The all-new Samsung S21 FE 2023 Snapdragon 888 Edition is here. This edition has the same specs as S21 FE 2021 model except for its processor. It’s been upgraded from Exynos 2100 to Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.
Back in history, this edition was already available Globally but not in India. Samsung has launched this phone at a cost of Rs 50,000. And the Exynos edition currently costs Rs 36,499 at a difference of Rs 15,000.
So you should pay 15k more for the Snapdragon edition or look for a more latest device? Let’s see it in detail.
I have a full review of Samsung S21 FE (Exynos) – Is Samsung S21 FE Worth Buying In 2023? know more
Table of Contents
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | Full HD+ (1080 x 2340) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 256GB |
| Rear Camera Setup | 12MP Wide+12MP Ultrawide+8MP Telephoto |
| Front Camera | 32MP |
| Battery | 4,500mAh |
| Charging | Fast charging 25W |
| Operating System | Android 13 |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes |
Sad Reality of S21 FE 2023 Edition
Samsung has launched their S21 FE with snapdragon 888 edition as their new arrival device. But one thing you will notice is that this phone was already launched globally.
Now, Samsung is clearing out the stock from the global and selling in India. And even why this phone is only available in 256GB variant only. Because 256GB models are bought by a few users globally.
Its price also does not justify an old phone with an old processor inside. If its price has been down to 37k it might be a good option.
Also Read: Is The Samsung S20 Plus Worth Buying In 2023?
Performance Comparision
If we compare Exynos 2100 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, we will find some miner to moderate performance increment. Both processors are made on 5nm technology by Samsung. Exynos 2100 has a little more CPU speed as compared to Snapdragon 888 but the 888 has a better GPU.
| Snapdragon 888 | 737009 |
| Exynos 2100 | 675391 |
There is no doubt that Snapdragon 888 will provide better performance. And even you will face less heating or lag issues while the Exynos model does have these issues.
For gaming, it performs better due to it has Adreno 660 GPU. Snapdragon processors are better optimized for gaming as well as for network support. This processor will definitely outperform Exynos 2100 in terms of every aspect while using the phone.
Heating – Both processors are made by Samsung and Exynos heats more than Snapdragon. The snapdragon 888 can easily touch up to 43°C temperature while doing heavy tasks or gaming. It’s not the phone’s fault it’s a manufactured default issue. Yes, you might need a fully AC room or cooling pad for this device for gaming.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S23 Review: The Best Compact Phone in India
Camera Performance
The Samsung S21 FE 2023 has the same camera setup and same sensors. The camera consists of a 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 8MP 3x zoom telephoto lens. Both chipset record 4k 60fps but there is a difference in detailing and better output optimization.
When a processor changes, the image processing unit (IPU) unit of a processor also changes. The same happened to the S21 FE 2023 edition with Snapdragon 888 chipset. The captured images have more details, sharp colours, colour contrast, and colour tone is also changed. Same with the selfie camera more details, sharp colour, etc.
At last, cameras are improved to better image processing engines and better output results.
No Major Changes In Software Updates
The previously launched S21 FE was came with Android 12 and now currently running on Android 13. And the newly launched S21 FE comes with Android 13 out of the box. The last Android update for both phones will be Android 16.
I am not sure about the newly launched will get Android 17 or not. But as Samsung has promised for 4 years of updates, then definitely it might get Android 17. Hence, there is no major changes will happen in software updates.
Also Read: Samsung S20 in 2023: Is it still a good choice for budget buyers?
Cons for Samsung S21 FE
- The average battery backup is slightly better than Exynos 2100.
- Heating issues with Snapdragon 888.
- Not for a heavy gamer due to heating issues, it lags.
Pros for Samsung S21 FE
- The user experience is excellent with One UI.
- Top-notch display quality.
- Impressive cameras.
- 5G support
- Minimal and Premium design.
Conclusion
So should you buy Samsung S21 FE 2023 edition? I will highly recommend you not to buy at this time. Samsung will drop the price in future as in the case of the S21 FE Exynos edition.
As we see the price, there are many other phones which provide better performance at the same price. Simply this is a high amount for a snapdragon 888 chipset.
For now, you can go for the older model because it provides better value for money. Even this processor is enough capable for moderate to heavy gaming and for moderate users there is no problem with this phone.
Also Read: Is Google Pixel 4a 5G Worth Buying in 2023?
Other Options For The Same Price
