Samsung A51 Vs S21 Fe Is The Newer Model Really Worth The Upgrade 2

Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy A51 and the Galaxy S21 FE can feel like navigating a minefield of marketing claims and minor specs. One is a well-regarded mid-ranger from 2020; the other, a 2022 flagship “fan edition” designed to bring high-end features to a broader audience. But does the newer model truly justify the upgrade—especially if you’re still satisfied with your A51? The answer depends on what you value most: raw performance, camera quality, longevity, or budget.

This isn’t just about comparing numbers. It’s about real-world usability, future-proofing, and whether the extra cost translates into tangible benefits in daily life. Let’s break down the key differences and see where each phone excels—and where it falls short.

Design and Build: Substance Meets Style

The Galaxy A51 launched with a sleek, minimalist design featuring a plastic back and frame. While lightweight and comfortable to hold, its build materials reflect its mid-tier positioning. Over time, the soft-touch finish tends to attract fingerprints and micro-scratches, especially with frequent pocket use.

In contrast, the S21 FE steps up with a more premium feel. It uses a polycarbonate back (still plastic, but textured) and an aluminum frame, giving it better structural rigidity and a more upscale aesthetic. It’s also IP67-rated for dust and water resistance—a feature absent on the A51. This means the S21 FE can survive accidental spills or brief submersion, a practical advantage for active users.

Tip: If you frequently use your phone outdoors or near liquids, the S21 FE’s water resistance alone may justify the upgrade.

Performance: Night and Day Difference

Under the hood, the gap widens significantly. The A51 runs on Samsung’s Exynos 9611 (or Snapdragon 730G in select regions), paired with 4GB or 6GB of RAM. In 2020, this was respectable for everyday tasks, but today it struggles with multitasking, heavy apps, and sustained gaming.

The S21 FE, however, packs either the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100—flagship chips at the time of release—along with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. This results in noticeably faster app launches, smoother animations, and far better thermal management during extended use. Whether you're editing photos, streaming in 4K, or playing Genshin Impact, the S21 FE handles it with ease.

One user, Mark, upgraded from an A51 to the S21 FE after two years of gradual slowdowns. “I didn’t realize how much I was waiting until I got the S21 FE,” he said. “Opening three apps at once used to freeze my old phone. Now, everything feels instant.”

“Flagship processors aren’t just about speed—they enable longer software support and better AI processing for cameras and voice assistants.” — Lena Park, Mobile Hardware Analyst

Camera Comparison: More Than Megapixels

Both phones feature quad-camera setups, but the execution differs greatly. The A51 has a 48MP main sensor, which delivers decent daylight shots but suffers in low light and lacks optical image stabilization (OIS). Zoom and ultra-wide performance are underwhelming, with noticeable distortion and noise.

The S21 FE upgrades to a 12MP main sensor with OIS, a critical feature for sharper photos and stable video. Its ultra-wide and telephoto lenses outperform the A51’s counterparts in clarity and dynamic range. Night mode is dramatically better, capturing brighter scenes with accurate colors and less grain.

Video recording is another leap forward. The S21 FE supports 4K at 60fps across all rear cameras, while the A51 maxes out at 30fps and only on the main lens. For content creators or social media users, this flexibility is invaluable.

Feature	Samsung A51	Samsung S21 FE
Main Camera	48MP, no OIS	12MP, with OIS
Ultra-Wide	12MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/2.2, better calibration
Telephoto	5MP macro	8MP, 3x hybrid zoom
Video Recording	4K@30fps (main only)	4K@60fps (all rear cams)
Front Camera	32MP	32MP with improved autofocus

Battery and Charging: Endurance vs Efficiency

The A51 boasts a 4000mAh battery, which was solid in 2020 but now offers only moderate endurance—around 5–6 hours of screen-on time for average users. It supports 15W fast charging, but Samsung ships a 10W charger in the box.

The S21 FE packs a slightly larger 4500mAh battery and benefits from a more power-efficient display and processor. Despite higher performance, it typically lasts longer—up to 7–8 hours of screen time. It supports 25W fast charging (charger sold separately), cutting charge time nearly in half compared to the A51.

However, the S21 FE lacks a headphone jack and expandable storage, both of which the A51 includes. If you rely on wired headphones or store large media libraries locally, these omissions could be a downside.

Tip: Use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter or Bluetooth earbuds to offset the missing headphone jack on the S21 FE.

Software and Longevity: Future-Proofing Your Investment

Software support is a major factor in long-term satisfaction. The A51 launched with Android 10 and is eligible for two major OS updates and three years of security patches. As of 2024, it likely won’t receive further Android version upgrades, limiting access to new features and potentially exposing it to unpatched vulnerabilities.

The S21 FE, released with Android 12, is guaranteed four major OS updates and five years of security patches—meaning it will run Android 16 and stay secure through 2027. This extended lifecycle makes it a smarter investment if you plan to keep your phone for three years or more.

Additionally, the S21 FE runs Samsung’s One UI with more advanced customization, better multitasking (like pop-up view and drag-and-drop), and deeper integration with Samsung’s ecosystem (SmartThings, DeX, etc.). These features enhance productivity and user experience beyond raw specs.

Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?

If you're still using an A51 and considering a move to the S21 FE, follow this decision timeline:

1. Evaluate current pain points: Is your phone slow, crashing often, or struggling with camera quality?
2. Assess usage needs: Do you take lots of photos, play mobile games, or rely on multitasking?
3. Check software status: Is your A51 still receiving updates? If not, security and compatibility may degrade.
4. Compare pricing: Refurbished or discounted S21 FE models often sell for under $300—close to A51’s original price.
5. Test in person: Visit a retailer to feel the build, speed, and display difference firsthand.

FAQ

Is the S21 FE waterproof?

Yes, the S21 FE has an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The A51 has no official water resistance.

Can I expand storage on the S21 FE?

No, the S21 FE does not support microSD cards. The A51 does, offering up to 512GB of expandable storage.

Does the S21 FE have a better display?

Absolutely. The S21 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother scrolling and more vibrant colors compared to the A51’s 6.5-inch Super AMOLED at 60Hz.

Conclusion: Making the Smart Move

The Samsung Galaxy A51 was a strong contender in its time, but technology moves fast. The S21 FE isn’t just a newer phone—it’s a meaningful upgrade in performance, camera quality, display, and long-term software support. For users who depend on their phone for work, creativity, or staying connected, the jump from A51 to S21 FE delivers real, measurable improvements.

If you’re holding onto an aging A51 and noticing lag, poor photo quality, or update fatigue, now is a sensible time to consider the switch—especially if you can find the S21 FE at a discounted price. It bridges the gap between affordability and flagship experience better than most phones in its class.

🚀 Ready to upgrade with confidence? Assess your needs, check local deals, and make the move when it aligns with your lifestyle—not just the calendar.