Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Xiaomi 13

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (2022) and Xiaomi 13 (2022) are both modern smartphones that offer a range of features for everyday use. While the Galaxy S21 FE 5G is part of Samsung's 'Fan Edition' line, aiming to deliver popular flagship features, the Xiaomi 13 is a compact flagship device from Xiaomi. Both run on the Android operating system, but they differ in their core hardware and specific feature sets, catering to slightly different user preferences.

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release date, software support, and physical durability.

• Release and Support: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G was released globally in January 2022, while the Xiaomi 13 launched in China in December 2022 and globally in February 2023. Both devices are expected to receive several years of Android operating system updates, with the Xiaomi 13 potentially extending support further due to its later release and stated upgrade path to Android 15 with HyperOS 2.0.
• Durability Features: Both phones feature IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for screen protection, a feature also found on the Xiaomi 13's display. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a plastic back with an aluminum frame, while the Xiaomi 13 offers a glass or silicone polymer back with an aluminum frame.
• Repairability: The Xiaomi 13 has a moderate repairability score, with some components being easier to access than others, though strong adhesive for the back cover and battery can complicate repairs. Information on the specific repairability score for the Galaxy S21 FE 5G is less readily available, but generally, modern smartphones present challenges for user repairs.

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run and how efficiently the device handles demanding tasks.

• Processing Power: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that handles demanding applications effectively. The Xiaomi 13 features a newer generation processor, which provides excellent CPU and GPU performance, making it well-suited for intensive gaming and multitasking.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer configurations with ample RAM, allowing for smooth transitions between multiple open applications. The Xiaomi 13's newer processor generally provides a more responsive experience, particularly with graphically intensive tasks and rapid app loading.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which for some users provides a full day of use, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging. The Xiaomi 13 also has a 4500 mAh battery, but user reports and tests suggest it offers good endurance, often lasting a full day or even two days with moderate use, partly due to its efficient processor. The Xiaomi 13 also supports faster wired and wireless charging speeds.

The display is the primary interface for interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with some notable differences.

• Display Technology and Clarity: Both smartphones feature AMOLED display technology, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, while the Xiaomi 13 uses an AMOLED panel. Both offer Full HD+ resolution, providing sharp and clear visuals for everyday content consumption.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices support a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G can reach a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits, ensuring good visibility outdoors. The Xiaomi 13 offers a high peak brightness, with some sources indicating up to 1100 nits and others up to 1900 nits, which contributes to excellent outdoor readability and HDR content viewing.
• Size and Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 6.4-inch display, offering a slightly larger viewing area. The Xiaomi 13 features a 6.36-inch display. Both sizes are generally considered comfortable for one-handed use while providing an immersive experience for media.

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and both phones offer versatile systems for capturing photos and videos.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a triple camera setup with a 12 MP wide lens, an 8 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Xiaomi 13 also has a triple rear camera system, developed in partnership with Leica, consisting of a 50 MP main sensor, a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3.2x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S21 FE 5G produces vibrant colors and good all-round results, with improved low-light performance compared to its predecessor. The Xiaomi 13's main camera delivers strong photographic performance with vibrant colors, impressive contrast, and detail, benefiting from Leica's photographic styles (Vibrant and Authentic). Its low-light performance is also noted as good.
• Video and Front Camera: Both devices can record video at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second with their rear cameras. The Xiaomi 13 can record up to 8K video at 24 frames per second. For selfies, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32 MP front camera, while the Xiaomi 13 also features a 32 MP front camera.