When it comes to flagship smartphones, Samsung has carved a niche for itself with its Galaxy S series. Among the standout models in this range are the Galaxy S21 and the Galaxy S21 FE (Fan Edition). While both smartphones carry the Samsung name and boast impressive features, they are tailored to different types of consumers. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the differences between the Galaxy S21 and the S21 FE, examining design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and pricing. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of which device could be the right fit for you.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things that attract users to any smartphone is its design. Samsung knows how to deliver high-quality build and aesthetics.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Design
The Galaxy S21, released in January 2021, features a premium design characterized by its glass and metal construction. The phone is available in several stunning colors like Phantom Gray, Phantom White, Phantom Violet, and Phantom Pink.
- Dimensions: 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm
- Weight: 169 grams
- Build: Gorilla Glass Victus front and back, aluminum frame
The camera module is integrated into the body, providing a unique visual appeal. It also boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, which enhances its durability.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Design
On the other hand, the Galaxy S21 FE, launched in January 2022, adopts a slightly different design approach. It features a plastic back instead of glass, which while offering a lightweight feel, does compromise on the premium look somewhat.
- Dimensions: 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm
- Weight: 177 grams
- Build: Gorilla Glass Victus front, plastic back, aluminum frame
The S21 FE is available in vibrant colors such as Olive, Lavender, White, and Graphite, making it a fun option for those who enjoy personalization. It also maintains the IP68 rating, ensuring it is rugged enough for everyday use.
Display Quality
Both phones feature impressive display technology, critical for media consumption and gaming.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Display
The Galaxy S21 sports a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels.
- Refresh Rate: Up to 120Hz
- Brightness: Up to 1300 nits peak brightness
This display offers vibrant colors and deep contrasts, making it a joy to watch videos or play games.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Display
The S21 FE features a slightly larger 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, also with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels.
- Refresh Rate: Up to 120Hz
- Brightness: Similar peak brightness at 1200 nits
The larger display size does enhance the media experience for the user, while still offering similar visual performance to the S21.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Performance is a critical aspect of any smartphone, and both the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE are equipped to handle demanding tasks seamlessly.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Performance
The Galaxy S21 runs on the Exynos 2100 (or Snapdragon 888 in some regions), depending on the market.
- RAM Options: 8GB
- Storage Options: 128GB or 256GB (non-expandable)
This powerful chipset allows for smooth multitasking, gaming, and overall fluid performance, making it a top choice for power users.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Performance
Similarly, the Galaxy S21 FE is powered by the same Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 depending on the market).
- RAM Options: 6GB or 8GB
- Storage Options: 128GB or 256GB (non-expandable)
While performance-wise, it’s very comparable to the S21, the lower RAM option may affect multitasking capabilities for heavy users.
Camera Comparison
Camera technology is one of the key components that can significantly influence a consumer’s choice between the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Camera Setup
The Galaxy S21 features a versatile camera setup:
- Main Camera: 12MP (wide)
- Ultra-Wide Camera: 12MP
- Telephoto Camera: 64MP
This arrangement provides excellent photography capabilities, with features like 3x hybrid optical zoom, night mode, and 8K video recording, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Camera Setup
The S21 FE has a similar camera setup, which is:
- Main Camera: 12MP (wide)
- Ultra-Wide Camera: 12MP
- Telephoto Camera: 8MP
While it also delivers impressive photos, the reduction in telephoto resolution might be a downside for users who prioritize zoom photography.
Battery Life and Charging Capabilities
Battery longevity is essential for anyone who depends on their smartphone throughout the day.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Battery
The Galaxy S21 is equipped with a 4000mAh battery, providing decent endurance for most users.
- Wired Charging: 25W
- Wireless Charging: 15W
- Reverse Wireless Charging: 4.5W
This arrangement allows users to charge quickly when needed, with support for both wired and wireless charging options.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Battery
The S21 FE has a larger 4500mAh battery, which supports longer usage times.
- Wired Charging: 25W
- Wireless Charging: 15W
- Reverse Wireless Charging: 4.5W
Thanks to its bigger battery, the S21 FE is likely to offer slightly better endurance, particularly useful for heavy users.
Software and User Experience
Both devices run on Samsung’s One UI, based on Android, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience.
User Interface
The One UI is lauded for its user-friendly design and customizability.
- Customization Options: Extensive theming options, widgets, and useful features.
- Updates: Regular software updates improve security and add features.
This makes both the S21 and S21 FE appealing to those who enjoy tweaking their devices.
Price Comparison
Price is often a decisive factor when choosing a smartphone.
