Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Motorola Moto E32

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

Refurbished price:A$303.70

Versus A$1,252.00 new

See options
Motorola Moto E32
Motorola Moto E32
See options

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Motorola Moto E32, launched in May 2022, are smartphones targeting different segments of the market. While the Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a more premium experience with advanced display and camera capabilities, the Moto E32 focuses on essential smartphone functions with a strong emphasis on battery longevity. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but their software support timelines and overall performance profiles differ significantly.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its build quality, software support, and ease of repair.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, while the Motorola Moto E32 followed in May 2022. This gives the Galaxy S21 FE 5G a slightly longer time in the market.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive major OS updates up to Android 16, with security updates continuing quarterly as of October 2025. In contrast, the Moto E32 launched with Android 11, and official Motorola forums indicate it is not expected to receive Android 12, with security updates ceasing around June 2024.
  • Durability Features: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance and a Gorilla Glass Victus front, offering robust protection against environmental elements. The Moto E32 has an IP52 water-repellent design, providing basic splash protection.

Release year

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance aspects like processing power, storage, and battery life dictate how smoothly a device handles daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor designed for higher performance, enabling smooth multitasking and responsive handling of demanding applications and games. Users report generally smooth performance, though some occasional stuttering and warming can occur. The Moto E32 features a processor suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media, and light applications.
  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space and memory for a wide range of user needs. The Moto E32 comes with 2GB, 3GB, or 4GB of RAM and 32GB or 64GB of storage, which is expandable via a microSD card.
  • Battery Performance: The Moto E32 houses a larger 5000 mAh battery, with users frequently reporting excellent battery life that can easily last a full day or more. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which some users find can struggle to last a full day with heavy usage.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for user interaction, with technology, resolution, and refresh rate significantly impacting the visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and high contrast. It offers a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, resulting in sharp and detailed visuals. The Moto E32 has a 6.5-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, providing respectable clarity for its class, though not as rich as an AMOLED panel.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to very smooth scrolling and a fluid user interface. The Moto E32 offers a 90Hz refresh rate, which still provides a noticeably smoother experience compared to standard 60Hz displays.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The AMOLED panel on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G typically offers higher peak brightness, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Moto E32's IPS LCD screen provides adequate brightness, but may not perform as well under direct sunlight as the Galaxy S21 FE 5G.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

720 x 1600

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera systems are crucial for capturing moments, with differences in lens configuration and software processing affecting image and video quality.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup with a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for a range of photographic styles, with users generally praising its detail and color reproduction in various lighting conditions. The Moto E32 includes a triple-camera system with a 16MP wide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Users describe its camera performance as capable for everyday photos and videos.
  • Front Camera and Video Capabilities: For selfies, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera, capable of capturing detailed self-portraits and 4K video recording at 60fps. The Moto E32 features an 8MP front camera, suitable for video calls and casual selfies. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also supports 4K video recording at 60fps on its main rear camera, with good image stabilization.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally performs well in low-light conditions, with its larger sensors and processing capabilities. Some users note inconsistent color profiles between the ultrawide and other lenses. The Moto E32's low-light performance is more basic, aligning with its segment.

Main camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, various practical elements contribute to the overall user experience, from connectivity to physical design.

  • Connectivity Options: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G supports 5G networks, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, offering faster data speeds and more reliable wireless connections. The Moto E32 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, and Bluetooth 5.0. The absence of 5G on the Moto E32 means it cannot access the latest generation of mobile networks.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Moto E32 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, while the Moto E32 has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has an aluminum frame and a plastic back, weighing 177g with dimensions of 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm. The Moto E32 is constructed entirely from plastic, weighing 184g and measuring 163.95 x 74.94 x 8.49 mm. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is slightly lighter and thinner, potentially offering a more comfortable in-hand feel for some users.

Weight

177 oz

184 oz

Screen size (in)

6.4

6,5

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G often praises its vibrant display, capable camera system with optical zoom, and overall smooth performance for a wide range of tasks. Common criticisms include its battery life, which some users find insufficient for heavy use, and occasional software stutters. For the Motorola Moto E32, users frequently highlight its exceptional battery life and the inclusion of a 90Hz display as strong positives. Concerns sometimes arise regarding its more basic camera performance and limited software update prospects.

Users prioritizing a premium display, a versatile camera with telephoto capabilities, and a longer software support window will find the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G well-suited to their needs. It is a strong option for those who engage in mobile gaming, extensive media consumption, or advanced photography. Conversely, users who value extended battery life, a traditional headphone jack, and a device primarily for essential communication and light usage may lean towards the Motorola Moto E32. It serves as a practical choice for individuals seeking reliability for daily tasks without needing high-end features.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life cycle of these electronics.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons