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When Samsung released the Galaxy S21 FE in early 2022, it was celebrated as a more affordable version of the flagship S21, boasting premium features at a mid-range price. Fast forward to 2025, and the question arises: is the S21 FE still a worthwhile purchase today? With rapid advancements in smartphone technology and new devices being launched each year, potential buyers are right to wonder if older models like the S21 FE can still hold their own. This article takes a detailed look at the S21 FE in 2025 to determine its value, performance, and relevance in the current market.
Design and Build Quality
The S21 FE continues to hold a modern and sleek appearance even in 2025. Its 6.4-inch display paired with thin bezels still provides an immersive experience. The phone sports a plastic back with a matte finish, a design choice that was met with mixed reactions at launch but has aged well in terms of durability and grip.
With a metal frame, IP68 water and dust resistance, and relatively lightweight construction, the S21 FE offers a build quality that matches many of today’s mid-range and even some premium-tier devices.
Display Quality
The Galaxy S21 FE boasts a 120Hz AMOLED display with vibrant color reproduction and deep contrast levels. Even by 2025 standards, the screen is impressive for both media consumption and daily tasks. While newer flagships may now offer LTPO panels with adaptive refresh rates and possibly even 8K support, the S21 FE’s display still stands out as more than adequate for most users.
- Size: 6.4 inches
- Resolution: 1080 x 2400 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
For general browsing, video streaming, and even mobile gaming, the display leaves little to be desired, especially at its current price point in 2025.
Performance in 2025
Powered by either the Exynos 2100 (international version) or Snapdragon 888 (U.S. version), the S21 FE performs decently even three years after its release. These processors were flagship-level chipsets in 2021 and although they’re no longer top of the line, they handle everyday tasks well.
In 2025, users can expect smooth multitasking, gaming with moderate settings, and seamless app navigation. However, it’s important to note that the thermal performance may lag behind newer, more efficient 4nm and 3nm chips found in current smartphones.
Will it struggle with newer apps?
So far, most mainstream apps are still compatible and optimized for Android 13 and Android 14, ensuring the S21 FE continues to provide a fluid user experience. However, as more apps leverage AI-based processing and heavy graphical content, signs of aging may become more apparent in the next couple of years.
Camera Performance
While newer models are pushing camera innovation with periscope zoom, large sensors, and built-in AI processing, the S21 FE’s triple rear camera setup still holds its own:
- Main: 12MP, f/1.8
- Ultra-Wide: 12MP, f/2.2
- Telephoto: 8MP, 3x optical zoom
The camera system delivers vibrant photos with good dynamic range in daylight, along with decent low-light performance thanks to software optimization. However, it may fall short in emerging computational photography trends that dominate 2025 flagships.
Video recording capabilities
Video quality peaks at 4K 60fps and is still more than sufficient for content creators starting out or casual users documenting everyday moments. Features such as super steady mode, slow-motion, and Director’s View add to the versatility of the S21 FE camera set.
Software Updates and Support
Samsung committed to four years of major Android updates and five years of security updates for select models starting in 2021. Since the S21 FE was released in early 2022, it’s likely to receive Android updates through 2026. As of 2025, the device should be on Android 14 with at least one major update remaining.
This makes the phone secure and reasonably futureproof for users who prioritize long-term software support.
Battery Life and Charging
The S21 FE features a 4,500mAh battery, which originally offered a full day’s use under moderate activity. In 2025, users will likely notice some battery degradation depending on usage habits, but the device should still comfortably last through a day for light or moderate users.
- Wired Charging: 25W
- Wireless Charging: 15W
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Available
Charging speeds may feel outdated compared to 80W+ and even 100W+ fast chargers found in newer models, but for the average user, the difference isn’t game-changing.
Current Market Pricing
By 2025, the S21 FE is available at significantly reduced prices, especially on refurbished or second-hand markets. Some carriers may still offer it as a budget option in plans, and worldwide, it has become a popular choice among first-time smartphone users, backup phone seekers, or those looking for great value at under $300.
Final Verdict: Is the S21 FE Still Worth It in 2025?
The Galaxy S21 FE in 2025 is not designed for power users or those seeking the latest innovations in mobile technology. However, it remains an excellent value smartphone for a wide range of users. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pros: Excellent display, solid performance, decent cameras, software support until 2026, strong value for money
- Cons: Older chipset, slower charging compared to newer models, limited AI features, battery aging concerns
If you’re a casual user, someone looking for a secondary device, or a buyer on a tight budget, the S21 FE still ticks many boxes. For those wanting cutting-edge performance and top-tier specs, it may be worth exploring newer options from Samsung’s A-series or flagship S-series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Q: Is the Galaxy S21 FE still receiving updates in 2025?
A: Yes, Samsung has committed to providing major Android updates until at least 2026 for the S21 FE. -
Q: Can the S21 FE handle gaming in 2025?
A: The phone can run most Android games with medium to high settings, but it may struggle with the latest graphics-intensive titles. -
Q: Is the camera on the S21 FE still good?
A: The triple-lens setup still produces good quality photos and videos, though it lacks the AI and advanced computational features of newer models. -
Q: How long does the battery last now?
A: Depending on battery health, users can expect around one full day of use with moderate activity. -
Q: Should I buy a new or refurbished S21 FE?
A: Refurbished models offer excellent value and work well if bought from a trusted retailer with a warranty.
In conclusion, while the S21 FE may no longer be a flagship killer, it continues to live up to Samsung’s promise of offering quality performance and features to a wider audience—even in 2025.