Galaxy S21 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy S24 FE • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, launched in October 2024, represent different generations within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both devices offer a premium Android experience, the S24 FE introduces a more recent processor, a larger display, and an extended software support policy, setting it apart from its predecessor.

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

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, is an older model compared to the Galaxy S24 FE, which launched in October 2024. This age difference directly impacts their remaining support cycles.
• OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S21 5G received four major Android OS updates, with its last major update being Android 15 (One UI 7), and security updates are expected to conclude around January or February 2026. [20, 25, 28, 30, 34] In contrast, the Galaxy S24 FE launched with Android 14 and is promised seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, extending its support until approximately 2031. [6, 9, 15, 16, 19]
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 5G generally received repairability scores ranging from 7.5 to 8.2 out of 10 from some sources, noting its ease of disassembly in some aspects. [2, 5, 14] However, other assessments gave it a lower score, citing screen fragility and a difficult-to-remove battery. [27] The Galaxy S24 FE typically scores higher, around 8.5 out of 10, with highlights including easier battery replacement and good availability of spare parts, though the back cover uses adhesive and screen replacement can be challenging. [3, 7, 8, 10]

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 FE features a more recent generation processor, the Exynos 2400e, which provides enhanced processing power and efficiency for demanding applications and modern mobile games. [4, 13, 16, 17] The Galaxy S21 5G, equipped with the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 depending on the region, still handles everyday tasks smoothly but may show its age with the most intensive applications or future software updates. [11, 12, 26]
• System Responsiveness and Multitasking: Both devices offer 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for effective multitasking. [1, 4, 11, 12, 17, 24, 26] However, the newer processor in the S24 FE contributes to a more responsive overall system experience, with quicker app loading times and smoother transitions, particularly when juggling multiple applications.
• Storage Options: Both models are available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. Neither device offers expandable storage via a microSD card, meaning users should consider their storage needs at the time of purchase. [11, 17, 24, 26]
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 FE comes with a larger 4700 mAh battery, which generally translates to longer usage times between charges for most users. [1, 4, 13, 17, 35] The Galaxy S21 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which typically provides a full day of moderate use but may require more frequent charging for heavy users. [11, 12, 35]

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with some notable differences.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and the Galaxy S24 FE feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for their deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colors. [11, 12, 17, 18, 24, 26] They both offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080x2400 pixels for S21, 1080x2340 pixels for S24 FE), providing sharp and clear visuals for everyday content consumption. [1, 11, 12, 17, 24, 26]
• Screen Size and Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S24 FE offers a larger 6.7-inch display, providing a more expansive canvas for media consumption, gaming, and productivity. [1, 4, 13, 17] The Galaxy S21 5G has a more compact 6.2-inch display, which some users may find easier for one-handed operation. [11, 12, 24, 26]
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both phones feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. [1, 12, 18] The Galaxy S24 FE has a peak brightness of 1900 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor visibility, though some tests show lower sustained brightness. [17] The Galaxy S21 5G offers a peak brightness of 1300 nits, which is still ample for most lighting conditions. [18, 24, 26]

Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S24 FE are equipped with versatile camera systems designed to capture a variety of moments.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 FE features a triple camera setup with a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and an 8-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. [1, 10, 13, 17] The 50MP main sensor, coupled with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), is capable of capturing detailed images in various lighting conditions. The Galaxy S21 5G also has a triple camera system, consisting of a 12-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide, and a 64-megapixel telephoto lens. [12, 26] Its main and telephoto cameras also include OIS. [5, 10]
• Photography Performance: The S24 FE's newer and higher-resolution main sensor may offer improved detail and low-light performance compared to the S21 5G's 12MP main sensor. However, the S21 5G's 64MP telephoto lens provides higher resolution for zoomed-in shots, though the S24 FE's 3x optical zoom is a practical feature. Both devices are capable of recording 8K video. [13, 17, 18]
• Front Camera and Audio: Both phones are equipped with a 10-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. [1, 10, 12] For audio, both devices offer good speaker output for media consumption. The S21 5G includes Dolby Atmos support for an enhanced audio experience. [35]