Alright, let's dive deep into this head-to-head matchup between the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G. We've got two solid contenders here, but they're designed with slightly different priorities in mind. Let’s break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table, translating the tech jargon into real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2023-08-04 | Redmi 12 is newer, may have updated software support |
| Size | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm | S21 FE is more compact, better for single-hand use; Redmi 12 is larger, better for media consumption |
| Weight | 177g | 199g | S21 FE is lighter, more comfortable to hold for long periods |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.79" | Redmi 12 has a larger screen, great for watching videos and games |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2460 | Similar sharpness, the difference is minor |
| PPI | 403 | 396 | Very similar pixel density; both will look sharp |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21 FE has superior contrast, colors, and power efficiency with an AMOLED display |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21 FE offers smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21 FE offers much better outdoor visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4nm) | S21 FE has a much more powerful chipset, meaning faster apps, smoother multi-tasking, and better gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 456,552 | S21 FE is significantly faster in benchmarks |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 613 | S21 FE is better for graphically intensive tasks |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Redmi 12 boasts higher megapixel count. S21 FE has a better sensor (Sony IMX555) and better software |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 8MP (f/2.0) | None | S21 FE has a dedicated zoom/portrait lens for more versatility |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 13MP (f/2.2) | None | S21 FE has a dedicated wide angle + Macro camera |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.2) | 5MP (f/2.2) | S21 FE has a superior front-facing camera for sharper, detailed selfies |
| Depth Sensor | None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Redmi 12 has a depth sensor to improve bokeh and other camera modes |
| Video | Up to 4K 60fps HDR | 1080p 30fps | S21 FE can record higher resolution and framerate video, allowing for better video quality and slow motion options |
| DxoMark | Mobile:117 Selfie: 127 | Mobile: 63 | S21 FE significantly out performs the Redmi 12 in camera quality and capability |
| Features | 4K Video, Optical zoom, Triple Camera | Dual camera | S21 FE offers more features such as optical zoom |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | Redmi 12 has a larger battery, promising longer usage |
| Charging | 25W | 18W | S21 FE has faster charging |
| Features | 15W Wireless charging, reverse charging, No charger | Non-removable | S21 FE has more charging options |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 16) | Android 13 (up to 14) | Redmi 12 ships with a newer version of Android, but the Samsung will be updated more |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21 FE has a newer Wi-Fi standard, offering better speeds |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Both have Bluetooth 5.0 |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | S21 FE has more accurate GPS |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support Dual SIM |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer similar storage options |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 4/6/8GB | Both offer similar ram options |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers, noise cancelation | Basic Audio features | S21 FE offers a better audio experience |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | In-Display | Side-mounted | Xiaomi is more advanced |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21 FE has better scratch and shatter resistance |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S21 FE provides a greater quantity of higher-quality sensors |
2. Key Insights
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: This phone is a performance powerhouse, boasting a flagship-level Snapdragon 888 chipset. It’s designed for users who demand top-tier performance, a superior display, and a versatile camera setup. The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a premium viewing experience, while its robust set of cameras excels in various scenarios. The inclusion of wireless charging and reverse charging adds to its appeal as a feature-rich device.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G: This phone prioritizes a large screen and long battery life. Its Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 is less powerful than the S21 FE but handles everyday tasks well, and its 5000 mAh battery should get you through a full day easily. The IPS LCD screen is serviceable but doesn't match the vibrant colors of the S21 FE. It is a solid budget-friendly phone with a focus on practicality and endurance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Power Users (S21 FE 5G): If you're a gamer, content creator, or simply someone who needs a fast, reliable phone that can handle demanding tasks, the S21 FE is the way to go. Its superior display, flagship chipset, and versatile camera will make sure you get the very best.
- Budget-Conscious Users (Redmi 12 5G): If your main priority is a large screen for media consumption and long battery life for everyday usage, the Redmi 12 is an excellent option. It provides a very good smartphone experience without breaking the bank.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you choose:
- Do you prioritize performance or battery life? If you need maximum speed and a top-tier visual experience, choose the S21 FE. If you want to use your phone all day on a single charge, the Redmi 12 is the better option.
- Is display quality important to you? The S21 FE has a superior AMOLED display with vibrant colors and 120Hz refresh rate, while the Redmi 12 uses an IPS LCD. If you value image quality, the S21 FE is the better option.
- Are camera capabilities crucial? The S21 FE has a significantly better camera array, with features like optical zoom, 4K HDR video capabilities and significantly better quality across the board. If your focus is photography, the S21 FE is the better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Mobile Gamer: Go with the S21 FE. Its powerful processor and 120Hz display will make all the difference.
- The Social Media Enthusiast: The S21 FE has the better front-facing camera with higher resolution, along with superior photo capabilities and video capture.
- The Everyday User on a Budget: The Redmi 12 5G is your best bet. It covers all of the basics, and its large screen and long battery life will meet the needs of everyday use.
- The Multimedia User: The S21 FE has the superior screen and audio quality, it has a very large and very vibrant AMOLED screen and high quality audio features such as Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation.
- The Casual Photographer: The S21 FE is the better option, it boasts superior imaging capabilities across the board, and it has many features such as the optical zoom that are not present in the Redmi 12.
My Choice
If it were my money, I’d go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, no question. While the Redmi 12 5G is a decent budget phone, the S21 FE offers a truly superior user experience. The combination of its blazing-fast Snapdragon 888 chipset, the vibrant AMOLED display, versatile camera system, and higher-quality sensors makes it the clear winner for me. The S21 FE provides a significantly better experience for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing, and its superior camera means that the photos it takes are substantially higher quality. I'm willing to spend a little extra for a device that excels in every aspect. The better screen and audio quality are also major factors, as I tend to use my phone for media consumption quite often. For me, the S21 FE is the clear winner.
