If you're looking for an affordable, feature-rich Android phone in 2025, the Galaxy S21 FE is still a strong contender. Originally launched as the “Fan Edition” of the Galaxy S21 series, it delivers flagship-level performance and design at a budget-friendly price. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE units now start at just $110+—a steep drop from its original $699 launch price.
More importantly, Samsung continues to support the S21 FE with monthly security updates and major Android releases. That means you're not just saving money—you’re getting a phone that remains safe, functional, and capable in 2025.
There are a few key reasons why the Galaxy S21 FE is still worth buying in 2025. First, it’s powered by the Snapdragon 888—a flagship processor that still delivers smooth performance in day-to-day use, gaming, and multitasking. With 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, it’s more than capable of handling modern apps and system updates.
Second, the 6.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers a premium visual experience for streaming, scrolling, and social media. It’s smooth, vibrant, and still better than most entry-level and midrange devices in 2025.
Lastly, Samsung continues to deliver software support. The Galaxy S21 FE is currently running Android 13 and is expected to receive Android 14 and 15 updates, with monthly security patches likely extending through 2026. This means it remains a secure and up-to-date smartphone choice for at least another year or two—well worth the $110+ price tag.
The Galaxy S21 FE is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, a former flagship processor that still holds its own in 2025. Whether you're opening multiple apps, editing photos, streaming high-resolution video, or playing mobile games, the phone performs smoothly without noticeable lag. Paired with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, the S21 FE offers a balanced and responsive experience for everyday tasks. While newer chipsets exist, the Snapdragon 888 remains powerful enough for most users, making the S21 FE a compelling choice in the sub-$120 price range.
The 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is one of the standout features of the Galaxy S21 FE. It boasts a 2400 x 1080 resolution, HDR10+ support, and a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and animations feel ultra-fluid. It’s a pleasure to use for everything from watching movies to scrolling through Instagram. The phone’s design also holds up well in 2025, with a sleek matte finish, Gorilla Glass protection, and IP68 water resistance—rare features at this price point.
The Galaxy S21 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup: a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, and an 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. It’s capable of producing sharp, well-balanced photos in a variety of lighting conditions. Night Mode has improved over time, and Samsung’s image processing delivers vibrant, social-media-ready results. The phone also supports 4K video at 60fps and has a strong 32MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. While it doesn't match the camera quality of the S22 Ultra or newer Galaxy S models, it's more than capable for everyday use.
With a 4,500mAh battery, the Galaxy S21 FE comfortably lasts a full day of moderate to heavy usage. Whether you're browsing, streaming, or video calling, it holds up well without frequent top-ups. It supports 25W fast charging (wired), 15W wireless charging, and even reverse wireless charging for earbuds or other devices. Charging from 0% to 50% takes about 30 minutes with a compatible charger, making it convenient for users on the go. For most people, the S21 FE’s battery performance hits the sweet spot of longevity and charging flexibility.
The Galaxy S21 FE originally launched with Android 12 and, as of 2025, runs Android 15. Even more importantly, it's still actively supported by Samsung and continues to receive monthly security updates and feature enhancements. Samsung committed to four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security patches for this model, which means users can expect Android 16 in 2026 and continued support through 2027. That makes the S21 FE a future-proof option for buyers who want a secure and up-to-date smartphone without paying flagship prices.
If you're deciding between the Galaxy S21 FE and the standard Galaxy S21 in 2025, the FE edition comes out ahead for most users. Here’s a side-by-side comparison followed by key analysis:
| Feature | Galaxy S21 FE | Galaxy S21 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | January 2022 | January 2021 |
| Operating System | Android 12 → Android 15 (Android 16 expected) | Android 11 → Android 15 (no Android 16) |
| Security Updates | Monthly (2025) | Quarterly / Ending Soon |
| Display | 6.4" FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.2" FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 888 |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP + 12MP + 8MP | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP |
| Battery | 4,500 mAh | 4,000 mAh |
| Charging | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| Starting Price (2025) | $110+ Certified Used | $280+ Certified Used |
The Galaxy S21 FE will receive Android 16, while the regular S21 is capped at Android 15. Samsung has also reduced the S21’s update frequency to quarterly, whereas the S21 FE continues to receive monthly security updates in 2025.
Despite being older, the S21 has less market availability, which drives its price up. As of 2025, the S21 starts at around $280+, while the newer and better-supported S21 FE starts at just $110+—making it a clear winner in terms of value.
The S21 FE offers a larger 4,500 mAh battery, compared to the 4,000 mAh in the S21. This results in noticeably better endurance, especially during gaming, video streaming, and daily multitasking.
Both phones have 120Hz AMOLED displays, but the S21 FE's 6.4-inch screen is slightly larger than the 6.2-inch panel on the S21. Those who prefer one-handed use might lean toward the S21, but media consumers may favor the FE.
While the Galaxy S21 was a strong flagship at launch, its limited software future, higher price, and smaller battery make it less appealing in 2025. For most buyers, the Galaxy S21 FE is the smarter purchase—cheaper, newer, better supported, and longer lasting.
