Samsung Galaxy S21 vs S20 Fe: Which Should You Buy?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially with so many fantastic options available. Today, we’re putting two popular Samsung devices head-to-head: the Samsung Galaxy S21 and the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE. Both phones offer compelling features and performance, but which one truly comes out on top?
The Samsung Galaxy S21, the flagship of its generation, boasts cutting-edge technology and a premium design. Its sleek aesthetics and powerful processor make it a strong contender in the smartphone arena. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, the ‘Fan Edition,’ provides a balance of high-end features at a more accessible price point.
This comparison delves into the key differences between the S21 and the S20 FE, covering everything from design and display to performance and camera capabilities. We’ll explore which phone offers the best value for your money and which one best suits your individual needs. Get ready to discover which Samsung device reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S21 | S20 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2 inches | 6.5 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels | 1080 x 2400 pixels |
| Processor | Exynos 2100 / Snapdragon 888 | Exynos 990 / Snapdragon 865 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6/8 GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 12MP + 12MP + 8MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 32MP |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 4500 mAh |
| Fast Charging | 25W | 25W |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13 | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design & Build Quality
- S21: Features a sleek, modern design with a glass back and a metal frame. It’s more compact than the S20 FE. However, the glass back is prone to fingerprints and potential damage.
- S20 Fe: Boasts a plastic back with a metal frame, offering a more durable and fingerprint-resistant build. It’s slightly larger than the S21. Some users might find the plastic back less premium.
- Winner: S21
Display
- S21: Comes with a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. The display is slightly smaller than the S20 FE.
- S20 Fe: Also features a 120Hz refresh rate Super AMOLED display, offering a similar level of smoothness. The display is slightly larger, which some users might prefer.
- Winner: Tie
Processor & Performance
- S21: Powered by either a Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100 processor (depending on the region), delivering exceptional performance for gaming and multitasking.
- S20 Fe: Equipped with a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor, offering strong performance, but slightly behind the S21 in terms of raw power.
- Winner: S21
Camera System
- S21: Features a versatile triple-camera system with improved image processing. Offers excellent photo and video quality in various conditions.
- S20 Fe: Also includes a triple-camera system, providing good image quality. It’s a capable camera system, but the S21 has slightly better image processing.
- Winner: S21
Battery Life
- S21: Has a smaller battery, which may result in shorter battery life compared to the S20 FE.
- S20 Fe: Offers a larger battery, providing longer battery life, making it suitable for all-day use.
- Winner: S20 FE
Software & Updates
- S21: Launched with Android 11 and has received more software updates, ensuring a longer lifespan with the latest features and security patches.
- S20 Fe: Launched with Android 10 or 11, and has received updates. While it’s still receiving updates, it will likely reach its end-of-life sooner than the S21.
- Winner: S21
Price
- S21: Generally more expensive at launch and in the used market.
- S20 Fe: Typically available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Winner: S20 FE
Water Resistance
- S21: Both phones are IP68 rated, offering excellent water and dust resistance.
- S20 Fe: Both phones are IP68 rated, offering excellent water and dust resistance.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | S21 |
| Display | S21 (for overall quality), S20 FE (for size) |
| Camera | S21 |
| Battery Life | S20 FE |
| Value | S20 FE |
| Design | S21 |
What They Have in Common
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones support 5G networks, ensuring fast data speeds and improved connectivity in areas with 5G coverage.
- Water Resistance: Both the Galaxy S21 and S20 FE feature an IP68 rating, providing protection against water and dust.
- Wireless Charging: Both devices support wireless charging, offering a convenient way to power up without cables.
- Amoled Display: Both phones boast vibrant AMOLED displays, delivering vivid colors and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- High Refresh Rate: Both phones offer a high refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and animations.
S21 vs S20 FE Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung Galaxy S21 boasts a more premium design, featuring a glass back and a metal frame, offering a sleek and sophisticated feel. Its camera module blends seamlessly into the frame. The S20 FE, while still well-built, utilizes a plastic back, making it more durable and resistant to fingerprints. Both phones are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind. Consider your preference for materials and overall aesthetic when making your choice. The S21’s design is more refined, while the S20 FE offers added practicality.
Display Quality
Both phones sport vibrant and sharp AMOLED displays, but the S21 offers a slightly superior experience. The S21’s display typically boasts a higher peak brightness and slightly better color accuracy. Both phones offer a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid scrolling and animations. The S20 FE’s display is still excellent, offering a great viewing experience. The S21 provides a more premium display experience overall, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. Both displays are protected by Gorilla Glass.
