On paper, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is a fine mid-range phone, with adequate features like an attractive screen, powerful processor and capable cameras for those looking for a handy, less expensive mobile.

Vibrant display, Lots of processing power, Slender design

Far too expensive, Takes a long time to charge, Unimpressive battery life

The S21 FE is a phone out of time. It’s a pretty great, well-rounded hardware package and I doubt many people would come away disappointed, but it’s launched six months too late.

Under-stated, attractive design, Impressive triple rear camera, Updates through to Android 15

Expensive for the specs, Average battery & charging, Older tech

You should probably buy the Pixel 6 instead

Big, high refresh rate screen, Good telephoto camera, Great software support policy

Fast charging brick costs extra, Arrives late in the S21-series product cycle

So… where does that leave the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE. If you’re looking at the phone in a vacuum, it’s a pretty spectacular device. The issues really only come to light when the $699 sticker price comes into play.

Performance, Display, Cameras, Battery life

Price, Slow charging

A very complete package; Bright, colourful screen; An IP rating and Qi charging ;

Overpriced compared to the competition; Camera not as good as Pixel 6; Average battery life and charging speeds;

as expected, Samsung delivers a great product. Good looking and looking forward to a good few years reliable service

as expected, Samsung delivers a great product. Good looking and looking forward to a good few years reliable service

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is a great upper-mid-range phone

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is the most affordable phone in the S21 series - its specs and features have been streamlined to keep the cost down. While it may not be as good value as we'd have hoped for it's still a very capable piece of kit with a decent camera, powerful processing and a long-lasting...

6.4-inch FHD+ 120Hz display, Premium chipset and specs, Decent camera system

No charger in the box, Slow charging, Still quite expensive

The Fan Edition of the S21 arrives at an awkward time, with the 'full fat' Galaxy S21 now selling at a similar price and the Galaxy S22 due to to launch in February. But this is still a powerful handset, so while it might be out-specced by some cheaper rivals, for those looking for a more affordable...

Plenty of power, Great display, Good looking phone, Latest software

No microSD card slot, Price and launch timing is awkward - S22 is incoming