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

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24+, launched in January 2024, are both Android smartphones operating on Samsung's One UI. While they share the same operating system foundation, the S24+ represents a newer generation, bringing advancements in processing power, display technology, and an extended commitment to software longevity.

The practical lifespan of a smartphone is significantly influenced by its release date and the manufacturer's commitment to software updates and physical resilience. These two devices, separated by two years, offer different outlooks on longevity and durability.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive major OS upgrades up to Android 16, with security updates initially monthly, then shifting to quarterly, for a total of four years of monthly updates and an additional year of quarterly updates. In contrast, the Galaxy S24+ launched with Android 14 and benefits from Samsung's extended policy, promising seven years of OS and security updates, potentially extending support through Android 21.
• Build Durability: Both models feature an IP68 rating, indicating protection against dust and water immersion. The S21 FE 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection. The S24+ upgrades to Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, coupled with an Armor Aluminum frame, suggesting enhanced resilience against drops and scratches.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10, indicating a decent level of ease for repairs. The Galaxy S24+ is noted for a high repairability score, with some sources giving it an 8.0 or 8.5 out of 10, similar to the S24 model which received a 9/10, due to features like easily removable backplates and batteries.

The performance of these devices is largely determined by their internal components, influencing how smoothly they handle daily tasks, demanding applications, and multitasking.

• Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles day-to-day tasks smoothly, though some users have noted it can generate warmth during light usage. The Galaxy S24+ features a more recent generation processor, delivering very fast and unflappable performance, capable of handling demanding apps and multitasking with ease.
• Memory and Storage: The S21 FE 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, alongside various internal storage options. The S24+ offers 12GB of RAM, providing more headroom for extensive multitasking and ensuring applications run smoothly. Both devices offer internal storage without expandable memory card slots.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which provides a full day of moderate use for many users, though heavy users might find themselves needing to charge more frequently. The Galaxy S24+ includes a larger 4900 mAh battery, which, combined with its more power-efficient processor and adaptive display technology, generally translates to extended usage times, even for heavy users. The S24+ also supports faster wired charging at 45W compared to the S21 FE 5G's 25W.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with distinct differences in clarity, brightness, and size.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch screen with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), providing a sharp picture. The S24+ offers a larger 6.7-inch display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3120 x 1440 pixels), delivering a significantly clearer and more detailed viewing experience.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The S21 FE 5G features a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsiveness, with a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits, offering good outdoor visibility. The S24+ also has a 120Hz refresh rate, but it is adaptive, dynamically changing from 1Hz to 120Hz to balance smoothness with battery efficiency. Its peak brightness reaches up to 2600 nits, providing superior visibility in bright sunlight.
• Screen Size and Viewing Experience: The S21 FE 5G's 6.4-inch display offers a comfortable viewing area for general use and media consumption. The S24+'s larger 6.7-inch screen provides a more expansive canvas, enhancing the immersive experience for videos, gaming, and productivity tasks.

The camera systems on both devices aim to capture high-quality images and videos, though they differ in sensor capabilities and advanced features.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple rear camera setup, including a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. It generally produces good photos with vibrant colors and detail in ample lighting. The Galaxy S24+ also has a triple rear camera system, consisting of a 50MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 10MP telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom. While it performs well in good lighting, some users have noted inconsistencies in challenging light conditions.
• Front Camera and Video Recording: The S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera, capable of detailed selfies and 4K video recording at 60fps. The S24+ features a 12MP front camera with Dual Pixel PDAF for faster and more accurate autofocus, and it can record 8K video at 30fps, in addition to 4K at 60fps.
• Audio Experience: Both devices include stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption.