S21 Fe vs S22: Which Samsung Phone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially with so many fantastic options on the market. If you’re eyeing a Samsung device, you’ve likely stumbled upon the Galaxy S21 FE and the Galaxy S22. Both phones offer premium features, but which one truly deserves your hard-earned cash?
This in-depth comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE vs S22 will break down everything you need to know. We’ll explore the design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and overall value of each device. Prepare to discover which phone perfectly aligns with your needs and budget.
Whether you prioritize affordability or cutting-edge technology, this guide will help you make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the subtle nuances that separate the S21 FE and the S22, empowering you to confidently choose your next Samsung smartphone. Let’s dive in and see which one comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | s21 fe | s22 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.4 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | Super AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Processor | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 8MP | 50MP + 12MP + 10MP |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 4500 mAh | 3700 mAh |
| Charging | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 12, upgradable to Android 14 | Android 12, upgradable to Android 14 |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S21 Fe: Features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. While excellent, it has slightly thicker bezels compared to the S22.
- S22: Boasts a smaller 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It delivers brighter visuals and potentially better power efficiency due to its smaller size.
- Winner: S22
Processor
- S21 Fe: Typically equipped with either a Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100 processor, depending on the region. Performance is generally very good, but can experience thermal throttling under heavy loads.
- S22: Usually features the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 processor. Offers improved performance and efficiency compared to the S21 FE, resulting in smoother overall operation.
- Winner: S22
Camera System
- S21 Fe: Comes with a versatile triple-camera system, often including a 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 8MP telephoto lens. Good image quality in most conditions, but may struggle slightly in low light compared to the S22.
- S22: Also features a triple-camera system, often with improvements in image processing and low-light performance, leading to more detailed and vibrant photos.
- Winner: S22
Battery Life
- S21 Fe: Packs a 4500mAh battery, providing decent battery life for moderate usage. Battery life can suffer with heavy use, especially gaming or video recording.
- S22: Has a smaller 3700mAh battery. Battery life is a potential weakness, often requiring daily charging with moderate to heavy usage.
- Winner: S21 FE
Design and Build Quality
- S21 Fe: Features a plastic back with a metal frame. It feels sturdy, but not as premium as the S22.
- S22: Boasts a glass back with a more premium metal frame, offering a more refined and flagship feel.
- Winner: S22
Software and Updates
- S21 Fe: Launched with Android 12, and is receiving updates.
- S22: Launched with Android 12, and is receiving updates.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- S21 Fe: Initially launched at a lower price point than the S22 and is now more affordable.
- S22: Launched at a higher price point than the S21 FE, though prices have decreased since release.
- Winner: S21 FE
Water Resistance
- S21 Fe: IP68 water and dust resistance, offering protection against submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.
- S22: IP68 water and dust resistance, offering protection against submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | S22 |
| Performance | S22 |
| Battery Life | S21 FE |
| Camera | S22 |
| Design | S22 |
What They Have in Common
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones support 5G, ensuring fast download and upload speeds where available.
- Water Resistance: Both the Galaxy S21 FE and S22 come with an IP68 rating, offering protection against dust and water submersion.
- Wireless Charging: Both devices support wireless charging, allowing for convenient charging without cables.
- Samsung Ecosystem: Both phones seamlessly integrate with the Samsung ecosystem, including features like Samsung DeX and SmartThings.
- High-Quality Displays: Both phones feature vibrant and responsive displays that provide excellent viewing experiences.
S21 FE Vs S22 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The Samsung Galaxy S22 boasts a significant advantage in performance due to its more advanced processor. The S22 typically features a newer generation of either a Snapdragon or Exynos chip, delivering faster speeds and improved efficiency. This translates to smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and a generally snappier user experience. The S21 FE, while still capable, lags behind in raw power, potentially showing its age when handling demanding tasks or resource-intensive games. This makes the S22 a better choice for users prioritizing top-tier performance.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems of both phones are impressive, but the S22 often has the edge thanks to its enhanced image processing and potentially improved hardware. The S22 typically incorporates advancements in sensor technology, leading to better low-light performance, more vibrant colors, and sharper details. While the S21 FE captures excellent photos, the S22 provides a noticeable upgrade, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Consider your photography needs and the importance of image quality when making your decision.
