Galaxy S21+ 5G vs Galaxy S23 FE

The practical lifespan of a smartphone is significantly influenced by its release date and the manufacturer's commitment to software updates and repairability.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G was released in January 2021, making it an older device compared to the Galaxy S23 FE, which launched in October 2023. This age difference directly impacts their remaining software support.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G launched with Android 11 and was upgradable to Android 14, indicating its major OS update cycle is likely concluding or has concluded. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 FE launched with Android 13 and is guaranteed to receive four major OS updates, extending its support until Android 17, along with five years of security patches until 2028. This provides the S23 FE with a considerably longer period of official software support.
• Repairability: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, offering protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S23 FE has been noted for its improved repairability, featuring design elements like battery pull tabs that facilitate easier component replacement, potentially leading to a higher repairability score. The S21 Plus 5G, while durable, does not have the same explicit design considerations for ease of repair.

Performance in daily use, from app responsiveness to handling demanding tasks, is a key differentiator between these two Galaxy smartphones.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is powered by a processor that was a flagship in 2021, providing smooth performance for everyday applications and moderate multitasking. The Galaxy S23 FE features a newer generation processor, originally a flagship from 2022, which offers enhanced efficiency and more robust performance for graphically intensive games and demanding applications, ensuring a more responsive experience over time.
• Multitasking and Storage: Both devices typically come with 8GB of RAM, allowing for competent multitasking. Both offer 128GB and 256GB storage options. The 256GB variant of the S23 FE utilizes a newer, faster storage technology compared to the 128GB version and the S21 Plus, which can result in quicker app loading and data transfer speeds.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G is equipped with a 4800 mAh battery. The Galaxy S23 FE has a 4500 mAh battery. User experiences suggest the S23 FE generally provides a full day of use for typical activities, though heavy usage, such as extended gaming or video streaming, may require more frequent charging.

The visual experience on both devices is delivered through high-quality displays, though with some distinctions in size and brightness.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both smartphones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for their vibrant colors and deep blacks. They both offer Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels for S21 Plus, 1080 x 2340 pixels for S23 FE), providing sharp and clear visuals for everyday viewing.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S23 FE offers a higher peak brightness of 1450 nits, making it slightly more visible in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S21 Plus 5G's 1300 nits. Both devices feature an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid user interface experience.
• Screen Size: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G has a larger 6.7-inch display, offering a more expansive viewing area. The Galaxy S23 FE features a slightly more compact 6.4-inch display.

Both devices offer versatile camera systems designed to capture a range of photographic and video content, with some differences in sensor technology.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G features a triple-lens setup with a 12MP wide-angle, a 64MP telephoto with 3x hybrid zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The Galaxy S23 FE also has a triple camera system, comprising a 50MP wide-angle, an 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The S23 FE's larger main sensor can capture more detail and perform well in varied lighting conditions.
• Front Camera and Video Capabilities: Both smartphones are equipped with a 10MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. For video recording, both support 8K resolution at 24 frames per second, allowing for high-quality cinematic footage. Both also support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second.
• Audio Experience: The Galaxy S23 FE is noted for its loud speakers, contributing to a good media consumption experience. While the S21 Plus 5G also offers a capable audio experience, specific details on speaker output are less highlighted in available information.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S21 Plus 5G and the Galaxy S23 FE support 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring fast wireless data speeds. The S23 FE features Bluetooth 5.3, a slightly newer standard than the S21 Plus 5G's Bluetooth 5.2, potentially offering minor improvements in wireless accessory connectivity. Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer and lack a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Biometric Security: Both phones incorporate in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. The S21 Plus 5G uses an ultrasonic sensor, while the S23 FE employs an optical sensor. The S21 Plus 5G also includes face recognition as an authentication option.
• Physical Design: The Galaxy S21 Plus 5G measures 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm and weighs 202g. The Galaxy S23 FE is slightly more compact in height but thicker and heavier at 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm and 209g. Both devices feature a premium build with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass protection on the front and back, with the S21 Plus 5G using Gorilla Glass Victus and the S23 FE using Gorilla Glass 5.