Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Motorola Moto G22 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date January 7, 2022 March 4, 2022
Release Year 2022 2022

Physical

Volume 91.64 cm³ 104.55 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.62 "/g 3.51 "/g
Weight 177 g 185 g
Height 155.7 mm 164 mm
Width 74.5 mm 75 mm
Thickness 7.9 mm 8.5 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • White
  • Graphite
  • Lavender
  • Olive
  • Pearl White
  • Cosmic Black
  • Mint Green
  • Iceberg Blue

Display

Screen Size 6.4 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1080 x 2340 720 x 1600
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.7 % 82.9 %
Pixel Density 403 PPI 268 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 109.86 mAh/in² 118.34 mAh/in²
Battery Density 49.11 mAh/cm³ 47.82 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) - Version 1 Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version 1 Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPU Adreno 660 - Version 1 PowerVR GE8320

Connectivity

USB Version N/A 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C, OTG USB Type-C 2.0

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 12 12
Maximum OS Version 16

Comparison Summary

Alright, let's break down the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Motorola Moto G22. I'm putting on my tech journalist hat and approaching this like a deep dive with a curious friend.

1. Specifications Breakdown

First, we need to get into the nitty-gritty. Here's a comparison table with the specs and their real-world implications:

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S21 FE 5GMotorola Moto G22Real-World Implications
Design
Dimensions155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm164 x 75 x 8.5 mmS21 FE is more compact, Moto G22 is taller and slightly thicker; S21 FE is likely easier to handle single-handedly.
Weight177g185gS21 FE is a bit lighter, which will be appreciated in long usage sessions.
Display
Size6.4"6.5"Practically the same size, slight edge to the Moto G22
Resolution1080x2340720x1600S21 FE screen is significantly sharper, with much more detail and clarity.
PPI403268S21 FE provides much sharper images, text and visuals.
TechnologyAMOLEDIPS LCDS21 FE offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, better color vibrancy, better power efficiency with dark theme.
Refresh Rate120Hz90HzS21 FE provides smoother animations and scrolling.
Brightness1300 nits0 nitsS21 FE is much better for outdoor use with good visibility, Moto G22 might struggle in bright sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 888 5G (5nm)Helio G37 (12nm)S21 FE is a powerhouse, with a faster and more efficient processor for demanding apps, multitasking and gaming, Moto G22 is an entry level processor.
AnTuTu Score923,836159,800S21 FE is vastly more powerful.
GPUAdreno 660PowerVR GE8320S21 FE GPU is significantly more capable, offering superior gaming performance.
Battery
Capacity4500mAh5000mAhMoto G22 has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life.
Charging25W fast charging, Li-Polymer15W fast charging, Li-IonS21 FE charges faster, Li-Polymer is a more modern technology; but no charger in the box.
FeaturesWireless charging, reverse chargingNon-removableS21 FE offers more flexibility, like wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, but no in-box charger.
Camera
Standard Camera12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" sensor50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensorMoto G22 has higher resolution, S21 FE has a larger sensor (more light capture, better low light).
Telephoto/Portrait Camera8MP, f/2.0NoneS21 FE offers better zoom and portrait capabilities
Selfie Camera32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8"16MP, f/2.45S21 FE takes higher resolution selfies, wider aperture for better low light.
Portrait (depth) CameraNone8MP, f/2.2Moto G22 has dedicated depth sensor.
Macro LensNone2MP, f/2.3Moto G22 has dedicated macro lens
Wide Angle + Macro13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06"NoneS21 FE has a dedicated wide angle lens
Video4K@60fps, HDR, EIS1080p@30fpsS21 FE offers much higher video quality and stabilization
DxoMarkMobile: 117, Selfie: 127NoneS21 FE scores much higher in overall camera performance
Camera FeaturesOptical Zoom, OIS, 4K Video, RAWLaser AutofocusS21 FE has higher-end features, Moto G22 laser autofocus may be more precise.
Software
OSAndroid 12, upgradable to 16Android 12, not upgradableS21 FE will likely get more years of software and security updates.
Connectivity
WiFiWiFi 6, MIMOWiFi 5S21 FE has faster and more efficient WiFi
BluetoothBluetooth 5.0 LE, wide feature setBluetooth 5.0 LE, basic feature setS21 FE supports high fidelity audio through bluetooth
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, GalileoGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, GalileoS21 FE offers more satellite systems, Moto G22 offers SUPL assist.
SIMDual SIM, dual standbySingle SIMS21 FE offers more flexibility for travel and different mobile providers
Storage
Internal128GB/256GB64GB/128GBS21 FE has the option for more storage.
RAM6GB/8GB4GBS21 FE provides smoother multitasking.
ExpandableNoNoNeither phone offers storage expansion.
Audio
QualityDolby Atmos, Stereo speakersBasicS21 FE provides higher fidelity sound quality and immersion
Security
Fingerprint SensorBasic SensorSide-mountedMoto G22 likely offers more seamless usage.
Build Quality
Screen ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass VictusUnknownS21 FE has superior protection against scratches and cracks
Sensors
SensorsComplete SuiteComplete SuiteS21 FE has a more complete set, suitable for more demanding users

