Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Review

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The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (Fan Edition) is designed to provide flagship features at a more accessible price point. Launched in January 2022, this smartphone aims to cater to fans of the Galaxy S series by delivering an excellent balance of performance, camera capabilities, and design aesthetics. In this review, we will explore its specifications, pros, cons, and overall performance to help you determine if the Galaxy S21 FE is the right choice for you.

Specifications

  • Display:
    • 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X
    • Resolution: 1080 x 2400 pixels
    • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
    • HDR10+ support
    • Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
  • Processor:
    • Exynos 2100 (International) / Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (USA/China)
  • RAM:
    • 6GB or 8GB
  • Storage:
    • 128GB or 256GB (non-expandable)
  • Camera:
    • Rear: Triple camera setup
      • 12 MP (wide)
      • 12 MP (ultra-wide)
      • 8 MP (telephoto with 3x optical zoom)
    • Front: 32 MP
  • Battery:
    • 4500 mAh
    • Fast charging: 25W wired, 15W wireless
  • Operating System:
    • Android 12 (upgradable to Android 14 with One UI 5)
  • Connectivity:
    • 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, USB Type-C
  • Sensors:
    • Fingerprint (under-display), accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, compass
  • Dimensions:
    • 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm
  • Weight:
    • 177 grams
  • Colors:
    • Graphite, Olive, Lavender, White

Pros of Samsung Galaxy S21 FE

  1. Vibrant Display:
    • The 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display offers excellent color reproduction, deep blacks, and vibrant visuals. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and a responsive user experience.
  2. Solid Performance:
    • Powered by either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, the S21 FE delivers top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
  3. Versatile Camera System:
    • The triple-camera setup provides a wide range of photography options. The main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide and telephoto lenses offer versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  4. Long Battery Life:
    • With a 4500 mAh battery, the S21 FE can easily last a full day of moderate usage. The device also supports both wired and wireless fast charging, ensuring quick power-ups.
  5. Sleek Design:
    • The S21 FE features a premium design with a glass front and back, combined with a matte finish that feels comfortable in hand. It is also lightweight and easy to carry.
  6. 5G Connectivity:
    • The inclusion of 5G support future-proofs the device, providing faster download and streaming speeds where available.
  7. One UI Experience:
    • Samsung’s One UI offers a user-friendly interface with plenty of customization options. Regular software updates enhance security and features.
  8. Good Audio Quality:
    • The stereo speakers deliver clear sound quality, making it a good option for media consumption and gaming.

Cons of Samsung Galaxy S21 FE

  1. No Expandable Storage:
    • The absence of a microSD card slot limits storage options, which could be a drawback for users who require more space for apps, photos, and videos.
  2. Average Low-Light Performance:
    • While the camera performs well in good lighting, low-light performance could be improved. Night mode exists but may not produce results as impressive as higher-end models.
  3. Price:
    • Although it’s more affordable than flagship models, some consumers may still find the price point high compared to other mid-range smartphones with similar specifications.
  4. Plastic Frame:
    • The S21 FE uses a plastic frame rather than a metal one, which may feel less premium than other devices in its class.
  5. No Charger Included:
    • Like many recent smartphones, the Galaxy S21 FE does not come with a charger in the box, which could be inconvenient for some users.
  6. Fingerprint Sensor Issues:
    • Some users have reported inconsistencies with the under-display fingerprint sensor, leading to occasional frustration when unlocking the device.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is a well-rounded smartphone that successfully combines flagship features with a more accessible price point. Its vibrant display, solid performance, and versatile camera system make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable device without the premium price tag of top-tier models.

However, potential buyers should consider its limitations, such as the lack of expandable storage and average low-light camera performance. Overall, if you’re in the market for a smartphone that balances performance, design, and usability, the Galaxy S21 FE is a strong contender worth considering. Whether you’re a casual user, a photography enthusiast, or someone who enjoys gaming on the go, the S21 FE is equipped to meet a wide range of needs.