Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked Verizon vs Galaxy S24 FE • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, launched in October 2024, are both designed to offer a balanced smartphone experience within Samsung's diverse lineup. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the S24 FE benefits from more recent hardware advancements and a significantly extended software support policy, marking key distinctions between these two Fan Edition models.

When evaluating the long-term usability of these devices, their respective release dates and Samsung's software commitment are important considerations.

• Release and Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive four major OS upgrades, with security patches continuing until early 2027. Its update schedule was demoted to quarterly in late 2025. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 FE, shipping with Android 14, is promised seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, extending its support well into the 2030s.
• Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and security updates for an extended period will find the S24 FE offers a considerably longer practical lifespan. The S21 FE remains a capable device, but its software support window is nearing its conclusion compared to its newer counterpart.
• Durability Features: Both models feature an aluminum frame and a plastic back, balancing durability with repair accessibility. They also share an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, providing protection against everyday elements.

The performance capabilities of these two Fan Edition phones show a notable difference, particularly in handling demanding applications and overall system responsiveness.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE is equipped with a processor from 2021, which capably handles daily tasks, multitasking, and most games. The Galaxy S24 FE, however, integrates a more current-generation processor, providing a substantial boost in raw power and efficiency for smoother operation.
• System Responsiveness: The newer processor in the S24 FE contributes to a more fluid user experience, with faster app loading times and more seamless transitions between applications. While the S21 FE offers reliable performance, the S24 FE provides a more responsive feel, especially during intensive use.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE features a 4,500mAh battery, which for some users provides a full day of moderate use, though heavy users might find themselves needing to charge more frequently. The Galaxy S24 FE comes with a larger 4,700mAh battery, and combined with its more efficient processor, it generally offers improved endurance, often leaving users with more charge by the end of the day.

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but there are distinctions in their visual experience and outdoor visibility.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE and S24 FE feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with Full HD+ resolution, ensuring sharp text and clear images. They also support a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations appear smooth.
• Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S24 FE's display typically offers higher peak brightness levels compared to the S21 FE. This enhancement improves outdoor visibility, making the screen easier to read under direct sunlight and enhancing the viewing of high dynamic range content.
• Screen Size and Viewing: The S21 FE has a 6.4-inch display, offering a comfortable size for one-handed use and media consumption. The S24 FE features a larger 6.7-inch display, providing a more expansive viewing area which can be beneficial for multitasking, gaming, and watching videos.

The camera systems on both Fan Edition models are designed for versatile photography, with the S24 FE introducing advancements in sensor technology and video capabilities.

• Main Camera Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE features a 12-megapixel main camera that delivers good results in well-lit conditions. The Galaxy S24 FE upgrades to a 50-megapixel main sensor, which generally leads to improved detail, better dynamic range, and enhanced low-light performance.
• Versatility and Video: Both phones include a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens and an 8-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, offering flexibility for various shooting scenarios. The S24 FE distinguishes itself with support for 8K video recording, while the S21 FE offers 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. The S24 FE also shows improved stabilization for telephoto video.
• Front Camera and Audio: The S21 FE is equipped with a 32-megapixel front camera, which users often praise for its detail. The S24 FE features a 10-megapixel front camera. Both devices offer capable microphone quality for calls and recording, and their speakers provide a satisfactory media consumption experience.