Performance and Software
The S21 generally outperforms the S20 FE, particularly in processor-intensive tasks. The S21 is equipped with a newer generation processor, providing faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. Both phones run Samsung’s One UI, offering a feature-rich and customizable Android experience. Software updates are typically consistent across both models, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches. Consider your usage needs and prioritize performance if you frequently game or use demanding apps.
Camera Capabilities
Both phones offer versatile camera systems, but the S21 has a slight edge in overall image quality. The S21’s camera system often produces slightly sharper images with better dynamic range and more accurate colors. The S20 FE still captures impressive photos and videos, especially in good lighting conditions. Both phones offer various shooting modes, including ultrawide and telephoto capabilities. If camera performance is a top priority, the S21’s improved image processing gives it a slight advantage. Both phones offer excellent video recording capabilities.
Battery Life and Charging
The S20 FE generally offers better battery life compared to the S21, thanks to its larger battery capacity. The S21’s battery life is still adequate for most users, but the S20 FE can easily last a full day of heavy usage. Both phones support fast charging, allowing for quick top-ups. The S20 FE also supports wireless charging, adding convenience. Consider your daily usage patterns and prioritize battery longevity if you’re a heavy user. The S20 FE’s superior battery life is a key advantage.
Price and Value
The S20 FE often represents a better value proposition due to its lower price point, especially if you can find it on sale. The S21 offers premium features and performance, but comes at a higher price. Consider your budget and prioritize features that are important to you. The S20 FE provides a compelling package of features at a more affordable price, while the S21 caters to those who prioritize top-tier performance and design. Evaluate which phone aligns better with your budget and needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s21 If…
- You want the latest processor for top-tier performance.
- You prefer a more compact and premium design.
- You prioritize the best camera system with advanced features.
- You want the latest software updates.
Buy s20 fe If…
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You prefer a larger display.
- You want a longer battery life.
- You prioritize a higher resolution front-facing camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the S21 and S20 FE?
The S21 offers a more premium design with a glass back, a more powerful processor, and a slightly superior camera system. The S20 FE boasts a plastic back for added durability, a larger battery, and often a more competitive price. The S21 has a more refined aesthetic, while the S20 FE prioritizes value and practicality. The display quality is excellent on both, but the S21 is slightly brighter.
Which phone has a better display?
Both phones feature excellent AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates. The S21’s display is slightly brighter and has better color accuracy, providing a more premium viewing experience. However, the S20 FE’s display is still vibrant and sharp, offering a great experience for everyday use and media consumption. The differences are subtle, but the S21 has the edge.
Does the S20 FE have a good camera?
Yes, the S20 FE has a very good camera system. It captures impressive photos and videos in various lighting conditions. It offers multiple shooting modes, including ultrawide and telephoto lenses, providing versatility. While the S21’s camera may have a slight advantage in image processing, the S20 FE’s camera is more than capable of capturing excellent photos for the average user.
Which phone has better battery life?
The S20 FE generally has better battery life than the S21. It features a larger battery capacity, which allows it to last longer on a single charge. The S21’s battery life is still decent, but the S20 FE is better suited for users who prioritize battery longevity and need their phone to last throughout the day with heavy usage.
Is the S21 worth the extra cost?
That depends on your priorities and budget. The S21 offers a more premium design, a faster processor, and a slightly better camera, justifying its higher price for some users. If you prioritize top-tier performance and design, the S21 is a worthy investment. However, if you are on a budget, the S20 FE offers excellent value for its price and is a great alternative.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The S21 is generally better for gaming due to its more powerful processor, resulting in faster loading times and smoother gameplay. Both phones have excellent displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing the gaming experience. The S21’s superior processing power provides a smoother and more responsive experience, especially for demanding games. The difference is noticeable.
Which phone is more durable?
The S20 FE is arguably more durable due to its plastic back, which is less susceptible to scratches and damage compared to the S21’s glass back. Both phones are water and dust resistant with an IP68 rating. The S20 FE’s plastic back makes it more resistant to drops and impacts, making it a better choice if durability is a primary concern.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S21 excels in design, performance, and camera capabilities, offering a premium experience. However, the Galaxy S20 FE presents a compelling alternative with its excellent value, longer battery life, and durable build. Both phones provide great features, but the S20 FE’s price and battery life make it a strong contender for budget-conscious consumers.
Winner: Galaxy S20 FE