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

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

• Release and Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, starting with Android 12, and has received updates up to Android 14. Samsung typically provides four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates for its devices. The Galaxy S23 Ultra, released in February 2023 with Android 13, is promised four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates, with support expected to continue until 2028. This means the S23 Ultra will receive software support for a longer duration than the S21 FE 5G.
• Durability and Repairability: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, while the S23 Ultra features the newer Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back. The S23 Ultra has shown improvements in repairability, with some components, like the battery, being easier to access for replacement.
• Expected Lifespan: Users can expect a practical lifespan influenced by both physical durability and continued software support. The S23 Ultra's newer release and extended software commitment suggest a longer period of optimal functionality and security updates.

The performance of a smartphone impacts how smoothly applications run, how quickly tasks are completed, and the overall responsiveness of the user experience.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking efficiently. The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a more advanced, current-generation processor specifically optimized for its ecosystem, resulting in enhanced speed and efficiency. This allows the S23 Ultra to manage demanding applications, complex games, and intensive multitasking with greater ease and fluidity.
• Storage and Multitasking: Both devices offer various internal storage options, though neither supports expandable storage via a microSD card. The S23 Ultra's higher-tier storage variants (256GB and above) utilize a newer, faster storage technology (UFS 4.0) compared to the S21 FE 5G, which can contribute to quicker app loading and data transfer speeds. The S23 Ultra also offers configurations with more RAM, which benefits users who frequently switch between many applications or engage in memory-intensive tasks.
• Battery Behavior: The S21 FE 5G has a 4500mAh battery, which some users report may require charging before the end of a full day with heavy use. The Galaxy S23 Ultra, with its larger 5000mAh battery and more power-efficient processor, is frequently praised for its extended battery life, often lasting up to two days on a single charge for many users.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and differences in screen technology and features can significantly affect the viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S23 Ultra feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch Full HD+ (1080x2400) display, providing clear visuals for everyday use. The S23 Ultra boasts a larger 6.8-inch Quad HD+ (1440x3088) display, offering a noticeably sharper and more detailed viewing experience, particularly for high-resolution content.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The S21 FE 5G's display offers a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The S23 Ultra reaches a higher peak brightness of 1750 nits, which enhances outdoor visibility and HDR content viewing. Both phones feature a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. However, the S23 Ultra's display is adaptive, dynamically adjusting its refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz based on content, which contributes to better power efficiency. The S21 FE 5G's 120Hz refresh rate is not adaptive.
• Screen Protection and Design: The S21 FE 5G is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, while the S23 Ultra features the more advanced Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced resistance against drops and scratches. The S23 Ultra also has a slightly curved edge display, contributing to a more immersive feel, and integrates the S Pen stylus directly into its body.

The camera systems on both devices are designed to capture high-quality images and videos, but they differ significantly in their capabilities and versatility.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. This configuration is capable of producing vibrant and clear photos in good lighting. The Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a more advanced quad-camera system, including a 200MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and two 10MP telephoto lenses providing 3x and 10x optical zoom. This allows for exceptional detail, improved low-light performance, and significantly greater zoom capabilities.
• Photography and Video Features: Both phones offer features like optical image stabilization (OIS) on their main lenses and can record 4K video. The S23 Ultra elevates video recording with support for 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, offering more detail and flexibility for content creators. Its advanced processing also contributes to more natural skin tones and better handling of highlights.
• Front Camera and Audio: For selfies and video calls, the S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera, while the S23 Ultra features a 12MP front camera. Both devices include stereo speakers for an enhanced audio experience during media consumption.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S23 Ultra support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and NFC for mobile payments. The S23 Ultra also supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering access to a less congested 6GHz band for potentially faster and more stable wireless connections where available. Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and neither includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Biometric Security and Additional Features: Both phones incorporate under-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. The S21 FE 5G uses an optical sensor, while the S23 Ultra employs an ultrasonic sensor, which can offer slightly faster and more reliable recognition. A significant differentiator for the S23 Ultra is the integrated S Pen stylus, which provides enhanced functionality for note-taking, drawing, and precise navigation, making it suitable for productivity-focused users.
• Physical Characteristics: The S21 FE 5G is lighter at 177g and has dimensions of 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9mm. The S23 Ultra is a larger and heavier device, weighing 234g with dimensions of 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9mm. The S21 FE 5G features a plastic back with an aluminum frame, while the S23 Ultra has a more premium glass back (Gorilla Glass Victus 2) and an aluminum frame.