Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the vivo V30. I'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and offer user-focused insights to help you make the best choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | vivo V30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2024-03-04 | The V30 is a much newer model, so it benefits from more recent technology advancements. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, not foldable. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 164.4 x 75.1 x 7.5 mm | The vivo V30 is taller and slightly thinner, while the S21 FE is a bit thicker, which can affect grip and in-pocket feel. |
| Weight | 177g | 186g | The S21 FE is lighter, which may be more comfortable for longer use, although the difference is only 9g and is unlikely to be very noticeable. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.78" | The vivo V30 offers a noticeably larger screen, which can enhance media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1260x2800 | The vivo V30 has a significantly sharper display due to its higher pixel count. |
| PPI | 403 | 453 | The vivo V30 offers sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both phones offer vibrant colors and deep blacks with AMOLED technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations at 120Hz. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | The S21 FE's screen is significantly brighter, making it much more usable in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (4nm) | While the S21 FE’s chip is older, it's still a high-end processor. The V30 is more efficient on paper but the practical performance difference is low |
| Antutu Score | 923,836 | 866,863 | The S21 FE shows slightly higher benchmark scores, suggesting marginally better raw performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 720 | Both are capable GPUs, but the newer Adreno 720 in the V30 should be more energy efficient |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | The vivo V30 has a larger battery, which will generally result in longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 80W | The vivo V30 charges significantly faster, which is incredibly convenient if you need a quick power-up. |
| Features | Wireless & Reverse charging | Non-removable | The S21 FE offers convenient wireless charging options, but lacks the faster wired charging. The vivo V30 focuses on fast wired charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | The V30’s main camera has significantly more megapixels and a larger sensor, but smaller pixels. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 8MP, f/2.0 | None | The S21 FE has a dedicated telephoto camera, which is advantageous for zoom and portrait photography. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | The V30's selfie camera has a higher resolution and slightly wider aperture but slightly smaller pixels. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | The S21 FE's Wide angle has Macro capabilities but the vivo V30 has a dedicated wide angle lens |
| Video | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | The S21 FE offers a broader range of recording options, but the core quality is similar. |
| DxOMark Scores | Mobile:117, Selfie:127 | N/A | The S21 FE's tested camera score indicates decent performance, but the V30’s scores are unavailable. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Android 14 (upgradable to 16) | The V30 ships with a more recent Android version and same update support, potentially offering better compatibility with new apps and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, Dual band, MiMO | WiFi 6 | The S21 FE offers more advanced WiFi features for better performance in some networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.4 | The V30 has a newer Bluetooth version with a potential for better power efficiency and more advanced codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS | The V30 supports more satellite systems, potentially resulting in more accurate location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | The V30 offers a higher storage option at 512 GB, which could be significant for media-heavy users. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | The V30 offers more RAM, which should help with multitasking, and is necessary for higher quality gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic | The S21 FE offers a more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones utilize a basic fingerprint sensor for biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | The S21 FE has a superior screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus for higher drop and scratch protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Gravity | The S21 FE offers more advanced sensor for advanced usage, while the V30 has a gravity sensor |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Brighter Display: The 1300 nits brightness is a significant advantage in direct sunlight, ensuring the screen remains easily visible.
- Versatile Camera System: The inclusion of a telephoto camera adds flexibility for zoom photography, and the additional Wide angle + Macro lens allows for varied use cases.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Charging: Convenient for those who want to charge other devices or prefer wireless charging pads.
- Advanced Audio: Features Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers, providing a more immersive audio experience.
- Advanced Sensors: Offers more sensors than the V30, like Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic, which could enable more niche features.
- Better Screen Protection: The Gorilla Glass Victus is more scratch-resistant, adding to the longevity of the screen.
vivo V30 Strengths:
- Newer Device: Launched in 2024, it benefits from more recent technology and software.
- Larger & Sharper Display: Its larger, higher-resolution display offers a better visual experience.
- Faster Charging: 80W charging is a considerable advantage for those with busy lifestyles.
- Bigger Battery: The 5000mAh battery provides better battery endurance compared to the S21 FE.
- Newer Chipset: More efficient than the Snapdragon 888 on paper
- More RAM and Storage Options: Higher RAM options can help with multitasking and high quality gaming, and the 512 GB version is great for media users.
- Newer Bluetooth: 5.4 offers more up-to-date connectivity than the 5.0 of the S21 FE.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- S21 FE:
- Older Chipset
- Slower charging.
- Smaller battery capacity.
- V30:
- No wireless charging capabilities.
- Less versatile camera system (missing telephoto and macro lens).
- Lacks advanced audio features.
- No Brightness ratings
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is ideal for:
- Outdoor users: The brighter screen makes it a great choice for those who frequently use their phones in direct sunlight.
- Photography enthusiasts: The telephoto camera adds versatility for different shooting scenarios.
- Audio lovers: The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers enhances the audio experience.
- Users who value wireless charging: Its ability to charge wirelessly makes it a great everyday option.
- Users that require great screen protection: The Gorilla Glass Victus will ensure less scratches and drop protection
vivo V30 is ideal for:
- Media consumers: The larger, higher-resolution display and fast charging make it great for watching videos and playing games.
- Heavy multitaskers: The larger RAM capacity should ensure smooth operation with multiple apps.
- Users that need large storage: The 512 GB version can be useful for storing pictures, videos, and games.
- Users who need a fast recharge: The 80W charging will quickly top up the battery.
- Gamers: The large amount of RAM paired with the new Adreno 720 GPU make this ideal for gaming.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize screen visibility outdoors or are you mostly indoors? If outdoors, the S21 FE is superior. Indoors, the V30 has a better quality screen.
- Do you need the flexibility of a telephoto camera and wireless charging, or do you prefer faster charging and longer battery life? The S21 FE offers camera versatility and wireless charging, while the V30 prioritizes battery life and charging speed.
- Do you require top-end audio capabilities and build quality? If yes, then the S21 FE would be a better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The On-the-Go Photographer: If you love photography and need zoom capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: The Heavy Media User: If you mostly consume media and play games, the vivo V30 is a better pick due to its larger, sharper screen, battery, and quick charging.
- Scenario 3: The Power User: If you need good battery life, quick top-ups, and smooth performance, the vivo V30 is a great option.
- Scenario 4: The Outdoorsy person: If you spend a lot of time outdoors, then the better screen brightness, protection and extra sensors on the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G makes it a no brainer.
Conclusion
Both phones have their strengths, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you value outdoor visibility, camera versatility, and wireless charging, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is a strong contender. However, if you prefer a newer device with a larger, sharper display, longer battery life, faster charging, and high storage, the vivo V30 will be a better fit.
My Choice:
If I were to pick, I'd lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. While the V30 is newer and has a better display, the S21 FE's significantly brighter screen is a game-changer for me as I am frequently outdoors. The wireless charging, telephoto camera and additional sensors are also something that I highly value. Ultimately, the S21 FE is a better rounded device with more niche features, despite the slightly weaker performance.
