Galaxy S21 FE 5G • Unlocked vs OnePlus 12 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the OnePlus 12, launched globally in January 2024, represent different generations of Android smartphones. While both offer a premium experience, the OnePlus 12 introduces a more advanced processor, a larger and brighter display, and a more versatile camera system, reflecting its newer release. Both devices operate on the Android platform, with their respective custom user interfaces.

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The OnePlus 12, being a more recent release, benefits from a longer period of guaranteed software updates from its launch date.

• Software Support: The OnePlus 12 is expected to receive four years of Android operating system updates and five years of security patches from its release with Android 14. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched with Android 12, typically receives four years of OS updates and five years of security updates from Samsung.
• Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and security updates for the longest possible duration from the current date will find the OnePlus 12 offers an extended timeline. Both devices are built with durable materials, with the Galaxy S21 FE 5G featuring Gorilla Glass Victus and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, while the OnePlus 12 uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and has an IP65 rating.
• Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, both manufacturers generally provide support and parts for their devices. The OnePlus 12's battery is rated to maintain at least 80% of its original capacity for 1,600 full charge cycles, indicating a focus on component longevity.

Performance is a significant area of distinction between these two smartphones, largely due to the difference in their underlying hardware and release generations.

• Processing Power: The OnePlus 12 features a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and graphically rich games with exceptional smoothness and efficiency. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, equipped with a previous-generation processor, still offers robust performance for everyday tasks and most applications, but may show limitations in the most intensive scenarios compared to the newer device.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The OnePlus 12 typically comes with higher RAM configurations, contributing to a highly responsive user experience and seamless switching between numerous applications. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G provides ample RAM for smooth multitasking in most common use cases.
• Battery Behavior: The OnePlus 12 houses a larger 5400mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient processor and display technology, generally provides extended usage times, often lasting a full day or more even for heavy users. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500mAh battery, offering a full day of use for many, though heavy usage might necessitate more frequent charging. The OnePlus 12 also supports significantly faster wired and wireless charging speeds.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences, though with notable differences in technology and capabilities.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both phones feature AMOLED display technology, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The OnePlus 12 boasts a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a QHD+ resolution (3168 x 1440 pixels), offering exceptional sharpness and detail. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with an FHD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels), providing a clear and enjoyable viewing experience.
• Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The OnePlus 12's display can reach a peak brightness of up to 4500 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also offers satisfying brightness levels, ensuring good visibility in various environments.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The OnePlus 12's LTPO technology allows for an adaptive refresh rate, dynamically adjusting from 1Hz to 120Hz to optimize power consumption.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed to capture a variety of moments, with the OnePlus 12 benefiting from newer sensor technology and specialized optics.

• Rear Camera System: The OnePlus 12 features a versatile triple-camera setup co-developed with Hasselblad, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 64MP periscope telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom and 6x in-sensor zoom. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also has a triple-camera array, consisting of a 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: The OnePlus 12 is praised for producing natural colors and good detail across various lighting conditions, with its main sensor performing well in low-light scenarios. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G delivers a pro-grade camera experience, capturing detailed and vibrant photos in everyday situations.
• Video and Front Camera: Both phones offer strong video recording capabilities. The OnePlus 12's 32MP front camera supports 4K video recording. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G also features a 32MP front camera. The OnePlus 12 allows switching between cameras while recording 4K 60fps video.