Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Unlocked vs OnePlus 10 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the OnePlus 10 Pro are both Android-based smartphones that offer distinct experiences for users. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, is positioned as a 'Fan Edition' device, incorporating popular features from its flagship S21 series. The OnePlus 10 Pro, unveiled in January 2022 for China and globally in March/April 2022, represents OnePlus's high-end offering with a focus on performance and camera capabilities. Both devices run on the Android operating system, with Samsung utilizing its One UI overlay and OnePlus featuring OxygenOS.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical resilience.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released in January 2022, while the OnePlus 10 Pro had a staggered release, starting in China in January 2022 and reaching global markets by March/April 2022. This means the OnePlus 10 Pro is marginally newer in terms of global availability.
• Software Longevity: Samsung generally provides a strong commitment to software updates, offering several years of Android version upgrades and security patches for its devices. The OnePlus 10 Pro typically receives a good number of Android updates, though some users have noted that the software experience with OxygenOS 12 (based on Android 12) was a step backward for some. Both devices launched with Android 12.
• Physical Durability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a glass front with Gorilla Glass Victus protection, a plastic back, and an aluminum frame, along with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The OnePlus 10 Pro also uses Gorilla Glass for its display and has a ceramic camera module for increased scratch resistance. While the OnePlus 10 Pro is generally considered well-built, its IP rating for water resistance was initially limited to specific carrier models in the US, which could impact its overall practical lifespan for some users.

Both smartphones are equipped with powerful internal components designed to handle demanding tasks, though their approaches to performance management can differ.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is powered by a processor that allows for smooth multitasking and efficient handling of various applications, from everyday browsing to more intensive gaming. The OnePlus 10 Pro features a current-generation processor, enabling a rapid interface and smooth gaming experiences. This allows for demanding apps and multitasking to run smoothly.
• Memory and Storage: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is available with various RAM and internal storage configurations, typically offering options that cater to different user needs for app management and data storage. The OnePlus 10 Pro also comes with multiple RAM and storage configurations, providing ample space and memory for efficient operation.
• Battery Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a battery that, combined with its power-efficient display and processor, aims to deliver lasting power for a full day of typical use. The OnePlus 10 Pro features a larger battery capacity, and user reports indicate it can offer extended usage, often lasting through a full day and sometimes into a second with moderate use. It also supports rapid wired and wireless charging.

The visual experience on both devices is a key aspect, with each offering a high-quality display tailored for vibrant and smooth interactions.

• Display Technology: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good outdoor visibility. The OnePlus 10 Pro utilizes a Fluid AMOLED display with second-generation LTPO technology, which allows for dynamic adjustment of the refresh rate to optimize power efficiency.
• Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a Full HD+ resolution, providing a clear and sharp viewing experience for everyday content. The OnePlus 10 Pro boasts a QHD+ resolution, resulting in a very sharp and detailed display, which can be particularly noticeable for high-resolution media.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The OnePlus 10 Pro's LTPO technology allows its refresh rate to dynamically scale from 1Hz to 120Hz, adapting to the content being viewed for improved power efficiency.

Photography and videography capabilities are significant considerations for many smartphone users, and both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the OnePlus 10 Pro offer versatile camera systems.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple camera setup, including a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios. The OnePlus 10 Pro also comes with a triple rear camera system, developed in collaboration with Hasselblad, featuring a main wide-angle, an ultrawide, and a telephoto lens.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is known for its consistent and dependable camera performance in various conditions, including a good night mode. The OnePlus 10 Pro's camera system is praised for capturing rich and vibrant photos, with a particularly expansive 150-degree field of view on its ultrawide lens. However, some users note that its low-light performance, while good, may not always match the very best in the market, and the telephoto lens, while capable, has a lower megapixel count.
• Video Capabilities: Both devices offer strong video recording options. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G supports 4K video recording at 30/60fps. The OnePlus 10 Pro can record up to 8K video at 24fps and 4K at up to 120fps, providing advanced options for video creators.