Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy Z Flip5 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5, launched in August 2023, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design within the Android ecosystem. While the S21 FE offers a traditional smartphone experience with a focus on core features, the Z Flip5 introduces a foldable form factor, providing a compact design and a versatile secondary display. Both devices run on the Android operating system, offering access to a wide range of applications and services.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including physical resilience and software support.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates. The Galaxy Z Flip5, being a newer device, launched with Android 13 and is also committed to four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates, meaning it will receive support for a longer period overall.
• Physical Durability: Both devices offer protection against dust and water. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an IP68 rating, indicating resistance to dust and submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. The Galaxy Z Flip5 has an IPX8 rating, meaning it is water-resistant in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes, but it does not have an official dust resistance rating due to its foldable nature. The S21 FE 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, while the Z Flip5 features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on its cover screen and an Ultra Thin Glass for its main foldable display, along with an Armor Aluminum frame. The Z Flip5's hinge design has been improved to allow it to fold flat, enhancing its overall design.
• Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software updates will find the Z Flip5 offers a slightly longer period of official support due to its later release. The S21 FE 5G, with its traditional design, may offer a more straightforward long-term physical durability experience compared to the unique considerations of a foldable device's hinge and flexible screen.

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

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor capable of handling everyday applications and multitasking smoothly, with some variants featuring a chipset also found in earlier flagship models. The Galaxy Z Flip5, being a more recent device, incorporates a current-generation processor designed for enhanced speed and efficiency, ensuring very smooth operation across demanding applications and gaming.
• Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer various internal storage options, with the Z Flip5 starting at a higher base storage capacity. The S21 FE 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Z Flip5 consistently features 8GB of RAM, contributing to its ability to manage multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G houses a 4500 mAh battery, which users report can last through a full day of typical use. The Galaxy Z Flip5 has a smaller 3700 mAh battery, but its efficient processor and adaptive refresh rate display contribute to a reliable battery performance, often lasting a full day with regular usage.

The visual experience on both devices is delivered through high-quality displays, though their form factors introduce distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy Z Flip5 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch flat display with Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), providing a clear viewing experience. The Z Flip5's main foldable screen measures 6.7 inches with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2640 pixels) when unfolded.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate on their main displays, contributing to smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The Z Flip5's main display can reach a peak brightness of 1750 nits, making it highly visible in various lighting conditions, including bright outdoor environments.
• Unique Features: The Galaxy Z Flip5 distinguishes itself with a 3.4-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, which allows users to view notifications, control media, and take quick selfies without unfolding the device. This external display offers a 60Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 720 x 748 pixels.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed to capture a range of photographic and video content.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP main lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. The Galaxy Z Flip5 has a dual-camera system on its rear, consisting of a 12MP main camera with OIS and a 12MP ultrawide camera.
• Front Camera and Video: For selfies, the S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera, while the Z Flip5 has a 10MP front camera. Both devices are capable of recording video at 4K resolution at 30 or 60 frames per second. The Z Flip5's foldable design allows for unique camera angles and hands-free photography using its Flex Mode and cover screen.
• Photography Performance: The S21 FE 5G's camera system is noted for capturing clear images and offering good zoom capabilities. The Z Flip5's cameras deliver lively photos with pleasing colors and good dynamic range in daylight, and it performs well in low-light conditions.