Alright, let's dive deep into the specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. We'll look beyond the raw numbers and see how these phones stack up in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2023-04-11 | The Xiaomi is newer by 1 year, 3 months, and 4 days. Potentially newer software and design trends. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 mm | The S21 FE is more compact and slightly thinner, making it easier to handle one-handed, while the Note 12 Pro is taller and wider. |
| Weight | 177g | 201.8g | The S21 FE is noticeably lighter, which can improve comfort during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.67" | The Note 12 Pro has a larger screen, which might be better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp visuals with similar pixel density, suitable for daily use. |
| PPI | 403 | 395 | Both provide crisp images, so no major difference in clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and great contrast, especially for multimedia. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide a smooth scrolling experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1200 nits | The S21 FE can get slightly brighter, improving visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | The S21 FE’s chipset is significantly more powerful, ensuring smooth performance in demanding tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 397,200 | The S21 FE outperforms the Note 12 Pro in benchmarks by a significant margin, translating into faster app loading, better multitasking and more gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 618 | The S21 FE’s GPU offers better graphics performance for gaming and graphically demanding applications. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5020 mAh | The Note 12 Pro has a larger battery, which might result in longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | The Note 12 Pro charges much faster, a real bonus for busy users. |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging | None | The S21 FE offers more versatile charging options. No charger in box |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.80µm | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52", 0.70µm | The Note 12 Pro has higher resolution, but S21 FE has larger pixels, potentially better in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.00µm | None | S21 FE has a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.80µm | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | The S21 FE has higher resolution and a wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Both phones offer a wide angle lens. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.12µm | The Note 12 Pro offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | The Note 12 Pro has a dedicated depth camera for better portrait effects. |
| Video | 4K@30/60fps, HDR, EIS | 4K@30fps | The S21 FE offers more flexible video options with HDR and EIS. |
| DXOMark | Mobile: 117, Selfie: 127 | N/A | The S21 FE’s camera has been tested by DXOMark, offering a baseline for comparison. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, upgradable to 16 | Android 11 | The S21 FE has newer Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6, MiMO | Wi-Fi ac | The S21 FE has faster and more stable wireless internet. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Both are similar, with S21 FE having additional advanced audio features. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer ample storage. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Sufficient for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion via microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | Hi-Res Audio | The S21 FE is better for immersive audio with noise cancellation, while Note 12 Pro prioritizes high fidelity sound |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | The Note 12 Pro has a more convenient fingerprint sensor placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | The S21 FE has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Barometer | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | The S21 FE has more sensor features for enhanced functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers superior processing and graphics capabilities, ideal for heavy gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing.
- Premium Display: Brighter screen with 1300 nits ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a telephoto lens, versatile video recording options, and excellent selfie quality, making it a solid choice for photography enthusiasts.
- Wireless Charging: It has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Software Support: Runs Android 12 and can be upgraded to Android 16, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates.
- Build quality: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Competitive Advantages:
- More powerful processor for resource-intensive tasks.
- More flexible camera system with dedicated zoom lens, and great selfie camera.
- More versatile charging with wireless and reverse wireless capabilities.
- Offers better build quality with superior screen protection.
Limitations:
- No expandable storage.
- Lesser battery size and slower wired charging speeds than the Xiaomi.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G:
Strengths:
- Long Battery Life: The larger 5020 mAh battery offers solid endurance.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging refills the battery quickly.
- Versatile Camera System: Features a 108MP main sensor, plus a dedicated macro camera.
- Budget-Friendly: Usually available at a more competitive price point.
Competitive Advantages:
- Larger battery and faster charging speeds.
- Has a dedicated macro lens and depth lens for more versatility.
- Generally more affordable.
Limitations:
- Significantly less powerful processor than the S21 FE.
- No wireless charging.
- Older Android 11 OS.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is ideal for:
- Power Users: Those who demand high-performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value versatility and quality in their smartphone camera.
- Long-Term Users: People who want a phone with guaranteed software updates and a premium feel.
- Techies: Users who want access to the latest and most advanced technology.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is ideal for:
- Casual Users: People who need a reliable phone for daily tasks like browsing, social media, and casual photography.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Users looking for a good balance of features and value.
- Battery Life Prioritizers: Those who value long battery life and fast charging.
- Macro Photography Fans: Users who like to take close-up shots of small objects.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you choose:
- How important is raw processing power and gaming to you? If you need the best performance for demanding tasks, the S21 FE is the clear winner.
- Do you prioritize battery life and fast charging above other things? The Note 12 Pro offers longer battery life and super-fast charging.
- How important is the camera's versatility? The S21 FE offers a superior telephoto experience while the Note 12 Pro has a dedicated macro and portrait lenses.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the gamer and multi-tasker: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the go-to device. The higher performance will make everything smoother and better.
- For the casual user with a budget: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is the best choice. It is more budget-friendly.
- For the serious photographer: It's a close call. The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is better overall for versatility and has more features, but the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G can produce good quality photos, and offers a good macro lens experience.
Which One Would I Choose?
For me, it's the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G all the way. I'm a heavy user, and I prioritize performance, a quality camera, and overall technology. I also value the wireless charging capabilities, better software experience and superior build quality. The Snapdragon 888 chipset and the better screen are key factors for me since I tend to use my device a lot for gaming and media consumption, and I prefer a premium experience that this phone offers.
