Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked AT&T vs OnePlus 12 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (2022) and the OnePlus 12 (2024) are both Android smartphones, yet they cater to different user expectations due to their release timelines and feature sets. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, a Fan Edition model, offers a blend of features from its flagship S21 series, focusing on a balanced experience. In contrast, the OnePlus 12, a more recent flagship, emphasizes cutting-edge performance, advanced camera capabilities, and rapid charging technologies.

Both devices run on the Android operating system, providing access to a vast ecosystem of applications and services, though the OnePlus 12 benefits from a newer Android version out of the box and a longer expected software support window.

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its build quality, software support, and the availability of replacement parts. These two devices offer different propositions in terms of their expected practical lifespan.

• Release Timeline and Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, while the OnePlus 12 launched globally in January 2024. This two-year difference means the OnePlus 12 benefits from a longer period of guaranteed software updates and security patches, extending its usable life. The OnePlus 12 is expected to receive four years of Android updates and five years of security patches, whereas the S21 FE 5G, having launched with Android 12, has already received several major updates and will likely see fewer future OS upgrades.
• Durability Features: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes. The OnePlus 12 carries an IP65 rating, which means it is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets, but not full submersion. Both devices utilize Gorilla Glass for screen protection, with the S21 FE 5G using Gorilla Glass Victus and the OnePlus 12 featuring the newer Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front.
• Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary by region and independent assessments, both manufacturers generally design their devices with a certain level of repair access. Users considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can benefit from devices that have undergone professional inspection and repair, extending their lifespan sustainably.

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run, how quickly tasks are completed, and the overall responsiveness of the user experience.

• Processing Power: The OnePlus 12 is equipped with a newer generation processor, which translates to significantly faster CPU and GPU performance compared to the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. This allows the OnePlus 12 to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphics-intensive games with greater ease and efficiency. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, while still capable for everyday use, may show limitations with the most resource-intensive tasks over time.
• Memory and Storage: The OnePlus 12 offers higher RAM configurations, starting at 12GB and going up to 24GB, alongside larger storage options up to 1TB. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage. More RAM on the OnePlus 12 contributes to smoother multitasking and app retention in memory, while larger storage capacities provide more space for apps, photos, and videos.
• Battery Performance: The OnePlus 12 features a larger 5400 mAh battery, designed to provide extended usage times, even for heavy users. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which offers all-day power for many users but may require more frequent charging under intensive use. The OnePlus 12 also supports faster wired and wireless charging speeds.

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

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both phones feature AMOLED displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution. The OnePlus 12 boasts a larger 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a higher 1440 x 3168 pixel resolution, offering greater sharpness and detail.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The OnePlus 12 offers significantly higher peak brightness, reaching up to 4500 nits, which enhances outdoor visibility and HDR content viewing. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits. Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The OnePlus 12's LTPO technology allows for an adaptive refresh rate, ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, which can contribute to better power efficiency.
• Viewing Experience: The larger, higher-resolution display of the OnePlus 12 provides a more expansive and immersive viewing experience, particularly for media consumption and detailed tasks. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G's display still offers a clear and fluid experience, suitable for everyday use.

The camera systems on both smartphones are designed to capture a variety of moments, though they approach photography with different hardware and software optimizations.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP main lens, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The OnePlus 12 also has a versatile triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The higher megapixel counts and advanced sensors on the OnePlus 12 generally allow for more detailed images, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
• Photography Performance: The OnePlus 12 benefits from a newer generation of computational photography and Hasselblad color calibration, aiming for natural and accurate color representation. Users report the OnePlus 12 delivers excellent images with good detail and dynamic range. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G's camera system is known for its dependable performance in various scenarios, including a capable night mode.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices can record 4K video, with the OnePlus 12 also offering 8K video recording. For selfies, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera, while the OnePlus 12 also features a 32MP front camera.