Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Oppo Reno10

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

Refurbished price:A$328.00

Versus A$1,252.00 new

See options
Oppo Reno10
Oppo Reno10
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$297.00

Versus A$783.00 new

See options

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (Fan Edition) and the Oppo Reno10 are both Android smartphones, though they were released at different times and target slightly different user experiences. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched in January 2022, aims to deliver a flagship-like experience with a focus on core features, while the Oppo Reno10, released globally in July 2023, emphasizes design, display, and a versatile camera system. These devices offer distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality, catering to varying user preferences.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, making it an older device compared to the Oppo Reno10, which launched globally in July 2023. This difference in release dates impacts their respective software support cycles.
  • OS Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive several years of Android updates, potentially up to Android 16. The Oppo Reno10 launched with Android 13 and is promised 2 years of OS updates and 3 years of security updates.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection and boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating a higher level of protection against environmental elements. The Oppo Reno10 uses Asahi Glass Dragontrail Star 2 for its display but does not have an official IP rating, suggesting less resistance to water and dust exposure.

Release year

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both devices offer capable performance for everyday tasks, though they utilize different internal components.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is powered by a processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. The Oppo Reno10 features a processor that performs well for daily tasks and casual gaming, with users reporting smooth operation even during extended gaming sessions.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The Oppo Reno10 offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, with a feature to temporarily convert storage into additional RAM for enhanced multitasking.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500mAh battery, which generally lasts a full day with moderate use, though heavy gaming can drain it faster. Some users have noted that the device can become warm during extended use or charging, which can affect battery efficiency. The Oppo Reno10 comes with a 4600mAh or 5000mAh battery, with users reporting long-lasting battery life and fast charging capabilities.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both smartphones is characterized by vibrant displays, though with some distinctions in size and brightness.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Oppo Reno10 has a larger 6.7-inch AMOLED display, which also offers rich color reproduction and strong contrast.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both devices offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels for S21 FE 5G, 1080 x 2412 pixels for Reno10), ensuring sharp and clear visuals for various content.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G provides a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations, with good outdoor visibility and a peak brightness of up to 1044 cd/m². The Oppo Reno10 also features a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to a fluid user interface, and offers a peak brightness of 950 nits, which is generally sufficient for outdoor use, though some users note it might require maximum brightness in direct sunlight.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080x2412

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer versatile camera systems designed for different photography needs.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a triple camera setup: a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Oppo Reno10 also features a triple camera system, including a 64MP main wide-angle camera, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 32MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G's main camera produces colorful and detailed images, performing well in various lighting conditions. Its telephoto lens offers up to 30x digital zoom. The Oppo Reno10's main sensor delivers good detail and saturated colors, with its telephoto lens being particularly noted for portrait photography.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices can record 4K video at 30fps or 60fps with their rear cameras. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera capable of 4K selfie video. The Oppo Reno10 also has a 32MP front camera, with video recording capped at 1080p 60fps for selfies.

Front camera

32 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these devices in daily use.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Oppo Reno10 support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses a USB-C 3.2 port, while the Oppo Reno10 uses USB Type-C 2.0. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: Both smartphones feature an in-display optical fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also offers facial recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G weighs 177 grams and has an aluminum frame with a plastic back, offering a comfortable grip. The Oppo Reno10 is slightly heavier at 185 grams, with a glass front and back, and a plastic frame, featuring a sleek design with a curved-edge display.

Weight

177 oz

185 oz

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Oppo Reno10 cater to users with distinct priorities. User feedback for the Galaxy S21 FE 5G often praises its vibrant AMOLED display, capable camera system, and overall smooth performance. However, some users have noted concerns regarding battery life, particularly with heavy use or 5G enabled, and occasional heating. The Oppo Reno10 is frequently lauded for its premium design, bright and smooth screen, and long-lasting battery with fast charging. Its camera system, especially the telephoto lens for portraits, also receives positive remarks, though some users have expressed mixed opinions on the ultrawide camera's performance.

Users prioritizing a robust and water-resistant build with a strong software update commitment may find the Galaxy S21 FE 5G well-suited to their needs. Those who value a larger, curved display, extended battery life, and a dedicated telephoto lens for versatile photography might lean toward the Oppo Reno10. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable technology. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether a user prioritizes durability and long-term software support or a more modern design with a focus on display and specific camera capabilities.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons