Galaxy S21 FE 5G Vs Motorola Moto E13

Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£122.00

Versus £759.00 new

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Motorola Moto E13
Motorola Moto E13
Starting at

Refurbished price:£74.00

Versus £83.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, released in January 2022, and the Motorola Moto E13, launched in January 2023, represent distinct segments of the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a more advanced feature set and performance, the Moto E13 focuses on delivering essential smartphone capabilities. Both devices operate on the Android platform, though the Moto E13 utilizes the Android Go edition, optimized for devices with more modest hardware.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G, being a more premium device, typically receives longer software support from Samsung, including major Android version updates and security patches, extending its usable life. It launched with Android 12. The Moto E13, released a year later, runs on Android 13 (Go edition), which is optimized for entry-level hardware. However, its update longevity might be shorter compared to the Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
  • Durability Features: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. It also includes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced screen protection. The Moto E13 offers an IP52 rating, indicating resistance to dust and splashes, but it is not designed for submersion.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users can generally expect the Galaxy S21 FE 5G to remain a capable device for a longer period due to its more robust hardware and extended software support. The Moto E13, while functional, is designed for more basic use cases and may show its age sooner with increasing software demands.

Year of Release

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones varies significantly, impacting how smoothly they handle daily tasks, applications, and multitasking.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a high-end processor, allowing it to manage demanding applications, graphic-intensive games, and extensive multitasking with fluidity. The Moto E13 features a processor designed for essential smartphone functions. It handles basic tasks like web browsing and social media adequately but may experience slowdowns when running multiple applications simultaneously or engaging in more complex operations.
  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space and memory for a responsive user experience. The Moto E13 offers configurations with 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of RAM and 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of storage, with expandable storage via a microSD card. The lower RAM options on the Moto E13 can limit its multitasking capabilities.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500mAh battery, which generally provides a full day of use for many users, though heavy usage might require an evening charge. It supports 25W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging. The Moto E13 features a larger 5000mAh battery, and due to its less demanding hardware, it often delivers extended battery life, sometimes lasting more than a day on a single charge with moderate use. However, its charging speed is slower, typically at 10W.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

2 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these devices differs considerably due to their display technologies and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G boasts a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels). This technology delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The Moto E13 features a 6.5-inch IPS LCD screen with an HD+ resolution (720 x 1600 pixels). While it offers a large viewing area, the color reproduction and clarity are not as rich as an AMOLED panel.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a 120Hz refresh rate, providing exceptionally smooth scrolling and a more responsive feel, particularly in supported applications and games. It also achieves high brightness levels, making it comfortable to view outdoors. The Moto E13 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is suitable for everyday use but lacks the fluidity of a higher refresh rate display. Its screen brightness is generally adequate for indoor environments but may require being maxed out for outdoor visibility.
  • Viewing Experience: For users prioritizing a premium visual experience with sharp details and fluid motion, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G's display is a notable advantage. The Moto E13 provides a functional and spacious screen for general content consumption.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

720 x 1600

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Moto E13 cater to different photography needs and expectations.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. This configuration allows for a range of photographic styles, from expansive landscapes to detailed zoomed-in shots, and performs well in various lighting conditions, including improved low-light performance. The Moto E13 has a single 13MP rear camera. It can capture decent photos in good daylight conditions, but its performance in challenging lighting is more limited.
  • Front Camera and Video: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G includes a 32MP front camera, capable of capturing detailed images and 4K video. The Moto E13 is equipped with a 5MP front camera. Both devices support video recording, with the Galaxy S21 FE 5G offering higher resolutions and frame rates.
  • Camera Speed and Features: Users report that the Moto E13's camera application can be slow to launch and capture images, potentially missing spontaneous moments. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G offers a more responsive camera experience with advanced features like HDR and panorama.

Main camera

12 megapixels

13 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

5 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core components, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G supports 5G networks, offering faster download and upload speeds where available, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Moto E13 is a 4G device, supporting Wi-Fi 5 (dual-band) and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Audio: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer but lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack. It includes stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience. The Moto E13 also uses a USB-C port and notably retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which can be convenient for users with wired headphones. It has a single speaker with Dolby Atmos support.
  • Biometric Security and Design: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G incorporates an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for secure and convenient unlocking, alongside face recognition. Its build includes an aluminum frame and a plastic back, with a weight of 177g. The Moto E13 relies on face unlock for biometric security, as it does not have a fingerprint sensor. It features a plastic build with a water-repellent design and weighs 179.5g.

Weight

177 g

181 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.5

Mobile network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Motorola Moto E13 cater to different user needs and expectations, reflecting their distinct positions in the smartphone market.

Users often praise the Galaxy S21 FE 5G for its vibrant AMOLED display, capable camera system with optical zoom, and smooth performance for demanding tasks and gaming. Common criticisms sometimes point to its battery life for very heavy users and its release timing, which placed it close to newer flagship models.

The Motorola Moto E13 is frequently lauded for its long-lasting battery, clean Android Go software experience, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, users often note its slower camera performance, the absence of a fingerprint sensor, and its limited processing power for intensive applications as areas for improvement.

Users prioritizing a premium display, advanced camera capabilities, and robust performance for a wide range of applications will find the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G well-suited to their needs. This device is ideal for those who engage in mobile gaming, extensive photography, or require seamless multitasking. Conversely, individuals seeking a straightforward smartphone for essential communication, web browsing, and media consumption, with excellent battery endurance, may lean toward the Motorola Moto E13. It is a practical choice for users who value simplicity and reliability over high-end features.

Both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make sustainable choices.

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