Galaxy S21 5G vs Galaxy S23

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in early 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S23, launched in early 2023, are both compact flagship smartphones from Samsung's popular Galaxy S series. While they share the Android operating system and Samsung's One UI, the S23 benefits from two years of technological advancements, offering a more refined experience in performance, camera capabilities, and software longevity. Both devices aim to provide a premium smartphone experience in a manageable form factor.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and Samsung's software support policies are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 5G was unveiled in January 2021 and released shortly after, while the Galaxy S23 was announced in February 2023 and became available later that month. This two-year difference means the S23 is a more recent device.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 5G launched with Android 11 and was eligible for four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, meaning its official software support concluded around early 2026. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 launched with Android 13 and is promised four major OS upgrades, extending its support to Android 17, with security updates guaranteed until at least 2028. This provides the S23 with a significantly longer period of official software and security updates.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 5G received a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10 from some assessments, noting its ease of disassembly, though battery removal can be challenging due to strong adhesive. The Galaxy S23 series, while receiving a lower iFixit score of 4/10 for the Ultra model, has seen internal design improvements aimed at making repairs, particularly battery replacements, simpler. Samsung has also expanded its DIY repair program to include the S23.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding games and multitasking.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 5G is powered by a capable processor for its generation, allowing for smooth navigation and handling of most applications. The Galaxy S23 features a newer, more advanced processor designed for enhanced speed and efficiency. This results in noticeably smoother performance, faster app loading times, and more consistent frame rates in graphically intensive games.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer ample RAM for effective multitasking. However, the S23's newer processor and optimized software contribute to a more fluid and responsive user experience, especially when switching between multiple demanding applications. Users report no significant slowdowns even after extended use.
• Storage Options: Both models offer 8GB of RAM. The Galaxy S21 5G comes with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The Galaxy S23 offers 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage options, with the 256GB and 512GB variants utilising faster UFS 4.0 storage technology, which can improve app launch times and data transfer speeds compared to the UFS 3.1 found in the 128GB S23 and all S21 models.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which generally provides a full day of moderate use, though heavy usage, especially with 5G, may require more frequent charging. The Galaxy S23, despite having a slightly smaller 3900 mAh battery, often delivers improved real-world battery life due to its more power-efficient processor. Many users report it comfortably lasting a full day with typical usage.

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, influencing everything from media consumption to daily interactions.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S23 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. Both offer a Full HD+ resolution, providing sharp and clear visuals for everyday viewing.
• Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S21 5G's display can reach a peak brightness of 1300 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Galaxy S23 significantly boosts this to a peak brightness of 1750 nits, making it even easier to view content clearly outdoors or in bright environments.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices offer an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which provides a very smooth scrolling experience and fluid animations. The S21 5G's refresh rate adapts between 48Hz and 120Hz, while the S23 also offers a similar adaptive range, contributing to power efficiency by adjusting based on content.
• Screen Size and Protection: The Galaxy S21 5G features a 6.2-inch display, while the Galaxy S23 has a slightly more compact 6.1-inch display. Both screens are protected by Gorilla Glass, with the S21 5G using Gorilla Glass Victus and the S23 featuring the more advanced Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced durability against scratches and drops.

The camera systems on both Galaxy devices are designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though the S23 introduces notable enhancements.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 5G features a versatile triple camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. The Galaxy S23 upgrades the main sensor to 50MP, alongside a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. The S23's larger main sensor and improved processing generally result in more detailed images, especially in challenging lighting.
• Photography Performance: Both phones deliver strong performance in good lighting. The S23 shows improvements in low-light photography and overall image processing, producing sharper and more vibrant night photos. User feedback suggests the S23 offers better zoom quality and improved shutter speed compared to its predecessor.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both devices are capable of recording 8K video. The S23 offers enhanced video stabilization and improved overall video quality, with users noting sharp colours and good audio capture. For audio, both provide a good media consumption experience through their stereo speakers, and microphone quality for calls and recordings is generally clear.
• Front Camera: The Galaxy S21 5G has a 10MP front camera. The Galaxy S23 features an upgraded 12MP front camera, which contributes to clearer and more detailed selfies.