Display Quality and Features
Both phones offer excellent displays, but the S22 sometimes takes the lead with slightly improved brightness and potentially more advanced display technology. The S22 may feature a more refined Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering superior color accuracy and smoother scrolling. The S21 FE’s display remains bright and vibrant, but the S22 might provide a more immersive viewing experience, especially in direct sunlight. Consider the importance of display quality for your daily usage when choosing between the two.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
Battery life can vary depending on usage, but the S21 FE often provides slightly better battery endurance than the S22. The S22’s more power-hungry processor and display can contribute to faster battery drain. While both phones support fast charging, the S21 FE might provide a more consistent battery life throughout the day. Consider your daily usage patterns and the importance of battery longevity when making your decision. Both phones offer fast charging capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The design language between the S21 FE and S22 often presents subtle differences. The S22 might feature a more premium design, with a sleeker aesthetic and possibly more durable materials. The S21 FE often keeps the design similar to the S21 series. Both phones boast IP68 water and dust resistance. Consider the design that best appeals to your personal taste and how important build quality is to you. Both phones feel premium in hand.
Price and Value for Money
The price point of both phones can fluctuate depending on the retailer and current promotions. The S21 FE, being an older model, typically offers better value for money, especially if you prioritize performance and features at a lower cost. The S22, being the newer model, comes with a higher price tag but includes enhancements in performance, camera, and display quality. Consider your budget and the features you need when deciding which phone provides the best value for your money. Research current market prices.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s21 fe If…
- You want a larger screen size.
- You prefer a phone with a slightly longer battery life.
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You don’t prioritize the latest processor.
Buy s22 If…
- You want a more compact phone.
- You prioritize a more powerful processor for gaming and intensive tasks.
- You want the latest camera technology for improved photo quality.
- You value a more premium design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the S21 FE and S22?
The S22 generally offers a more powerful processor, a potentially improved camera system, and a slightly enhanced display compared to the S21 FE. The S22 often comes with a more premium design, but the S21 FE may provide better battery life. The price points also differ, with the S21 FE often offering better value depending on current market prices.
Which phone has a better camera?
The S22 typically boasts a superior camera system thanks to advancements in image processing and potentially improved sensors. This often leads to better low-light performance, sharper details, and more vibrant colors. While the S21 FE captures excellent photos, the S22 provides a noticeable upgrade in image quality, making it the preferred choice for photography enthusiasts.
Does the S22 have better battery life?
Generally, the S21 FE provides superior battery life. The S22’s more powerful processor and display can contribute to faster battery drain, especially during intensive tasks. Battery life can vary based on usage, but the S21 FE often provides more consistent battery performance throughout the day. Consider your usage patterns when deciding.
Which phone is more powerful?
The S22 offers a more powerful processor, typically a newer generation Snapdragon or Exynos chip. This results in faster speeds, smoother multitasking, and quicker app loading times. The S21 FE, while still capable, lags behind in raw processing power, potentially showing its age when handling demanding tasks or resource-intensive games. The S22 is the clear winner here.
What are the display differences?
Both phones have excellent displays, however, the S22 may have slightly improved brightness and a more refined Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. This leads to superior color accuracy and smoother scrolling. The S21 FE’s display is still bright and vibrant. The S22 offers a slightly more immersive viewing experience, especially in direct sunlight, providing a better overall viewing experience.
Are there any design differences?
The S22 often features a sleeker aesthetic, potentially using more premium materials. The S21 FE’s design is similar to the S21 series. Both phones offer IP68 water and dust resistance, ensuring durability. The design preference comes down to personal taste, but the S22 typically has a more modern and refined appearance, appealing to those who value a premium look and feel.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The S22 is generally the better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor. This results in smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and a more responsive experience. The S21 FE can still handle many games, but it may struggle with the most demanding titles or require lower graphics settings. The S22 offers a more immersive and lag-free gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S22 emerges as the superior device, boasting a more powerful processor, enhanced camera capabilities, and a slightly refined display. While the S21 FE offers excellent value and a competitive feature set, the S22 provides a more premium experience, particularly for performance-intensive tasks and photography. The S22 is a better option for users seeking the latest technology and a top-tier smartphone experience.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S22