2. Key Insights

Here's the gist of what these specs mean:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: This phone is a performance powerhouse with a flagship-level chipset, a fantastic AMOLED display, and a versatile camera system. It's designed for users who demand smooth performance, stunning visuals, and advanced features. The wireless charging, better audio, and extensive sensor suite are icing on the cake.
  • Motorola Moto G22: This phone focuses on providing a reliable experience at a lower price point. It has a larger battery, decent standard camera resolution, and a simple design. It is targeted at users on a budget who are looking for basic functionalities. It's meant to be dependable for daily tasks and casual usage.

Strengths & Advantages

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:

    • Performance: Blazing-fast Snapdragon 888 chipset.
    • Display: Vivid, high-resolution AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
    • Camera: Superior photo and video quality, optical zoom, and more versatile shooting modes.
    • Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, Dolby Atmos, better audio, more extensive sensor suite.
    • Longevity: More years of software upgrades
  • Motorola Moto G22:

    • Battery: Larger battery capacity for longer usage.
    • Price: Significantly more affordable.
    • Camera: Dedicated macro and depth sensors.
    • Simplicity: Straightforward features and usability.

Trade-offs & Limitations

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
    • No expandable storage.
    • More expensive.
    • No charger in the box.
  • Motorola Moto G22:
    • Significantly less powerful chipset.
    • Lower resolution, lower quality display.
    • Basic camera system.
    • No advanced features.
    • Limited software updates.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

Let's match these phones to different types of users:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is best for:

    • Power users: People who want a fast, responsive device for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
    • Content creators: Users who prioritize high-quality photo and video capabilities.
    • Media consumers: Those who enjoy a vibrant display and great audio for movies, shows, and music.
    • Tech Enthusiasts: People who want all the high end features available on a smartphone.

    • Use Cases:

      • Playing graphics-intensive games.
      • Editing photos and videos on the go.
      • Watching HDR movies on a bright screen in any lighting condition.
      • Using it to create content for social media.
      • Using it as a daily driver with many open apps and tasks.
  • Motorola Moto G22 is best for:

    • Budget-conscious users: People who need a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.
    • Casual users: Those who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, social media, and light browsing.
    • Users who prioritize battery life: Individuals who need a phone that will last all day on a single charge.
    • Users that are looking for ease of use: Users that do not want to deal with overly complicated features and settings.

    • Use Cases:

      • Basic daily tasks and communication.
      • Browsing the internet and social media.
      • Taking casual photos.
      • Day-to-day use with minimal gaming and multimedia consumption.
      • Using as a secondary device to perform simple tasks.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are some questions to consider when deciding between these two phones:

  1. How important is performance to you? If you need a fast, smooth device for demanding tasks, the S21 FE is the clear choice. If you just need the basics, the Moto G22 will suffice.

  2. What kind of display do you need? If you value sharpness, vibrant colors, and outdoor visibility, the S21 FE's AMOLED display is a big win. If the display is not a priority, the Moto G22's IPS LCD will do the job.

  3. What is your budget? If you are on a tight budget, the Moto G22 is significantly cheaper. If you are willing to spend more for a higher end experience, the S21 FE delivers on that.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: "The Power User"

    • You need a phone for gaming, heavy multitasking, and demanding apps.
    • Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Its superior chipset, display, and overall performance make it the ideal device.
  • Scenario 2: "The Budget Shopper"

    • You need a basic smartphone for everyday tasks, and your budget is your main constraint.
    • Recommendation: Motorola Moto G22. You'll get a phone that works fine for the basics while being more pocket-friendly.
  • Scenario 3: "The Casual User"

    • You need a phone that you can use to browse the web, take photos occasionally, and socialize on the internet.
    • Recommendation: Motorola Moto G22. It has good battery life, and good standard camera performance while being cheaper.

My Choice

If I were in the market right now, I'd choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Here's why:

  • Performance Matters: As someone who juggles multiple apps, edits photos on the go, and enjoys a bit of gaming, I need the raw power that the Snapdragon 888 delivers.
  • Display Quality: I love a vibrant, sharp display. The S21 FE's AMOLED display is just beautiful, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes every interaction feel incredibly smooth.
  • Camera Versatility: I enjoy taking photos and videos, and the S21 FE offers higher resolution, optical zoom, and better image quality, which is something I would make use of.

While the lack of expandable storage and in-box charger are slight drawbacks, the overall package of the S21 FE is too compelling for me to ignore. The Moto G22 is a decent budget option, but the S21 FE's superiority in performance and display quality make it worth the extra investment for me. It would fit well in my workflow and it has features I would make use of.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.