Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T vs iPhone 15 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the iPhone 15 Pro, launched in September 2023, represent distinct approaches to the premium smartphone experience. While both devices offer robust performance and advanced camera systems, they differ significantly in their operating systems, design philosophies, and specific feature sets. The Galaxy S21 FE operates on Android, offering a customizable user experience, whereas the iPhone 15 Pro runs on iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem and streamlined interface.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability features.

• Release Timeline and OS Support: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, initially running Android 12. It has since been updated to Android 16, which is expected to be its final major Android update, with security patches continuing for a period thereafter. The iPhone 15 Pro, released in September 2023 with iOS 17, is anticipated to receive major iOS updates for approximately 5-7 years, with security support extending even further. This suggests a longer software longevity for the iPhone 15 Pro.
• Software Longevity Expectations: Users of the Galaxy S21 FE can expect continued security updates, but major feature updates for the operating system have concluded. The iPhone 15 Pro, being a newer device, offers a more extended period of receiving the latest iOS features and security enhancements.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion. The Galaxy S21 FE utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection and has an aluminum frame with a plastic back. The iPhone 15 Pro, however, incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover and a titanium frame, which contribute to its overall durability.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily operations, from launching applications to handling demanding tasks and managing battery life.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly. Users report that it performs well for general use and gaming, though it can sometimes generate warmth under sustained heavy loads. The iPhone 15 Pro features a more recent generation processor, designed for enhanced graphics and faster processing, making it well-suited for intensive applications, advanced gaming, and augmented reality experiences.
• Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S21 FE is available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The iPhone 15 Pro comes with 8GB of RAM and offers a wider range of storage capacities, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, and users generally report good battery life for moderate usage, often lasting a full day. However, heavy users might find themselves needing to charge more frequently. The iPhone 15 Pro, with a 3274 mAh battery, is optimized for efficient power consumption, with many users experiencing all-day battery life even with medium to heavy use.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. Its resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels ensures a sharp picture. The iPhone 15 Pro has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its exceptional brightness, vibrant colors, and high contrast. It offers a higher resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels, resulting in a slightly higher pixel density.
• Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S21 FE can reach a peak brightness of 1200 nits, offering good visibility in various lighting conditions, including outdoors. The iPhone 15 Pro boasts a peak outdoor brightness of 2000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright sunlight.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone 15 Pro's ProMotion technology allows for an adaptive refresh rate, adjusting from 1Hz to 120Hz based on content, which can contribute to power efficiency.

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though they approach imaging with different strengths.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE features a triple-camera setup with a 12 MP main lens, an 8 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. Users generally find its photos to be rich in detail and color, performing well in various lighting conditions. The iPhone 15 Pro also has a triple-camera system, including a 48 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide, and a 12 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Its main camera can capture super-high-resolution photos and offers improved low-light performance.
• Low-Light and Everyday Photography: The Galaxy S21 FE delivers pleasing image composition, with good color reproduction, and its night mode improves results in darker scenarios. The iPhone 15 Pro's camera system is noted for its reliable performance in everyday situations and strong low-light capabilities, though some users note that its night mode photos, while good, might not always surpass certain competitors.
• Video Recording Quality: Both devices support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second. The Galaxy S21 FE offers good video stabilization, particularly for 1080p. The iPhone 15 Pro excels in video capture, offering features like ProRes video recording directly to external drives, and strong stabilization and detail.