Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the OnePlus 12. I'll break down the tech specs, offer some real-world insights, and help you figure out which phone might be the best fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, along with a look at what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | OnePlus 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2023-12-11 | OnePlus 12 is significantly newer, benefiting from more advanced tech and software updates. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are traditional smartphones; no foldables here. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm | 164.3 × 75.8 × 9.2 mm | OnePlus 12 is noticeably larger and thicker; may feel less comfortable in smaller hands, but offers more screen real estate. |
| Weight | 177g | 220g | S21 FE is significantly lighter; more comfortable for prolonged use, especially one-handed. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.82" | OnePlus 12 has a larger display, ideal for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1440x3168 | OnePlus 12 has a significantly sharper display; text and images will be clearer. |
| Pixel Density | 403 PPI | 510 PPI | OnePlus 12 offers a much higher pixel density, resulting in an even sharper and more detailed image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED displays, known for rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations; no advantage for either. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 4500 nits | OnePlus 12 has dramatically higher brightness; significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | OnePlus 12 uses a much newer and more powerful processor; expect smoother performance and improved efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 2,110,808 | OnePlus 12 delivers significantly faster performance in real-world use (app loading, gaming etc.). |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | OnePlus 12 has a much more powerful GPU, crucial for graphic-intensive games and apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5400mAh | OnePlus 12 has a larger battery; should last longer between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 100W Fast Charging | OnePlus 12 charges much faster; significantly reduced time plugged in. |
| Charging Features | 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless | 50W Wireless | OnePlus 12 boasts faster wireless charging, but the S21 FE supports reverse wireless charging, which can be a niche convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, 1/1.76") | 50MP (f/1.6, 1/1.43") | OnePlus 12 has a higher resolution and larger sensor, which should translate to better image quality, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 64MP (f/2.6, 1/2") | OnePlus 12 offers a higher resolution for zoom capabilities. |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 13MP (f/2.2, 1/3.06") | 48MP (f/2.2, 1/2") | OnePlus 12 again has a significantly higher resolution for ultra-wide shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | 32MP (f/2.4, 1/2.74") | Both offer similar selfie quality; S21 FE has slightly wider aperture. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@24fps | OnePlus 12 supports 8K video recording, allowing for more detail in captured video content. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 16) | Android 14 (up to 18) | OnePlus 12 is much more up to date, and will receive longer software support and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | OnePlus 12 supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster speeds and better reliability. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.4 | OnePlus 12 has a newer Bluetooth version for more efficient and reliable connections. |
| GPS | Multiple Systems | More Multiple Systems | OnePlus 12 offers improved location accuracy using more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | OnePlus 12 allows using an eSIM for a digital plan without a physical SIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB, 512GB, or 1024GB | OnePlus 12 offers significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 12GB, 16GB, or 24GB | OnePlus 12 has substantially more RAM, allowing for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither has expandable storage, so choose a phone with enough internal storage. |
| Other | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos | Both provide high-quality audio, with similar features. |
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both have basic fingerprint sensors. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Similar screen protection, with the OnePlus 12 having a slightly newer version. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Compass | Gravity, RGB Sensor | S21 FE has barometer and compass sensors while the OnePlus 12 has RGB and Gravity Sensor; S21FE has sensors more helpful for outdoor activities. |
2. Key Insights
- OnePlus 12 Dominates in Performance: The OnePlus 12 is the clear winner when it comes to raw power, thanks to its newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, superior GPU, and higher RAM options. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a much better experience in gaming and demanding applications.
- Display Quality is Significantly Better on the OnePlus 12: The OnePlus 12 has a larger screen with much higher resolution, pixel density, and significantly greater brightness making it much better for enjoying videos and media.
- Camera Prowess of the OnePlus 12: On paper, the OnePlus 12 boasts significantly higher resolution sensors across its main, telephoto, and ultrawide cameras. This is likely to result in better detail, improved low-light performance, and greater versatility for photography and videography.
- Battery and Charging Advantages for OnePlus 12: The OnePlus 12 outshines the S21 FE with a larger battery, much faster 100W charging and 50W wireless charging. This means longer battery life and significantly less time spent waiting for a full charge.
- S21 FE’s Strengths: The Galaxy S21 FE is smaller, lighter and includes extra sensors like the barometer and compass, which is great for users who want a light phone or enjoy outdoor activities. It also offers reverse wireless charging which can be useful.
- Software Support and Longevity: The OnePlus 12 launches with a newer version of Android and is likely to receive more software updates in the future.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- OnePlus 12:
- Power Users: Those who need the absolute best performance, fastest charging, and the most advanced display technology.
- Gamers: The powerful chipset and GPU, combined with the high refresh rate display and great speakers make it ideal for mobile gaming.
- Multimedia Lovers: Ideal for users who consume lots of videos and media, thanks to the larger, sharper, and brighter screen.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those looking for versatile camera systems that are capable of capturing detail in various conditions.
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want the Samsung experience at a more accessible price point.
- Users with Small Hands: Those who prefer a compact phone that is easy to handle.
- Casual Users: Those who prioritize a good-enough phone, with a solid user experience.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize having a barometer and compass on their phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these three questions:
- How important is performance to me?
- If you need top-tier speed and responsiveness, the OnePlus 12 is the clear choice.
- If you're okay with slightly less speed for a lighter phone and good enough performance, the S21 FE will suffice.
- How important is camera quality and video recording to me?
- If you value higher resolution photos and video recording, especially in low light, the OnePlus 12 has a clear edge.
- If you're happy with a solid, but less groundbreaking experience from the camera, the S21 FE will still take good pictures and videos.
- How important is battery life, and fast charging to me?
- If you want all-day battery life and incredibly fast charging, the OnePlus 12 is significantly better.
- If you don't mind slightly shorter battery life and slower charging, the S21 FE is sufficient.
Based on these scenarios:
- If you're a gamer, content creator, or someone who needs ultimate speed and performance: Go for the OnePlus 12.
- If you are looking for a great phone at an affordable price, and want a lighter phone: Go for the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
- If you want an advanced camera with good video recording and multimedia experience: Go for the OnePlus 12.
My Choice
If I were picking between these two, I'd go with the OnePlus 12. The huge leap in performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, along with the massively improved display and battery charging capabilities makes it a no-brainer for me. As a tech journalist, I often push my phone to its limits, and the OnePlus 12 would be able to do just that. Although I love to go on outdoor hikes, I could probably live without the barometer and compass sensors on the S21 FE. While the S21 FE is a very capable phone, the OnePlus 12 is a clear winner for me.
