Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked Verizon vs Galaxy S23 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S23, launched in February 2023, are both Android smartphones from Samsung's popular Galaxy series. While the S21 FE 5G aimed to deliver a flagship-like experience, the S23 represents a more recent iteration of Samsung's main flagship line, bringing advancements in processing power and camera technology. Both devices operate on the Android ecosystem, offering a familiar user experience with Samsung's One UI.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The Galaxy S23 offers a longer period of official software and security support due to its later release.

• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched with Android 12, is expected to receive four major Android OS updates, bringing it up to Android 16, with security updates anticipated until early 2027. The Galaxy S23, released with Android 13, is slated for four major OS updates, extending its support to Android 17, with security updates continuing until February 2028.
• Physical Durability: Both phones feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus for its front display protection, while the S23 upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, potentially offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a plastic back, which can be relatively easy to remove, though the battery is often secured with adhesive. The Galaxy S23 series has shown improvements in repairability, particularly with easier battery replacement due to the inclusion of pull tabs.

The performance of these smartphones is largely influenced by their internal components, with the newer Galaxy S23 offering a notable upgrade in processing power and efficiency.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a capable processor that handles everyday tasks and most applications smoothly. The Galaxy S23 features a more advanced and power-efficient processor, resulting in significantly faster CPU and GPU speeds. This translates to a more fluid experience for demanding apps, multitasking, and graphic-intensive gaming.
• System Responsiveness: While the S21 FE 5G provides a responsive user experience, the S23's more powerful processor and optimized software contribute to a more fluid and consistent experience when switching between apps or running several demanding processes at once.
• Storage Options: Both models are available with 128GB and 256GB internal storage. The Galaxy S23 also offers a 512GB option. Notably, the 256GB and 512GB variants of the S23 utilize a newer, faster storage technology (UFS 4.0) compared to the 128GB variant (UFS 3.1) and the S21 FE 5G (UFS 3.1), which can impact app loading times and data transfer speeds.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, providing average to good battery life with moderate use, though heavy usage can drain it quickly. The Galaxy S23, despite having a smaller 3900 mAh battery, often achieves comparable or even better battery life due to its more energy-efficient processor.

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but the Galaxy S23 introduces enhancements in brightness and display protection.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels for the S21 FE 5G and 1080 x 2340 pixels for the S23, providing clear and vibrant visuals.
• Brightness Levels: Both phones support a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. The Galaxy S23 generally offers higher peak brightness levels (up to 1750 nits), which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S21 FE 5G (around 1200-1300 nits).
• Screen Size and Protection: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch display, offering a larger viewing area. The Galaxy S23 features a more compact 6.1-inch display, which contributes to its smaller overall footprint and potentially easier one-handed use. The S21 FE 5G is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, while the S23 uses the more advanced Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back.

The camera systems on both devices are capable, but the Galaxy S23 brings significant upgrades, particularly in sensor technology and video capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple camera setup with a 12 MP wide, 8 MP telephoto (3x optical zoom), and 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S23 also has a triple camera system, but it upgrades the main sensor to 50 MP, alongside a 10 MP telephoto (3x optical zoom) and a 12 MP ultrawide.
• Photography Performance: User reviews suggest the S23 offers improved low-light photography, better color reproduction, and sharper details, with more consistent results across different scenarios compared to the S21 FE 5G. The S21 FE 5G performs well in good lighting, but its ultrawide lens can have inconsistent color profiles.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: The S21 FE 5G can record video up to 4K at 60fps, and has a 32 MP front camera. The S23 enhances video capabilities with up to 8K recording and improved stabilization. Its 12 MP front camera features Dual Pixel PDAF for faster autofocus and better detail, especially in selfie videos.
• Audio Experience: Both devices provide clear audio for calls and media consumption, with stereo speakers offering a good experience for videos and music.