Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
Our Verdict: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Galaxy S21 Plus launched together: the S21 FE 5G is the standard model and the S21+ 5G the higher-end one. The S21+ 5G has the better camera on paper, 64MP versus 12MP, and the S21+ 5G has the bigger screen at 6.7" against 6.4", while the S21 FE 5G has the sharper one at 411 PPI. The S21 FE 5G is the lighter phone at 177g against 202g. The S21+ 5G is the one to have if you want what it adds, but the S21 FE 5G is the smarter buy if you'd rather keep the money.
Buying outright, the S21 FE 5G starts at £140 SIM-free.
10 reviews 4.0
10 reviews
Prices updated 16 July 2026
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G
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Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 3.9 10 reviews |
4.0 10 reviews |
| Screen | 6.4" | 6.7" |
| Display | Dynamic AMOLED 2X capacitive touchscreen | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 411 | 393 |
| Rear Camera | 12 Megapixels | 64 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 32 Megapixels | 10 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Exynos 990 | Exynos 2100 |
| Battery | 4,500 mAh | 4,800 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Standard 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/6e |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm | 161.4 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm |
| Weight | 177 grams | 202 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts | - | - |
| SIM-free | £139.99 | £174.99 |
| Prices updated 16 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G or Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus has the bigger screen at 6.7" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G's 6.4", the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G has the sharper display at 411 pixels per inch versus 393, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X capacitive touchscreen panel while the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G or Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 12 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus has a 64 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 FE 5G or Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £139.99.
What storage options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus use?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is powered by the Exynos 990, while the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus uses the Exynos 2100.
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G or Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the more portable of the two: it's 25g lighter at 177 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is slimmer at 7.8mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G or Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus?
Both phones share the same water resistance rating of IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus run?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G runs Android 12 and the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus runs Android 11. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.