Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the vivo iQOO 12. These are two very different beasts aimed at slightly different audiences, and understanding their nuances is key to making an informed choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, focusing on what each spec means for your day-to-day experience:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | vivo iQOO 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm, 177g | 163.2 x 75.9 x 8.1 mm, 198.5g | S21 FE is more compact and lighter, easier for one-handed use; iQOO 12 is larger and heavier |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21 FE offers solid protection with Victus glass; iQOO 12 protection is less clear |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.78" | iQOO 12 offers a larger screen for more immersive media consumption and productivity |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1260 x 2800 | iQOO 12 provides sharper visuals due to higher pixel density |
| Pixel Density | 403 PPI | 453 PPI | iQOO 12 has noticeably sharper text and images |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent colors and contrast |
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz | 144 Hz | iQOO 12 provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 3000 nits | iQOO 12 is significantly brighter, far better for outdoor visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | iQOO 12's newer chip offers faster speeds and improved power efficiency, future-proofing performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 2,020,000 | iQOO 12 has much higher performance for gaming, multitasking, and overall speed |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | iQOO 12 has much more powerful graphics processing capabilities |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.3" | iQOO 12 has higher resolution, larger sensor, and wider aperture for better low light performance |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP | 64MP | iQOO 12 offers more detailed zoomed images with dedicated telephoto lens |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 50MP, f/2.0 | iQOO 12 has higher resolution and wider aperture for better wide angle shots |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.1" | S21 FE boasts a higher-resolution selfie camera |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps | iQOO 12 offers higher resolution for professional video, both include stabilization and slow motion |
| DXOMark Scores | Mobile:117 Photo:119, Video:107 , Selfie: 127, Photo:126, Video:130 | N/A | Samsung’s S21 FE has scored decent but older dxomark scores |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | iQOO 12 has a larger battery for longer usage |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | iQOO 12 charges much faster and more efficiently |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | No | S21 FE offers wireless charging for added convenience, iQOO does not |
| Reverse Charging | 4.5W | No | S21 FE can charge other devices using its battery |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | iQOO 12 runs on the latest Android, offering the newest features and security |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | iQOO 12 supports the latest standard, offering faster speeds and better performance |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.4 | iQOO 12 has a newer version for better speed and reliability, plus supports LDAC |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 256/512/1024GB | iQOO 12 offers significantly more storage options |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 12/16GB | iQOO 12 offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and heavy apps |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Other | |||
| Audio | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos | S21 FE has noise canceling microphones which could be beneficial |
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both feature a standard fingerprint sensor |
| Sensors | Barometer, Compass, Gyro, Accelerometer, Proximity | Gyro, Accelerometer, Proximity | S21 FE has additional sensors useful in construction or specific use cases |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Strengths: A more compact and lightweight design with robust Gorilla Glass Victus protection, offering wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It excels in selfie photography and offers a more well rounded experience if video isn't a must. It includes a barometer, which can be crucial for those in specific fields like meteorology or hiking.
- Competitive Advantages: A more established software experience and brand reputation, along with a slightly lower price point if budget is a concern. It's also good to note it includes reverse wireless charging, wireless charging, as well as has noise canceling microphones, which the iQOO 12 is missing.
- Trade-offs: Older chipset compared to the iQOO 12, a less bright display, and slower charging speeds. It is also lacking compared to the iQOO 12's camera setup, with no dedicated telephoto lens, and lower main sensor specs.
vivo iQOO 12:
- Strengths: Cutting-edge performance thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, a much brighter and higher resolution display with a 144Hz refresh rate, an impressive camera system with 8K video, and blazing-fast 120W charging.
- Competitive Advantages: A better performing phone, better low-light camera performance, with better storage, memory and higher quality display. The iQOO 12 also offers the latest Wifi 7 standard for better connectivity.
- Trade-offs: The iQOO is much larger and heavier, not offering wireless charging, a larger form factor, and a slightly less robust reputation when compared to Samsung.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Ideal User: Everyday users seeking a reliable, well-rounded device for social media, photos, and media consumption. Good for those that appreciate wireless charging and a familiar interface.
- Use Cases: Perfect for daily communication, browsing, moderate gaming, and casual photography. Great if you want a dependable device that you know will last a full day with its battery capacity and extra features.
- Price-to-Value: A more budget-friendly option that sacrifices some top-tier features for a more affordable price.
vivo iQOO 12:
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts, gamers, and anyone who prioritizes top-tier performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- Use Cases: Best for intensive gaming, video editing, professional photography, and those who need a fast and powerful device for daily usage.
- Price-to-Value: Higher priced, but offers exceptional value due to its advanced features and performance, making it a future-proof investment.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to consider:
What is my priority?
- Performance & Display: If your focus is on raw power, gaming, and a vibrant screen, the iQOO 12 is the clear winner.
- Reliability & Features: If having a more established brand with wireless charging, reverse charging, and slightly more balanced features is important, the S21 FE should be considered.
What is my budget?
- Budget-Conscious: The S21 FE is likely to be more budget-friendly and a great daily driver.
- Premium Performance: If you can afford a higher price, the iQOO 12 is a worthwhile investment.
What is more important, size or extra features?
- Compact Design: If you value a comfortable, light, and small form factor the S21 FE is better suited.
- Large Screen and Battery: If you need a large display, and bigger battery, then the iQOO 12 is the better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: If you mostly browse social media, make calls, and watch videos occasionally, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is a more than capable phone that will save you some money.
- The Gamer: If you play resource-intensive games and require the highest framerates and performance, the iQOO 12 will provide the most enjoyable experience.
- The Content Creator: If you regularly capture videos and require the highest possible recording quality, then the 8K recording on the iQOO 12 is a necessity. The iQOO 12's extra features, and camera prowess, will be better than the S21 FE.
What I Would Choose and Why:
Personally, I would choose the vivo iQOO 12. As someone who appreciates the latest and greatest in tech, the iQOO 12 is a powerhouse that ticks all the boxes. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is a significant step up, offering noticeable improvements in performance, and gaming. While I do appreciate wireless charging, the inclusion of 120W charging and a much larger display makes the iQOO a better choice for my use case.
However, I must admit that both phones are designed for slightly different markets. The S21 FE is great for those looking for a more affordable and reliable phone that includes wireless charging, and a well known brand. The iQOO 12 is an all out beast that's geared for someone who wants the most performance possible.
