Tech Talk

Is It Worth Buying the Galaxy S21 FE in 2024

Oct 14, 2024 Jonathan Sizemore

The Galaxy S21 FE (Fan Edition), released in January 2022, offers flagship-like features at a more affordable price. As of the end of 2024, the Certified Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE is available for less than $200, according to our UpTrade Price Tracker. The Galaxy S21, released earlier, is priced at a similar level, but the Galaxy S21 FE clearly offers more value. Let’s explore the specs comparison and understand why we recommend the Galaxy S21 FE in 2024.

Full Specs Comparison: Galaxy S21 vs. Galaxy S21 FE

Specification	Galaxy S21	Galaxy S21 FE
Release Date	January 2021	January 2022
Display	6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz	6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz
Processor	Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888	Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888
Operating System	Android 15	Android 15
Storage Options	128GB, 256GB	128GB, 256GB
Rear Cameras	12MP (wide), 12MP (ultra-wide), 64MP (telephoto)	12MP (wide), 12MP (ultra-wide), 8MP (telephoto)
Front Camera	10MP	32MP
Battery Life	4,000 mAh	4,500 mAh
5G Support	Yes	Yes
Water Resistance	IP68 (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes)	IP68 (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes)
Weight	169 grams	177 grams
Build	Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), plastic back, aluminum frame	Glass front, plastic back, aluminum frame
Fingerprint Sensor	Yes (under-display, ultrasonic)	Yes (under-display, optical)

Display

The Galaxy S21 FE has a slightly larger 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, compared to the 6.2-inch display of the S21. Both models support a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a smooth and responsive user experience. The S21 FE’s bigger screen makes it better suited for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking, while the S21’s smaller display offers better pixel density. If you prefer a larger display, the Galaxy S21 FE is the clear winner.

Chipset

Both the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S21 FE feature the same chipset: either the Exynos 2100 (international) or Snapdragon 888 (US), ensuring consistent performance across both models. This makes the S21 FE just as fast and capable as the S21, handling demanding apps and games effortlessly in 2024.

Camera

The camera system differs between the two models:

The Galaxy S21 has a 12MP wide lens, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens that supports 30x Space Zoom.
The Galaxy S21 FE comes with a 12MP wide lens, 12MP ultra-wide lens, but only an 8MP telephoto lens.

While the S21 offers better zoom capabilities, the S21 FE compensates with a 32MP front camera, which delivers sharper selfies and video calls. If the front camera matters more to you, the Galaxy S21 FE is the better choice.

Battery

The Galaxy S21 FE features a larger 4,500 mAh battery, compared to the 4,000 mAh battery of the S21. This results in longer battery life, making it ideal for heavy users who need a phone that lasts throughout the day. Both models support 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.

Design and Build

Both models have a plastic back and an aluminum frame, ensuring durability while keeping the phones lightweight. The Galaxy S21 FE weighs slightly more at 177 grams compared to the 169 grams of the S21. If you prefer a larger phone with more grip, the S21 FE is a better fit.

Water Resistance

Both the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE are IP68-rated, making them capable of surviving submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. This level of water resistance ensures that both devices are durable enough for everyday conditions.

Support for the Latest Android Version (Android 15)

Both models support Android 15, meaning they will receive the latest updates, security patches, and features. This makes the Galaxy S21 and S21 FE equally viable in terms of software support.

Why We Recommend the Galaxy S21 FE Over the S21

Better Battery Life: With a 4,500 mAh battery, the S21 FE offers longer usage compared to the 4,000 mAh battery of the S21, making it a better choice for heavy users.
Bigger Display: The 6.4-inch screen is more suitable for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking, providing more screen space than the S21.
Superior Front Camera: The S21 FE's 32MP front camera offers better selfie and video call quality compared to the 10MP front camera of the S21.
Later Release Date: Released in 2022, the S21 FE may have a slightly longer software support window than the 2021 S21.

Conclusion

The Certified Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE, priced under $200, offers exceptional value with its better battery life, larger display, and superior front camera. While the Galaxy S21 is a good alternative, the S21 FE is the clear winner for 2024, providing a more well-rounded package at a similar price point.

Where to Buy

When looking to purchase a Galaxy S21 FE or Galaxy S21, you have several options:

Certified Sellers: Platforms like Amazon Renewed, Best Buy, and Samsung offer Certified Refurbished models that have been tested for quality and come with warranties.
Open Market: You can also find these models on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp. While prices may be lower, buying from the open market carries risks, such as hidden defects, no warranty, and potential scams. Always verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.

How UpTrade Can Help

At UpTrade, we simplify finding the best deals on Certified Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE and Galaxy S21 models. UpTrade does not sell the phones directly but partners with UpTrade Certified Sellers like Amazon, Samsung, and Best Buy, who have met strict criteria to ensure device quality.

Here’s how UpTrade works:

Price Tracking: UpTrade actively tracks prices across Certified Sellers, displaying the best available prices in real-time.
Transparency: You’ll find detailed information about the seller and phone condition, helping you make an informed decision.
Best Price Assurance: UpTrade ensures you get the most competitive price for a Certified Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE or S21.
Consistent Refurbishment Standard: Each seller has its own refurbishment standard, which can confuse consumers. At UpTrade, we align all sellers to the same standard and clearly display phone conditions, so you can easily compare models with consistent criteria.

UpTrade offers a secure, convenient, and transparent way to buy refurbished phones, providing peace of mind while getting the best value.