Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T vs Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Locked T-Mobile

Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T
Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T
Starting at

Refurbished price:$135.00

Versus $699.99 new

See options
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$332.99

Versus $1,073.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, launched in February 2022, are both Android smartphones from Samsung's flagship lines. While both offer a premium Android experience, the S22 Ultra distinguishes itself with a more advanced camera system, a larger, higher-resolution display, and the integrated S Pen, catering to users seeking a more feature-rich device. Both devices run on the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI.

Scores

Durability

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, with the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G following in February 2022. Both devices benefit from Samsung's commitment to software longevity, receiving four years of major Android operating system updates and five years of security updates. This ensures a comparable practical lifespan for software support. Both models feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, while the S22 Ultra 5G features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both its front and back for enhanced durability.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both devices offer capable performance, but the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is designed for more intensive workloads.

  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage. The S22 Ultra 5G provides more configurations, including 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage from 128GB up to 1TB, suiting higher demands.
  • Processing Power: The S21 FE 5G delivers smooth operation for general use. The S22 Ultra 5G incorporates a more advanced processor, leading to faster app response, seamless multitasking, and superior handling of graphically intensive games or professional software.
  • Battery Behavior: The S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, providing reliable power for a typical day. The S22 Ultra 5G features a larger 5000 mAh battery, generally offering extended usage, though its advanced display can impact battery duration under continuous heavy load.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display experience differs, with the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G offering a more expansive and detailed visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for vibrant colors. The S22 Ultra 5G offers a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing a more expansive viewing area.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The S21 FE 5G has a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels) for clear daily viewing. The S22 Ultra 5G features a Quad HD+ resolution (3088 x 1440 pixels), delivering superior detail for high-resolution content.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both phones include a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smooth visuals. The S22 Ultra 5G reaches a higher peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, ensuring better outdoor visibility compared to the S21 FE 5G.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3088

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems are capable, but the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G offers a more versatile and advanced photography and videography experience.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 8MP telephoto (3x optical zoom) triple camera. The S22 Ultra 5G boasts a quad-camera system with a 108MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and two 10MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom).
  • Photography Performance: The S21 FE 5G delivers good everyday photos. The S22 Ultra 5G excels in low-light, offers greater detail, and provides superior zoom capabilities, with users often noting its clarity even at high magnifications.
  • Video and Audio: Both support 4K video, with the S22 Ultra 5G adding 8K recording. The S22 Ultra 5G provides a more refined video experience with better stabilization, and both include stereo speakers.

Main camera

12 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

40 megapixels

Miscellaneous

These devices differ in physical characteristics and additional features, impacting user interaction and overall experience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and S22 Ultra 5G support 5G and Wi-Fi 6. The S22 Ultra 5G adds Wi-Fi 6E for potentially faster wireless speeds. Both use a USB-C port and lack a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Sensors: Both phones include an in-display fingerprint sensor. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G uniquely integrates an S Pen stylus, providing advanced capabilities for note-taking and drawing, absent in the S21 FE 5G.
  • Build Materials and Dimensions: The S21 FE 5G combines a glass front, plastic back, and aluminum frame, weighing 177g. The S22 Ultra 5G features glass on both front and back (Gorilla Glass Victus+) and an Armor Aluminum frame, resulting in a heavier device at 228g or 229g and larger dimensions.

Weight

7 oz

8 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.4

6.8

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

AT&T

T-Mobile

User sentiment for the Galaxy S21 FE 5G often praises its balanced performance and vibrant display, offering a solid experience for its segment. Common criticisms sometimes point to its battery life for heavy users and its camera, while capable, may not always excel in challenging conditions.

The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is frequently lauded for its exceptional camera system, particularly its zoom capabilities, and its stunning, bright display. The integrated S Pen is a significant praise point for users valuing productivity and creative input. However, its larger size and weight are sometimes noted as a drawback for those preferring a more compact device, and some users report its battery life can be inconsistent under heavy load due to its powerful features.

Users prioritizing a comprehensive camera experience, a large, high-resolution display, and the unique functionality of an integrated stylus will find the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G well-suited. This device is ideal for professionals, artists, or power users. Conversely, users seeking a balanced smartphone with reliable performance, a good display, and a more manageable form factor for everyday use may prefer the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Both devices represent excellent choices, and opting for a refurbished option can provide a sustainable choice for either model.

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