Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Unlocked vs Google Pixel 8 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Google Pixel 8 Pro, launched in October 2023, are distinct smartphones offering different user experiences. While both operate on the Android platform, the Pixel 8 Pro benefits from a more recent release, bringing with it advancements in processing power, camera technology, and extended software support. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, on the other hand, provides a balanced feature set from its generation.

The practical lifespan and software support differ significantly between these two devices, primarily due to their respective release dates and manufacturer policies.

• Software Longevity: The Google Pixel 8 Pro, released in October 2023, offers an industry-leading commitment of seven years of operating system, security, and feature updates, extending its software support until October 2030. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched in January 2022, was promised four generations of Android OS updates and five years of security updates, meaning its major OS updates are nearing their conclusion, with security updates expected until January 2027.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating a high level of protection against environmental elements. The Pixel 8 Pro incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for display protection, an upgrade from the Gorilla Glass Victus found on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
• Repairability: While specific repairability scores for the Galaxy S21 FE 5G are not widely available, Google Pixel phones generally aim for moderate repairability, with Google providing service manuals and OEM replacement parts. The Pixel 8 Pro has received repairability scores ranging from 4.0 to 7.0 out of 10, suggesting that while some repairs are possible, certain components may be challenging to access or replace due to adhesive or soldering.

Performance capabilities vary between the two smartphones, reflecting the advancements in mobile technology over their respective release periods.

• Processing Power: The Google Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a modern, AI-focused processor designed for efficiency and advanced machine learning tasks, enabling smooth operation for demanding applications and multitasking. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a capable processor from its release year, handling everyday tasks and most applications effectively.
• Battery Behavior: The Pixel 8 Pro houses a larger 5050 mAh battery, and users generally report it provides all-day power, even with heavy usage. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G comes with a 4500 mAh battery, which typically lasts a full day with regular use, though heavy users might find themselves needing to recharge before the day ends.
• System Responsiveness: The Pixel 8 Pro's combination of its processor and optimized software contributes to a highly responsive user experience, with quick app loading and fluid navigation. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also offers a smooth experience for general use, though the Pixel 8 Pro may demonstrate an edge in handling the most intensive computational tasks and advanced AI features.

Both devices offer high-quality displays, but the Pixel 8 Pro introduces several enhancements in visual experience.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels, providing sharp visuals and deep blacks. The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution, offering vibrant colors and good clarity for its class.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Pixel 8 Pro's display can reach a peak brightness of up to 2400 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions, and features an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and power efficiency. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a 120Hz refresh rate for fluid motion and a vibrant display that is bright enough for most viewing environments.
• Viewing Experience: The Pixel 8 Pro's larger, flatter display and higher peak brightness contribute to an immersive viewing experience, particularly for media consumption and outdoor use. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G provides a comfortable viewing experience with its slightly smaller, vibrant screen, suitable for everyday tasks and entertainment.

Camera capabilities are a strong point for both smartphones, though they approach photography with different strengths.

• Camera System Configuration: The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a versatile triple camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G also has a triple camera setup, comprising a 12MP wide, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 8 Pro is recognized for its advanced computational photography, delivering detailed images with accurate colors and excellent low-light performance across its lenses. It also includes a Pro mode for manual controls. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G provides dependable camera performance in good lighting conditions and shows significant improvements in low-light photography compared to its predecessors, especially with its front camera.
• Video and Audio: The Pixel 8 Pro offers improved video recording quality, including 4K at 60fps from the front camera, with enhanced stabilization and audio capture. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is capable of recording 4K 60fps videos from both front and rear cameras, providing solid video capabilities for general use.