Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Consumer electronics |
| Predecessor | Samsung Galaxy S20 |
| Founded | January 14, 2021 |
| Founder | Samsung Electronics |
| Headquarters | Suwon , South Korea |
Area served | Worldwide |
| Products | Smartphones |
| Parent | Samsung Electronics |
Samsung Galaxy S21 Series Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S21 lineup represents a collection of premium Android smartphones designed, produced, and promoted by Samsung Electronics as part of the renowned Galaxy S family. This series succeeds the Samsung Galaxy S20 generation. The initial trio of devices was officially introduced during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event on 14 January 2021, whereas the Fan Edition variant debuted at Samsung's CES presentation on 3 January 2022. Notably, this marks the final instance of the Galaxy S series employing the traditional "SM-G9xx" model numbering system, a scheme that had been consistent since the Galaxy S5. Subsequent flagship models adopted a new "SM-S123X" format starting with the Galaxy S22.
The lineup comprises four variants: the standard Galaxy S21, the larger-screened Galaxy S21+, the top-tier Galaxy S21 Ultra, and the mid-range Galaxy S21 FE. Enhancements over their predecessors include upgraded hardware, displays featuring a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, advanced camera systems capable of 8K video capture (7680×4320) on the first three models, and an ultra-high zoom range between 30x and 100x exclusive to the Ultra model.
Release dates varied by model and region; the initial three phones became available in the United States and Europe on 29 January 2021, while the Fan Edition launched worldwide on 7 January 2022. At launch, pricing for the Galaxy S21 FE, S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra began at $699.99, $799.99, $999.99, and $1079.99 respectively.
The Galaxy S21 series was later succeeded by the Galaxy S22, which was revealed on 9 February 2022.
S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra
The initial trio of devices was introduced during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked presentation on 14 January 2021. These models succeeded the 2020 lineup. A significant redesign was implemented across all three, featuring a more compact rear camera module seamlessly integrated with the side buttons, creating a cohesive look for the S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra. The entry-level version is distinguished by its (plastic) polycarbonate back panel, marking a departure from the materials used in its counterparts. Its specifications closely mirror those of the S20 model. The S21+ shares nearly identical design and hardware traits with the standard S21, differing only slightly, and acts as the successor to the S20+. Positioned as the premium offering within the series, the S21 Ultra builds upon the S20 Ultra's foundation and introduces limited S Pen compatibility—the first in the S series to do so. The S21 lineup was phased out following the launch of the Galaxy S22. These devices became available to consumers on 29 January 2021.
S21 FE
The "Fan Edition" variant was revealed at Samsung’s CES 2022 event on 3 January 2022. This model follows the S20 FE, continuing Samsung’s tradition of providing mid-range options within their Galaxy S series at launch. The Fan Edition largely retains the design language and specifications of the original S21 but incorporates minor adjustments to justify its more affordable price point. Although initially slated for an October 2021 release with One UI 3.1, its launch was postponed due to the 2020–2023 global chip shortage. Ultimately, the S21 FE debuted on 11 January 2022 running One UI 4.0. Key features include a 4500mAh battery supporting 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, a matte aluminum frame, and a plastic camera housing contrasting with the metal bump found on other models. It sports a 6.4-inch display with a resolution of 1080x2340 pixels and incorporates an optical fingerprint sensor beneath the screen. Launched in 2022, this model is set to receive One UI 8 updates, unlike other devices in this series.
Lineup
The collection consists of four models, starting with the Galaxy S21 as the most affordable option, featuring a smaller display and a polycarbonate (plastic) rear panel. This price point is later lowered by the Galaxy S21 FE, which also uses polycarbonate for its body but differs by having a polycarbonate camera bump instead of metal. Compared to the Galaxy S20+, the Galaxy S21+ shares similar specifications with the S21, differing mainly in having a larger screen, increased battery capacity, and a glass back rather than plastic. The Galaxy S21 Ultra offers a bigger display and battery along with numerous enhancements over the other variants, including an upgraded camera system highlighted by its 108 MP primary sensor equipped with laser autofocus and a superior 1440p resolution screen. Notably, the S21 Ultra is the first Galaxy S series phone to be compatible with the S Pen, sold separately and with restricted features. It is important to mention that the "Ultra" model will not receive One UI 8 updates like the "Fan Edition" version.
