Samsung Galaxy S21 Fe Vs Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus: Showdown Of 2024’s Top Affordable Flagships – Which One Takes The Crown?

In the realm of mid-range smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus stand as formidable contenders, promising exceptional performance, captivating displays, and advanced camera capabilities. As you embark on your quest for the ideal smartphone, let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two powerhouses, exploring their strengths and uncovering their potential drawbacks.

Performance: Unleashing Raw Power

At the heart of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE lies the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset, a powerhouse that delivers blazing-fast processing speeds and seamless multitasking capabilities. On the other hand, the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 processor, renowned for its energy efficiency and reliable performance. Both devices offer ample RAM and storage configurations, ensuring smooth operation even with demanding applications.

Display: Visual Brilliance Redefined

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE mesmerizes with its 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, capable of producing vibrant colors and deep blacks. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures fluid scrolling and gaming experiences. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus counters with a slightly larger 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support for enhanced content viewing.

Camera Prowess: Capturing Life’s Moments

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE features a versatile triple-lens rear camera system, comprising a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This setup delivers crisp and detailed photos, along with impressive low-light performance. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus boasts a formidable quad-lens rear camera system, headlined by a 200MP main sensor, accompanied by an 8MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. This combination promises exceptional image quality and versatility, capturing stunning shots in various scenarios.

Battery Life: Powering Through Your Day

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE houses a 4,500mAh battery, providing reliable endurance for all-day usage. With support for 25W fast charging, you can quickly replenish its power reserves when needed. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus ups the ante with a massive 5,000mAh battery, ensuring even longer battery life. Its 67W fast charging capability enables remarkably swift charging speeds, minimizing downtime.

Software and Updates: Staying Current and Secure

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE runs on Android 12 with Samsung’s One UI 4.1 skin, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customization options. Samsung’s commitment to software updates ensures that the device will receive regular security patches and new Android versions for the foreseeable future. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus comes pre-installed with Android 12 based on MIUI 13, Xiaomi’s custom Android skin. MIUI offers a plethora of features and customization options, catering to users who prefer a highly personalized experience. Xiaomi’s update policy is generally reliable, although it may not be as consistent as Samsung’s.

Build Quality and Design: Aesthetics and Durability

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE showcases a sleek and modern design, featuring a plastic back and a metal frame. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it comfortable to hold and operate. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus exudes a more premium feel, thanks to its glass back and aluminum frame. Its larger size may not be suitable for those who prefer a more compact device. Both smartphones offer IP68 water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind against accidental spills or exposure to the elements.

Price and Availability: Balancing Value and Affordability

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE carries a starting price of around $699, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus is slightly more affordable, starting at around $499. Both devices offer excellent value for their respective price points, delivering a compelling combination of features and performance. Availability may vary depending on your region and carrier, so be sure to check with your local retailers for more information.

The Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal Mid-Range Champion

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus are both exceptional mid-range smartphones that offer a plethora of compelling features. The Galaxy S21 FE excels in terms of display quality, camera performance, and software support. On the other hand, the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus impresses with its massive battery, ultrafast charging capabilities, and more affordable price tag.

Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value a compact size, a vibrant display, and a versatile camera system, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize battery life, fast charging, and a more affordable price, the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus is a compelling choice.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which device has a better camera system?

The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus boasts a more impressive rear camera system, featuring a 200MP main sensor and a versatile quad-lens setup.

2. Does the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE have expandable storage?

No, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE does not offer expandable storage, unlike the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus, which supports microSD cards for additional storage.

3. Which device receives more frequent software updates?

Samsung generally provides more consistent and timely software updates compared to Xiaomi.

4. Is the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus water-resistant?

Yes, both the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus have IP68 water and dust resistance ratings, making them resistant to accidental spills and exposure to the elements.

5. Which device has a longer battery life?

The Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus has a larger battery capacity (5,000mAh) compared to the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (4,500mAh), resulting in potentially longer battery life.