Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Galaxy S24+

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, launched in January 2024, represent different generations within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both devices offer a premium Android experience, the S24 Plus introduces significant advancements in software support, display technology, and processing power, reflecting its newer release. Both operate on the Android platform, but the S24 Plus benefits from a considerably longer update commitment.

The expected lifespan of these devices is influenced by their release timelines and Samsung's software support policies.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, making it a device from an earlier generation. The Galaxy S24 Plus, launched in January 2024, is a much newer model.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is expected to receive up to Android 16 as its final major operating system upgrade, fulfilling Samsung's commitment of four major OS updates. It was initially promised five years of security updates. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 Plus boasts an extended support policy, guaranteeing seven years of major Android OS upgrades and security updates, extending its functional life significantly further into the future.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10, with its back plate being relatively easy to remove, though some internal components are glued. The Galaxy S24 Plus achieves a slightly higher repairability score of 8.0 out of 10, featuring an easily removable back plate and battery pull tabs, although screen replacement can be challenging.

Performance differences between the two models are notable, particularly in handling demanding applications and multitasking.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles everyday tasks smoothly, but some users have reported it can get warm during normal use and may experience lag with intensive tasks or gaming. The Galaxy S24 Plus features a more current-generation processor, offering enhanced speed and efficiency for demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming.
• Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The Galaxy S24 Plus offers a more generous 12GB of RAM and storage options starting from 256GB up to 512GB, providing more headroom for numerous applications running simultaneously and ample space for files.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, with user reports indicating average battery life that can drain quickly with heavy usage, and some instances of heating. The Galaxy S24 Plus houses a larger 4900 mAh battery. While it generally offers good battery life, some users have noted faster-than-expected drain, especially when using 4G/5G, and potential overheating during prolonged intensive tasks.

Both devices feature high-quality displays, but the newer model brings advancements in clarity and brightness.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S24 Plus feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. However, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch display with a 2340x1080 resolution. The Galaxy S24 Plus offers a larger 6.7-inch display with a QHD+ resolution of 3120x1440, providing a sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring smooth scrolling and good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Galaxy S24 Plus significantly enhances this with an adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate for improved power efficiency and an impressive peak brightness of 2600 nits, making it exceptionally bright for outdoor use.
• Durability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. The Galaxy S24 Plus features Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced durability against drops and scratches.

The camera systems on both smartphones are designed to capture quality images and videos, with the S24 Plus offering a more refined experience.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple camera setup with a 12MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S24 Plus also has a triple camera system, but with a higher resolution 50MP wide-angle primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: Users of the Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally report good photo quality, though some have noted a perceived downgrade in camera performance after software updates. The Galaxy S24 Plus is expected to deliver excellent photos in daylight conditions. However, some users have reported issues with grainy or noisy videos, particularly with the telephoto and ultrawide lenses, and poor video quality in low-light conditions.
• Front Camera and Video: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera. The Galaxy S24 Plus features a 12MP front camera. Both devices support 4K video recording, with the S21 FE 5G capable of 4K at 60fps and the S24 Plus supporting 8K at 30fps.