Galaxy S21 5G Vs Galaxy S23 FE

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, launched in October 2023, represent different generations within Samsung's smartphone lineup. Both devices operate on the Android ecosystem with Samsung's One UI, offering a consistent software experience. Key differentiators between these two models include their release timelines, which impact software support longevity, and advancements in their internal components and camera systems.

When considering the long-term usability of these smartphones, their respective release dates significantly influence their expected software support and overall practical lifespan.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S23 FE, being a newer device from late 2023, is scheduled to receive Android version updates and security patches for several years longer than the Galaxy S21 5G. The S23 FE is expected to receive updates until Android 17/2027, with additional security updates for a year or two beyond that. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 5G, released in early 2021, has a shorter remaining update window.
• Physical Build and Resilience: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating similar protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S21 5G utilizes a polycarbonate back, which offers notable resistance to shattering, while the Galaxy S23 FE features a glass back, providing a different tactile experience. The S21 5G is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, whereas the S23 FE uses Gorilla Glass 5 for its display, which is an older generation of glass protection.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software longevity and access to the latest Android features will find the Galaxy S23 FE more suitable due to its extended update schedule. However, both models are built with quality components designed to maintain structural integrity over several years of regular use.

The internal hardware of both smartphones is designed to handle modern mobile applications, though the newer architecture in the Galaxy S23 FE provides a noticeable boost in efficiency and thermal management.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S23 FE incorporates a newer generation processor, which allows it to run demanding applications and mobile games with greater fluidity. Users may observe that the S23 FE maintains cooler temperatures during intensive tasks compared to the Galaxy S21 5G, which might exhibit warmth during prolonged heavy usage.
• System Responsiveness and Multitasking: Both devices are equipped with 8GB of memory, which is generally sufficient for running multiple applications simultaneously. However, the Galaxy S23 FE manages background processes more effectively, potentially leading to fewer instances where apps need to reload when switching between them.
• Storage Options: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S23 FE are available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. Neither model supports expandable storage via a microSD card.

While both devices utilize Samsung's advanced display technology, differences in screen size, peak brightness, and protective glass impact the viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S23 FE feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S23 FE offers a slightly larger 6.4-inch display, which can enhance immersion for media consumption and gaming. The Galaxy S21 5G has a 6.2-inch screen, contributing to a more compact form factor.
• Brightness and Clarity: The Galaxy S23 FE boasts a higher peak brightness of 1450 nits, making it potentially easier to view content in bright outdoor conditions compared to the Galaxy S21 5G's 1300 nits peak brightness. Both displays offer a Full HD+ resolution, ensuring clear and sharp visuals for everyday use.
• Screen Protection and Bezels: The Galaxy S21 5G features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for display protection, while the Galaxy S23 FE uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Additionally, the Galaxy S23 FE has noticeably thicker bezels around its display compared to the S21 5G.

The camera systems on both devices offer capable photography and videography experiences, though they feature different sensor configurations and processing characteristics.

• Main Camera System: The Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, and an 8-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S21 5G features a 12-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide, and a 64-megapixel telephoto lens. While the S23 FE has a higher resolution main sensor, the S21 5G offers a higher resolution telephoto lens for zoomed-in shots.
• Photography Performance: Both devices are capable of producing detailed photos in good lighting conditions. User feedback suggests that while the S23 FE's hardware is newer, some users find the image processing on the S21 5G to produce more balanced and pleasing colors, with the S23 FE sometimes exhibiting washed-out colors or noise in certain conditions.
• Video Recording Quality: Both smartphones support high-definition video recording, including 8K at 24 frames per second and 4K at 60 frames per second, with advanced stabilization. The microphones on both models are optimized to reduce background noise, contributing to clear audio during recordings and calls.