Galaxy S21 FE 5G in 2025 – Still Worth It?

Introduction

Back in early 2022, Samsung introduced the Galaxy S21 FE 5G as a fan-favorite alternative to the flagship Galaxy S21 series. Fast-forward to 2025, and many users are wondering—does the S21 FE still hold up in today's ever-evolving smartphone market? I used this phone again in 2025 to find out if it’s still worth your money.

Design & Build Quality – Timeless or Outdated?

The S21 FE still looks sleek in 2025. Its matte finish and lightweight plastic back with an aluminum frame offer a comfortable grip. While newer phones have moved to glass backs and sharper edges, the S21 FE remains durable and easy to hold. However, compared to today’s edge-to-edge and under-display camera designs, the S21 FE’s slightly thicker bezels feel dated.

• Weight: 177g
• IP68 rating: Still a rarity in the midrange segment even in 2025
• Colors: The olive and graphite versions have aged particularly well

Display – Still a Pleasure to Use

Samsung's 6.4-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate remains one of its strongest features. Whether you're gaming or binge-watching Netflix, the screen delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and fluid scrolling. Compared to midrange phones in 2025, it still ranks among the best in its price category.

• Resolution: 2400 x 1080 pixels
• Brightness: Strong enough for outdoor use, even by 2025 standards

Performance in 2025 – Can It Keep Up?

With a Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 in some markets), the Galaxy S21 FE still offers smooth performance for everyday use, even in 2025. I was able to multitask, edit photos, and game without major slowdowns. But keep in mind, sustained gaming leads to noticeable heat, and newer chips like the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 or Exynos 1480 perform more efficiently.

• RAM: 6GB/8GB – still enough for most users
• Software: Android 13 at launch, now runs Android 15 with One UI 7.1

Camera – Aging Gracefully or Falling Behind?

The 12MP main and ultra-wide sensors are still capable of capturing great shots in daylight. However, low-light photography has been surpassed by newer midrange phones like the Pixel 7a and Galaxy A55. Night mode takes longer and sometimes fails to deliver detail.

• Main: 12MP f/1.8 (OIS)
• Ultra-wide: 12MP
• Telephoto: 8MP 3x optical zoom
• Front: 32MP – still great for selfies

Battery Life – Just Enough

The 4500mAh battery still manages to last a full day under moderate use, but it doesn’t compete with the improved efficiency of newer chipsets. In 2025, many phones in this range offer faster charging and larger batteries.

• Charging: 25W wired, 15W wireless
• Screen-on Time: ~6 hours (typical use)

Competition in 2025

Here's how the S21 FE stacks up against current alternatives:

Phone	Pros	Cons
Galaxy A55	Modern design, efficient chip, newer camera software	No wireless charging
Pixel 7a	Better low-light camera, long software support	Slower charging
Redmi Note 13 Pro+	120W fast charging, larger display	MIUI ads and bloatware

Should You Still Buy the Galaxy S21 FE in 2025?

If you find the S21 FE on sale for a good price (~$250 or less), it's still a fantastic value. For light to moderate users who want a flagship-like experience without breaking the bank, the S21 FE holds up remarkably well. But if camera and battery life are top priorities, newer alternatives might suit you better.

Verdict

Rating: 4/5 – The Galaxy S21 FE remains a strong contender in 2025 for budget-conscious users who value display quality, software updates, and a familiar Samsung experience.

Final Thoughts

Samsung’s “Fan Edition” experiment truly delivered with the S21 FE. Three years later, it remains a recommended device for users seeking a reliable, affordable, and well-rounded smartphone. While it may not impress enthusiasts anymore, it’s still more than capable for everyday tasks—and that says a lot in 2025.

Learn More >>》》

Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus: The Ultimate Smartphone Redefining Innovation in 2025