scratches, suitable for those wanting a reliable Android phone with dual SIM support. Buyers appreciate the smooth service and often repeat purchases, highlighting the phone's solid performance and screen size for everyday tasks.
For the iPhone 13 mini, customers enjoy the compact size and Apple ecosystem. Many report receiving phones in better condition than expected, often with high battery health and minimal marks. Users like the screen quality and camera, and several mention the phone fits well in smaller hands or pockets. The availability of larger storage options is valued by those storing more media. Customers find the setup smooth and the phone well suited for daily use.
The Galaxy S21 5G suits buyers who want a larger display, higher RAM, and Android flexibility. The iPhone 13 mini is a strong choice for those who prefer a smaller device, iOS software, and a higher resolution front camera.
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini FAQs
Galaxy S21 5G vs iPhone 13 mini comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G, Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13 mini. The Galaxy S21 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The Galaxy S21 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £171.33 compared with £230.09 for the iPhone 13 mini.
The Galaxy S21 5G has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 2438 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S21 5G ended in Feb 2026. The iPhone 13 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 5G comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 13 mini in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
