Galaxy S10+ • Unlocked vs Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked Verizon

The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus, released in March 2019, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Verizon, launched in January 2022, represent different generations within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both offer a comprehensive Android experience, the S21 FE introduces a more modern processor, a smoother display, and 5G connectivity, setting it apart from its predecessor. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but the S21 FE benefits from a newer starting version and extended software support.

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S10 Plus, released in 2019, is several years older than the Galaxy S21 FE 5G Verizon, which launched in 2022. This age difference directly impacts the remaining period of official software and security updates.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S10 Plus launched with Android 9 and received updates up to Android 12. The Galaxy S21 FE, starting with Android 12, is expected to receive software updates for a longer duration, likely extending its usable life in terms of modern app compatibility and security.
• Physical Durability: Both phones feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The S10 Plus uses Gorilla Glass 6 on the front and back, while the S21 FE upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus on the front for enhanced screen protection.

The performance capabilities of these two devices reflect their respective release eras, impacting how they handle everyday tasks and demanding applications.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE features a significantly newer generation processor, which translates to noticeably smoother performance for graphically intensive games, faster app loading times, and more efficient multitasking compared to the S10 Plus. Users engaging in demanding activities will experience a more responsive device with the S21 FE.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10 Plus is equipped with a 4100 mAh battery, which users generally found sufficient for a full day of moderate use at its time of release. The Galaxy S21 FE has a larger 4500 mAh battery; however, some users have reported mixed battery life, occasionally requiring more frequent charging, especially when utilizing its higher refresh rate display.
• Storage and Multitasking: The S10 Plus offered a wider range of internal storage options, including configurations up to 1TB, alongside up to 12GB of RAM. The S21 FE typically comes with up to 256GB of storage and up to 8GB of RAM. Both configurations are generally adequate for storing numerous applications and media, and for managing multiple apps simultaneously without significant slowdowns.

The display is a primary interface for smartphones, and both models offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct differences.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both devices feature Dynamic AMOLED displays, known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Galaxy S10 Plus boasts a higher resolution Quad HD+ display (1440 x 3040 pixels), offering a very sharp image. The Galaxy S21 FE features a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels).
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A significant difference lies in the refresh rate. The S10 Plus has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth but conventional scrolling experience. The S21 FE, however, offers a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in noticeably smoother scrolling, animations, and a more fluid overall user interaction.
• Screen Size and Clarity: Both phones feature a 6.4-inch display, providing ample screen real estate for media consumption and productivity. Both displays offer excellent clarity and brightness levels suitable for outdoor visibility.

Both the Galaxy S10 Plus and the Galaxy S21 FE offer versatile camera systems designed to capture a variety of moments, though with different strengths.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S10 Plus features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S21 FE also has a triple rear camera system, comprising a 12MP wide, an 8MP telephoto, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The S10 Plus's ultrawide offers a slightly higher megapixel count.
• Photography Performance: The S10 Plus was well-regarded for its image quality and versatility, performing well in good lighting conditions, though low-light performance could sometimes be improved. The S21 FE generally produces good photos in daylight, with its main sensor offering solid performance. Its telephoto lens, however, has been noted by some users as a weaker point compared to other lenses.
• Front Cameras and Video: The S10 Plus features a dual front camera (10MP wide and 8MP depth sensor) capable of 4K 30fps video recording. The S21 FE has a single, higher-resolution 32MP front camera, which is praised for its selfie quality, even in lower light, and can also record 4K at 60fps. Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at 60fps with their main rear cameras.