Design
The design language of the Galaxy S21 lineup closely resembles that of its predecessor, featuring an Infinity-O display with a centrally positioned circular cutout for the front-facing camera. The back panels of the S21 and S21 FE are constructed from reinforced polycarbonate (plastic), similar to those found on the S20 FE and Note 20, while the S21+ and S21 Ultra utilize Gorilla Glass Victus for their rear surfaces. The rear camera module is integrated into the device’s body across all models except for the S21 FE, where it is incorporated into the polycarbonate back cover with a metallic frame; meanwhile, exclusive colors of the S21 Ultra feature a carbon fiber camera surround.
| Galaxy S21 FE | Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base colors |
|
|
|
|
| Online exclusive colors | — | — |
|
|
Chipsets (SoC)
The S21 series consists of four distinct models, each equipped with different hardware configurations. The international and South Korean versions of the S21 are powered by the Exynos 2100 system-on-chip, whereas models sold in the U.S., Canada, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan come with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor. For the S21 FE variant, the U.S., Canadian, Chinese, and European editions use the Snapdragon 888 chipset, while versions distributed in South Korea, India, Brazil, and Australia are fitted with the Exynos 2100.
Display
The displays across the S21 lineup are "Dynamic AMOLED 2X" panels supporting HDR10+ and featuring "dynamic tone mapping" technology. Except for the S21 FE, all models incorporate a second-generation ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, whereas the S21 FE utilizes an optical in-display fingerprint reader. Notably, the S21 Ultra supports a 120 Hz refresh rate at a 1440p resolution—a capability that surpasses its predecessor, which was limited to 120 Hz only at 1080p.
| Model | Display size | Display resolution | Max refresh rate | Variable refresh rate | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S21 FE | 6.4" | 2340x1080 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz / 120 Hz | Flat sides |
| S21 | 6.2" | 2400x1080 | 48 Hz to 120 Hz | ||
| S21+ | 6.7" | ||||
| S21 Ultra | 6.8" | 3200x1440 | 10 Hz to 120 Hz | Curved sides |
Storage
| Models | Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra | Galaxy S21 FE | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAM | Storage | RAM | Storage | RAM | Storage | RAM | Storage | |
| Variant 1 | 8GB | 128GB | 8GB | 128GB | 12GB | 128GB | 6GB | 128GB |
| Variant 2 | 8GB | 256GB | 8GB | 256GB | 12GB | 256GB | 8GB | 128GB |
| Variant 3 | ||||||||
| 16GB | 512GB | 8GB | 256GB | |||||
The Galaxy S21 and S21+ models come with 8 GB of RAM and offer internal storage capacities of either 128 GB or 256 GB. The S21 Ultra is available with either 12 GB of RAM paired with 128 GB or 256 GB of storage, or a higher-end configuration featuring 16 GB of RAM alongside 512 GB of internal storage. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S21 FE provides options for either 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM combined with storage choices of 128 GB or 256 GB. None of these models include a microSD card slot, a feature that was offered in the previous S20 series.
Batteries
The Galaxy S21 lineup features built-in batteries with capacities of 4000 mAh for the S21, 4,500 mAh in the S21 FE, 4800 mAh in the S21+, and 5000 mAh for the S21 Ultra. Each device accommodates wired charging via USB-C connections, supporting up to 25W through USB Power Delivery. Additionally, all models are compatible with Qi wireless charging at a maximum of 15W. A distinctive feature called "Wireless PowerShare" enables these phones to wirelessly charge other Qi-enabled gadgets, delivering up to 4.5W from the S21's battery.
Connectivity
Every model within this series is compatible with both standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) 5G networks. The Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 FE incorporate Wi-Fi 6 alongside Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, whereas the Galaxy S21 Ultra advances to Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth version 5.2. Notably, the S21+ and S21 Ultra include support for Ultra Wideband (UWB), a short-range communication technology akin to NFC—distinct from Verizon's marketing term "Ultra Wideband" for 5G mmWave. Samsung leverages UWB for its "SmartThings Find" service and the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ device.
