Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Sony Xperia 5 IV. I'll break down the specs, highlight the key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the right fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2022-09-22 | The Xperia 5 IV is newer, potentially with more up-to-date software and slightly improved hardware. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 × 74.5 × 7.9 mm | 156 × 67 × 8.2 mm | S21 FE is wider, potentially feeling less comfortable for one-handed use. Xperia 5 IV is more compact, easier to grip, but thicker. |
| Weight | 177g | 172g | Xperia 5 IV is marginally lighter, which can be noticeable with extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.1" | S21 FE offers a more immersive experience for media consumption. Xperia 5 IV provides better one-handed usability with a more compact size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2520 | Xperia 5 IV has a slightly sharper display (higher pixel density), leading to a marginally clearer visual experience, which is more likely to be noticeable on high-resolution content. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 403 | 449 | Xperia 5 IV's sharper display will be visible mostly in text clarity and when examining fine details in images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, with similar quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both phones, ideal for gaming and browsing. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 FE has a significantly brighter display, making it much better in direct sunlight; The 0 nits value for the Xperia 5 IV seems like a typo, and it should have a brightness value around 600-800 nits. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Xperia 5 IV boasts a newer, more efficient chipset, leading to a marginal performance boost in heavy tasks. The difference in chipsets isn't drastic but it's visible in sustained performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 1,021,542 | Xperia 5 IV offers a moderate increase in benchmark performance, indicating faster processing speeds. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Xperia 5 IV features a more powerful GPU, offering better graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Xperia 5 IV will likely offer longer battery life due to the larger capacity. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Xperia 5 IV charges slightly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging | Bypass Charging | S21 FE offers more versatile charging options. Xperia 5 IV provides convenient charging while gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm) | 12MP (f/1.7, 1/1.7", 1.8µm) | Xperia 5 IV's wider aperture may result in slightly better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 8MP (f/2.0, 1.0µm) | None | S21 FE provides a dedicated telephoto/portrait lens, allowing for greater flexibility in zoomed shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.8µm) | 12MP (f/2.0, 1.25µm) | S21 FE captures higher-resolution selfies, while Xperia 5 IV has larger pixel size, which allows for better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP (f/2.4, 1/3.5", 1.0µm) | Xperia 5 IV offers a telephoto lens for optical zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 12MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm) | Xperia 5 IV has an ultrawide angle lens for expansive shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 13MP (f/2.2, 1/3.06", 1.12µm) | None | S21 FE captures high resolution ultrawide photos for landscapes and allows close up images with the macro lens. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps, EIS | Up to 4K@120fps, OIS, EIS | Xperia 5 IV offers more frame rate options in 4K and Optical Image Stabilization for smoother video. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 117 main score, 119 photo score, 107 video score | 119 main score, 121 photo score, 113 video score | Xperia 5 IV performs slightly better overall, especially in video. S21 FE selfies aren't tested here. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, Max Version 16 | Android 12, Max Version 13 | S21 FE is expected to receive more software updates, providing a longer software lifespan. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 | S21 FE offers Wi-Fi MiMO for potentially better data speeds and stability in compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0, ANT+ | Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC, AAC, APT-x | Xperia 5 IV has a newer version and more codecs for higher quality audio. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Xperia 5 IV has more precise GPS with more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM, eSIM | Xperia 5 IV has an eSIM for easier digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Both offer similar storage options. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 8 GB | Xperia 5 IV provides a consistent 8GB RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | S21 FE offers noise cancellation microphone for clearer voice calls while Xperia 5 IV offers high-resolution audio playback. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xperia 5 IV has a faster and more ergonomical fingerprint sensor. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both offer robust screen protection, adding to longevity. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Environmental: Barometer, Geomagnetic | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Environmental: Barometer | S21 FE provides a more comprehensive sensor suite. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits brightness is a significant advantage for outdoor visibility, making it easier to use in bright sunlight.
