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

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE are both smartphones designed to offer a blend of premium features at a more accessible point within Samsung's lineup. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was globally released in January 2022, initially running on Android 12. Its successor, the Galaxy S23 FE, arrived in October 2023 with Android 13. While sharing a similar design philosophy, the S23 FE introduces updates in its internal components, camera system, and software support, distinguishing it from its predecessor. Both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

Evaluating the longevity of these devices involves looking at their release timelines, software support, and physical resilience.

• Release and Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE, released in January 2022, launched with Android 12. It is expected to receive its final major Android OS update, Android 16, and will continue to receive security updates, transitioning to a quarterly schedule after four years. The Galaxy S23 FE, launched in October 2023 with Android 13, is promised four major OS updates and five years of security patches, extending its software lifespan further into the future.
• Physical Durability: Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water. The Galaxy S21 FE features Gorilla Glass Victus on its front, while the Galaxy S23 FE utilizes Gorilla Glass 5 for both its front and back panels.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE has been noted for a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10, with the battery being a more challenging component to replace due to strong adhesive. The Galaxy S23 FE shows an improvement in repairability, with scores ranging from 8.0 to 8.5 out of 10, partly due to the inclusion of pull tabs designed to facilitate easier battery removal.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily use, influencing everything from app responsiveness to multitasking capabilities.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE is equipped with a processor that handles everyday applications and general tasks smoothly. However, under sustained heavy workloads or intensive gaming, it may exhibit thermal throttling, which can lead to a reduction in performance. The Galaxy S23 FE features a newer generation processor, providing enhanced performance, particularly noticeable in demanding applications and graphically intensive games, offering a smoother and more consistent experience.
• Memory and Storage: The Galaxy S21 FE is available with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, alongside 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The Galaxy S23 FE comes standard with 8GB of RAM and offers 128GB or 256GB storage options, which can contribute to more fluid multitasking and app management.
• Battery Performance: Both devices house a 4500mAh battery. User experiences with the Galaxy S21 FE's battery life are varied, with some reporting it lasts a full day with average use, while others find it requires more frequent charging, especially as the device ages. The Galaxy S23 FE generally provides a full day of use for most users, though intensive usage scenarios might necessitate a midday charge. Some users have expressed that the S23 FE's battery life could be better than expected.

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both models offer a high-quality visual experience.

• Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy S21 FE and Galaxy S23 FE feature a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. This technology delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, enhancing the viewing experience for various content.
• Resolution and Refresh Rate: Both screens offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080p), providing sharp and clear visuals for everyday tasks, media consumption, and browsing. A 120Hz refresh rate on both devices ensures smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a more responsive feel during interactions and gaming.
• Brightness: The Galaxy S23 FE offers a higher peak brightness of 1450 nits, compared to the typical 1200 nits of the S21 FE. This increased brightness on the S23 FE can improve outdoor visibility, though some users note that the screen can still be reflective in direct sunlight.

The camera systems on both devices are designed to capture a range of moments, from everyday snapshots to more detailed photography.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S23 FE upgrades the main sensor to 50MP with OIS, retaining a 12MP ultrawide and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The higher megapixel count on the S23 FE's main camera, combined with pixel-binning technology, can result in more detailed images, particularly in well-lit conditions.
• Photography Performance: The S23 FE shows improvements in low-light photography, benefiting from features like 'Nightography' for clearer images in challenging lighting. While the S21 FE produces solid images in good lighting, the S23 FE generally offers a more refined output. However, some users have reported that the S23 FE's main camera processing can sometimes lead to washed-out colors, noise, and less dynamic range compared to older models, despite its improved hardware.
• Front Camera and Video: The Galaxy S21 FE includes a 32MP front-facing camera. The Galaxy S23 FE features a 10MP front camera, which delivers good detail and color accuracy for selfies. For video recording, the S23 FE is capable of capturing up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second with its rear cameras and 4K at 60 frames per second with its front camera.