If you're deciding between the Galaxy S21 FE and Galaxy S22 in 2025, both phones offer excellent value, especially in the Certified Used market. However, there are key differences in materials, cameras, battery life, and overall performance. Below is a full specs comparison followed by detailed analysis.
| Feature | Galaxy S21 FE | Galaxy S22 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | January 2022 | February 2022 |
| OS at Launch | Android 12 | Android 12 |
| Current OS (2025) | Android 15 | Android 15 |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 |
| Display Size | 6.4-inch AMOLED | 6.1-inch AMOLED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Resolution | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP + 12MP + 8MP | 50MP + 12MP + 10MP |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 10MP |
| Build Material | Plastic back, Glass front | Glass front/back, Aluminum frame |
| Battery Capacity | 4,500 mAh | 3,700 mAh |
| Charging Speed | 25W wired, 15W wireless | 25W wired, 15W wireless |
| 5G Support | Yes | Yes |
| Biometrics | In-display fingerprint | In-display fingerprint |
| IP Rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Starting Price (2025) | $110+ Certified Used | $160+ Certified Used |
The Galaxy S22 features the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, offering improved thermal efficiency, better GPU performance, and slightly faster CPU speeds than the S21 FE’s Snapdragon 888. While both phones handle daily tasks and multitasking well in 2025, power users and mobile gamers may notice smoother performance on the S22.
Both phones offer FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED panels, but the S21 FE has a slightly larger 6.4-inch screen compared to the 6.1-inch on the S22. This makes the S21 FE more appealing for content consumption, while the S22 feels more compact and premium in hand.
The Galaxy S22 introduces a more advanced camera system, especially the new 50MP main sensor that delivers better low-light and detailed shots than the 12MP sensor on the S21 FE. It also improves video stabilization and zoom capabilities. If photography is a priority, the S22 is the better pick.
The S22 has a glass front and back with an aluminum frame—giving it a more premium and durable feel. In contrast, the S21 FE uses a plastic back, which is lighter but may feel less high-end.
The S21 FE wins on battery size (4,500mAh vs 3,700mAh), which typically translates to longer battery life. However, both phones support the same fast charging speeds. If battery endurance is more important to you, the S21 FE may be the more practical option.
Both phones launched with Android 12 and are currently on Android 15 in 2025. Samsung’s update policy means they’ll likely both receive updates through Android 17 or 18, making either phone a safe buy for years to come.
If you're looking for a more affordable deal with excellent battery life and a larger display, the Galaxy S21 FE at $110+ is hard to beat. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for better cameras, a more compact build, and longer software life, the Galaxy S22 is the stronger long-term choice at $160+.
Yes — the Galaxy S21 FE remains one of the best smartphone values in 2025. With Certified Used and Refurbished models now starting around $110+, it offers flagship-grade performance with the Snapdragon 888, a 120Hz AMOLED display, dependable cameras, and solid battery life. Most importantly, the Galaxy S21 FE is still supported by Samsung with monthly security updates and is expected to receive Android 16 in 2026, giving it years of continued usability.
If you're comparing it to the standard Galaxy S21, keep in mind that the S21 no longer receives monthly updates, will not get Android 16, and starts at a much higher price point ($280+). Because of this, the Galaxy S21 FE is the clear winner—offering more longevity and a better price-to-performance ratio.
That said, if your budget stretches to around $160+, the Galaxy S22 is also an excellent option. It adds the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, more refined cameras, and longer software support — making it a future-proof upgrade.
Whether you go with the value-packed Galaxy S21 FE or spend a bit more on the Galaxy S22, both are smart choices in 2025. Avoid the aging Galaxy S21 unless you're getting a rare deal.
Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE models start around $110+, depending on storage and condition.
Yes. The S21 FE launched with Android 12 and is currently running Android 15. It continues to receive monthly security updates from Samsung.
The S21 FE has a larger screen and better battery life, while the S22 offers a newer chip, improved camera tuning, and a more premium design. The S22 (at $160+) is a great buy if your budget allows—but the S21 FE remains a better value for most users under $120.
Yes. Powered by the Snapdragon 888, the S21 FE handles gaming, multitasking, and everyday use with ease—even in 2025.
It features a 12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wide + 8MP telephoto camera setup. It performs reliably across most lighting conditions and includes 3x optical zoom. Great for casual photography and video.
Definitely. Its 6.4-inch 120Hz AMOLED panel offers vibrant colors, deep contrast, and smooth scrolling—making it a joy for video streaming and everyday use.
The S21 FE will likely be secure and functional through at least 2026 or early 2027, making it a solid 1–2 year investment.
The Galaxy S21 FE is a better buy in 2025. The regular S21 no longer receives monthly security updates, and it won’t get Android 16 in 2026. The S21 is also harder to find and often more expensive due to limited supply—making the S21 FE a clear winner on value and longevity.
Yes. The Galaxy S21 FE is expected to receive Android 16 in 2026, continuing its strong software support track record from Samsung.
The Galaxy S21 FE was released in January 2022, so it is about 3 years old in 2025.
“FE” stands for Fan Edition—a version of Samsung’s flagship designed to deliver top-tier features at a more affordable price point. The S21 FE retains flagship-level performance, display, and software support while trimming costs slightly with lighter build materials.
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