Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Galaxy S23+

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, launched in February 2023, are both Android smartphones from Samsung's Galaxy series. While the S21 FE 5G aimed to deliver a flagship-like experience at a more accessible point, the S23 Plus represents a more recent iteration of Samsung's premium offerings. Both devices run on the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI interface, but they differ in their core hardware, camera capabilities, and long-term software support.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, making it an older model compared to the Galaxy S23 Plus, which launched in February 2023. This difference in release date directly impacts their expected software support lifespan.
• Software Support: The Galaxy S23 Plus is expected to receive four major Android OS upgrades, extending its support up to Android 17, and five years of security updates, ensuring security until at least 2028. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G was promised three major OS upgrades (up to Android 15) and at least four years of security updates, with some sources indicating it might receive Android 16 as its final OS update. The S21 FE 5G has also transitioned to a quarterly security update schedule.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally has a fair repairability score, with many components being relatively easy to access, though the battery is noted for being tightly glued. The Galaxy S23 Plus also shows improvements in repairability compared to its predecessors, with a design that makes it easier to disassemble.

The performance of these two smartphones varies, primarily due to the difference in their internal components and the advancements made between their release years.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a more recent-generation processor, which translates to smoother operation for demanding applications, faster app loading times, and enhanced multitasking capabilities. Users report it offers plenty of power and handles heavy usage without significant slowdowns. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, while still capable, uses an older generation processor that provides solid performance for everyday tasks but may show limitations with the most intensive games or applications over time.
• Storage and RAM: Both devices offer multiple storage options, with the Galaxy S23 Plus providing 256GB or 512GB, and the S21 FE 5G offering 128GB or 256GB. The S23 Plus also benefits from faster storage technology (UFS 4.0) for its higher capacity models, which can improve app launch times and data transfer speeds. Both typically come with 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for smooth multitasking.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 Plus is equipped with a 4700 mAh battery, and user experiences frequently highlight its ability to last a full day even with heavy usage. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, but some users have noted that heavy usage might require more frequent charging to last through a full day.

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but there are distinctions in their size, protection, and overall viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S23 Plus feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch display, while the S23 Plus offers a larger 6.6-inch screen, providing more screen real estate for media consumption and productivity.
• Resolution and Clarity: Both phones feature an FHD+ resolution (2340x1080 pixels), delivering sharp and clear visuals for everyday use, browsing, and video streaming.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both devices support a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and a responsive user experience. The S23 Plus features an adaptive refresh rate that can scale down to 48Hz to conserve battery. Both displays offer good brightness levels, making them suitable for outdoor visibility.

The camera systems on both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S23 Plus are designed to capture quality images and videos, though the S23 Plus features a more advanced main sensor.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S23 Plus is equipped with a triple camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also has a triple camera system, featuring a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The S23 Plus generally delivers well-performing cameras, producing good photos and videos across various conditions, including improved night mode performance. The S21 FE 5G is also praised for its good photo quality, especially from its main and ultrawide lenses, and respectable video results.
• Front Camera and Video: The S23 Plus features a 12MP front camera, while the S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera. Both devices are capable of recording high-quality video, with the S23 Plus offering up to 8K recording and the S21 FE 5G supporting 4K at 60fps.