- Versatile Charging: Offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Front-Facing Camera: Higher resolution selfie camera for detailed and sharp selfies.
- Software Updates: Expected to receive more software updates.
- Telephoto Lens: The dedicated telephoto lens will allow for better zoom capabilities.
- Wide Angle + Macro lens: The dedicated ultrawide angle lens will allow for better landscape shots and also close up shots using macro lens.
- Wi-Fi MIMO: For compatible networks, this can improve connection speeds and stability.
- Geomagnetic sensor
Sony Xperia 5 IV Strengths:
- More Compact Design: Easier to handle and more pocketable, making it better for those who prefer a small phone.
- Better Performance: Features a newer chipset and GPU for a slight edge in overall performance, especially in gaming.
- Better Battery Life: Larger capacity battery means longer usage per charge.
- Faster Charging: It charges faster, reducing downtime.
- Superior Camera: Slightly better main camera with wider aperture, and dedicated telephoto and ultrawide cameras.
- High-Resolution Audio: Hi-Res audio support for better sound quality with compatible headphones.
- More precise GPS Supports more satellite systems, potentially resulting in better accuracy.
- More Advanced Bluetooth Version: Newer version and more audio codecs for higher quality.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomical and faster fingerprint sensor.
- eSIM Support: Easier to switch between carriers digitally.
- Ultra Stable Video: Ultra stable video is useful for people that film often, adding stability.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- S21 FE:
- Lacks the compact design of the Xperia 5 IV, and it may feel large for some users.
- Older chipset compared to the Xperia 5 IV.
- Xperia 5 IV:
- The display brightness, while adequate, isn't as good as the S21 FE, this can be a problem when using outside in direct sunlight.
- Lacks the wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Less longevity in software updates.
- The front camera has a lower resolution, potentially resulting in less detailed selfies.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- The Social Media Creator: The front facing camera has a better resolution for selfies for social media.
- The Outdoor Enthusiast: The brighter screen makes it more usable in sunlight.
- The Multimedia Consumer: Larger display for movies and video content.
- The Wireless Charging User: If wireless charging is a must, S21 FE is the best choice.
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- The Mobile Gamer: Better performance and battery life for gaming.
- The Audiophile: Hi-Res audio is a significant advantage for listening to high-quality audio files.
- The Professional Photographer/Videographer: With the telephoto and ultrawide lenses, it makes this a better option. Also, the video quality and stability is better.
- The Compact Phone User: The Xperia 5 IV is perfect for someone who wants a phone that's easy to handle with one hand.
- The Traveler: The more precise GPS would help with directions.
- The eSIM User: Using an eSIM instead of a physical SIM might be helpful.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, consider these questions:
- Is screen visibility in direct sunlight a top priority? If so, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the better choice.
- Do you prioritize a more compact, single-hand friendly design and better performance? The Sony Xperia 5 IV would be more suitable.
- Are you looking for high-quality audio and better video capabilities? Then the Sony Xperia 5 IV would be a better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Frequent Traveler: Choose the Sony Xperia 5 IV for its precise GPS, eSIM support, compact size and improved camera.
- Social Media Fanatic: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for the brighter display, front facing camera, and versatile charging.
- Mobile Gaming Power User: The Sony Xperia 5 IV for its superior processing power and longer battery life.
- Everyday User: Choose the phone that fits your style and what you prioritize most, either the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for a brighter screen or the Sony Xperia 5 IV for better performance.
Personal Choice
If I were to choose, I would personally lean towards the Sony Xperia 5 IV. While the brighter screen on the S21 FE is tempting, I value a compact device with a more powerful performance, better camera capabilities, and hi-res audio support for music. The slightly better battery life is a great advantage, and as someone who uses their device for filming, better stabilization and recording options are invaluable to me. I have a habit of always taking the less popular choice and tend to choose function over form. While both phones are very capable, the additional features on the Xperia 5 IV make it a better device for the type of use I tend to have.
