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

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, launched in October 2023, are both part of Samsung's 'Fan Edition' line, aiming to deliver a blend of flagship features. While they share a similar design philosophy and operate on the Android platform, the newer Galaxy S23 FE introduces updated internal components, camera enhancements, and a longer software support commitment, setting it apart from its predecessor. [1, 4, 6, 7, 10, 26, 28]

These devices offer different timelines for software support and expected practical lifespan, primarily due to their respective release dates and Samsung's update policies.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was introduced in January 2022, while the Galaxy S23 FE followed in October 2023. [1, 6, 7, 10, 26, 28] This nearly two-year difference means the S23 FE benefits from a longer period of future software updates.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S23 FE launched with Android 13 and is promised four major OS updates and five years of security patches, extending its support well into the future. [1, 5, 15, 18] The Galaxy S21 FE, having launched with Android 12, typically receives fewer major OS updates and security patches compared to its successor. [17, 21, 32]
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating a good level of protection against environmental elements. [3, 11, 21, 41] The Galaxy S21 FE is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, while the Galaxy S23 FE uses Gorilla Glass 5 on both its front and back. [2, 11, 17, 21, 34, 38, 42] The Galaxy S23 FE also incorporates design elements like pull tabs for its battery, which can contribute to easier repairs. [14, 22, 39]

Both smartphones are designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently, but they differ in their underlying processing capabilities and how they manage power.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a previous-generation flagship processor, which provides solid performance for daily applications and moderate gaming. [17, 21, 30, 31, 32, 38] The Galaxy S23 FE features a newer previous-generation flagship processor, offering enhanced speed and efficiency for more demanding applications and multitasking. [1, 2, 9, 11, 13, 16] Users may notice smoother operation and faster app loading on the S23 FE, particularly during intensive use. [2]
• Memory and Storage: Both devices offer configurations with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, providing ample space for apps and media. [1, 2, 5, 9, 13, 16, 17, 21, 32] Neither model supports expandable storage via a microSD card. [1, 3]
• Battery Behavior: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Galaxy S23 FE come with a 4,500mAh battery. [2, 5, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 29, 32, 34, 38, 39] The Galaxy S23 FE's battery life is generally considered sufficient for a full day of typical use, though heavy users might find themselves needing to charge more frequently. [12, 19, 23] The S21 FE is also noted for its all-day battery life. [20, 34] Both support 25W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging. [2, 10, 17, 19, 20, 32, 34]

The display experience on both devices is vibrant and responsive, though there are subtle differences in their specifications and how they adapt to usage.

• Display Technology and Size: Both smartphones feature a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels), delivering clear visuals and rich colors. [1, 5, 9, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 27, 32, 33, 34, 35, 38, 41] This screen size offers an immersive viewing experience for media consumption and productivity.
• Brightness and Clarity: The Galaxy S23 FE offers a peak brightness of 1500 nits, which contributes to good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. [2, 18, 35] The Galaxy S21 FE also provides a vibrant display with satisfying brightness levels. [21] Both displays support HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and color depth when viewing compatible content. [17, 33, 41]
• Refresh Rate: Both models boast a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations. [1, 5, 9, 17, 18, 20, 21, 27, 32, 33, 34, 35, 38, 41] The Galaxy S23 FE features an adaptive refresh rate that can scale down to 60Hz to conserve battery, while the S21 FE's 120Hz refresh rate is not adaptive. [27, 38]

The camera systems on both devices are capable, but the newer model brings notable advancements, particularly in its main sensor.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple camera setup consisting of a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. [17, 21, 24, 30, 31, 32, 33] The Galaxy S23 FE upgrades the main sensor to 50MP with optical image stabilization (OIS), alongside a 12MP ultrawide and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. [1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 11, 13, 16, 19, 41] This larger main sensor on the S23 FE generally results in more detailed images, especially in well-lit conditions, and improved low-light performance. [1, 8, 11, 19]
• Video Recording Capabilities: Both phones can record 4K video at 30/60 frames per second. [17, 19, 33] The Galaxy S23 FE extends its video capabilities to include 8K recording at 24 frames per second. [2, 9, 19]
• Front Camera: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32MP front-facing camera. [17, 24, 30, 31, 32, 33] The Galaxy S23 FE features a 10MP front camera. [1, 9, 13, 16, 41]