The smartphone market in 2021 offers a mix of cutting-edge innovations, powerful mid-range performers, and budget-friendly devices. Whether you’re looking for flagship features or affordable reliability, here’s a comprehensive look at the year’s best releases in Australia.
Premium Smartphones
Premium devices in 2021 deliver exceptional performance, stunning displays, and advanced camera systems:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
Release Date: 29 January 2021
Price: $1,849 AUD
Key Features: Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, up to 16GB RAM, 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz refresh rate, quad rear cameras with 100x Space Zoom, S Pen support, and 8K video recording. - Apple iPhone 13 Pro
Release Date: 24 September 2021
Price: $1,699 AUD
Key Features: A15 Bionic chip, 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), triple 12MP rear cameras, Cinematic mode, and excellent battery life. - Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max
Release Date: 24 September 2021
Price: $1,849 AUD
Key Features: A larger 6.7-inch display, all the features of the iPhone 13 Pro, and even better battery life. - Google Pixel 6 Pro
Release Date: 28 October 2021
Price: $1,299 AUD
Key Features: Google Tensor G1 chip, 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, triple rear cameras with Magic Eraser and Real Tone features, and tight Google Assistant integration. - OPPO Find X3 Pro
Release Date: 19 March 2021
Price: $1,699 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 888, a 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, quad rear cameras including a 3MP microlens for microscopic shots, and fast charging.
Mid-Range Smartphones
Mid-range smartphones in 2021 combine solid performance and affordability, offering a great balance of features and price:
- Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G
Release Date: September 2021
Price: $699 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 778G, 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, quad rear cameras with OIS, IP67 water resistance, and 5G connectivity. - Xiaomi 11T
Release Date: October 2021
Price: $799 AUD
Key Features: MediaTek Dimensity 1200-Ultra, 120Hz AMOLED display, triple rear cameras including a 108MP main sensor, and 120W HyperCharge for ultra-fast charging. - OPPO Reno6 5G
Release Date: August 2021
Price: $799 AUD
Key Features: MediaTek Dimensity 900, 6.4-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate, AI video enhancements, and stylish design.
Budget Smartphones
Budget phones in 2021 focus on reliability, large batteries, and affordability:
- Nokia G10
Release Date: April 2021
Price: $249 AUD
Key Features: MediaTek Helio G25, triple rear cameras, a large 6.5-inch display, and a focus on long battery life. - Samsung Galaxy A12
Release Date: February 2021
Price: $299 AUD
Key Features: MediaTek Helio P35, quad rear cameras, a large 5000mAh battery, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. - Realme C21Y
Release Date: July 2021
Price: $199 AUD
Key Features: Unisoc T610, triple rear cameras, a 6.5-inch display, and a focus on affordability with a large battery.
Key Takeaways
For premium features, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max dominate with exceptional cameras and displays. Mid-range options like the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G and Xiaomi 11T offer excellent value, while budget-friendly devices such as the Realme C21Y and Samsung Galaxy A12 provide reliability at a low price.
2021 proves to be a great year for finding a smartphone that fits your budget and needs!