Saumsung S21FE 5G Review in 2024

Pros:

Display: The AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate is vibrant and smooth.
Performance: Powerful hardware that handles both everyday tasks and gaming effortlessly.
Camera: Versatile camera setup with good quality images and videos.
Battery: Reliable battery life with fast and wireless charging options.
Design: Modern and stylish design available in a range of colors.

Cons:

Back Material: The plastic back might not feel as premium as glass or metal.
Expandable Storage: No option for additional storage via microSD card.
Battery Life: While decent, it might not stand out compared to some competitors.
Regional Variations: Performance can vary depending on whether you have the Snapdragon or Exynos variant.

“If you’ve been eyeing Samsung’s flagship phones but have been put off by their steep prices, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE could be the sweet spot you’ve been looking for. It promises all the high-end features of Samsung’s flagship lineup at a more budget-friendly price. But does this Fan Edition really live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details and find out.”

1. Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, or Fan Edition, is Samsung’s attempt to deliver premium features at a more accessible price. Launched in early 2022, it aims to offer the essence of the flagship S21 series but without the eye-watering cost. Designed for those who crave top-tier specs without the flagship price tag, this phone promises a lot. So, how does it fare in everyday use? Let’s start by examining its design and build quality, which is where we first get a feel for the phone’s overall character.

2. Design and Build Quality

Picking up the S21 FE, you’re immediately struck by its modern and sleek design. Samsung has opted for a plastic back that mimics the look of glass, paired with an aluminum frame. While the plastic back might not feel as premium as glass or metal, it keeps the price in check and still looks sharp. The design features a punch-hole camera in the center of the display and a clean camera bump at the back, giving it a contemporary feel. It’s ergonomically designed with rounded edges and is lightweight, making it easy to hold and use one-handed. Although the plastic back might not offer the same tactile experience as more expensive materials, it still provides a solid and stylish impression. Now that we’ve touched on how it looks and feels, let’s move on to the display, which is arguably one of the phone’s standout features.

3. Display

The display on the S21 FE is a real highlight. It sports a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen that offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making for a visually stunning experience. With a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, everything from browsing through your social media feed to watching videos looks crisp and clear. What really sets this display apart is its 120Hz refresh rate, which ensures that scrolling and animations are incredibly smooth. For those who love watching videos or playing games, the HDR10+ support enhances the color and contrast, making your media look even more vivid. Transitioning from the visual feast of the display, let’s see how the S21 FE performs under the hood.

4. Performance

Under the hood, the S21 FE packs some serious power. It’s equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor (or the Exynos 2100 in some regions), which means it’s more than capable of handling everything from daily tasks to high-end gaming. With 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, you’ve got plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos. The phone runs smoothly whether you’re multitasking with several apps open or diving into graphic-intensive games. The only real downside is that there’s no expandable storage option, so you’re limited to the built-in storage. Having covered performance, let’s explore the software experience, which plays a big role in how you interact with the device daily.

5. Software

The software experience on the S21 FE is quite smooth, thanks to its Android 12 operating system and Samsung’s One UI 4.0. This combination offers a user-friendly and customizable interface. One UI provides various personalization options, including themes and widgets, so you can tailor the phone to your liking. The interface is intuitive, with features like split-screen multitasking and gesture controls that enhance usability. Samsung also ensures that the phone stays current with regular updates and security patches. With software covered, it’s time to shift focus to the camera system, which is a crucial aspect for many users.

6. Camera

The camera system on the S21 FE is versatile and capable. It features a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This setup allows for a range of shooting options, from wide-angle shots to detailed zoomed-in photos. The main camera captures vibrant and sharp images, while the ultra-wide lens lets you capture more of the scene. The telephoto lens is great for getting up close without losing detail. The 32MP front camera is excellent for selfies and video calls. The camera system does a great job overall, but if you’re a photography enthusiast, you might want to compare it with some other high-end options. With the camera experience detailed, let’s look at how the phone fares in terms of battery life.

7. Battery Life

In terms of battery life, the S21 FE performs reliably. The 4,500mAh battery easily lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy use, whether you’re streaming videos, browsing the web, or gaming. The phone supports 25W fast wired charging, so you won’t be waiting around too long to top up. It also offers 15W wireless charging and 4.5W reverse wireless charging, which is handy for charging other devices or accessories. While the battery life is solid, it might not be the best in its class, but it should be more than sufficient for most users. Now, let’s move on to connectivity and additional features that contribute to the overall functionality of the S21 FE.

8. Connectivity and Features

When it comes to connectivity and features, the S21 FE covers all the essentials. It supports 5G for faster network speeds, Wi-Fi 6 for a more reliable connection, and Bluetooth 5.0 for better wireless communication. The phone also includes an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and face recognition for added convenience. The stereo speakers provide clear and balanced audio, enhancing your media consumption and calls. Additionally, the IP68 rating means the phone is resistant to dust and water, adding an extra layer of durability. With connectivity and features addressed, let’s review the pros and cons to give you a well-rounded perspective.

10. Price and Value for Money

When it comes to price and value, the S21 FE is positioned as a mid-range device with high-end features. It offers a great mix of performance, display quality, and camera capabilities at a more affordable price compared to flagship models. If you’re comparing it to other mid-range phones, the S21 FE stands out with its premium design and strong performance specs. For anyone looking for a phone that gives you a taste of flagship features without the flagship cost, the S21 FE is definitely worth considering.

11. Conclusion

To wrap it up, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is a solid choice for those who want a high-quality smartphone experience without paying top dollar. It excels in display quality, performance, and camera versatility, and its battery life and features further enhance its appeal. If you’re after a phone that delivers flagship-like qualities at a more affordable price, the S21 FE is a compelling option that does a great job of balancing performance and value.