Compare the key specifications and pricing of the Samsung Galaxy S21 vs S21 FE and make a well-informed choice.
Samsung’s Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S21 FE are flagship smartphones with strong performance, high-quality cameras, and premium features. However, they cater to different types of users. The Galaxy S21 offers more advanced specs, whereas the S21 FE delivers a similar experience at a more accessible price.
This S21 vs S21 FE comparison highlights the key differences to help you decide which device suits your needs.
Comparing the Samsung S21 vs S21 FE key specifications help you understand the overall features of both devices. Here is a side-by-side comparison:
Specification |
Samsung Galaxy S21 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
---|---|---|
Launch Date |
January 2021 |
January 2022 |
Display Size |
6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120 Hz |
6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120 Hz |
Processor |
Exynos 2100 |
Exynos 2100 |
RAM |
8 GB |
6 GB / 8 GB |
Storage Options |
128 GB / 256 GB |
128 GB / 256 GB |
Battery Capacity |
4,000 mAh |
4,500 mAh |
Wired Charging |
25 W |
25 W |
Wireless Charging |
15 W |
15 W |
Water Resistance |
IP68 |
IP68 |
5G Support |
Yes |
Yes |
Operating System |
Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
Disclaimer: The information above is subject to change based on updates and revisions by the brand.
The Samsung S21 and S21 FE share a similar design but differ in materials and overall build. The S21 FE features a plastic back, while the S21 comes with a more premium glass finish. Here is how the two phones compare:
Feature |
Samsung Galaxy S21 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
---|---|---|
Dimensions |
151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm |
155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm |
Weight |
169 g |
177 g |
Frame Material |
Aluminium |
Aluminium |
Back Material |
Gorilla Glass Victus |
Gorilla Glass Victus |
Colours Available |
Phantom Grey, White, Pink, Violet |
Graphite, White, Lavender, Olive, Navy |
Water Resistance |
IP68 |
IP68 |
Disclaimer: The information above is subject to change based on updates and revisions by the brand.
In the S21 vs S21 FE comparison, both phones feature high-quality camera setups, but they show differences in telephoto zoom capabilities and camera sensors. Here is a comparison of the camera specifications:
Camera Type |
Samsung Galaxy S21 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
---|---|---|
Main Camera |
12 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
12 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
Ultra-wide Camera |
12 MP, f/2.2 |
12 MP, f/2.2 |
Telephoto Camera |
64 MP, 3x optical zoom, f/2.0 |
8 MP, 3x optical zoom, f/2.4 |
Front Camera |
10 MP, f/2.2 |
32 MP, f/2.2 |
Night Mode |
Yes |
Yes |
Video Recording |
8K at 24fps, 4K at 30/60fps |
4K at 60fps, 1080p at 240fps |
Disclaimer: The information above is subject to change based on updates and revisions by the brand.
In the S21 vs S21 FE comparison, both phones feature similar chipsets. However, the S21 FE comes with a slightly larger battery. Here is how their performance and battery compare:
Feature |
Samsung Galaxy S21 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
---|---|---|
Chipset |
Exynos 2100 |
Exynos 2100 |
RAM |
8 GB |
6 GB / 8 GB |
Storage |
128 GB / 256 GB |
128 GB / 256 GB |
Battery Capacity |
4,000 mAh |
4,500 mAh |
Charging Speed |
25 W |
25 W |
Wireless Charging |
15 W |
15 W |
Reverse Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Disclaimer: The information above is subject to change based on updates and revisions by the brand.
Both devices run Samsung's One UI interface. The S21 FE is a newer model, running on Android 12, while the S21 originally launched with Android 11. Here is how the software and features compare:
Feature |
Samsung Galaxy S21 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE |
---|---|---|
Operating System |
Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
Android 12, One UI 4.0 |
Biometric Security |
In-display fingerprint, Face Unlock |
In-display fingerprint, Face Unlock |
Samsung DeX |
Yes |
Yes |
Samsung Knox |
Yes |
Yes |
One UI Version and Features |
One UI 3.1, Single Take, Object Eraser, Multi Mic Recording |
One UI 4.0, Privacy Dashboard, Enhanced Widgets |
Disclaimer: The information above is subject to change based on updates and revisions by the brand.
Refer to the table below to know the price of both models in India:
Model |
Launch Price (India) |
---|---|
Samsung Galaxy S21 (8 GB + 128 GB) |
₹69,999 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (8 GB + 256 GB) |
₹39,999 |
Disclaimer: The information added above is subject to change as per the updates and revisions by the brand.
Here are some key points that can help you choose between the Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21 FE:
The S21 FE is ideal if you want strong performance at a lower cost, offering similar features and better value for money
You might find the S21 FE more suitable if you prioritise battery life and front camera quality
Purchasing your smartphone with the Insta EMI Card offers the following benefits:
Low-cost EMI: Convert your smartphone purchase into affordable monthly instalments without interest
Zero Down Payment: Shop with no upfront cost for select models
Pre-approved Limit: Get instant access to a pre-approved credit limit of up to ₹3 Lakhs
Flexible Tenor Options: Choose a repayment plan of up to 60 months that suits your budget
The main differences lie in the materials used, camera zoom capabilities, and pricing. The S21 features a premium glass back, while the S21 FE uses polycarbonate plastic. The S21 is a true flagship, while the S21 FE is positioned as a more affordable alternative.
Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with 120 Hz refresh rates. The S21 FE has a slightly larger screen, but overall quality remains comparable.
The S21 offers a more premium design, an improved telephoto lens, and slightly more advanced camera processing.