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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.