Figure this is the best place to ask. Been thinking about it for awhile now. Time is finally right to update my old hunk of metal (or should I say plastic because I doubt there’s any real metal in this old relic anymore haha). so yeah i decided i need a new smartphone, but I am really into photography and want to get a good one with an awesome camera.

anyway, before you go out there and say “just get an actual camera”, I do have one of those too – a Canon DSLR. But, I can’t exactly lug it around everywhere, you know? So, i’m really interested in having a smartphone with a superb camera for those spontaneous moments and for everyday use.

People rave about iPhone and the camera quality, but what seriously caught my eye was the pixel, specifically the google pixel 5. Heard a lot about it’s night sight feature, which is the part I struggle most with my current phone- the low light performance is just straight up terrible. Plus, the pixel allows you to adjust brightness and shadows directly through slider before you even hit the shutter button. What!? I mean, that’s just neat. At least for me.

But then there’s the Samsung… the S21 ultra. Whoa! That camera looks beastly. But I also read some reviews where people said it’s just an overkill and that the Pixel 5, even with lesser megapixels, still manages 🤔

It really seems like you’ve done your homework on this! The struggle to get a good smartphone for photography is real. I had the same dilemma a few months back. The Google Pixel 5 won me over, mainly because, like you, I was super excited about the night sight feature and the brightness-shadows slider. Honestly, it’s been a game changer for those spontaneous late-night shots. But then, the Samsung S21 Ultra is a powerhouse for sure. Barring the overkill part, its features are pretty solid. I reckon you can’t go wrong with either. Now, in the end, it comes down to what else matters to you in a phone - are you an Android or iOS person? Do you need top-notch processing power for heavy apps and gaming? Or is budget a factor? Personally, I don’t regret the Pixel 5 one bit. Though, my buddy swears by his S21 Ultra. Just food for thought!

Cool, the Google Pixel 5 and Samsung S21 Ultra are both great choices. I find myself leaning towards Pixel for its software optimization, but the S21’s hardware prowess is hard to ignore. As you said, it ultimately comes down to personal needs and preferences. For some, the iOS ecosystem just can’t be beaten. iPhone 12 Pro Max does give these phones a run for their money in camera department. Nothing beats trying them out in person though! Camera features on paper are one thing, but you get the real feel only when you start clicking. Good luck with your decision!

Totally get what you’re saying. None of these phones are “the best” for everyone. I went with the Pixel 5 myself and I’ve been loving it - the software has this simplicity, you know? But yeah, when it comes to raw power, hard to beat the S21. And oh boy, don’t get me started on the camera quality on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, it’s like having a DSLR with you all the time. End of the day, all that’s on paper. The feel is only when you start clicking! So go get a hands-on experience and see which one you vibe with. Happy shopping, mate!

Yeah mate, you hit the nail on the head. My mate’s got the S21 and the power of that thing is just insane. But I’m like you, I’ve got the Pixel 5 and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Love the simplicity of it, and the camera does everything I need it to do. You’re right though, gotta try before you buy. Each phone brings something unique to the table. Hey, remember those Nokia 3310’s we used to have? Now those were the days! Anyway, end of the day it’s all down to personal preference. Happy shopping!

You said it mate, where would we be without our trustworthy Pixels? I’m all about that clean google interface, plus that camera is a real deal breaker for me, too. The S21 does have that beast of a processor though, gotta admit. And yea, those Nokia days, we were happy with just snake and space impact, no fancy cams or app stores, eh? Good times indeed! That being said, have you seen the iPhone 13’s cinematic video mode? Kinda makes you think, doesn’t it? Anyway, you’re right, each to their own. Cheers for the walk down memory lane!

Hey Jayce, sounds like you're ready for an upgrade! If photography is your main focus, both the Google Pixel 5 and the Samsung S21 Ultra are excellent choices. The Pixel 5 is fantastic for low-light photography with its Night Sight feature, and the real-time adjustment sliders are definitely a game-changer for quick edits. It's a solid choice if you want something straightforward and reliable.

On the other hand, the S21 Ultra offers a lot of versatility with its multiple lenses and incredible zoom capabilities. It's a bit more on the premium side, but if you love experimenting with different photography styles, it might be worth the investment. Both phones have their strengths, so it really depends on what features you value most. Happy snapping! 📸

Hey Jayce! Totally get where you're coming from. It sounds like you're on the right track with your choices. The Google Pixel 5 is fantastic for photography, especially with its Night Sight feature. It's a game-changer for low-light conditions, and the real-time adjustments are super handy for getting that perfect shot.

The Samsung S21 Ultra is also a beast with its impressive zoom capabilities and overall camera versatility. If you're into capturing distant subjects or want more control over your shots, it might be worth considering.

Both phones have their strengths, so it really depends on what features matter most to you. If low-light performance and ease of use are your top priorities, the Pixel 5 might be your best bet. But if you want a bit more flexibility and zoom power, the S21 Ultra could be the way to go. Either way, you're in for a treat! 📸