Galaxy A53 5G Vs Galaxy S21 FE 5G

Galaxy A53 5G
Galaxy A53 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:119.00

Versus €459.00 new

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Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:159.00

Versus €829.91 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G (released March 2022) and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (released January 2022) are both Android smartphones from Samsung, offering distinct experiences within the brand's lineup. While both devices run on the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI, the S21 FE generally provides a more powerful performance and a versatile camera system, whereas the A53 focuses on extended battery life and expandable storage.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, both the Galaxy A53 5G and the Galaxy S21 FE 5G offer substantial software support, contributing to their practical lifespan.

  • Software Updates: The Galaxy A53 5G launched with Android 12 and is eligible for four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, extending its support through Android 16 and security patches until 2027. Similarly, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G also launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive four major OS upgrades, including Android 16, and five years of security updates.
  • Repairability: Both models demonstrate reasonable repairability. The Galaxy A53 5G has a repairability score of around 6.75 to 7.5 out of 10, indicating that components like the battery and screen are accessible, though some adhesive is used. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also scores well, with a repairability rating of 7.5 to 8.2 out of 10, suggesting that common repairs are feasible.
  • Build Quality: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, offering enhanced durability. The Galaxy A53 5G uses a plastic frame and Gorilla Glass 5, providing solid protection for everyday use.

Year of Release

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of the Galaxy A53 5G and the Galaxy S21 FE 5G cater to different user demands, primarily influenced by their internal processing power.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, depending on the region, is equipped with a processor that delivers a more robust performance, resulting in smoother app loading, more fluid multitasking, and a better experience with demanding applications and games. The Galaxy A53 5G's processor handles everyday tasks competently, but users might notice occasional minor delays when navigating between apps or during intensive use.
  • Battery Endurance: The Galaxy A53 5G is equipped with a larger 5000 mAh battery, which generally translates to longer usage times, often lasting more than a full day even with a high refresh rate display enabled. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which provides good endurance for typical daily use, though heavy users might find themselves charging more frequently.
  • Storage and RAM: Both devices offer configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The Galaxy A53 5G also includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, a feature not present in the S21 FE 5G.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones offer high-quality displays, but there are distinctions in their technology and brightness that impact the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy A53 5G features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display, known for its vibrant colors and deep blacks, with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G comes with a slightly smaller 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which also provides excellent color reproduction and contrast, with a similar 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers higher peak brightness, reaching up to 1200 nits, which enhances outdoor visibility. The Galaxy A53 5G's display can reach up to 800 nits in high brightness mode, providing good visibility in most conditions.
  • Screen Protection: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, offering a higher level of scratch and drop resistance. The Galaxy A53 5G utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen durability.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the Galaxy A53 5G and Galaxy S21 FE 5G are designed with different strengths, catering to varying photography preferences.

  • Rear Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple-lens rear camera setup, including a 12MP main lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This telephoto lens allows for clear zoomed-in shots. The Galaxy A53 5G offers a quad-camera system with a 64MP main lens (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide, a 5MP macro, and a 5MP depth sensor, providing versatility for close-up and portrait photography.
  • Photography Performance: Both phones deliver good image quality in well-lit conditions, with vibrant colors. The S21 FE 5G generally offers more consistent color profiles across its lenses and performs well in various lighting scenarios. The A53 5G's main camera is capable, but its macro mode may sometimes struggle with focus and detail, and some users report photos in bright sunlight can appear slightly washed out.
  • Video Recording and Audio: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G supports 4K video recording at 60 frames per second (fps) on its main camera, with all cameras capable of 4K at 30fps, and includes good stabilization. The Galaxy A53 5G records video at up to 4K at 30fps, though stabilization may be reduced at higher resolutions. Both devices feature stereo speakers, with the A53 5G supporting Dolby Atmos for an enhanced audio experience.

Main camera

64 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate the Galaxy A53 5G and Galaxy S21 FE 5G, influencing daily usability and handling.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity and modern Wi-Fi standards. The Galaxy A53 5G features Bluetooth 5.1, while the S21 FE 5G uses Bluetooth 5.0. Neither device includes a traditional headphone jack. The A53 5G offers a microSD card slot for storage expansion, a feature absent on the S21 FE 5G.
  • Physical Design and Durability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is slightly lighter at 177g and has a more compact design, with dimensions of 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm. The Galaxy A53 5G weighs 189g and measures 159.6 x 74.8 x 8.1 mm. The S21 FE 5G boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, while the A53 5G has an IP67 rating, protecting against submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
  • Biometric Security: Both phones incorporate an under-display optical fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking.

Weight

189 g

177 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.4

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G often highlights its impressive battery life, with many reporting it can comfortably last through a full day of use. Its vibrant display and versatile camera system are also frequently praised for their quality, especially considering its positioning. However, some users have noted that its performance can occasionally feel less responsive during heavy multitasking or when launching demanding applications.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, on the other hand, receives consistent acclaim for its strong overall performance, making it well-suited for gaming and intensive applications. Its camera system, particularly the inclusion of a telephoto lens, is a significant advantage for those who prioritize photography with zoom capabilities. While its display is also highly regarded, some users have expressed concerns about its battery life, particularly for very heavy usage, suggesting it may require more frequent charging than the A53.

Users prioritizing extended battery life and expandable storage for media and files may find the Galaxy A53 5G to be a suitable choice. Its robust software support also ensures long-term usability. Conversely, individuals who require more powerful processing for demanding tasks, a dedicated telephoto camera for photography, and a slightly more compact, premium build might lean towards the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Both devices represent quality-assured refurbished options, offering an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable smartphones.

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