Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 9

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Google Pixel 9, launched in August 2024, represent distinct approaches to the smartphone experience. While both devices offer robust Android operating systems, the Pixel 9 introduces a more recent hardware platform and an extended software support commitment, alongside Google's latest advancements in computational photography and artificial intelligence. The S21 FE, a 'Fan Edition' device, aimed to deliver a flagship-like experience at its release, focusing on a balanced feature set.

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, factors like software support, physical resilience, and repairability play a significant role.

• Software Longevity: The Google Pixel 9 offers an industry-leading commitment of seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates, ensuring it remains current and secure for an extended period. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched with Android 12, typically receives four years of OS updates and five years of security updates from its release date, meaning its software support cycle is nearing its end.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance, providing protection against immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The Pixel 9 incorporates Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus for its display, with a plastic back and an aluminum frame.
• Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software support and the latest security features will find the Pixel 9 a more future-proof option. The S21 FE 5G, while still a capable device, will see its official software support conclude sooner.

The performance of a smartphone is determined by its internal components, influencing everything from app responsiveness to multitasking capabilities and battery efficiency.

• Processing Power: The Google Pixel 9 is equipped with Google's Tensor G4 processor, designed to handle demanding applications and facilitate advanced on-device AI features smoothly. This processor offers improved performance and better power efficiency compared to its predecessors. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is powered by either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 or the Exynos 2100 processor, which were flagship-tier chipsets at its release, providing robust performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
• Multitasking and Storage: The Pixel 9 comes with 12GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for seamless multitasking and supporting its AI functionalities. It offers storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The S21 FE 5G is available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
• Battery Behavior: The Pixel 9 features a 4700 mAh battery, which has shown significant improvements in real-world usage, often lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, with user experiences indicating it generally lasts a full day with moderate usage, though heavy gaming can deplete it more quickly.

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and differences in technology, resolution, and brightness can significantly impact the user experience.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Google Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2424 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 422 PPI. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G sports a slightly larger 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution and a pixel density of 401 PPI. Both displays offer vibrant colors and deep blacks.
• Brightness and Smoothness: The Pixel 9's display boasts impressive brightness levels, reaching up to 1800 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM) and a peak brightness of 2700 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. It also features an adaptive refresh rate of 60Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and responsiveness. The S21 FE 5G offers a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a maximum brightness of around 700 nits.
• Viewing Experience: Users who frequently use their phone outdoors or in brightly lit environments will appreciate the Pixel 9's significantly higher peak brightness. Both phones provide a smooth visual experience thanks to their 120Hz refresh rates.

Camera capabilities are a key differentiator for many smartphone users, encompassing everything from still photography to video recording and audio capture.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Google Pixel 9 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 48MP ultrawide lens with autofocus. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a triple-camera system: a 12MP main sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 9 is known for its computational photography, producing consistent and reliable images with good color accuracy and shadow detail, even in challenging conditions. Its ultrawide camera is also capable of macro shots. The S21 FE 5G delivers strong everyday photography, with its dedicated telephoto lens providing versatile zoom capabilities. User reviews for the S21 FE sometimes note inconsistent color profiles between its ultrawide and main sensors.
• Video and Audio: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second. The Pixel 9's front camera is 10.5MP with autofocus, while the S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera. Both phones feature stereo speakers for media consumption.