Alright, let's dive deep into this head-to-head between the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. On paper, they're both smartphones, but they target different user needs and price points, which we'll see once we break down the specs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these phones stack up, emphasizing real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2023-04-26 | Xiaomi is newer by over a year; potential for longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Samsung is slightly shorter, Xiaomi is a bit taller and slimmer; both are very similar and should feel almost the same in hand. |
| Weight | 177g | 176g | Virtually identical weight; both feel light for most users. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.43" | Almost identical screen size; negligible difference. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2400 | Similar resolution; both offer sharp images for media, games and everyday use. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 403 | 409 | Very similar pixel density; both offer detailed displays. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both provide vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Samsung has smoother animations and transitions, making scrolling feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | Samsung is noticeably brighter; significantly better outdoor visibility in sunlight. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Samsung offers drastically superior performance, capable of handling demanding tasks and games with ease. |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 412,400 | Samsung provides a much snappier experience; faster app loading, better multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Samsung has a much more powerful GPU, better gaming experience and smoother graphics |
| BATTERY | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Xiaomi has a slightly larger battery; longer battery life, especially during heavy usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges faster, reducing time spent tethered to a power outlet. |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging | Reverse Charging | Samsung offers more versatile charging options but doesn't include a charger in the box. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (1/1.76", 1.8µm) | 108MP (1/1.52", 0.7µm) | Xiaomi has much higher resolution main sensor; theoretically captures more details (though not always better overall image quality). |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 8MP (1.0µm) | None | Samsung offers optical zoom and portrait capabilities, lacking in Xiaomi. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP (1/3.06", 1.12µm) | 8MP | Xiaomi has a wide-angle lens, which is useful for landscape photography; Samsung offers the same functionality on the combined "wide angle + macro" |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | Xiaomi includes a dedicated macro lens for extreme close-ups, but with low resolution. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (1/2.8", 0.8µm) | 16MP | Samsung takes higher-resolution selfies; better detail and overall clarity. |
| Video | 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS | 1080p@30fps | Samsung records higher quality video, including 4K resolution and better stabilization. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 117, Selfie: 127 | Not Available | Samsung has more capable camera for photo and video capturing. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Android 13 | Xiaomi has a slightly newer version of Android, although Samsung will get updates up to Android 16 |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Samsung has faster WiFi speeds and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Xiaomi has a newer Bluetooth version, slightly faster speeds and better battery consumption. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 128 GB / 256 GB | 64 GB / 128 GB / 256 GB | Both offer similar maximum storage; Xiaomi has an additional entry level configuration at 64GB. |
| RAM | 6 GB / 8 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB | Both come with configurations for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No ability to expand storage via microSD. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | Hi-Res Audio | Samsung has the Dolby Atmos advantage, plus clearer call, better audio separation. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi fingerprint is more responsive and convenient to use. |
| BUILD | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | Samsung has much better scratch and drop protection; more durable display. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive sensor suite (barometer) | Comprehensive sensor suite | Samsung offers more environmental sensors, while both are equipped for general functionality and gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 888 chipset is a major advantage, offering significantly faster performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Superior Display: Its 120Hz AMOLED screen is smoother and much brighter, making it better for outdoor use.
- Advanced Camera System: The S21 FE excels in video recording and includes a versatile telephoto lens, which the Xiaomi lacks.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and a more robust build quality provide a richer user experience.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Strengths:
- Bigger Battery: The larger 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life, especially during heavy usage.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging ensures shorter downtime.
- High-Resolution Main Camera: The 108MP main camera can capture high-detail images, although overall image quality may not be as consistent as the S21 FE in all conditions.
- Newer Operating System: Ships with Android 13 out of the box, but that only matters if the Samsung won't receive the Android 16 update.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung: Less battery capacity and slower charging. No charger in the box.
- Xiaomi: Significantly inferior processing power, lower display quality, and less versatile cameras.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: Ideal for power users, gamers, and anyone who values performance, display quality, and a capable camera system. If you want the best overall experience and are willing to trade some battery life and charger, this is the clear choice.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: A budget-friendly option suitable for everyday users who prioritize battery life, fast charging, and don't need high-end performance. It's a good choice for those who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and casual photography.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is raw performance for me? If you are planning on playing demanding games and using resource-intensive apps, the S21 FE is the better option. If you are looking for a budget-friendly phone for calls, text and emails the Redmi Note 12S will suit you.
- Do I need an outstanding display and camera? If so, the S21 FE's superior screen brightness and versatile camera system will be more satisfying. If you are planning on using the phone under direct sunlight, the S21 FE is a must.
- What's my budget? If you're on a strict budget, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the more affordable choice, though you'll be compromising in key areas.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Gamer/Power User: Go for the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for its processing power, superior display, and advanced features.
- The Casual User/Budget Conscious: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S offers good battery life and fast charging at a more accessible price.
- The Photography Enthusiast: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G’s telephoto and video quality will be more appealing.
Which One Would I Choose and Why?
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd personally go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G, without hesitation. Here’s why:
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S has a larger battery and faster charging, I need a phone that can keep up with my daily use which includes resource-heavy apps, lots of multitasking, and gaming. For these use cases, the Snapdragon 888 chipset and the superior display of the S21 FE are a must for me. The better camera system is just a bonus.
While the S21 FE lacks a charger in the box and has slightly less battery capacity, I can always mitigate this with a separate charger and by having a power bank handy. For me, the overall experience and consistent performance outweigh these small drawbacks.
In my view, the S21 FE is not just a good phone, it is a powerful tool that I know it will be able to handle my everyday tasks seamlessly.
