Sony Xperia 5 III vs Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date October 8, 2021 January 7, 2022
Release Year 2021 2022

Physical

Volume 87.54 cm³ 91.64 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.63 "/g 3.62 "/g
Weight 168 g 177 g
Height 157 mm 155.7 mm
Width 68 mm 74.5 mm
Thickness 8.2 mm 7.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Green
  • Pink
  • White
  • Graphite
  • Lavender
  • Olive

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.4 "
Resolution 1080 x 2520 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 21:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 81.4 % 86.7 %
Pixel Density 449 PPI 403 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 120.94 mAh/in² 109.86 mAh/in²
Battery Density 51.4 mAh/cm³ 49.11 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) - Version 1
CPU Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version 1
GPU Adreno 660 Adreno 660 - Version 1

Connectivity

USB Version 3.1 N/A
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.1, OTG, Video Output USB Type-C, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 12
Maximum OS Version 13 16

Comparison Summary

Sony Xperia 5 III vs. Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: A User-Centered Comparison

As a technology communications specialist, my goal is to help you understand these phones not just as lists of specs, but as tools that fit into your life. Let's delve into a narrative-driven comparison of the Sony Xperia 5 III and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureSony Xperia 5 IIISamsung Galaxy S21 FE 5GUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignClean, Minimalist AndroidSamsung One UI (Feature-Rich)Xperia offers a purer Android experience; S21 FE provides more customization options.
Interaction FlowFocused on Speed and EfficiencyMultitasking and Widget FocusedXperia suits users who value quick actions; S21 FE caters to those who personalize their home screen.
Accessibility FeaturesStandard Android Accessibility SuiteOne UI Enhanced Accessibility FeaturesBoth offer basic accessibility, but One UI might provide a slight edge in customization.
Design ErgonomicsCompact, Slim ProfileLarger Display, Slightly HeavierXperia prioritizes one-handed use; S21 FE emphasizes screen real estate.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: A Day in the Life of a Photographer:

Imagine you're a passionate photographer. The Xperia 5 III, with its dedicated shutter button and pro-grade camera features (like manual controls and 120fps slow-motion video), mimics the feel of a traditional camera, allowing for intuitive control and capturing fleeting moments with precision. Its compact size makes it easy to carry on adventures.

The S21 FE 5G, while lacking a physical shutter button, boasts a powerful camera system with impressive zoom capabilities and a vibrant AMOLED display for reviewing your shots. Its larger screen offers a better viewfinder experience, but might feel bulkier in your pocket.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

User 1: Tech-Savvy Minimalist: This user would appreciate the Xperia 5 III's clean Android experience, compact design, and performance-focused features.

User 2: Casual User Seeking Value: The S21 FE 5G's vibrant display, longer software support (Android 16), and wider range of color options might appeal more to this user.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Choosing the Right Phone: This isn't about which phone has more megapixels. It's about how each phone feels in your hand, how it responds to your touch, and how it aligns with your lifestyle.

Beyond the Specs: Consider your priorities:

  • Pure Android Experience vs. Feature-Rich Customization
  • Compactness and Speed vs. Larger Display and Versatility
  • Photography Enthusiast vs. Casual Shooter

My Choice: Sony Xperia 5 III

While both phones are excellent, I would choose the Sony Xperia 5 III. Its design philosophy resonates deeply with my preference for a clean, minimalist user interface. The emphasis on speed, efficiency, and a compact form factor aligns perfectly with my need for a device that feels agile and unobtrusive. I appreciate the focus on photography fundamentals, mimicking a traditional camera experience. While the S21 FE 5G offers a compelling package, the Xperia 5 III's unique approach to design and user experience makes it the clear winner for me. It’s a phone designed for focused interaction and intentional use, values that I prioritize in my digital life.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.