Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T vs Galaxy S22 5G • Unlocked

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, while the Galaxy S22 5G followed in February 2022. This close release window means their software support cycles are largely aligned.
• Software Longevity: Both devices launched with Android 12 and are expected to receive four major Android OS upgrades, with Android 16 being the final major OS update for both. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is also expected to receive security updates until at least the end of 2025, with some sources suggesting up to January 2027. The Galaxy S22 5G is slated to receive security updates until February 2027.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G generally shows a more favorable repairability score, with some assessments giving it 7.5 out of 10, noting that while some components are glued, many are secured with screws. In contrast, the Galaxy S22 5G received a lower repairability score of 3 out of 10 from iFixit, primarily due to the extensive use of strong adhesive for the battery and screen, making repairs more challenging.

Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S22 5G offer robust performance suitable for demanding applications and multitasking, though with some distinctions in their underlying hardware and real-world usage.

• Everyday Responsiveness: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, powered by a capable processor, handles daily tasks, app loading, and general navigation smoothly. Users report that it provides snappy and fluid performance for most activities. The Galaxy S22 5G, featuring a newer generation processor, also delivers a very responsive experience, with quick app boot times and minimal stuttering during use.
• Multitasking and Demanding Apps: Both devices are equipped with 8GB of RAM in many configurations, allowing for efficient multitasking. While the S22's newer processor shows slightly higher benchmark scores, the practical difference in running demanding applications or graphics-intensive games is often subtle for the average user.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a larger 4500mAh battery, which users often find provides a full day of moderate use. However, some users have noted that heavy usage, especially with 120Hz refresh rate and 5G enabled, can lead to faster drainage and potential overheating, which may impact performance. The Galaxy S22 5G has a smaller 3700mAh battery, and its battery life is a more frequent point of discussion among users, often requiring more frequent charging for heavy users.

Both smartphones offer high-quality displays, providing a vibrant and smooth visual experience, though they differ slightly in size and pixel density.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S22 5G feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S21 FE has a 6.4-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (~401 ppi), while the S22 has a slightly smaller 6.1-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels (~425 ppi). While the S22 technically has a higher pixel density, the difference in clarity is not always noticeable in typical viewing.
• Brightness and Smoothness: Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and a fluid user interface. The S21 FE can reach a peak brightness of around 1044 cd/m² in certain conditions, ensuring good outdoor visibility. The S22 also provides excellent brightness and improved sunlight legibility.
• Viewing Experience: The larger screen of the S21 FE (6.4 inches) might be preferred by users who prioritize more screen real estate for media consumption or productivity. The S22's more compact 6.1-inch display offers easier one-handed use and portability.

Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S22 5G are equipped with versatile camera systems, capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos, but with different sensor configurations and strengths.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple-lens rear camera setup, including a 12MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S22 5G also has a triple-lens system, but with a 50MP main wide camera, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The S22's main camera generally produces more colorful and detailed images, especially in good lighting.
• Low-Light and Video Performance: Both phones perform well in various lighting conditions, with dedicated night modes improving low-light shots. For video, both can record up to 4K at 60fps, with the S22 also offering 8K at 24fps. The S21 FE's video recording is noted for its optical image stabilization on the wide and telephoto lenses.
• Front Camera and Audio: The S21 FE 5G boasts a 32MP front camera, which is praised for natural-looking shots and can record 4K video. The S22 5G has a 10MP front camera, also capable of good selfies and 4K video. Both devices feature stereo speakers, providing a good audio experience for media consumption.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate these two Samsung smartphones, impacting daily handling and connectivity.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6. The Galaxy S22 5G offers additional connectivity features like eSIM and dual SIM + eSIM capabilities, which are not present on the S21 FE 5G. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer and lack a 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Sensors and Security: Both phones incorporate an in-display optical fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. Neither device features Face ID technology, relying instead on the fingerprint sensor and standard facial recognition.
• Build Materials and Handling: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), an aluminum frame, and a plastic back, weighing 177g. The Galaxy S22 5G has a more premium feel with a glass front and back (Gorilla Glass Victus+) and an aluminum frame, weighing slightly less at 167g or 168g. Both are IP68 rated for dust and water resistance. The S22's smaller dimensions contribute to easier one-handed use.