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Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

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The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, unveiled in January 2021, represents Samsung’s pinnacle of smartphone technology for the year. As the flagship of the S21 series, it was designed to offer the best of everything Samsung could muster, especially in terms of display and camera capabilities. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra:

Overview:

The Galaxy S21 Ultra was Samsung’s answer to the growing demand for versatile camera systems, top-tier performance, and outstanding displays. With its refined design and a host of features, it aimed to set the standard for premium smartphones in 2021.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with One UI 3.1 based on Android 11.
  2. Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate (adaptive) and HDR10+.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 (in the USA) or Samsung Exynos 2100 (in other regions).
  4. Memory: Options ranging from 12 GB to 16 GB RAM with 128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad-camera setup with a 108 MP primary sensor, two telephoto lenses (10 MP periscope with 10x optical zoom and 10 MP with 3x optical zoom), and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor. The front camera is a 40 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, IP68 dust/water resistance, 5G connectivity, stereo speakers, S Pen support (sold separately), and Bluetooth 5.2.

Pros:

  1. Display: The 120Hz QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display was among the best in the industry, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and smooth animations.
  2. Camera Versatility: The S21 Ultra’s camera system was one of its standout features, offering significant zoom capabilities and improved low-light performance.
  3. Performance: Whether it’s the Snapdragon 888 or the Exynos 2100, the device delivered top-notch performance across all tasks.
  4. S Pen Support: For the first time in the S series, the S21 Ultra offered support for the S Pen, a feature previously reserved for the Note series.
  5. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensured a full day of use for most users, even with intensive tasks.

Cons:

  1. Price: The Galaxy S21 Ultra commanded a premium price, making it one of the more expensive mainstream smartphones at launch.
  2. Size and Weight: The device was quite hefty, which might not be comfortable for all users, especially for prolonged one-handed use.
  3. No MicroSD Card Slot: Unlike its predecessor, the S21 Ultra did away with the microSD card slot, which was a disappointment for some users.
  4. Charging Speed: While 25W charging is decent, it’s slower than the competition, some of which offer 65W or even faster charging speeds.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the S21 Ultra faced competition from:

  • iPhone 12 Pro Max: With its Super Retina XDR OLED display, Apple A14 Bionic chip, and a triple-camera system with LiDAR.
  • OnePlus 9 Pro: Offering a Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888, and a camera system developed in partnership with Hasselblad.
  • Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra: Featuring an AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888, and a comprehensive camera setup with a secondary rear display.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was announced in January 2021 and became available shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Exynos vs. Snapdragon: As with previous Samsung flagships, there was a debate about the performance and efficiency differences between the Exynos and Snapdragon variants.
  2. Camera Autofocus: While improved from the S20 Ultra, some users still reported occasional autofocus inconsistencies.
  3. Software Bugs: Some users experienced minor software glitches, though these were generally addressed in subsequent updates.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone technology. With arguably the best display in the business, a versatile camera system, and a host of other features, it was a compelling choice for those in the market for a premium smartphone. While it had its set of challenges, especially concerning its price and the omission of certain features like the microSD slot, it was hard to argue against the sheer technological prowess of the device. For those seeking the best that Samsung had to offer in early 2021, the S21 Ultra was hard to beat.

Sony Xperia Pro

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The Sony Xperia Pro is a unique offering from Sony, designed with professionals, especially content creators and broadcasters, in mind. It combines the features of a high-end smartphone with functionalities tailored for professional use. Here’s an in-depth review of the Sony Xperia Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Xperia Pro is Sony’s attempt to cater to a niche market of professionals who require advanced connectivity and multimedia capabilities. It’s not just a smartphone; it’s a tool designed for specific professional use-cases.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 6.5-inch 4K OLED with a resolution of 1644 x 3840 pixels, supporting HDR BT.2020 and a 21:9 aspect ratio.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
  4. Memory: 12 GB RAM with 512 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor, 12 MP telephoto lens, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens, similar to the Xperia 1 II. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with USB Type-C fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65/IP68 dust/water resistance, 5G mmWave connectivity, HDMI input (to use the phone as an external monitor for professional cameras), and dual front-facing stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Professional Connectivity: The Xperia Pro’s standout feature is its 5G mmWave connectivity, which allows for ultra-fast data transfer, making it ideal for broadcasting and streaming high-quality content in real-time.
  2. HDMI Input: This feature lets professionals use the Xperia Pro as an external monitor for their cameras, providing a high-resolution viewfinder on the go.
  3. High-Resolution Display: The 4K OLED display offers sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and is perfect for multimedia consumption and professional use.
  4. Robust Build: The device is built with durability in mind, featuring a polycarbonate back that can withstand the rigors of professional use.
  5. Camera Capabilities: The camera system, while similar to the Xperia 1 II, is enhanced by the phone’s professional features, making it suitable for high-quality content creation.

Cons:

  1. Price: The Xperia Pro comes with a hefty price tag, reflecting its niche target audience and professional features.
  2. Weight and Size: Given its robust build and added features, the device is relatively heavy and might not be as comfortable for regular day-to-day use.
  3. Processor: While the Snapdragon 865 is a powerful chipset, it wasn’t the latest available at the time of the Xperia Pro’s release.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

Given its niche target audience, the Xperia Pro doesn’t have many direct competitors. However, in terms of flagship smartphones:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra: Offers a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100), and a versatile camera setup with a 108 MP primary sensor.
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max: Features a Super Retina XDR OLED display, Apple A14 Bionic chip, and a triple camera system with LiDAR.
  • OnePlus 8 Pro: Comes with a Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 865, and a quad-camera system.

