Alright, let's dive into this comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Honor X8b. It's a classic match-up of a slightly older, but higher-powered device against a newer, but more budget-focused contender. I'll break this down into digestible sections and make sure we’re focusing on what really matters for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specs, focusing on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Honor X8b | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm, 177g | 161.1 × 74.6 × 6.8 mm, 166g | The S21 FE is a bit smaller and thicker, with a heavier feel. The X8b is taller, slimmer, and lighter, potentially easier to handle with one hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | The X8b offers a slightly larger screen, which can be better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2412 | Both are sharp, but the X8b has a slightly higher vertical resolution, though the difference is barely noticeable. |
| PPI | 403 | 394 | Both displays are sharp, the difference in PPI is negligible. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both phones offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | The S21 FE's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2000 nits | The X8b is significantly brighter, offering much better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | The S21 FE’s Snapdragon 888 is significantly more powerful, resulting in faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 250,000 | This benchmark score clearly shows the S21 FE’s substantial performance advantage, meaning less lag and better future-proofing. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 610 | The S21 FE has a more powerful GPU, which translates to better graphics performance, especially in gaming. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Similar battery capacities, suggesting comparable endurance, though software optimization will play a role. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 35W fast charging | The X8b charges faster, meaning less time tethered to the wall. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless Charging | None | The S21 FE offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, which is very convenient for topping up accessories. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 108MP, f/1.75, | The X8b's higher megapixel count might capture more detail in good lighting, but the S21 FE's larger sensor size and image processing are generally more consistent. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | None | The S21 FE offers a dedicated zoom lens, allowing for more versatile photography. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | 50MP, f/2.1 | The X8b has a higher resolution, but the S21 FE’s image processing often results in more balanced and pleasing images. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | The X8b offers a dedicated wide angle. |
| Macro Lens | none | 2MP, f/2.4 | The X8b offers a dedicated macro lens, |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K 60fps with HDR, EIS | 1080p@30fps | The S21 FE can record much higher-quality video, which is great for content creation. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 117, Selfie: 127 | Not tested | The S21 FE is a proven performer in camera quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Android 13 | The X8b is launching with a slightly newer version of Android, but the S21 FE is guaranteed to receive updates for longer. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | The S21 FE supports the newer WiFi standard, offering faster speeds on compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Both are similar. The S21 FE has some extra audio profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS (L1+L5), A-GPS, GLONASS | The S21 FE has broader satellite support, which can be more reliable for accurate location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | The X8b offers a larger 512GB storage option. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8 GB | Both devices are decent for multitasking, but more RAM is usually better. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage, which means you’re limited to the storage you buy. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic Features | The S21 FE offers a much better audio experience, especially for media consumption. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | The Honor X8b uses a side mounted fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | The S21 FE's screen is more resistant to scratches. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | The S21 FE offers a few extra environmental sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 888 is a flagship-level chip that blows the Snapdragon 680 out of the water. It’s a significant advantage for heavy gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing.
- Superior Display: Although the X8b has a brighter screen, the 120Hz refresh rate and overall quality of the S21 FE’s AMOLED panel make it better for everyday use, from smooth scrolling to enjoyable media consumption.
- Versatile Camera System: The S21 FE’s camera setup, while perhaps not leading in megapixel count, is still very capable thanks to good image processing, and includes a dedicated telephoto lens and 4K video recording. The DXOMark scores confirm this solid camera performance.
- Premium Features: The S21 FE offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and more sophisticated audio features, providing a more premium user experience.
- Better Ecosystem: Samsung has a more established ecosystem of software and services and has a better upgrade path for the software.
Honor X8b Strengths:
- Brighter Display: The X8b’s 2000 nits brightness is outstanding for outdoor use and greatly improves screen visibility in direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: The 35W fast charging allows for a quicker top-up.
- Higher Resolution Primary Camera: The 108MP sensor might capture more detail in good conditions.
- Larger Storage Options: The X8b offers a 512GB option for those who need more space and the dedicated wide and macro lenses add extra camera versatility.
- Newer Android Version: It launches with Android 13, while the S21 FE is on Android 12, although the S21 FE can be updated to Android 16.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- S21 FE is Older: The S21 FE was released earlier and is expected to receive software updates for less time than the X8b.
- X8b’s Performance: The Snapdragon 680 is an entry-level chip, it is not comparable to the S21 FE's performance and is significantly slower. It might struggle with demanding tasks and heavy gaming.
- S21 FE has no Charger: You will need to buy a compatible charger.
- No Expandable Storage Neither devices offer storage expansion.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Ideal For: Gamers, power users, content creators, users who value smooth performance, a high-quality display, versatile camera capabilities, and premium features like wireless charging.
- Use Cases: Heavy gaming, editing photos and videos, multitasking, and users who need a phone that will remain snappy for years.
- Honor X8b:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users, those who prioritize outdoor visibility, longer battery life, and a large display. Suitable for casual gamers, social media users, and those who prioritize a newer device over raw performance.
- Use Cases: Everyday social media, web browsing, video streaming, capturing photos in good lighting, and those who need good battery life.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Do you prioritize raw performance and future-proofing? If yes, the S21 FE is the clear choice. The Snapdragon 888 chipset makes a massive difference.
- Is outdoor visibility paramount, or do you need the best quality display? If you need an ultra-bright display for outdoor use, the X8b is great, but the S21 FE’s higher quality and 120hz refresh rate display is more well-rounded.
- What's your budget and is having a charger included in the box important? The X8b is usually less expensive, but the S21 FE is often available at a great discount, and you'll need to factor in the price of a charger if you don't already own one.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Gaming Enthusiast
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
- Reason: The superior Snapdragon 888 chipset, Adreno 660 GPU, and 120Hz display will offer a much better gaming experience.
- Scenario 2: The Casual User on a Budget
- Recommendation: Honor X8b
- Reason: It has a good screen, and a bigger storage option, and can perform basic tasks smoothly. The much cheaper price may be the biggest factor.
- Scenario 3: The Photography Lover
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
- Reason: Better video capabilities, and the extra versatility of a telephoto lens and more consistent imaging make it more suitable.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I'd personally go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. The performance difference is just too significant to ignore, and I'd rather have a smoother experience and more versatile camera. Also, the availability of wireless charging and its premium audio is extremely useful. Even though the X8b is a newer device, its budget nature and focus on the basics just doesn't cut it, the processing power and camera system in the S21 FE is far more appealing. Although the need to buy a charger is inconvenient, the performance and capabilities of the S21 FE are well worth the minor hassle.
