Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G 2023: Who should buy this Snapdragon 888 phone

Samsung’s Galaxy S20 FE took the market by storm when the phone launched back in 2021, bringing the best of the Galaxy S-series to the under-Rs 40,000 “budget-flagship” market. Samsung followed up with the Galaxy S20 FE 5G which was powered by a Snapdragon chip instead of Samsung’s in-house Exynos 990, and this device also became a fan-favourite.

However, Samsung’s Galaxy S21 FE which launched last year went back to an Exynos chipset, the Exynos 2100, to be precise. Now, Samsung has rather quietly launched a new variant of the phone, called the Galaxy S21 FE 2023, with updated specifications. Here’s everything that’s changed with the new Fan-Edition Samsung smartphone, so read on to find out whether you should buy or upgrade to the new one.

ALSO READ: Samsung Galaxy S23 series launched: Here’s what’s new

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 2023 specifications and features

The new Samsung Galaxy S21 FE comes with a Snapdragon 888 chip. While the chipset is flagship grade, it isn’t exactly the newest in its class. Since launch, it has been succeeded by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.

All the other aspects of the phone remain the same compared to the older Galaxy S21 FE 5G. This includes the 6.4-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, a 12MP+12MP+8MP rear camera setup with Optical Image Stabilisation, and a 32MP front camera. There is also a 4,500mAh battery with support for 25W charging.

The phone also comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Other additions include stereo speakers, Samsung DeX support, and support for NFC and Wi-Fi 6. Lastly, the device features an IP68 rating for protection against water and dust.

Who should buy the new Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G smartphone?

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE price has not been officially announced yet on the Samsung, but rumours suggest the phone could be launched at Rs 49,999. While this is a lower price than that of the original Galaxy S21 FE 5G, the phone still offers the Snapdragon 888, a chipset that was announced all the way back in 2020.

ALSO READ: Samsung launch event on July 26: Here’s everything expected to be announced

So, performance-oriented users looking to buy a new phone in this segment may want to look at other options. Phones like the OnePlus 11R offer a faster chipset and a better overall performance at a lesser price.

However, if you don’t need the fastest processor your budget can buy and want a reliable Samsung experience with the perks of One UI, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G can still offer a good overall ‘budget-flagship’ experience, clubbed with good cameras and a sturdy design. However, if you already have the older Galaxy S21 FE 5G, the newer 2023 variant may not be the most fruitful upgrade.