Galaxy S21 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy S23 FE • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, launched in early 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in late 2023, represent different approaches within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While the Galaxy S21 5G was a flagship device of its generation, the Galaxy S23 FE aims to deliver a premium experience with more recent hardware. Both devices operate on the Android ecosystem with Samsung's One UI, offering a consistent software experience, though their release timelines lead to differences in long-term support and internal components.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their respective release dates significantly influence their software support and expected practical lifespan.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S23 FE, being a newer device from late 2023, is expected to receive major Android version updates and security patches for several years longer than the Galaxy S21 5G. The Galaxy S21 series received its final major software update, Android 15-based One UI 7.0, in the first half of 2025, with its last security update in November 2025, fulfilling Samsung's promise of four major OS updates. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 FE is eligible for Android 16 (One UI 8) and is expected to receive updates for a longer duration, potentially through Android 17.
• Physical Build: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating similar protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S21 5G has a polycarbonate back, which can be more resistant to shattering upon impact, while the Galaxy S23 FE uses a glass back, offering a different tactile feel.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 5G has been noted for its relatively high repairability, with a score around 7.5 to 7.75 out of 10, partly due to its ease of disassembly and modular components. The Galaxy S23 FE also shows a high repairability score, around 8.0 to 8.5 out of 10, with features like pull tabs for easier battery replacement.

The performance of these smartphones is influenced by their internal components, affecting how smoothly they handle daily tasks and demanding applications.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 FE features a more recent generation processor compared to the Galaxy S21 5G. This translates to improved efficiency and better handling of intensive applications and multitasking. Users may experience smoother performance in graphically demanding games and faster app loading times on the S23 FE.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices come with 8GB of RAM, which is generally sufficient for running multiple applications simultaneously. However, the Galaxy S23 FE manages background processes more effectively, potentially leading to fewer instances where apps need to reload when switching between them.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a larger 4,500mAh battery, generally offering more endurance throughout a full day of mixed usage compared to the Galaxy S21 5G's 4,000mAh battery. While the S21 5G's battery can last a full day for many users, heavy usage might require more frequent charging. The S23 FE's processor, while powerful, can be less power-efficient during intensive tasks like gaming, which might impact battery life in those scenarios.

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but there are distinctions in their specifications that can affect the viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S23 FE feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S21 5G has a 6.2-inch display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution, resulting in a pixel density of 421 PPI. The S23 FE has a slightly larger 6.4-inch display with a 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution, offering a pixel density of 403 PPI. While the S21 5G has a marginally higher pixel density, both provide a sharp and clear viewing experience for everyday use.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both models support a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The S23 FE can reach a peak brightness of 1,450 nits, offering good visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The S21 5G also offers strong brightness, though specific peak nits are less frequently highlighted in comparisons.
• Screen Protection: The Galaxy S21 5G is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The Galaxy S23 FE uses Gorilla Glass 5 for its display protection.

The camera systems on both phones are capable, but the newer Galaxy S23 FE brings some advancements in sensor technology.

• Main Camera: The Galaxy S23 FE features a 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), which is a significant upgrade from the Galaxy S21 5G's 12-megapixel main camera. This larger sensor on the S23 FE generally allows for better light capture and more detailed images, especially in good lighting conditions.
• Ultra-wide and Telephoto: Both devices include an ultra-wide camera (12-megapixel on both) and a telephoto lens. The S21 5G has a 64-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, while the S23 FE has an 8-megapixel telephoto lens also with 3x optical zoom and OIS. The S23 FE's telephoto, despite lower megapixels, is noted for maintaining good detail at 3x optical zoom.
• Video Recording and Features: Both phones are capable of recording video in up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second and 4K at 30 or 60 frames per second. The S21 5G introduced features like Director's View, allowing users to preview all three rear cameras while filming. The S23 FE also offers a wide range of video options and can switch between lenses while recording.