Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the OnePlus Nord 3. As a tech journalist, my aim isn't just to rattle off specs, but to translate those numbers into meaningful user experiences. Let's see which of these devices truly stands out.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the key specifications, highlighting their real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2023-07-11 | The Nord 3 is significantly newer, implying more up-to-date features. |
| Physical Size | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm | 162 × 75.1 × 8.2 mm | The S21 FE is more compact and might be easier to handle, while the Nord 3 has a larger footprint and may not suit smaller hands. |
| Weight | 177g | 193.5g | S21 FE is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.74" | Nord 3 offers a more immersive viewing experience with a bigger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1240x2772 | Nord 3 has a sharper display with noticeably more detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 403 | 451 | Nord 3 has higher sharpness, meaning clearer text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, typical of AMOLED panels. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1450 nits | Nord 3 is more visible under bright sunlight due to higher brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Dimensity 9000 (4 nm) | Nord 3's chipset is newer and more efficient, resulting in a slight performance advantage and better power efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 1,103,441 | Nord 3 shows a marginal improvement in overall performance, handling demanding apps and games better. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G710 MC10 | Nord 3's GPU is newer, delivering better graphical performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Nord 3 captures more detailed shots with its higher resolution main camera, though pixel size is smaller. |
| Telephoto | 8MP, f/2.0 | None | S21 FE offers better optical zoom capabilities via its dedicated telephoto lens. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.4 | S21 FE's higher resolution selfie camera can capture more detail, though with a slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | S21 FE has a wide angle + macro lens while Nord 3 has a dedicated wide angle lens and a macro lens. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | OnePlus Nord 3 provides dedicated macro photography for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Both devices record high-quality video, but S21 FE has features like HDR across all resolutions. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Nord 3 offers a larger battery, likely leading to better battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 80W | Nord 3 charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, Reverse Wireless | Non-removable | S21 FE has the convenience of wireless charging, while Nord 3 is limited to wired charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Android 13 (upgradable to 16) | Nord 3 ships with a newer version of Android, getting updates and security patches sooner. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both provide the same storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/16GB | Nord 3 offers higher RAM options, which helps with multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device supports microSD cards. |
| Other | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both devices deliver premium audio; S21FE offers noise cancellation while Nord 3 offers Hi-Res Audio. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 FE has superior screen protection against scratches and damage. |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.3 | Nord 3 has newer Bluetooth version for improved connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Nord 3 provides improved location tracking. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | S21 FE has a greater array of sensors, including Barometer. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Compact and Lightweight: The S21 FE is noticeably lighter and smaller, making it easier to handle and carry around.
- Versatile Camera System: Its telephoto lens and higher-resolution selfie camera provide more flexibility for photographers.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Offers the convenience of wireless charging and the ability to charge other devices wirelessly.
- More Sensors: Offers a greater variety of sensors, providing users with more functionality.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus provides better protection against scratches and drops.
- Noise Cancellation Mic: Offers active noise cancellation while on calls.
OnePlus Nord 3 Strengths:
- Faster Performance: The Dimensity 9000 chip leads to snappier performance in daily tasks and gaming.
- Larger and Sharper Display: The bigger screen with higher resolution provides a more immersive visual experience.
- Superior Battery Life: The larger battery and faster charging ensure a longer battery life and shorter charging time.
- Newer Android Version: Comes with Android 13, implying more up-to-date features and longer software support.
- Faster Charging: 80W fast charging is significantly quicker compared to the S21 FE’s 25W.
- Hi-Res Audio: Offers an audiophile experience with enhanced audio quality.
- Better Connectivity: The Nord 3 provides a newer bluetooth version and better GPS tracking.
Trade-offs:
- S21 FE: Trades a bulkier design for greater features like better screen protection, more cameras, and wireless charging capabilities.
- Nord 3: Trades the convenience of wireless charging and a more versatile camera system for better performance, a superior screen and battery, and overall usability.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Users Who Value Versatility: Best for those who need a balanced mix of cameras, wireless charging, and prefer a compact design.
- Content Creators: The telephoto lens and higher resolution selfie camera are advantageous.
- Users who need a robust device: With gorilla glass victus, you are getting more protection on the S21 FE.
OnePlus Nord 3:
- Gamers and Power Users: Ideal for those who need the best performance and can take advantage of the larger screen, higher RAM and faster charging.
- Media Enthusiasts: The larger, sharper display and Hi-Res Audio are great for consuming media.
- Users who need all day Battery Life: The larger battery and faster charging ensures the device will last.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Performance or Versatility?
- If you need the snappiest performance and a longer-lasting battery, go with the Nord 3.
- If you want a more versatile camera system, wireless charging, and a more compact design, choose the S21 FE.
- Do you prioritize a smaller design or a bigger screen?
- If you prefer a more compact design, the S21 FE would be a better option.
- If you prefer a more immersive experience with a larger screen, the Nord 3 would be a better fit.
- How important are wireless charging and superior screen protection?
- If these features are crucial, the S21 FE has a clear advantage.
- If you're fine with fast wired charging and no clear screen protection, then Nord 3 is fine.
My Choice:
If I had to choose between the two, I would go with the OnePlus Nord 3. While I appreciate the S21 FE's compact design, versatile camera system and wireless charging, the Nord 3 simply provides a better experience all around. The newer chipset, superior performance, and larger, sharper display, are all very compelling. Plus, I prefer the longer battery life and the fast charging ensures I can quickly get back on the go. Ultimately, the improvements in core areas like performance and battery outweigh the loss of features like wireless charging and the extra camera versatility for me.
