Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy A04s. These two phones are positioned at very different ends of the spectrum, and understanding their distinctions is key to choosing the right device.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the two phones across several key categories:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2022-09-22 | The A04s is newer by about 8 months, but this doesn't necessarily mean it's better. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | The S21 FE is more compact, making it easier to handle and pocket. The A04s is noticeably taller, wider and thicker |
| Weight | 177g | 195g | The S21 FE is lighter, which enhances comfort during prolonged use. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.5" | Very similar screen sizes, the difference is negligible. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 720 x 1600 | The S21 FE has a sharper, clearer display with more detail. The difference is quite substantial. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 403 | 270 | S21 FE's higher pixel density provides noticeably sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | PLS LCD | S21 FE's AMOLED screen offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colours. The A04s won't look as punchy and blacks won't be as deep. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 FE's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | The S21 FE is much brighter, offering vastly superior outdoor visibility, with sunlight being no issue. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Exynos 850 (8nm) | S21 FE has a significantly faster and more powerful processor for demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 117,300 | The S21 FE has vastly superior performance for gaming, multitasking and app loading. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G52 | The S21 FE's Adreno GPU delivers better graphics performance for gaming and video editing. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | The A04s has a larger battery, potentially providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | S21 FE charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse Charging, No Charger | Non-removable | S21 FE has more charging options and no charger in the box, whilst the A04s is basic. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | The A04s has higher resolution main sensor, but sensor quality/size etc matters more than MP. |
| Telephoto | 8MP | None | S21 FE's telephoto lens enables optical zoom for better close-ups. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | S21 FE takes far more detailed and better selfies with a much higher resolution |
| Portrait | None | 2MP | The A04s has a dedicated depth camera for portrait effects. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | The A04s includes a macro camera for detailed close-up shots. |
| Ultrawide | 13MP | None | S21 FE can take ultrawide shots. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps | 1080p@30fps | S21 FE can record higher-quality video with more features. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 117 | Not Tested | S21 FE has a decent rating, suggesting better camera performance. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 127 | Not Tested | S21 FE has a good rating for selfies. |
| Camera Features | Advanced, OIS, etc | Basic | S21 FE offers more advanced camera features such as OIS and RAW capture. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12, Upgradable to 16 | Android 12, Upgradable to 14 | S21 FE will receive a more updated version of Android. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 | S21 FE supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi 6. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, advanced features | 5.0, basic features | S21 FE has more advanced Bluetooth audio and connectivity features. |
| GPS | Full array | Full array | Both offer location services, with some minor differences. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 32/64/128 GB | S21 FE offers more base storage. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 3/4 GB | S21 FE has significantly more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation | Basic Audio | S21 FE offers superior audio with Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers, and better noise cancellation. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | The A04s has a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| BUILD | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 FE has significantly better screen protection. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Full array | Basic Array | S21 FE has significantly more sensors |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chip provides top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Display: The AMOLED display is brighter, sharper, and more vibrant, making it enjoyable to use, especially outside.
- Camera System: The more versatile camera setup includes a telephoto lens, ultrawide lens and better selfies, along with better video capabilities, OIS, and more advanced features.
- Build Quality: The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection and enhanced audio quality.
- Software Support: Longer software support life.
- Connectivity: Supports more advanced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards
Samsung Galaxy A04s Strengths:
- Battery: The larger battery offers potentially better battery life.
- Price: The A04s is a budget-friendly device for users who need a basic, functional smartphone.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint: More advanced side fingerprint sensor.
- Newer Release: Potentially offers slightly more up-to-date software and features out of the box (although will be supported for less time).
Trade-offs:
- S21 FE: Lacks expandable storage, no in box charger and might cost more,
- A04s: Inferior display, cameras, and overall performance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Ideal For: Users who value performance, a high-quality display, and a capable camera system. It's excellent for gaming, content creation, and media consumption.
- Use Cases: Social media influencers, gamers, anyone who needs a powerful smartphone for daily productivity and creative work.
Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users who need a basic, reliable smartphone for calls, messages, and simple tasks.
- Use Cases: First-time smartphone users, those who need a secondary device, and anyone who doesn't need high performance or advanced features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help decide which phone is right for you:
- What is my primary use case for a smartphone?
- If it's casual browsing, social media, and calls, the A04s is sufficient.
- If you need performance for gaming, video editing or a high quality display, choose the S21 FE.
- What is my budget?
- The A04s is a budget phone, so if cost is the main concern, this would be a good option.
- The S21 FE costs more, but offers great performance for the price.
- What features are most important to me?
- If you value a good camera, a great display and performance, go for the S21 FE.
- If you want a long battery life and a large screen, the A04s would work.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Gamer: S21 FE provides better gaming experience and more future proof.
- Casual User: A04s is perfect for basic smartphone needs without breaking the bank.
- Photography Enthusiast: S21 FE offers a more advanced and versatile camera system, and great selfies.
- Power User: S21 FE delivers the best overall performance and functionality.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
While the A04s is a perfectly serviceable budget device, the S21 FE is in a different league. As a tech journalist, I need a phone that not only performs well but also provides a premium user experience. I value the S21 FE's incredible display, excellent camera system, and top-tier processing power for my daily workflow and media consumption. The faster charging, better display and all-round experience makes the choice clear. The A04s is a great budget option, but the S21 FE offers the tech and experience I need.
