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

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

• Release Timeline and Age: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, making it an older model compared to the Galaxy S24, which launched in January 2024. This two-year difference impacts the expected lifespan of software support.
• OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S24 offers a notable advantage with a commitment to seven years of OS upgrades and security updates, meaning it is expected to receive updates through Android 21. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched with Android 12, typically receives fewer major OS updates, though some sources indicate it can be updated to Android 14.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating a similar level of protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, while the Galaxy S24 features the newer Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced durability.

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its internal components and how efficiently they handle various tasks.

• Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that capably handles demanding applications and multitasking. The Galaxy S24, being a newer device, features a more current-generation processor, which provides swift performance and smooth handling of intensive apps and gaming.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer configurations with ample RAM, allowing for efficient multitasking. The Galaxy S24's newer processor contributes to a generally more responsive system, particularly noticeable during heavy usage or when running multiple applications simultaneously.
• Storage Options: Both models offer various internal storage capacities, typically ranging from 128GB to 256GB, with some configurations extending to 512GB for the S24, providing sufficient space for applications, media, and files. Neither device includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

The visual experience on both smartphones is delivered through high-quality displays, though with some distinctions.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S24 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for their vibrant colors and deep blacks. Both offer Full HD+ resolutions, ensuring sharp and clear visuals for everyday viewing.
• Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy S24 boasts a significantly higher peak brightness of 2600 nits, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a peak brightness around 1200 nits, providing good visibility in most environments.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The Galaxy S24 further refines this with an adaptive refresh rate that can scale down to 1Hz, optimizing power consumption while maintaining smoothness.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed for various photography and videography needs.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple rear camera setup with a 12 MP wide, 8 MP telephoto (3x optical zoom), and 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S24 also has a triple rear camera system, but with a higher resolution 50 MP wide sensor, a 10 MP telephoto lens (3x optical zoom), and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The S24 benefits from improved imaging algorithms and AI features.
• Video Recording Capabilities: Both models support 4K video recording at 30/60 frames per second. The Galaxy S24 extends its video capabilities to include 8K recording at 30 frames per second, offering higher detail for compatible displays.
• Front Camera: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32 MP front camera, while the Galaxy S24 features a 12 MP front camera. Both are suitable for selfies and video calls, with the S24's front camera also benefiting from enhanced image processing.

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity and modern Wi-Fi standards, with the Galaxy S24 typically featuring Wi-Fi 6E for potentially faster and more stable wireless connections. Both utilize a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, and neither includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Biometric Security: Both devices incorporate in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses an optical sensor, while the Galaxy S24 employs an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, which can offer improved accuracy and speed.
• Design and Handling: The Galaxy S24 is slightly more compact and lighter than the S21 FE 5G, with dimensions of 147.00 x 70.60 x 7.60 mm and a weight of 168g, compared to the S21 FE 5G's 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm and 177g. Both feature an aluminum frame and glass front, with the S21 FE 5G having a plastic back and the S24 a glass back.