Galaxy S10e Vs Galaxy S21 FE 5G

Galaxy S10e
Galaxy S10e
Starting at

Refurbished price:121.00

Versus €759.00 new

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

Refurbished price:159.00

Versus €829.91 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S10e, released in March 2019, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched in January 2022, are both smartphones from Samsung's Galaxy S series. While the S10e was positioned as a compact flagship, the S21 FE 5G is a 'Fan Edition' device, aiming to deliver popular flagship features at a more accessible point. The primary differentiators lie in their release timelines, which impact software support, and the S21 FE 5G's more modern internal components and camera system.

Scores

Durability

The age and release timeline significantly influence the expected lifespan and software support for these devices.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S10e was released in March 2019, making it an older device compared to the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, which launched in January 2022. This difference in release date means the S21 FE 5G benefits from a longer period of ongoing software and security updates.
  • OS Support: The Galaxy S10e launched with Android 9 and received updates up to Android 12. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launching with Android 12, is expected to receive up to four major Android OS updates, extending its software longevity significantly further than the S10e.
  • Durability Features: Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. The S10e features Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back, while the S21 FE 5G upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus on the front for enhanced screen protection, though it uses a plastic back.

Year of Release

2019

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key area where the newer Galaxy S21 FE 5G shows advancements over the S10e, particularly in demanding tasks and overall responsiveness.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a more recent generation processor, which translates to smoother operation for current applications and more efficient handling of intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. Users will experience faster app loading times and more fluid transitions compared to the S10e's older, though still capable, processor.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. However, the S21 FE 5G's newer processor and optimized software contribute to a more consistently responsive user experience, especially when switching between multiple applications or running several in the background.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10e has a 3100 mAh battery, which for heavy users, often requires more frequent charging throughout the day. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G comes with a larger 4500 mAh battery, generally offering extended usage times and better endurance for a full day of moderate to heavy use.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones offer vibrant display technologies, but the S21 FE 5G incorporates newer advancements for a smoother visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both devices feature Dynamic AMOLED displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S10e has a 5.8-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels, providing clear visuals. The S21 FE 5G has a slightly larger 6.4-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, offering similar clarity on a larger canvas.
  • Refresh Rate: A significant difference is the refresh rate. The S10e features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The S21 FE 5G, however, boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which provides noticeably smoother scrolling, animations, and a more fluid overall user interface experience.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: Both displays offer good brightness levels for indoor use. The S21 FE 5G's newer display technology generally provides better peak brightness, which can improve visibility and readability in bright outdoor conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2280

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices are capable, but the S21 FE 5G benefits from a more versatile setup and improved computational photography.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S10e features a dual-camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 16MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a triple-camera system, including a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, providing greater flexibility for different types of shots.
  • Photography Performance: Both phones deliver good results in well-lit conditions. The S21 FE 5G, with its newer processor, often provides enhanced image processing, particularly in areas like Night Mode and HDR, leading to better low-light performance and more balanced exposures. The S10e's camera is still capable for everyday photos and 4K video recording.
  • Front Camera and Video: The S10e has a 10MP front camera. The S21 FE 5G features a higher-resolution 32MP front camera, which can capture more detailed selfies and offers features like Night Mode for front-facing shots. Both devices are capable of recording 4K video.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Connectivity: The Galaxy S10e supports 4G LTE and Wi-Fi 6. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers enhanced connectivity with 5G support, providing faster mobile data speeds where available, alongside Wi-Fi 6. Both include Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC.
  • Ports and Biometrics: A notable difference is the presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack on the Galaxy S10e, which is absent on the S21 FE 5G. The S10e features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, while the S21 FE 5G uses an in-display optical fingerprint sensor. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Design and Handling: The S10e is a more compact device, measuring 142.2 x 69.9 x 7.9 mm and weighing 150g, making it easier for one-handed use. The S21 FE 5G is larger at 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm and weighs 177g, offering a larger screen experience but a less compact feel. The S10e has a glass back, while the S21 FE 5G uses a plastic back, which can offer better shatter resistance.

Weight

150 g

177 g

Screen size (in)

5.8

6.4

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

USB-C

User feedback for the Galaxy S10e often highlights its compact size and the convenience of the physical fingerprint sensor and headphone jack as major positives. However, common criticisms revolve around its battery life, which some users find insufficient for a full day of heavy use, and its aging software support. The S21 FE 5G generally receives praise for its vibrant 120Hz display, capable camera system, and strong overall performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Some users note that its battery life, while improved over the S10e, can still vary depending on usage and processor variant, and some prefer a more premium build material than its plastic back.

Users prioritizing a smaller, more pocketable device with a traditional headphone jack may find the Galaxy S10e suitable, especially if their usage is light to moderate and they do not require the latest software features. Conversely, users who value a larger, smoother display, longer software support, 5G connectivity, and a more versatile camera system, particularly with optical zoom, will likely prefer the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. This device is better suited for those who engage in more demanding applications, gaming, or frequently consume media. For those considering a more sustainable choice, both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, offering an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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