Galaxy S21 5G Vs Galaxy S24 FE

Galaxy S21 5G
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£128.00

Versus £829.00 new

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Galaxy S24 FE
Galaxy S24 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:£250.00

Versus £741.91 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G (2021) and the Galaxy S24 FE (2024) represent two distinct generations of Samsung’s mobile technology, each catering to different user preferences. While the S21 was originally launched as a flagship device with a focus on a compact form factor, the S24 FE is a more recent release that brings modern features to a larger, more expansive design. Both smartphones operate on the Android platform with Samsung’s intuitive user interface, ensuring a consistent experience for those familiar with the brand. The primary differences between these two models lie in their physical dimensions, battery endurance, and the length of software support provided by the manufacturer.

Scores

Durability

The three-year gap between these two devices significantly influences their long-term viability and how long they will remain compatible with the latest mobile applications.

  • Software Support Duration: The Galaxy S24 FE benefits from a significantly extended support policy, with the manufacturer committing to seven years of security and operating system updates from its 2024 launch. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 is nearing the end of its official update cycle, having been released in early 2021, which may affect its ability to run the newest software features in the coming years.
  • Physical Build and Resilience: The S24 FE features a glass back and a sturdy frame, whereas the S21 utilises a reinforced polycarbonate back that is often more resistant to cracks from accidental drops, though it may feel different in the hand.
  • Repairability and Maintenance: Both devices are designed with standard internal layouts that allow for common repairs like battery replacements, though the S21’s older age means that components are widely available for those opting for a quality-assured refurbished option.

Year of Release

2021

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

While both smartphones handle daily tasks with ease, the newer internal components of the Galaxy S24 FE provide a more responsive experience for demanding activities.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S24 FE handles multitasking and high-end mobile gaming with greater efficiency, showing less heat buildup during intensive use compared to the older S21, which may occasionally slow down when running several heavy apps simultaneously.
  • Battery Endurance: With a significantly larger battery capacity, the S24 FE typically lasts through a full day of heavy use, whereas the S21’s smaller battery may require a mid-day charge for users who frequently use navigation, video streaming, or high-brightness settings.
  • Storage and Memory: Both devices offer similar memory levels for keeping apps open in the background, but the S24 FE’s newer storage technology allows for faster file transfers and quicker app installation, making the overall system feel more agile.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The most immediate difference between these two smartphones is the physical size and the brightness levels of their respective displays.

  • Display Size and Immersion: The Galaxy S24 FE offers a much larger 6.7-inch screen, making it well-suited for watching videos or reading long documents, while the S21’s 6.2-inch screen is more manageable for one-handed use and fits more easily into smaller pockets.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The S24 FE features a higher peak brightness, which makes the screen significantly easier to read when used directly under bright sunlight compared to the S21, which may struggle with glare in very bright environments.
  • Visual Smoothness: Both devices utilise advanced display technology that allows for smooth scrolling and fluid animations, though the S24 FE’s larger surface area provides a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and mobile gaming.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices are versatile and capable of high-quality photography, but the S24 FE introduces newer processing techniques that improve results in challenging conditions.

  • Photography Detail: The S24 FE uses a higher-resolution main sensor that captures more detail in daylight, while the S21 relies on a high-resolution telephoto sensor to provide its zoom capabilities, offering a different approach to capturing distant subjects.
  • Low-Light Performance: Users will notice that the S24 FE produces clearer images with less grain when taking photos in dark environments, thanks to more advanced software processing that manages light and shadow more effectively than the older model.
  • Video and Audio Recording: Both smartphones record high-quality video with stable footage, but the S24 FE offers slightly better microphone clarity for recording in windy or noisy outdoor settings, ensuring that audio remains clear during video calls or social media clips.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical considerations such as connectivity and physical handling differ due to the three-year gap between these models and their different design philosophies.

  • Connectivity Standards: The Galaxy S24 FE supports newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, ensuring a more stable and faster connection with modern routers and wireless accessories compared to the older standards found in the S21.
  • Physical Handling and Weight: The S21 is notably lighter and narrower, making it a preferred choice for users with smaller hands or those who prefer a device that is easy to carry, whereas the S24 FE is heavier and wider due to its larger screen and battery.
  • Security and Sensors: Both phones include fast and reliable fingerprint sensors built into the display for secure access, though the S24 FE’s sensor area is slightly more forgiving in terms of finger placement, leading to fewer failed unlock attempts.

Weight

169 g

213 g

Width

7.12 cm

7.7 cm

Height

15.17 cm

16.2 cm

Depth

0.79 cm

0.8 cm

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy S21 often highlights its comfortable size and reliable performance for everyday tasks, though some note that the battery life has become a limitation as modern apps become more demanding. Conversely, the Galaxy S24 FE is frequently praised for its expansive screen and long-lasting battery, though some users find its larger dimensions a bit bulky for one-handed use. Consensus among tech communities suggests that the S21 remains a capable device for basic communication and social media, while the S24 FE is seen as a more future-proof choice for those who want the latest software features and a larger canvas for media.

Users who prioritise a compact, lightweight phone that is easy to use with one hand will find the Galaxy S21 5G fits their needs well. Those who prefer a large screen for entertainment and need a battery that can last through a busy day of work or travel will likely lean toward the Galaxy S24 FE. Choosing a sustainable choice like an eco-friendly refurbished model can provide access to these features while reducing environmental impact. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value portability and a smaller footprint or a larger display and extended software support for the years ahead.

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