Samsung S21 FE Review Pros-Cons
Samsung S21 FE Review Pros-Cons– Looking for flagship features without the high price tag? The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE delivers the premium Galaxy experience in a budget-friendly package, making it a must-see for savvy shoppers. In this guide, we’ll break down all the pros and cons of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, giving you everything you need to decide if this powerhouse is the right fit for your needs.
Introduction to the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, which stands for “Fan Edition,” continues Samsung’s popular strategy of releasing a budget-friendly version of its flagship line. The S21 FE includes premium features like a high-refresh-rate display, a powerful chipset, and versatile cameras while making clever compromises to keep the price lower.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
| Display | 6.4-inch, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, FHD+ |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 (depending on region) |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP (Wide), 12MP (Ultra-wide), 8MP (Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 32MP |
| Battery | 4500mAh, 25W fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 12 with One UI |
| Dimensions | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm |
| Weight | 177g |
Design and Build Quality
The S21 FE follows the design philosophy of the Galaxy S21 series, with a sleek, minimalistic appearance. Samsung opted for a plastic back, which might not feel as premium as glass but does add durability.
– Pros:
– Lightweight and comfortable to hold at 177 grams.
– Compact design with an excellent screen-to-body ratio.
– Available in four color options: Graphite, Olive, Lavender, and White, making it stylish for various preferences.
– Cons:
– Plastic backs may feel less premium than glass.
– The lack of a unique design may make it less distinguishable in a sea of smartphones.
Display Performance
The display is one of the S21 FE’s standout features. Samsung is known for its AMOLED displays, and the S21 FE does not disappoint.
– Pros:
– The 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks.
– 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations smooth and fluid.
– FHD+ resolution is crisp and perfect for media consumption and gaming.
– Cons:
– No variable refresh rate, which can impact battery life compared to adaptive refresh technologies.
– Slightly lower resolution than some competitors in the same price range.
Camera Capabilities
The Galaxy S21 FE sports a triple-camera setup on the back, with a 12MP wide-angle, 12MP ultra-wide, and an 8MP telephoto lens.
– Pros:
– Versatile camera system that performs well in good lighting conditions.
– The 32MP front camera takes sharp selfies with sound color reproduction.
– Telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom offers better detail for zoomed shots than most phones in its category.
– Night mode improves low-light photography significantly.
– Cons:
– Low-light performance on the ultra-wide and telephoto lenses is not as good as that of the primary sensor.
– Camera performance, though good, needs to reach the flagship level, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
Battery life is crucial for smartphone users, and Samsung has made efforts to provide decent longevity on the S21 FE.
– Pros:
– 4500mAh battery provides a full day’s usage under moderate use.
– 25W fast charging capability and 15W wireless charging.
– Power-efficient display and processor, particularly when used at 60Hz.
– Cons:
– The charger is not included in the box, which can be inconvenient.
– 25W charging speed is slower than some competitors offering 65W+ charging.
– Battery drains faster when using 120Hz refresh rate continuously.
Performance and Software Experience
Depending on the region, the S21 FE has either the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100. For the price, it is a performance powerhouse.
– Pros:
– Snapdragon 888/Exynos 2100 offers excellent processing power for gaming, multitasking, and heavy apps.
– One UI 4.0 (Android 12) is user-friendly, customizable, and packed with valuable features.
– Regular software updates, as Samsung promises up to three years of Android updates.
– Cons:
– Some users may experience slight heating when gaming or running intensive tasks.
– RAM could feel limited in the 6GB variant for heavy multitasking.
– Occasional software bloatware, though most can be uninstalled.
Connectivity and Extras
The Galaxy S21 FE has modern connectivity options but lacks some flagship-level features.
– Pros:
– 5G connectivity ensures compatibility with the latest networks.
– In-display fingerprint scanner and facial recognition offer flexible biometric security.
– IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
– Cons:
– No expandable storage, so users are limited to onboard storage options.
– No headphone jack, which might disappoint users who prefer wired headphones.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight, stylish design | Plastic back feels less premium |
| Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display | No variable refresh rate |
| Good camera system for most lighting conditions | Average low-light performance in ultra-wide and telephoto lenses |
| Decent 4500mAh battery life | No charger in the box |
| 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging | Battery drains faster at 120Hz |
| Powerful Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 chipset | Heating during intensive tasks |
| One UI 4.0 with regular updates | Occasional bloatware |
| 5G connectivity, IP68 rating | No expandable storage, no headphone jack |
Final Verdict: Is Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Worth It?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE combines some of the best features from the flagship S21 series in a more affordable package. It’s a well-rounded smartphone with a superb display, solid performance, good cameras, and a stylish design. While it does make a few compromises—such as the plastic back, no charger in the box, and lack of expandable storage—these may not be deal-breakers for most users.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy S21 FE?
– Photography Enthusiasts: If you enjoy taking photos in various scenarios, the S21 FE’s camera versatility and quality will likely please you.
– Casual Gamers: The S21 FE’s high-end processor and smooth display make gaming a treat.
– Value Seekers: This phone is perfect for those wanting flagship-level features without the price tag of a true flagship.
Who Might Skip the Galaxy S21 FE?
– Heavy Multitaskers: The 6 GB model might be limited for users who require the absolute best in performance and RAM.
– Audiophiles: The absence of a headphone jack may deter those who still prefer wired audio.
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is a well-rounded, feature-packed device that balances performance and price. Its modern design, vibrant display, and solid cameras make it an appealing choice for most users, and it comfortably competes in the upper mid-range market. If you’re looking for a taste of flagship features without going all-in on a premium price, the Galaxy S21 FE is worth considering.