Cameras
| Model | Galaxy S21 & S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra | Galaxy S21 FE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wide | Specifications | 12 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/1.76" sensor size, Dual Pixel Autofocus (DPAF), Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) | 108 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 24 mm focal length, 1/1.33" sensor size, Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF), OIS | 12 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/1.76" sensor size, Dual PDAF, OIS |
| Sensor Model | Samsung S5K2LD or Sony IMX555 | Samsung S5KHM3 | Samsung S5K2LD or Sony IMX555 | |
| Ultrawide | Specifications | 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 13 mm focal length, 1/2.55" sensor size, fixed focus | 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 13 mm focal length, 1/2.55" sensor size, DPAF | 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 15 mm focal length, 1/3.1" sensor size, fixed focus |
| Sensor Model | Samsung S5K2LA | Sony IMX563 | Samsung S5K3L6 | |
| Telephoto | Specifications | 64 MP, f/2.0 aperture, 29 mm focal length, 1/1.72" sensor size, PDAF, OIS | 10 MP, f/2.4 aperture, 70 mm focal length, 1/3.24" sensor size, DPAF, OIS | 8 MP, f/2.4 aperture, 76 mm focal length, 1/4.5" sensor size, PDAF, OIS (3x optical zoom) |
| Sensor Model | Samsung S5KGW2 | Samsung S5K3J1 | SK Hynix HI-847 | |
| Periscope Telephoto | Specifications | Not available | 10 MP, f/4.9 aperture, 240 mm focal length, 1/3.24" sensor size, DPAF, OIS | Not available |
| Sensor Model | Not applicable | Samsung S5K3J1 | ||
| Front-facing Camera | Specifications | 10 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/3.24" sensor size, DPAF | 40 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/2.8" sensor size, PDAF | 32 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 26 mm focal length ,1/2.74" sensor size , fixed focus |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX374 | Samsung S5KGH1 | Sony IMX616 | |
The camera systems on the Galaxy S21 and S21+ largely mirror those of their predecessors but benefit from enhanced software algorithms and image processing capabilities. Each includes a triple-camera array consisting of a 12 MP wide-angle lens, a 64 MP telephoto lens offering a hybrid zoom of up to three times optical magnification, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S21 FE follows a comparable camera configuration with improvements in software processing: it sports a 12 MP wide sensor paired with an 8 MP telephoto lens capable of threefold optical zoom and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor.
For its part, the Galaxy S21 Ultra introduces the advanced HM3 sensor boasting a resolution of 108 MP alongside upgrades such as support for 12-bit HDR imaging over its predecessor's HM1 sensor. This model is equipped with two telephoto lenses at 10 MP each—offering both threefold and tenfold optical zoom—and a single 12 MP ultrawide camera.
Regarding front-facing cameras: the standard S21 and S21+ models utilize a 10 MP sensor; the S21 FE features a higher-resolution 32 MP front shooter; and the Ultra variant employs an impressive 40 MP front camera.
Video recording at up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second is supported on the ultrawide cameras of the S21 series excluding the Ultra model which supports this feature across all its cameras.
While most camera modules are manufactured by Samsung Electronics themselves—except for the Sony-produced sensors used in the standard and plus models' front cameras as well as the ultrawide on the Ultra—the telephoto lens on the FE model is supplied by SK Hynix.
Additionally, all devices in this series are capable of capturing HDR10+ video content and support the HEIF standard for images.
Dispute over Moon image enhancement
It was discovered by users that the Scene Optimizer feature, available on Samsung Galaxy S21 and subsequent models, employs artificial intelligence to recognize the Moon and artificially enhance details beyond what the camera hardware can capture, utilizing a database of pre-existing lunar images.[1][2] Samsung, however, contested these claims, stating that their AI enhancement algorithm supplements moon images by adding detail.[2]
Video recording capabilities
The Galaxy S21 lineup supports several video recording formats:[3]
- 8K at 24 frames per second (excluding the FE variant)[4]
- 4K at both 30 and 60 frames per second
- 1080p resolution at 30, 60, and 240 frames per second
- 720p at 960 frames per second (note: on the S21 Ultra, 480fps footage is interpolated to achieve 960fps)[5][6]
High-resolution video frames can be extracted and used as individual still images.[7]
Software environment
At launch, the initial three S21 models came pre-installed with Android 11 featuring One UI 3.1 alongside Google Mobile Services and Samsung's proprietary One UI. Although the S21 FE was initially planned to ship with the same Android and One UI versions, its release delay resulted in all devices receiving updates to Android 12 paired with One UI 4.0.[8] All models incorporate Samsung Knox technology for enhanced factory reset protection (FRP), with distinct editions designed specifically for enterprise deployment.[9]
On November 15, 2021, the first three Galaxy S21 variants received updates to Android 12 alongside One UI 4.[10][11] Additionally, on July 28, 2022, Samsung introduced a "repair mode" feature for the Galaxy S21 that conceals user data when the device is serviced by technicians.[12]
During the Galaxy Unpacked event held on February 9, 2022, Samsung announced that flagship models released between 2021 and 2023, as well as mid-tier devices from 2022 through 2024—including the Galaxy S21 series—would receive four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches.[13]
The rollout of One UI 5 based on Android 13 for Galaxy S21 devices commenced on November 7, 2022.[14]
By January of 2024, all Galaxy S21 models had been upgraded to One UI 6 running on Android 14.[15]
Beginning in May 2025, support extends to updating the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra to Android 15 alongside One UI 7. Subsequent software updates will no longer cover these models but will continue for the S21 FE exclusively, as it initially launched with a more recent software version.
