Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Galaxy A55. These two phones occupy interesting positions in Samsung's lineup, with the S21 FE aiming for flagship-lite status and the A55 targeting the upper mid-range. I'll break down the specs, offer some insights, and help you figure out which phone is right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications of both phones, along with what these specs mean for you in everyday use:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2024-03-15 | The A55 is a much newer device by more than 2 years. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm | 161.1 × 77.4 × 8.2 mm | S21 FE is noticeably smaller and lighter, making it more pocketable and comfortable for extended use. A55 is larger and heavier. |
| Weight | 177g | 213g | S21 FE feels lighter and easier to handle for longer durations. A55 may feel bulkier in comparison. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.6" | A55 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing but the difference is relatively small. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2340 | Both offer crisp, detailed visuals thanks to the identical pixel count. |
| PPI | 403 | 390 | Both have very similar pixel density, so you will not see a difference in clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both display vibrant colors and deep blacks, typical of AMOLED screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and fluid animations, improving the overall user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 FE shines in outdoor visibility with significantly higher brightness, making it easier to use under direct sunlight. A55 is not rated for brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Exynos 1480 (4 nm) | S21 FE's Snapdragon 888 is an older flagship-level chip, while the A55's Exynos 1480 is a newer mid-range chip. Both offer fast performance, but the Snapdragon has a clear performance edge for demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 713,393 | The S21 FE scores considerably higher, indicating better overall performance. Expect faster app loading and smoother operation. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Xclipse 530 | S21 FE's Adreno 660 is more performant, providing better graphics for demanding games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A55's larger battery may lead to better endurance. However, the chip on S21 FE is more power hungry. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both charge at the same speed, but neither comes with a charger in the box. |
| Features | Wireless Charging 15W, Reverse Wireless Charging 4.5W | Non-removable | S21 FE offers more charging options, including wireless charging and reverse charging, which the A55 lacks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", IMX555 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", IMX906 | A55 has a higher resolution sensor and bigger sensor, offering more detail and better low-light performance in main camera. |
| Telephoto + portrait | 8MP, f/2.0, Hynix HI-847 | N/A | The S21 FE features a telephoto lens for better zoomed shots and portrait modes. |
| Selfie | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", IMX616 | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", IMX616 | Both have very capable selfie cameras with the same sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", IMX258 | A55 has a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing more of the scene. |
| Macro lens | N/A | 5MP, f/2.4 | A55 has a dedicated macro lens for very close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", IMX258 | N/A | S21 FE has a Wide Angle + Macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | S21 FE captures video at higher frame rate, however, both have good quality. |
| DXOMark Camera Scores | Mobile: 117/119/107, Selfie: 127/126/130 | Mobile: 108/110/117 | The S21 FE has a higher Mobile Photo score, while the A55 takes the lead in video scores. |
| Additional Features | Optical zoom, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus | AutoFraming, NPU AI Engine, RAW 12 bits | S21 FE offers more camera-centric manual controls, while A55 emphasizes AI processing and additional video features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 16) | Android 14 (up to 18) | The A55 comes with a newer Android version, promising more extended software support and new features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards for fast and reliable internet connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | A55 has a newer Bluetooth version for potentially better stability, speed, and power efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A55 supports more satellite systems, offering more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | A55 supports an eSIM, which can be handy for traveling or managing multiple numbers digitally. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB or 256GB | Both have equal internal storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB or 12GB | A55 offers more RAM on the high end, improving multitasking capability. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, so choose a storage option wisely. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | S21 FE has a noise canceling mic, while the A55 has Hi-Res Audio support, both have stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both use a standard fingerprint sensor for unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both have similar screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S21 FE has traditional proximity sensor, while the A55 uses ultrasonic virtual proximity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Flagship-Level Performance: The Snapdragon 888 offers higher performance, which is noticeable in demanding games, video editing, and overall smoothness.
- Superior Outdoor Visibility: With 1300 nits of brightness, the S21 FE is significantly easier to view in direct sunlight.
- More Versatile Charging: The inclusion of wireless charging and reverse wireless charging offers more flexibility.
- Telephoto Lens: The presence of a telephoto lens adds versatility to the camera system, enabling better optical zoom.
- More manual camera controls: The S21 FE offers more manual controls in the camera app, especially focused on stills.
- Better Photo scores: S21 FE scored much better in photos in DxOMark tests.
Samsung Galaxy A55 Strengths:
- Newer, More Efficient Chip: While not as powerful as the Snapdragon 888, the Exynos 1480 is more energy-efficient and provides good performance for most everyday tasks.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers better battery life, which is a great selling point.
- More Modern Software: The A55 launches with Android 14, providing longer software support and new features.
- eSIM support: A55 has eSIM support in addition to dual nano SIM.
- Higher Main Camera Resolution: The 50MP main sensor captures more detail.
- Dedicated wide angle and macro lenses: A55 offers more versatile camera system with dedicated wide angle and macro lenses.
- Better Video Scores: A55 has significantly better video scores on DXOMark.
Trade-offs:
- The S21 FE compromises on battery life and software longevity for raw performance.
- The A55 sacrifices some power for a newer software experience and more efficient energy use.
- Neither of these devices comes with a charger in the box.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is best for:
- Gamers: Those who value high frame rates and smooth graphics will appreciate the Snapdragon 888's raw power.
- Outdoor Users: Its high brightness display makes it ideal for people who frequently use their phone outdoors in direct sunlight.
- Camera Enthusiasts: The inclusion of a telephoto lens and more manual camera options is advantageous for users who want more versatility when taking photos.
- Power Users: The S21 FE will perform better in heavy tasks like video editing, content creation, and multitasking.
- Those who value charging flexibility: The S21 FE offers wireless and reverse wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy A55 is best for:
- Everyday Users: Its balanced combination of features, battery life, and performance makes it a great all-rounder.
- Long-term Users: The newer Android version will ensure more years of software updates and security patches.
- Photographers: The higher resolution main sensor, wide-angle and macro lenses makes it better for most photography enthusiasts.
- Video creators: The A55 has better video scores in DxOMark testing.
- Travelers: The addition of an eSIM for digital carrier switching is a great benefit.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, here are three practical questions to ask yourself:
- How important is top-tier performance for you? If you need the best processing power for gaming or other intensive tasks, the S21 FE is the better choice.
- Which is more important, display visibility or battery life? The S21 FE will provide better outdoor visibility, while the A55 will provide better battery life.
- Do you prioritize a versatile camera system or more up-to-date software? If versatility in camera system is a higher priority, the A55 is a good option. If you want the latest Android version and longer software support, the A55 is the clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- You are a gamer/power user: Go for the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for its superior processing power and brighter display.
- You want a balanced, reliable phone for everyday use: The Samsung Galaxy A55 is a solid choice, thanks to its newer software, higher battery capacity, and versatile camera.
- You travel a lot: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A55, for its eSIM support and larger battery.
- You are passionate about photography: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A55, for a more versatile camera system with higher resolution primary sensor and dedicated wide and macro lens.
My Choice
If I were to choose between the two, I would personally go with the Samsung Galaxy A55. While the S21 FE does have a more powerful processor and a brighter display, the A55's balance of features, along with a larger battery, a newer Android version, and a more versatile camera system better align with my daily needs and preferences. The A55's better overall video performance and a much more versatile main camera make it my pick. I value the balance of efficiency and performance, and the A55 delivers that very well, in addition to a much needed battery life improvement. The latest software support and eSIM option are a big plus for me as well. The fact that A55 does have better video scores in DXOMark and a dedicated wide angle and macro lens are also very valuable.
