Galaxy S21 FE 5G Vs Galaxy S23

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

• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, launched with Android 12, is expected to receive four major Android OS updates, bringing it up to Android 16. Security updates are anticipated until early 2027. The Galaxy S23, released with Android 13, is slated for four major OS updates, extending its support to Android 17, with security updates continuing until February 2028. This means the S23 offers a longer period of official software and security support.
• Physical Durability: Both phones feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The S21 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus for its front display protection, while the S23 upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, potentially offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10, with its plastic back being relatively easy to remove, though the battery is often glued in place. The Galaxy S23 series has shown improvements in repairability, particularly with easier battery replacement due to the inclusion of pull tabs.

The performance of these smartphones is largely determined by their internal components and how they handle daily tasks and demanding applications.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles everyday tasks smoothly, allowing for responsive app usage and general navigation. The Galaxy S23 features a more advanced, current-generation processor designed for enhanced efficiency and speed, resulting in noticeably smoother performance for intensive gaming, complex applications, and heavy multitasking.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer configurations with ample RAM (6GB or 8GB for S21 FE 5G, 8GB for S23) to manage multiple applications simultaneously. The S23's more powerful processor and optimized software contribute to a more fluid and consistent experience when switching between apps or running several demanding processes at once.
• Storage Options: Both models are available with 128GB and 256GB internal storage. The Galaxy S23 also offers a 512GB option. Notably, the 256GB and 512GB variants of the S23 utilize a newer, faster storage technology (UFS 4.0) compared to the 128GB variant (UFS 3.1) and the S21 FE 5G (UFS 3.1), which can impact app loading times and data transfer speeds.

The visual experience on a smartphone is heavily influenced by its display technology and specifications.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy S23 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for producing deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colors. Both offer Full HD+ resolutions (1080 x 2400 pixels for S21 FE 5G, 1080 x 2340 pixels for S23), ensuring sharp and clear visuals for text and images.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both phones support a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. The Galaxy S23 generally offers higher peak brightness levels, which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S21 FE 5G.
• Screen Size and Form Factor: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch display, offering a larger viewing area. The Galaxy S23 features a more compact 6.1-inch display, which contributes to its smaller overall footprint and potentially easier one-handed use.

The camera systems on both devices are designed to capture a variety of moments, though with some distinctions in their capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G includes a triple-camera setup with a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S23 also features a triple-camera system, but with a higher resolution 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens, also with 3x optical zoom. The S23's larger main sensor can capture more detail and perform better in various lighting conditions.
• Low-Light and Video Performance: Both phones offer optical image stabilization (OIS) on their main and telephoto lenses, aiding in clearer photos and more stable videos, especially in challenging light. User reviews suggest the S23 offers improved low-light photography and video stabilization, with the ability to record up to 8K video. The S21 FE 5G also performs well in good lighting, but the S23 generally provides more consistent and detailed results across different scenarios.
• Front Camera and Audio: The S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera, while the S23 features a 12MP front camera with Dual Pixel PDAF for faster autofocus. Both devices provide clear audio for calls and media consumption, with stereo speakers offering a good experience for videos and music.

Beyond the core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Galaxy S23 upgrades to Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
• Biometric Security: Both phones incorporate in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. The S21 FE 5G uses an optical sensor, while the S23 features an ultrasonic sensor, which can sometimes offer faster and more reliable recognition. Both also support face recognition.
• Design and Handling: The S21 FE 5G has a plastic back and an aluminum frame, weighing 177 grams. The S23 features a glass back and an aluminum frame, weighing slightly less at 168 grams, and has a more compact form factor. These differences can affect the in-hand feel, with the S23 offering a more premium and lighter feel.