Okay, let's break down the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. Here’s a detailed comparison designed to cut through the spec jargon and highlight what truly matters for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of key specs, comparing the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, with real-world implications for each feature:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-07 | 2022-05-13 | Axon 40 Ultra is newer, potentially longer software support |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | S21 FE is more compact and slightly thinner; Axon 40 Ultra is taller, and a bit thicker, leading to a larger device. |
| Weight | 177g | 204g | S21 FE is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended use |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus (Screen) | Unknown | S21 FE screen has better protection |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.8" | Axon 40 Ultra offers more screen real estate, great for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1116 x 2480 | Axon 40 Ultra has slightly sharper visuals, a minor difference for most users. |
| Pixel Density | 403 PPI | 400 PPI | Both offer sharp and detailed display; very similar in practice |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Rich colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1500 nits | Axon 40 Ultra has better outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Axon 40 Ultra has newer and faster processor, better performance under heavy load, and more efficiency |
| AnTuTu Score | 923,836 | 1,061,300 | Axon 40 Ultra has higher benchmarks, translating to better gaming and multitasking performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Axon 40 Ultra will handle graphically intense tasks and games slightly better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP f/1.8 | 64MP f/1.6 | Axon 40 Ultra captures more detail with higher resolution and potentially better low light performance with a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 64MP f/3.5 | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens for zooming |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP f/2.2 | 64MP f/2.3 | Axon 40 Ultra captures more detail with a higher resolution. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.2 | 16MP f/2.0 | S21 FE captures more detailed selfies while Axon 40 Ultra has wider aperture, better low-light performance |
| Additional Cameras | None | Telephoto, ToF | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens and a ToF for depth sensing |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60fps | 8K up to 30fps | Axon 40 Ultra provides higher resolution video, great for those who demand the best recording quality. |
| DxoMark Mobile | 117 | N/A | S21 FE has a tested, good mobile camera quality |
| DxoMark Selfie | 127 | N/A | S21 FE has a tested, great selfie camera quality |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Axon 40 Ultra will likely last longer on a single charge due to higher capacity. |
| Charging | 25W | 65W | Axon 40 Ultra charges significantly faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Charging features | 15W Wireless, Reverse Wireless | None | S21 FE offers more flexible wireless charging options |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Samsung offers longer software support |
| Connectivity | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Axon 40 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version |
| GPS | Standard | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | Axon 40 Ultra supports more satellite systems, better location accuracy |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers more storage capacity, especially for media hoarders. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 8/12/16/18GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers much higher RAM for demanding tasks. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | DTS/DTS X, 3 microphones | Both phones offer great sound quality, S21 FE has better sound quality for playback, Axon 40 Ultra is good for video recording |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both offer basic fingerprint sensors |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Compass, Barometer | Gravity | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G includes additional environmental sensors |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G Strengths:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry around.
- Established Brand Reputation: Reliable ecosystem and brand recognition.
- Great Display: Sharp, vibrant screen with good brightness.
- Flexible Battery Features: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging offer flexibility.
- Good Selfie Camera: 32MP camera takes very detailed selfies, tested by DxoMark
- Longer Software Support: Up to Android 16, ensuring updates and security for longer.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- More Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset delivers superior speed for demanding tasks.
- Larger, Sharper Display: A bigger screen provides an immersive viewing experience.
- Exceptional Camera System: Advanced optics and sensors for top-tier photography.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging means less time plugged into the wall.
- Massive Storage and RAM Options: Ideal for users who need ample space and multitasking power.
- Advanced GPS: Supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy
Trade-offs:
- S21 FE:
- Older Chipset: May not perform as well in the long run as the Axon 40 Ultra.
- No Expandable Storage: Limits storage capacity.
- Slower Charging Speed: Slower to charge compared to the Axon 40 Ultra.
- Axon 40 Ultra:
- Bulkier Design: Less portable and comfortable for small hands.
- Unknown Screen Protection Doesn't have the brand recognition of Corning Gorilla Glass
- Shorter Software Support Limited to Android 13 upgrade, shorter lifespan.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
- Everyday User: Ideal for those who want a reliable, well-rounded phone for daily tasks.
- Media Consumers: Great for enjoying videos and browsing due to the vibrant screen.
- Photo Enthusiasts: Good quality camera for capturing everyday moments.
- Value Seekers: Offers a balanced performance at a reasonable price.
- Users in Samsung ecosystem: The phone integrates well with other Samsung devices.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra
- Power Users: Perfect for gamers, content creators, and heavy multitaskers.
- Photography Enthusiasts: A versatile camera system for capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Tech Aficionados: Those seeking cutting-edge tech with the latest features and performance.
- Media Lovers: Larger display for more immersive viewing and sound is great for video production
- People needing storage: You can choose up to 1 TB of storage.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Consider these three questions to decide which phone is right for you:
- Performance and Longevity: Do you prioritize having the latest, fastest chipset and a cutting-edge camera, even if it's in a larger device? Or do you prefer a lighter, well-balanced phone that will last a long time on the software side?
- Camera and Battery Needs: Do you need advanced photography features and the fastest charging, or are you okay with good enough capabilities and wireless charging flexibility?
- Storage Needs: Do you need a lot of storage in your phone? Do you want to be able to upgrade to a newer android version in the future?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Conscious & Daily Driver: If you are not looking for bleeding-edge performance but a good balance of features and price with a long software support, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the better option.
- Photography and Performance: If you are serious about mobile photography and need the best possible performance and battery capacity, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the clear winner.
- Media Consumption: For heavy media use, the larger screen and better sound of the Axon 40 Ultra makes it preferable.
What would I Choose and Why?
For me, the choice would be the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. As a tech journalist who is constantly testing the limits of technology, I need the absolute best performance, battery life, and camera capabilities in a phone. The Axon 40 Ultra's cutting-edge chipset, superior camera system, and larger screen will allow me to explore the latest software and games, take high-quality photos for work, and enjoy media on the go. While it's a bit bulkier than the S21 FE, the trade-off is worth it for the raw power and flexibility the device offers. Plus, the faster charging is a must for me when I am on the go. While the S21 FE offers great specs for the price, the Axon 40 Ultra's features are the deciding factor for me.