Reception
The Verge reviewer Dieter Bohn commended the S21 Ultra for its vibrant display, swift processing capabilities, impressive battery endurance, and notable enhancements to the camera system, comparing it favorably to the iPhone 12 Pro Max's camera. Nevertheless, Bohn pointed out that the device's glass rear panel is somewhat prone to minor abrasions. David Imel of Android Authority described the Galaxy S21 Ultra as a "powerhouse smartphone" and highlighted its camera setup as among the finest available on Android devices. Matt Swider from TechRadar also offered a favorable assessment, praising its "captivating design," dubbing it "Samsung's most visually appealing phone to date," and lauding the camera's exceptional performance. However, he criticized the high price point, absence of a microSD card slot, and questioned the stylus support since the S Pen must be purchased separately and lacks onboard storage within the phone.
Critiques have focused on Samsung's decision to exclude both a charger and expandable storage options via memory cards—features that were present in the previous Galaxy S20 model. In 2018, Samsung ran a series of advertisements titled "Ingenious" for the Galaxy S9, which mocked the iPhone for lacking similar functionalities, including an audio jack, by depicting frustrated iPhone users confronting Apple Store employees over these missing features—capabilities that have since been removed from all Galaxy smartphones.
Following Apple's lead in the 2020s, Samsung opted not to provide a wall charger or earphones within the packaging of the Galaxy S21 lineup. The company stated this move aims to reduce e-waste and avoid redundant accessories. However, achieving the maximum charging speed may necessitate purchasing a separate charger, which introduces additional packaging and environmental considerations.
See also
References
- ↑ Samsung explains its 'fake' Moon photos
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Samsung responds to fake Moon controversy". The Verge. 15 March 2023. Archived from the original on 26 May 2023.
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedauto - ↑ "How advanced A.I. and new hardware push the Galaxy S21 Ultra's camera forward". Digital Trends. 18 January 2021. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
- ↑ admin (18 January 2021). "Galaxy S21 Slow Motion Feature is Retained!". Hi Speed Cameras. Retrieved 18 January 2021.
- ↑ "The Galaxy S21 and S21 Plus do at least one thing better than the Ultra". Android Authority. 19 January 2021. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
- ↑ "The Galaxy S21 Camera Shoots 8K Video & Turns It Into Photos". Android Headlines. 14 January 2021. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
- ↑ Vincent, Brittany (15 January 2021). "Samsung One UI 3 arrives: These are the top features". Tom's Guide. Retrieved 17 January 2021.
- ↑ Moorhead, Patrick. "What's New With Samsung Smartphone Security". Forbes. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
- ↑ "Samsung's Galaxy S21 series updated to One UI 4 with new Android 12 features". Engadget. 15 November 2021. Retrieved 2021-11-15.
- ↑ Stonham, Jonathan (15 December 2021). "How to download Official Samsung Galaxy S21 User Manual". Samsung Galaxy S21 User Manual.
- ↑ Dobberstein, Laura. "Samsung adds 'repair mode' to South Korean smartphone". www.theregister.com. Retrieved 2022-08-02.
- ↑ "Samsung Sets the New Standard With Four Generations of OS Upgrades To Ensure the Most Up-to-Date and More Secure Galaxy Experience". Global Newsroom. Samsung. 9 February 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
- ↑ Taylor, James Lee (7 November 2022). "Breaking: Samsung rolls out Stable One UI 5.0 update for Galaxy S21 [Android 13]".
- ↑ "Unlocked Samsung Galaxy S21 gets Android 14 (One UI 6.0) update in the US". SamMobile. 21 January 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
Template:Samsung phones Template:Samsung smartphones Template:Samsung Galaxy S