Galaxy A32 5G Vs Galaxy S21 FE 5G

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, is positioned as a 'Fan Edition' device, offering a balance of premium features from the flagship S21 series at a more accessible point. The Samsung Galaxy A32 5G, launched earlier in January 2021, is part of Samsung's more budget-friendly A-series, focusing on core smartphone functionalities and 5G connectivity. Both devices run on Android with Samsung's One UI, but the S21 FE generally offers more advanced specifications, particularly in display and processing power, while the A32 5G focuses on providing reliable performance for everyday use.

The lifespan of these devices is influenced by their release dates and Samsung's software support policies.

• Release Timeline and Software Updates: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched in January 2022, shipped with Android 12 and has received updates up to Android 16, its final major OS update. Security patches are expected to continue until at least early 2027. The Galaxy A32 5G, released in January 2021, originally ran on Android 11 and has been updated to Android 13, its last major OS update. Security updates for the A32 5G ended around February 2025.
• Software Longevity Expectations: Users seeking longer-term software support will find the Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a longer effective lifespan due to its more recent release and extended update commitment.
• Durability and Build: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a glass front with Gorilla Glass Victus protection, an aluminum frame, and a plastic back, along with an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, allowing immersion up to 1.5m for 30 minutes. The Galaxy A32 5G has a glass front with Gorilla Glass 5, a plastic frame, and a plastic back, but lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance. This makes the S21 FE 5G more resilient to environmental factors.

Performance differences are notable, with the Galaxy S21 FE 5G offering a more powerful experience for demanding tasks.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a flagship-grade processor, either the Snapdragon 888 5G or Exynos 2100 (both 5nm), providing significantly faster CPU and GPU speeds for smooth handling of demanding applications, intensive gaming, and multitasking. The Galaxy A32 5G uses a MediaTek Dimensity 720 5G (7nm) processor, which is suitable for everyday tasks like browsing and social media but may experience slowdown with more intensive applications or gaming.
• RAM and Storage Options: The S21 FE 5G comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, without a microSD card slot. The A32 5G offers 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM with 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, and includes a microSDXC slot for expandable storage up to 1TB.
• Battery Behavior: The S21 FE 5G features a 4500 mAh battery with 25W fast wired charging and 15W wireless charging. User experiences vary, with some reporting average battery life, particularly with 120Hz display and 5G enabled, and potential heating under light use. The A32 5G has a larger 5000 mAh battery with 15W fast charging, known for its excellent battery life, lasting impressively long even with a 90Hz refresh rate.

The display experience differs significantly between these two Samsung models.

• Display Technology and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth visuals. The Galaxy A32 5G has a 6.5-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. While the A32 5G's 90Hz refresh rate offers smoother scrolling than a standard 60Hz screen, it does not match the fluidity of the S21 FE 5G's 120Hz AMOLED panel.
• Resolution and Clarity: The S21 FE 5G provides a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels (~401 ppi), resulting in sharp and clear images. The A32 5G has a lower HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels (~270 ppi), which some users might notice as less sharp, though its brightness and vividness are generally considered acceptable for its class.
• Brightness and Viewing Experience: The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display on the S21 FE 5G offers excellent outdoor visibility and HDR10+ support for enhanced media consumption. The A32 5G's LCD, while bright, does not offer the same contrast or color depth as an AMOLED panel.

Both devices feature multiple camera lenses, but the Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally offers a more versatile and higher-quality imaging experience.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G boasts a triple-camera setup, including a 12MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens (123˚ field of view), and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. This system is noted for strong performance in various lighting conditions and video capabilities. The Galaxy A32 5G features a quad-camera system with a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens (123˚ field of view), a 5MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. While its 48MP main sensor can capture good detail in ample light, it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens and some advanced software enhancements present in the S21 FE 5G.
• Front Camera: For selfies and video calls, the S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera. The A32 5G has a 13MP front camera.
• Video Recording Quality: Both phones can record video at 4K resolution at 30fps, with the S21 FE 5G also supporting 4K at 60fps and enhanced stabilization features.
• Audio Experience: The S21 FE 5G includes stereo speakers for a more immersive media consumption experience and lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack. The A32 5G has a single loudspeaker and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack.