Galaxy S21 FE 5G Vs Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24, launched in January 2024, are both Android smartphones from Samsung's Galaxy S series. While the S21 FE offers a balanced feature set from a previous generation, the S24 represents a more recent flagship with advancements in processing power, display technology, and software longevity. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but the S24 benefits from a significantly extended software support policy.

The practical lifespan of a smartphone is heavily influenced by its release timeline and the duration of software support it receives.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released with Android 12 and typically receives four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 launched with Android 14 and is promised seven years of major Android upgrades and security updates, extending its software relevance significantly longer.
• Build Materials: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The S21 FE has a Gorilla Glass Victus front and a plastic back, while the S24 upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, paired with an Armor Aluminum frame, suggesting enhanced durability.
• Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary by region and component, both Samsung devices are generally designed with some modularity for component replacement, though professional repair is often recommended. The newer S24 may benefit from more readily available parts for a longer period due to its extended support cycle.

Evaluating the performance of these devices involves looking at their storage configurations, battery behavior, and overall system responsiveness for daily tasks.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S24 features a more advanced processor compared to the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. This translates to smoother operation for demanding applications, faster app loading times, and more efficient multitasking on the S24. Users engaging in intensive gaming or complex productivity tasks will likely notice a more responsive experience on the newer model.
• Battery Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, while the Galaxy S24 has a 4000 mAh battery. Despite the S24's smaller capacity, its more efficient processor and adaptive display technology can contribute to optimized power consumption. Real-world battery life can vary based on usage patterns, but the S24 aims for all-day usage with its enhancements.
• Storage and RAM: Both models offer various storage options, typically starting from 128GB. The S24 often comes with 8GB of RAM as standard, while the S21 FE was available in 6GB or 8GB configurations. The S24 utilizes UFS 4.0 storage for configurations 256GB and above, which offers faster read/write speeds compared to the S21 FE's UFS 3.1, potentially leading to quicker app launches and file transfers.

The display is a primary interaction point, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with distinct differences in technology and capabilities.

• Display Technology and Brightness: Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S24, however, offers significantly higher peak brightness at 2600 nits, compared to the S21 FE's 1200 nits. This makes the S24's screen considerably easier to view in bright outdoor conditions.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both devices support a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. However, the Galaxy S24 incorporates an adaptive refresh rate (LTPO technology) that can scale down to 1Hz, optimizing power consumption when static content is displayed. The S21 FE's refresh rate is less adaptive, typically ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz.
• Size and Resolution: The Galaxy S21 FE features a 6.4-inch display, while the Galaxy S24 has a slightly more compact 6.2-inch display. Both maintain a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels), providing sharp visuals for everyday use.

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and both phones offer versatile camera systems with different strengths.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S24 also has a triple-camera system, but it upgrades the main sensor to 50MP, retains a 12MP ultrawide, and includes a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The S24's larger main sensor and improved processing can result in more detailed images, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
• Low-Light and Video Performance: The S24 benefits from enhanced low-light photography (Nightography) and improved image processing, which can lead to clearer and more vibrant photos in dim environments. Both phones are capable of recording high-resolution video, but the S24 offers 8K video recording at 30fps, compared to the S21 FE's 4K at 60fps.
• Front Camera: The S21 FE has a 32MP front camera, while the S24 features a 12MP front camera. Despite the lower megapixel count, the S24's front camera often delivers high-quality selfies with good detail and color accuracy due to advanced image processing.