Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Motorola Edge 30 Pro. I’ve approached this like I’m explaining it to a friend, keeping it detailed but easy to understand.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what these specs mean for you:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Motorola Edge 30 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2022-03-04 | Edge 30 Pro is slightly newer, possibly better long-term software support |
| Dimensions (mm) | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 | 163.1 × 76 × 8.8 | S21 FE is more compact, Edge 30 Pro is noticeably larger and thicker |
| Weight (g) | 177 | 196 | S21 FE is lighter, more comfortable for extended use |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.4 | 6.7 | Edge 30 Pro has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Both are sharp, but Edge 30 Pro has a slightly taller aspect ratio |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 403 | 393 | Both displays offer very similar crispness |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar display quality, vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 144 | Edge 30 Pro has a smoother scrolling and animation feel |
| Brightness (nits) | 1300 | 0 | S21 FE is significantly brighter for better outdoor visibility |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Edge 30 Pro has a newer, more powerful chipset for smoother gaming/app performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 1,061,400 | Edge 30 Pro has better benchmark scores indicating slightly better performance |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Edge 30 Pro has newer GPU, better for demanding graphics |
| CAMERA | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 12MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.8 | Edge 30 Pro has a higher-res sensor, may capture more detail |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | None | S21 FE has an optical zoom, good for distant shots |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.2 | 60MP f/2.2 | Edge 30 Pro has a higher-res selfie camera, should produce sharper pictures |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP f/2.2 | 50MP f/2.2 | Edge 30 Pro has a higher-res wide-angle, could result in better overall photos |
| Depth Camera | None | 2MP f/2.4 | Edge 30 Pro has a dedicated depth camera that might help with portrait mode |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Edge 30 Pro offers 8K resolution that can create professional-grade videos |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 117 | 101 | S21 FE has significantly better camera system |
| DxOMark Selfie Score | 127 | NA | S21 FE has a better selfie camera system |
| BATTERY | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 4500 | 4800 | Edge 30 Pro has a slightly larger battery, may offer a little more battery life |
| Charging | 25W Fast | 68W Fast | Edge 30 Pro charges much faster, less time plugged in |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 15W | Both support Wireless charging |
| Reverse Charging | 4.5W | 5W | Both support Reverse wireless charging to recharge accessories |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS Version | Android 12 (up to 16) | Android 12 (up to 13) | S21 FE is likely to receive more updates |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 with MiMO | WiFi 6 | S21 FE has additional feature Wi-Fi MiMO |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Edge 30 Pro has the newer version |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Edge 30 Pro has dual-band GPS and additional systems |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Edge 30 Pro has a larger 512GB option available for more storage |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | Edge 30 Pro offers more RAM for better multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Noise Canceling, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both offer similar audio experiences but some unique features for each |
| SECURITY | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Edge 30 Pro has a more convenient fingerprint sensor |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21 FE has significantly better screen protection |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Motion, Environmental: Barometer | Biometric, Proximity, Motion | S21 FE has additional environmental sensors |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
- Strengths:
- Superior Display Brightness: The 1300 nits brightness makes it exceptional for outdoor use, which is a big deal if you spend a lot of time in bright sunlight.
- Better Camera System: While the hardware specs aren't as impressive on paper, the DXOMark score indicates a higher image quality for photos and videos, particularly for the selfie camera.
- More Mature Software: The phone has a higher max version of Android, this will lead to more updates.
- More Compact and Lighter: It’s easier to handle and fits more comfortably in a pocket.
- Screen Protection: Has the latest Gorilla Glass Victus for better protection
- Competitive Advantage: The S21 FE is a more balanced offering, particularly excelling in display brightness, camera quality, and a compact design. The camera system seems to be more refined.
Motorola Edge 30 Pro
- Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and higher RAM deliver faster performance, ideal for gamers and power users.
- Faster Charging: The 68W charging is a game-changer, quickly topping up the battery and minimizing downtime.
- Higher-Resolution Sensors: The cameras might capture more details in the right conditions, especially with the 8K video capability.
- More RAM and Storage Options: 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage are great for heavy users.
- Newer Bluetooth: Comes with the latest version of Bluetooth.
- Competitive Advantage: The Edge 30 Pro excels in performance, charging speed, and some raw camera specs, making it a powerhouse for intensive tasks and media creation.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- S21 FE: Older chipset, slower charging, and a less impressive design.
- Edge 30 Pro: Bulkier, screen is not bright enough for outdoor use, and the camera quality isn't rated as high despite the resolution.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Ideal For: Users who prioritize a great screen, high-quality cameras and a balanced experience, without being a power-user.
- Use Cases: Excellent for outdoor use, everyday photography, social media, and enjoying multimedia content.
- Value: Good value for the price if you prioritize screen quality and a compact design.
- Motorola Edge 30 Pro:
- Ideal For: Power users, gamers, and content creators who need the best performance and fast charging.
- Use Cases: Heavy multitasking, mobile gaming, video recording, and content editing.
- Value: Good choice if you're willing to deal with a bulkier design for top-tier performance and charging speed.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
How often will you use the phone outdoors?
- If often, go for the S21 FE due to its superior brightness. If not, then the Motorola will work fine.
Do you need the fastest performance or more storage capacity?
- If yes, the Motorola Edge 30 Pro is the clear choice. If you don't play a lot of graphic intensive games then the Samsung will work just fine.
How important are camera quality and a compact design to you?
- If very important, then the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G takes the lead.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual User: If you're looking for a reliable phone for everyday tasks, good photos, and a bright screen, go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
- For the Power User: If your priority is performance, gaming, and fast charging then the Motorola Edge 30 Pro is your best bet.
- For the Multimedia User: If you're planning to watch a lot of content in any environment the S21 FE is the way to go.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would personally lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. While the Motorola Edge 30 Pro has an incredible chipset and fast charging, the practical benefits of the S21 FE’s screen brightness and better rated camera system are more appealing to me. I often find myself using my phone outdoors or in bright environments, and the higher DXOMark score for the camera is something that I value. Plus, its compact size would be easier to manage daily, making it the better fit for my needs and lifestyle.
I hope this detailed breakdown helps you make the right choice. Let me know if you have any more questions!