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | $799 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 FE | $699 |
The price difference reflects the slight downgrade in materials and features, particularly in the camera department for the S21 FE.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
In summary, both the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE have their unique strengths and weaknesses. If you want a more premium feel with high-end features like a better telephoto camera, go for the Galaxy S21. Its superior build quality and slightly enhanced camera performance make it worth the investment for those who value these aspects.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a strong overall performance, better battery life, and a more budget-friendly option without significant compromises, the Galaxy S21 FE may be the better choice for you.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences, usage requirements, and budget. Whether you go with the S21 or the S21 FE, you can rest assured that you’re investing in a well-built performance machine that delivers quality and reliability.
What are the main differences in design between the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a sleek design with a glass back and a metal frame, offering a premium feel. Its distinctive camera layout on the rear is integrated into the chassis, giving it a unique aesthetic. In contrast, the S21 FE adopts a more playful design with a plastic back that allows for a lighter weight. While both models are available in various colors, the S21 FE offers a slightly broader palette that aims at a younger audience.
Despite the difference in materials, both phones maintain a modern look, with thin bezels and high screen-to-body ratios. The S21 comes with Gorilla Glass Victus for improved durability, while the S21 FE, although not as robust, is still designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The choice of materials can influence your decision based on whether you prioritize premium feel or lighter weight.
How do the display specifications compare between the two models?
Both the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE are equipped with dynamic AMOLED displays that deliver vibrant colors and deep contrasts. The S21 boasts a 6.2-inch display with full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced gaming experience. The S21 FE, on the other hand, sports a slightly larger 6.4-inch screen but also maintains full HD+ resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing for fluid motion in both media playback and user interactions.
In terms of brightness, the S21 outperforms the S21 FE with a peak brightness that can reach higher levels under bright sunlight, making it easier to view in various lighting conditions. Both devices support HDR10+, but the S21’s superior peak brightness may deliver better HDR performance in practice. Overall, while both displays are excellent, the choice may come down to a preference for size and brightness capabilities.
What differences can be found in camera systems between the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE?
The camera systems on the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE are quite similar but come with some notable distinctions. The Galaxy S21 features a triple-camera setup that includes a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 12MP wide-angle lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens, providing versatility for various shooting scenarios. The S21 FE, while also equipped with a triple-camera system, replaces the telephoto lens with another 12MP wide-angle lens, resulting in a dual wide-angle setup and reducing zoom capabilities.
Despite this difference, both models are capable of taking stunning photos under various conditions. The S21 excels in zoom and portrait shots thanks to its telephoto lens, while the S21 FE shines in scenarios that benefit from multiple wide shots. Users focused on landscape and group photography may prefer the S21 FE, while those who value versatility and detail might gravitate toward the S21.
Which model offers better battery life?
When considering battery life, both the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE come equipped with robust batteries, but their overall efficiency varies slightly. The Galaxy S21 uses a 4,000mAh battery, which provides decent longevity throughout the day. It offers fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging features, making it convenient for users who have multiple devices to power.
In contrast, the S21 FE is fitted with a larger 4,500mAh battery, which generally allows for longer usage times between charges. Although both devices perform well, users of the S21 FE may find they have the edge in terms of overall endurance. This can be particularly beneficial for those who engage in heavy usage like gaming or streaming.
How do the performance specifications compare between the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE?
Both the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE utilize high-performance chipsets, contributing to snappy performance for daily tasks and gaming. The Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, depending on the region, which ensures top-tier performance and graphics capabilities. Users can expect fast app loading times, smooth multitasking, and high frame rates in graphically intensive games.
The S21 FE also incorporates a powerful processor, the Snapdragon 888, making it a solid competitor. While both devices deliver exceptional performance, some users might notice slightly better thermal management and battery life efficiency in the S21. Regardless, both devices are built to handle demanding applications with ease, ensuring that either choice will provide a high-quality user experience.
Which smartphone is better in terms of software updates and support?
When it comes to software updates and support, the Samsung Galaxy S21 tends to receive priority over the S21 FE. Being part of the higher-end lineup, the S21 is usually among the first to receive the latest Android updates and security patches. Samsung has committed to offering several years of software support for its flagship models, enhancing user experience over time.
However, Samsung has made strides with the S21 FE, promising extended support as well. While it may not receive updates as swiftly as the S21, the S21 FE still benefits from Samsung’s commitment to provide regular updates for mid-range devices. Thus, users can expect a solid support experience with both models, but the S21 may offer a slight advantage in terms of promptness for the most recent features and security enhancements.