Galaxy S21 FE 5G Vs iPhone 13 mini

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

Refurbished price:159.00

Versus €829.91 new

See options
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:220.00

Versus €829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Apple iPhone 13 Mini, launched in September 2021, offer distinct smartphone experiences. While the Galaxy S21 FE provides a larger display and the flexibility of the Android ecosystem, the iPhone 13 Mini focuses on a compact form factor powered by Apple's iOS. These devices cater to different user preferences regarding size and software, with the S21 FE featuring a higher refresh rate display and a more versatile camera system, contrasting with the iPhone 13 Mini's emphasis on a smaller design and optimized performance.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both offer robust support timelines, though with some differences.

  • Software Updates: The iPhone 13 Mini typically receives iOS updates for approximately 5-6 years from its release, offering a slightly longer software longevity. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally receives 4-5 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates.
  • Build Quality: Both phones feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 13 Mini incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced drop protection, while the Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus on its display, providing good scratch and shatter resistance.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 13 Mini has been noted to have a relatively low repairability score, partly due to adhesive use and specific component disassembly requirements, though software updates have addressed some initial concerns regarding Face ID functionality after screen replacement. The Galaxy S21 FE's repairability is generally considered moderate, with some components being modular but adhesive still playing a role in assembly.

Year of Release

2022

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both smartphones are equipped with powerful internals designed to handle demanding tasks efficiently, though their approaches differ.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 13 Mini delivers exceptionally fast and fluid performance across applications, from everyday browsing to intensive gaming, thanks to its highly optimized system. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also handles demanding apps and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive experience for users.
  • Multitasking Capability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G typically comes with more RAM, which can be beneficial for heavy multitasking and keeping many applications open simultaneously on Android. The iPhone 13 Mini, despite having less RAM, manages multitasking efficiently due to iOS's optimization.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a larger battery capacity, generally translating to longer usage times for most users, often lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. The iPhone 13 Mini, due to its compact size, has a smaller battery, which may require more frequent charging for heavy users.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display experience on these two devices presents notable differences in size and refresh rate technology.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The iPhone 13 Mini, in contrast, has a more compact 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, also known for its excellent color reproduction and contrast.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both devices offer sharp visuals. The Galaxy S21 FE has a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, while the iPhone 13 Mini features a 2340 x 1080 pixel resolution, resulting in a slightly higher pixel density on the smaller iPhone screen.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. The iPhone 13 Mini maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Both displays offer high peak brightness, with the iPhone 13 Mini reaching up to 1200 nits for HDR content and the S21 FE also offering high brightness for outdoor visibility.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both phones are capable, but they offer different configurations and features.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a versatile triple camera setup, including a 12MP wide-angle lens, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. This allows for a broader range of photographic options, including optical zoom. The iPhone 13 Mini comes with a dual-camera system, comprising a 12MP wide camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera, both known for strong performance.
  • Photography Performance: Both devices excel in well-lit conditions, producing clear photos with accurate colors. The iPhone 13 Mini's main camera benefits from sensor-shift optical image stabilization and a larger sensor for improved low-light performance. The Galaxy S21 FE also delivers good daytime photos, with its AI processing enhancing colors.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both phones support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. The iPhone 13 Mini introduces Cinematic mode for video with shallow depth of field. For selfies, the Galaxy S21 FE has a 32MP front camera, while the iPhone 13 Mini features a 12MP front camera, both capable of high-quality video calls and self-portraits.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate the user experience of these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G networks, Wi-Fi 6, and NFC for mobile payments. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone 13 Mini utilizes Apple's Lightning port. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Sensors: The iPhone 13 Mini relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, alongside 2D face unlock. Both include standard sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and compasses.
  • Dimensions and Build Materials: The iPhone 13 Mini is significantly smaller and lighter, measuring 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65 mm and weighing 141 grams, making it highly pocketable. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is larger at 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm and weighs 177 grams. The iPhone 13 Mini features an aluminum frame and glass back, with a Ceramic Shield front. The S21 FE has an aluminum frame, a plastic back, and a Gorilla Glass Victus front.

Weight

177 g

140 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

5.4

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback often highlights distinct strengths for each device. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is frequently praised for its vibrant 120Hz display, versatile camera system with a telephoto lens, and generally longer battery life. Some common concerns include its plastic back, which might feel less premium to some users, and regional variations in its processor. Conversely, the iPhone 13 Mini is often lauded for its incredibly compact size, powerful performance, excellent main camera capabilities, and the seamless iOS experience. Criticisms sometimes point to its smaller battery capacity compared to larger phones and the 60Hz display.

Users who prioritize a larger Android screen, a more versatile camera with optical zoom, and extended battery life may find the Galaxy S21 FE 5G better suited to their needs. For those who value a highly compact device, powerful performance within a smaller form factor, and the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 13 Mini presents a compelling option. Both devices offer robust features for daily use, and choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can provide an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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