Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked Verizon vs Google Pixel 7 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Google Pixel 7 Pro, launched in October 2022, are both Android smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S21 FE focuses on delivering a balanced feature set within the Samsung ecosystem, the Pixel 7 Pro emphasizes advanced computational photography and a pure Android software experience. Both devices run on the Android operating system, with the Pixel 7 Pro typically receiving updates directly from Google.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, making it an earlier model compared to the Google Pixel 7 Pro, which launched in October 2022. This difference in release date impacts their respective software support cycles.
• OS Support Duration: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is guaranteed to receive five years of software support, including three generations of Android OS updates and five years of monthly security updates, extending until at least October 2027. The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G also offers excellent software support, typically receiving four years of OS updates and five years of security updates for its flagship-tier devices.
• Repairability: The Google Pixel 7 Pro has a repairability score of 5.5 out of 10, with screen replacements being relatively straightforward but battery removal complicated by strong adhesive, and the charging port soldered to the motherboard. In contrast, comparable Samsung devices, such as the Galaxy S22, are generally considered easier to repair.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

• Storage and RAM: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The Google Pixel 7 Pro offers a higher 12GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB.
• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is powered by a processor designed for efficient performance across various applications, handling everyday tasks and moderate gaming smoothly. The Pixel 7 Pro features a newer-generation processor engineered by Google, which provides enhanced capabilities for demanding applications, advanced AI features, and a responsive user experience, though some users note it can get warm during intensive use.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, with some users reporting long-lasting battery life that can extend for multiple days on a single charge, while other reports suggest a more mediocre battery performance. The Pixel 7 Pro has a larger 5000 mAh battery, generally providing a full day of use for many users, though heavy camera usage or intensive tasks can lead to faster drainage.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals. The Google Pixel 7 Pro boasts a larger 6.7-inch QHD+ LTPO OLED display with a higher resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a sharper image with greater detail.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both phones offer a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The Pixel 7 Pro's display is an adaptive LTPO panel, allowing it to vary its refresh rate from 10Hz to 120Hz to optimize power consumption, and it can reach a peak brightness of up to 1500 nits, offering excellent visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also features a 120Hz refresh rate, but it is not adaptive.
• Screen Design: The Pixel 7 Pro features subtly curved display edges, which some users find aesthetically pleasing, while others note they can lead to reflections and accidental touches. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a flat display. Both displays are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, but with different strengths and features.

• Camera System Capabilities: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G includes a triple rear camera setup with a 12MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a more advanced triple camera system, comprising a 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide with a wider field of view, and a 48MP telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G delivers good image quality with vibrant colors and effective low-light performance using its Night Mode. The Pixel 7 Pro is highly praised for its excellent photo quality, particularly its dynamic range, vivid colors, and industry-leading low-light performance with Night Sight, which is also faster. It also includes a macro mode for close-up shots.
• Video Recording and Audio: The Pixel 7 Pro offers strong video recording capabilities, including 4K at 60fps, 10-bit HDR, and a Cinematic Blur feature, though some users have noted concerns about video sharpening and choppy zoom transitions. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also supports 4K video recording. Both devices feature stereo speakers, with the Pixel 7 Pro's audio output being suitable for media consumption, though some users find it lacks bass.