Alright, let's dive deep into the heart of this Samsung showdown: the Galaxy S21 FE 5G versus the Galaxy S24+. We've got a battle of generations here, and as always, the devil is in the details. I'm going to break down these specs and give you the real-world implications, the kind of stuff that'll actually matter when these phones are in your hands.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's where we get into the nitty-gritty. I've organized the specs into categories to make it easier to digest, and I’ve added a "Real-World Implications" column to translate those numbers into everyday benefits (or drawbacks).
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2024-01-24 | S24+ is significantly newer, with more modern features and a longer software support life. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are classic smartphone designs. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm | 158.5 × 75.9 × 7.7 mm | S24+ is slightly taller and wider, S21 FE is a hair thicker; but overall both are pocketable. |
| Weight | 177g | 196g | S21 FE is noticeably lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | S24+ offers more screen real estate, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1440x3120 | S24+ has a significantly sharper, clearer display. |
| PPI | 403 | 513 | S24+ has a noticeably crisper image due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | S21 FE’s AMOLED panel delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and superior power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer buttery-smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2600 nits | S24+ is drastically better in bright sunlight, offering excellent outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | S24+ has a much more powerful and efficient processor, faster in every respect. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 1,639,695 | S24+ delivers much better overall performance in tasks, apps, and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | S24+ boasts a newer and more powerful GPU for enhanced graphics. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4900mAh | S24+ has a slightly bigger battery for potentially longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | S24+ charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | 15W Wireless Charging, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, No in-box charger | 15W Wireless Charging, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, Bypass Charging | Both offer wireless and reverse charging, S24+ has bypass charging, both lack in-box chargers |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, 1/1.76") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.57") | S24+ should capture much more detailed, clearer images. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 8MP (f/2.0) | N/A | S21 FE has a telephoto lens for portraits, S24+ is missing this type of lens |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | 12MP (f/2.2) | S21 FE captures higher-resolution selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP (f/2.4, 1/3.9") | S24+ includes a telephoto lens for zooming. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55") | S24+ includes a dedicated ultra-wide lens for broader shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 13MP (f/2.2, 1/3.06") | N/A | S21 FE includes a wide angle + macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | S24+ records at much higher quality, allowing for professional-grade video. |
| Camera Features | Optical/Digital Zoom, OIS, Night Mode | Optical/Digital Zoom, OIS, Night Mode 2.0, 8K Video | S24+ has a newer iteration of Night Mode plus 8K recording. |
| DXOMark Scores | Main: 117, Selfie: 127 | N/A | S21 FE is rated quite well by DXOMark. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Up to 16) | Android 14 (Up to 21) | S24+ has a newer OS, with more features and longer update lifespan. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | S24+ has faster WiFi capabilities, especially in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | S24+ boasts newer technology for lower energy use. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | S24+ has more precise GPS positioning thanks to additional satellite systems |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM) | S24+ offers more SIM options, including an eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB | S24+ has larger storage options, suitable for power users. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 12GB | S24+ handles heavier multitasking with less strain. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external memory cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | S21 FE has spatial audio, potentially better for immersive experiences. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both have similar fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Both have robust glass protection, S24+ features a slightly newer standard. |
| Sensors | |||
| List | Comprehensive | Comprehensive | Both offer a suite of sensors for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Insights
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Strengths: Lighter weight, good screen technology with AMOLED, versatile camera setup, a well-rounded phone overall. The lower cost (given it’s a bit older) makes it a good deal for the price. Also has a good DxOMark score.
- Competitive Advantages: Strong camera capabilities for the price range. It also includes a telephoto and wide angle + macro lens, unlike the S24+ which includes a telephoto lens and a wide angle lens.
- Trade-offs: Older chipset, slower charging, and smaller battery compared to the S24+. It is also a generation behind in connectivity and screen protection.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Strengths: Cutting-edge chipset, brighter and sharper display, significantly better performance, faster charging, larger storage options, newer software, and updated connectivity.
- Competitive Advantages: The latest technology available from Samsung and all the performance benefits that come with it. It is more future-proof, better for heavy usage and also includes a telephoto and wide angle lens.
- Trade-offs: Heavier than the S21 FE, higher price point and is missing a few camera lens features.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Best Suited For: Budget-conscious users who want a capable phone with good camera performance for the price. Those who prioritize a lightweight device, and don't need the absolute latest tech.
- Use Cases: Everyday use, social media, casual photography, watching videos, and some gaming.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Best Suited For: Power users who need a phone with top-of-the-line performance and prefer the latest features. Those who need the best possible camera and enjoy graphically intense gaming.
- Use Cases: Heavy multitasking, professional photography/videography, high-end gaming, users who want the best display for consuming content, and a phone that will be relevant for several years.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help guide your decision:
- Budget: Are you looking for a budget-friendly but still very capable option (S21 FE) or are you ready to invest in the best available technology (S24+)?
- Performance: How important is it for your phone to handle intensive tasks and future software updates? If so, the S24+ is the clear winner here.
- Features: Do you need the top-end display, charging, and video recording that the S24+ provides or are you happy with the capabilities of the S21 FE?
Final Thoughts
Alright, so here's the lowdown from my perspective. If I had to choose, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S24+. Here’s why:
- Future-Proofing: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip is a beast, meaning it'll handle anything I throw at it for years to come. The S21 FE is still a very good phone, but it is a generation behind in processing power.
- Display and Visual Experience: As someone who values a great display for videos and reading, that 2600 nits of brightness and higher resolution is a game-changer for me.
- Camera Capabilities: While the S21 FE excels in certain areas, the S24+ is more versatile due to its higher resolution main sensor, the telephoto and wide angle lens and improved video capabilities.
- Overall Feel: The S24+ feels more refined and powerful in day to day use, which is something I prioritize.
Sure, the S24+ is pricier and a bit heavier, but for my needs, it's a worthy investment. If budget were a major concern or I simply wanted a light weight device, the S21 FE is still a decent phone for the price. But if I’m honest, the S24+ is just leaps and bounds ahead in almost every way.
