Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G and the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. We’ll break down the specs, analyze what they mean for you, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison, keeping the real-world implications in mind:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | The S21 FE is a bit more compact, fitting slightly better in smaller hands and pockets. The A52s is taller and thicker. |
| Weight | 189g | 177g | S21 FE is slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for longer periods of use. |
| Build | Plastic Back | Plastic Back | Both have a plastic back, so neither offers a premium feel. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | The S21 FE has superior screen protection, less prone to scratches and cracks. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.4" | Both have large displays, good for media consumption and gaming; the A52s is slightly bigger. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Similar sharpness on both; differences aren't noticeable day-to-day. |
| Pixel Density | 405 PPI | 403 PPI | Both are very sharp and clear, no real difference here. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both; great for watching videos. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both; better responsiveness during gaming. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1300 nits | The S21 FE is significantly brighter, making it much more visible in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G | Snapdragon 888 | The S21 FE boasts a much more powerful processor; better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps. |
| Antutu Score | 570,752 | 923,836 | The S21 FE is noticeably faster, opening apps quicker and providing a much smoother overall experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Adreno 660 | S21 FE's GPU is significantly better for gaming; higher frame rates and smoother graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP (f/1.8) | 12MP (f/1.8) | A52s captures more detail in ideal conditions; S21 FE excels in low light thanks to larger pixel size. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 8MP (f/2.0) | S21 FE has a dedicated zoom lens, providing better optical zoom capability. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.0) | 32MP (f/2.2) | A52s has a slightly wider aperture for better low light selfies; S21 FE has a smaller sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP (f/2.2) | 13MP (f/2.2) | A52s has a dedicated ultrawide lens, allowing for creative shots with a wider field of view; S21 FE uses its ultrawide camera for macro shots, which is not optimal. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP (f/2.4) | N/A | A52s has a dedicated macro lens, but macro performance is not its strongest area. |
| Portrait Lens | 5MP (f/2.4) | N/A | A52s uses the lens for depth information for portraits, but S21FE relies on software to create the bokeh effect. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps (HDR, EIS) | S21 FE records higher-quality video with better stabilization and HDR capabilities, and also at 60fps for smoother video. |
| DXoMark | N/A | 117 (Mobile) | The S21 FE is better than average in photo and video quality, making it reliable for capturing daily life. |
| Camera Features | Quad, OIS | Triple, OIS | S21 FE has more advanced camera features like continuous autofocus, manual mode, RAW, and Night Mode, giving users more creative control. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Both offer similar battery life, typically lasting a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both charge quickly; no significant difference here. |
| Battery Features | Non-Removable | Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | S21 FE supports Wireless and Reverse Wireless Charging, making it convenient for charging accessories on the go |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 12 (Upgradable to 16) | S21 FE will get more years of software updates, making it more future proof. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer plenty of space for most users. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 6/8GB | Ample RAM on both for smooth performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | S21 FE has much better audio thanks to noise cancellation and stereo speakers, great for music, videos, and calls. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6, MiMo | Both offer fast Wi-Fi, but S21 FE has additional capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Both offer a decent variety of features. S21 FE has support for low energy connectivity that's better for modern devices. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both have fingerprint sensors for basic biometric authentication. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity Sensor, Barometer | S21 FE offers an additional environmental sensor; A52s includes a virtual proximity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:
- Strengths: The A52s shines with a versatile camera setup including dedicated macro and depth sensors and a larger main sensor, making it good for detailed shots, especially in good lighting conditions. It also has a slightly larger display. It's generally a good all-rounder.
- Competitive Advantages: It has a wide-angle lens for ultrawide shots and a dedicated macro camera, which are features the S21 FE lacks.
- Limitations: The performance is not as robust as the S21 FE. It's also less bright screen and lacks advanced features like wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Strengths: The S21 FE is a performance beast with a more powerful processor and GPU. The screen is significantly brighter, the camera performs better in low light, and it features wireless charging. It has a premium experience.
- Competitive Advantages: It has superior performance, a brighter display, a telephoto lens, better video recording, and premium features like wireless charging.
- Limitations: No expandable storage and the lack of a dedicated ultrawide lens and macro lens can be limiting for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:
- Best For: Users who prioritize a versatile camera, especially for detailed shots and the occasional macro photo and are not heavy mobile gamers.
- Use Cases: Casual photographers, social media users, people who need a reliable all-rounder.
- Price-to-Value: Offers great value, especially considering the features you get for the price.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Best For: Users who prioritize performance, a better camera, especially in low light and who want a premium experience.
- Use Cases: Mobile gamers, photography enthusiasts, users who multitask frequently.
- Price-to-Value: Priced higher, but delivers superior performance and better camera and additional features such as wireless charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How important is performance for you?
- If you are a heavy gamer or multitasker, the S21 FE is the clear winner.
- If you are not a heavy user, the A52s will likely provide sufficient performance.
Do you want a brighter screen and premium features?
- If screen brightness and wireless charging are important, the S21 FE is the better choice.
- If those features are not crucial, the A52s is a good compromise.
Which camera setup suits your needs?
- If a versatile camera with macro and wide-angle lenses is what you’re looking for, the A52s will be more appealing.
- If you prioritize low light performance and zooming capabilities the S21FE will be a better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Budget-Conscious Photographer: If you're an avid photographer on a budget, the Galaxy A52s 5G offers a good camera, with a versatile sensor configuration and will save you money.
- The Power User: If you need a phone for intense gaming, multitasking, or running demanding apps, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the clear choice.
- The Casual User: If you want a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank, both are excellent options, depending on the features that are most important to you, but the S21 FE would be the better choice for a longer software lifespan.
My Choice
If it were me, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. While I appreciate the A52s' versatile camera array, the S21 FE's performance upgrade, significantly brighter display, and better low light camera performance, along with the added bonus of wireless charging, make it the more appealing option. Its superior processing power also means it's more future-proof, making it a worthwhile investment. Although it lacks a dedicated macro lens, the overall package better suits my needs. I also value the extended software support this device will receive.
