Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Locked Verizon vs iPhone 13 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the iPhone 13 Pro, launched in September 2021, are both capable smartphones that offer distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S21 FE operates on the Android platform, the iPhone 13 Pro runs on Apple's iOS, presenting fundamental differences in their ecosystems. Key differentiators include their display technologies and camera systems, catering to varied preferences.

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

• Software Longevity: The iPhone 13 Pro, released in September 2021, is expected to receive major iOS updates until approximately 2028, potentially extending to 2029, offering a long period of software relevance. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched in January 2022, is projected to receive four major Android OS upgrades, meaning it should be updated through Android 16, with security updates continuing until at least the end of 2025, and possibly longer.
• Repairability: The iPhone 13 Pro received a repairability score of 5 out of 10 from iFixit, noting that while display and battery replacements are relatively prioritized, software pairing can complicate third-party repairs, potentially disabling features like Face ID with non-genuine components. Information on the specific repairability score for the Galaxy S21 FE 5G is less detailed, but generally, Samsung devices are considered to have moderate repairability.
• Practical Lifespan: Both devices are built with durable materials, including Gorilla Glass Victus on the S21 FE and Ceramic Shield on the iPhone 13 Pro, contributing to their physical resilience. The practical lifespan for both models is influenced by software support and the availability of parts for maintenance, with both offering several years of expected reliable use.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating apps to demanding gaming sessions.

• Processing Power: The iPhone 13 Pro features a powerful processor that delivers smooth performance across applications and handles graphically intensive games with ease. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a capable processor that ensures efficient multitasking and responsive operation for everyday use and gaming.
• System Responsiveness: Both devices offer a highly responsive user experience. The iPhone 13 Pro's adaptive refresh rate contributes to fluid interactions, while the Galaxy S21 FE 5G's high refresh rate also provides a smooth scrolling and app navigation experience.
• Storage and Multitasking: The iPhone 13 Pro is available with various storage options up to 1TB, paired with 6GB of RAM, supporting extensive app usage and media storage. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers storage configurations up to 256GB with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, providing ample space and efficient multitasking capabilities.

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

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 13 Pro features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and high pixel density of 460 PPI, resulting in sharp visuals. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G comes with a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering rich colors and a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, with a pixel density of 401 PPI, providing clear and bright imagery.
• Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The iPhone 13 Pro's display can reach a typical brightness of 1000 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a brightness that maxes out around 700 nits, providing good visibility in various lighting environments.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The iPhone 13 Pro incorporates ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate that can dynamically adjust between 10Hz and 120Hz, providing exceptionally smooth scrolling and animations while optimizing battery use. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth motion, though it is not adaptive and can be set to 60Hz to conserve battery.

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though they approach imaging with different strengths.

• Rear Camera Systems: The iPhone 13 Pro features a versatile triple 12MP camera setup, including a wide (f/1.5), ultra-wide (f/1.8 with autofocus and macro capabilities), and telephoto (3x optical zoom, f/2.8) lens, complemented by a LiDAR scanner for improved depth sensing. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also has a triple rear camera system with a 12MP wide (f/1.8), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), and an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The iPhone 13 Pro is praised for its strong low-light performance, detailed images, and features like Cinematic mode for video and macro photography. Some users have noted that its camera processing can sometimes lead to overly saturated photos or lens flares. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G delivers crisp, high-resolution images and is noted for its versatile photography options, including 30x Space Zoom.
• Video Capabilities: The iPhone 13 Pro supports 4K video recording at various frame rates, including ProRes video recording for professional workflows on models with sufficient storage. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is capable of 8K video recording, offering high-resolution video capture.