Launch Date:

The Sony Xperia Pro was announced in February 2020 but became available in early 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Price Justification: Given its high price, many users and reviewers questioned if the professional features justified the cost, especially for non-professionals.
  2. Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery, while decent, might not last long under continuous professional use, especially with 5G mmWave and HDMI functionalities in play.

Conclusion:

The Sony Xperia Pro is a specialized tool designed for a specific audience. For content creators, broadcasters, and professionals who require advanced connectivity and multimedia capabilities on the go, it offers a unique package that few other devices can match. However, for the average consumer, many of its standout features might be overkill, especially considering its premium price point. It’s a testament to Sony’s commitment to catering to niche markets and integrating technologies from its various divisions into a single product.

Vivo X60 Pro

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The Vivo X60 Pro is part of Vivo’s X-series lineup, which is known for offering premium features, especially in the camera department. Here’s an in-depth review of the Vivo X60 Pro:

Overview:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Vivo X60 Pro was introduced with a focus on camera capabilities, particularly its collaboration with ZEISS, a renowned name in the world of optics. The device aimed to provide users with top-tier photography capabilities combined with a sleek design and solid performance.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 11.1 on top.
  2. Display: 6.56-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2376 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Exynos 1080 (for the global variant).
  4. Memory: 12 GB RAM with 256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup co-engineered with ZEISS – 48 MP primary sensor with gimbal stabilization, 13 MP portrait lens, and 13 MP ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4200 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, and Gorilla Glass 6 protection.

Pros:

  1. Camera Capabilities: The collaboration with ZEISS and the inclusion of gimbal stabilization ensures top-notch photography and videography capabilities.
  2. Display: The 120Hz AMOLED display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth user experience.
  3. Performance: The Exynos 1080 chipset provides robust performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  4. Design: The device boasts a sleek and premium design, making it stand out in its segment.
  5. Fast Charging: The 33W fast charging ensures a quick battery top-up.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: With a 4200 mAh battery and a 120Hz display, the battery life might not be on par with some competitors in the segment.
  2. Funtouch OS: While it offers a plethora of features, Funtouch OS might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock or near-stock Android experience.
  3. No Expandable Storage: The device does not support microSD cards, which means users are limited to the built-in storage options.
  4. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Vivo X60 Pro faced competition from:

  • OnePlus 9: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a Hasselblad-branded camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Featuring a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • Xiaomi Mi 11: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a 108 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Vivo X60 Pro was announced in December 2020 and released in January 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in Funtouch OS, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Battery Life: Given the high-refresh-rate display and the relatively smaller battery, some users found the battery life to be average, especially during heavy usage.

Conclusion:

The Vivo X60 Pro is a compelling offering in the premium segment, especially for users who prioritize camera capabilities. With its ZEISS-branded camera setup, gimbal stabilization, and high-refresh-rate display, it provides a premium smartphone experience. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the battery capacity and software experience, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want top-tier camera features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Vivo X60 Pro is a strong contender.

Xiaomi Mi 11

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The Xiaomi Mi 11 is a flagship offering from Xiaomi, known for delivering high-end specifications at a relatively more affordable price point compared to some other flagship devices. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mi 11:

Overview:

Launched at the end of 2020, the Xiaomi Mi 11 was one of the first smartphones to be powered by the Snapdragon 888 chipset. It aimed to provide users with top-tier performance, camera capabilities, and a premium design.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12.5 on top.
  2. Display: 6.81-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 108 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4600 mAh non-removable battery with 55W fast wired charging, 50W fast wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers with sound by Harman Kardon, 5G connectivity, and Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

Pros:

  1. Display: The QHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers a vibrant and smooth viewing experience.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888, the device handles everything from daily tasks to intensive gaming with ease.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The 108 MP primary camera captures detailed shots, and the overall camera setup offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  4. Charging: The device supports both fast wired and wireless charging, ensuring quick battery top-ups.
  5. Sound: Stereo speakers tuned by Harman Kardon deliver a rich audio experience.

Cons:

  1. MIUI Experience: While MIUI offers a plethora of features, it might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock Android experience. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional ads in the UI.
  2. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.
  3. No Expandable Storage: The device does not support microSD cards, which means users are limited to the built-in storage options.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Xiaomi Mi 11 faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Offering a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • OnePlus 9: Featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a Hasselblad-branded camera setup.
  • Vivo X60 Pro: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and a ZEISS-branded camera setup with gimbal stabilization.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mi 11 was announced in December 2020 and released in January 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in MIUI, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Battery Life: Given the QHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, some users found the battery life to be average, especially during heavy usage.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mi 11 is a compelling flagship offering, especially for users who prioritize display quality, camera capabilities, and performance. With its high-resolution AMOLED display, top-tier chipset, and impressive camera setup, it provides a premium smartphone experience. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the software experience and lack of an IP rating, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want flagship features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Xiaomi Mi 11 is a strong contender.