Galaxy S21 5G Vs Galaxy S23

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S23, launched in February 2023, are both flagship Android smartphones from Samsung's Galaxy S series. While sharing the core Android operating system and Samsung's One UI, the Galaxy S23 introduces advancements in processing power, camera technology, and display brightness, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S21 5G was released in January 2021, making it an older model compared to the Galaxy S23, which launched in February 2023. This difference in release date directly impacts their remaining software support.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 5G received four major Android OS updates, with its final major update being Android 15 (One UI 7.0) in the first half of 2025, and security updates concluding around January or February 2026. In contrast, the Galaxy S23, launched with Android 13, is promised four major OS upgrades, extending its support to Android 17, and five years of security updates, meaning support will continue until at least 2028.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 5G generally has a moderate repairability score, with some sources giving it a 7.5/10 by PBKReviews and 4/10 by iFixit, noting that its plastic back (for the base model) can make disassembly easier than its Ultra counterpart. The Galaxy S23 series, including the base model, has shown improvements in repairability, with features like easier battery access due to pull tabs, contributing to higher scores, such as 8/10 for the S23 FE.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to demanding gaming sessions.

• Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 5G is powered by a processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking efficiently, suitable for general use and moderate gaming. The Galaxy S23 features a newer generation processor, offering enhanced speed and efficiency for more demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and graphically rich games.
• Storage and Responsiveness: Both models offer 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB. However, the 256GB and higher storage variants of the Galaxy S23 utilize a newer, faster storage format (UFS 4.0) compared to the 128GB variant (UFS 3.1), which can result in quicker app loading and data transfer speeds.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 5G is equipped with a 4000 mAh battery, which some users report requires charging throughout the day with heavy use. The Galaxy S23 has a slightly smaller 3900 mAh battery, but its more efficient processor can contribute to optimized power consumption, potentially offering comparable or improved endurance for typical usage patterns.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S23 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S21 5G has a 6.2-inch display, while the Galaxy S23 offers a slightly more compact 6.1-inch screen.
• Brightness and Clarity: Both phones provide a sharp viewing experience with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. The Galaxy S23, however, offers a higher peak brightness of 1750 nits, making it more visible in bright outdoor conditions compared to the Galaxy S21 5G's 1300 nits.
• Refresh Rate and Protection: Both models feature a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations. For durability, the Galaxy S21 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, while the Galaxy S23 upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced scratch and drop resistance.

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and both devices offer versatile photographic tools.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 5G features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens. The Galaxy S23 also has a triple-camera system, but it upgrades the main sensor to 50MP, alongside a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto lens.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 5G delivers good photo quality with vivid saturation, though some users have reported issues with camera bugs and motion blur in certain scenarios. The Galaxy S23, with its higher resolution main sensor, generally offers improved detail and low-light performance, though some users have noted motion blur issues, particularly with fast-moving subjects, which can be mitigated with camera app settings.
• Video Recording and Audio: Both phones are capable of high-quality video recording. The microphone quality for calls and recording is generally clear on both devices. Speaker output for media consumption is robust, providing a good audio experience.