Samsung Galaxy S21 vs Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Our verdict: Neither phone sweeps the display: the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is bigger at 6.4" while the Samsung Galaxy S21 is sharper at 424 PPI. On paper, the Samsung Galaxy S21 wins the camera battle with 64MP on the rear. Selfie fans take note: the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32MP front camera. At just 171g, the Samsung Galaxy S21 is the more pocket-friendly option.
Samsung Galaxy S21
|
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.2" | 6.4" |
| Display | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X capacitive touchscreen |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 424 | 411 |
| Rear Camera | 64 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10 Megapixels | 32 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 | Exynos 990 |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with A2DP, LE | 5.0 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm |
| Weight | 171 grams | 177 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP53 - dust and splash protection | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£17.99/mo
£0.00 upfront |
— |
| SIM-free | £129.95 | £209.99 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has the bigger screen at 6.4" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S21's 6.2", the Samsung Galaxy S21 has the sharper display at 424 pixels per inch versus 411, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel while the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X capacitive touchscreen.
Which has the better camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a 64 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 12 Megapixels rear camera. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.
Which is cheaper to buy SIM-free, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £129.95.
What storage options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G use?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses the Exynos 990.
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is the more portable of the two — it's 6g lighter at 171 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm, and is slimmer at 7.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is rated IP53 - dust and splash protection, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G run?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 runs Android 11 and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G runs Android 12. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.