Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G
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Galaxy A23 5G
Starting at
£117.65£277.00 new
Galaxy S21 5G
Starting at
£171.33£1,290.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy A23 5G and Galaxy S21 5G?
Galaxy A23 5G vs S21 5G comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy A23 5G starts at £117.65, £53.68 less than the Galaxy S21 5G. The Galaxy A23 5G is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) on the Galaxy A23 5G, Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G.
- The Galaxy S21 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
- The Galaxy A23 5G has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4000 mAh.
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G specs
The Galaxy A23 5G and Galaxy S21 5G both support 5G and run Android, but they suit different needs. The Galaxy A23 5G offers a larger screen and longer battery life, making it a good choice if you want more screen space and extended use between charges. The Galaxy S21 5G features a higher RAM capacity and more powerful chipset options, suited for smoother multitasking and demanding apps. Its Dynamic AMOLED screen is ideal if you prefer vivid colours and deeper contrast. Camera setups differ too: the Galaxy A23 5G focuses on a high-resolution main camera, while the Galaxy S21 5G has a higher resolution front camera for selfies. Storage and size also vary, with the Galaxy S21 5G offering larger storage options but a more compact and lighter build.
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G price
Colour
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software updates affect how long a phone lasts in daily use and over time.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy A23 5G has a 5000 mAh battery which suits longer use between charges, making it better for heavy users or those who spend more time away from power sources. The Galaxy S21 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which still supports a full day of typical use but may need more frequent charging with intensive use.
Software Updates
This means you get current features and security improvements on either device.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These affect how smoothly apps run and how much space you have for files and apps.
Chipset Power
The Galaxy S21 5G offers either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset, both manufactured on a 5 nm process, which suits users looking for stronger performance in gaming or multitasking. The Galaxy A23 5G uses the Snapdragon 695 5G chipset on a 6 nm process, which suits everyday use and standard app performance.
Memory for Multitasking
The Galaxy S21 5G comes with 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly even when many are open. The Galaxy A23 5G has 6 GB of RAM, which supports regular multitasking well but is designed for typical daily use.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S21 5G offers 128 GB and 256 GB storage options, suited to those who need more space for apps, media, and files. The Galaxy A23 5G comes in 64 GB and 128 GB options, which suits users with moderate storage needs or those who plan to expand storage using a microSD card.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G screen
Screen size, type, resolution, and refresh rate affect viewing experience. Both phones share some features but differ in display technology and size.
Screen Type and Quality
The Galaxy S21 5G features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, offering vibrant colours and deep contrast which suits users who watch videos or enjoy rich visuals. The Galaxy A23 5G has a PLS LCD screen, which is bright and clear, suitable for everyday tasks.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy A23 5G has a larger 6.6 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2408, providing more space for reading or media. The Galaxy S21 5G has a slightly smaller 6.2 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, fitting comfortably in the hand while still delivering sharp images.
Refresh Rate
Both phones support a 120 Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth scrolling and fluid motion in apps and games.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G camera
Camera quality is important for photos and selfies. The two devices have different approaches to their front and main cameras.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy A23 5G has a 50 megapixels main camera, which suits users focused on capturing detailed photos. The Galaxy S21 5G uses a 12 megapixels main camera, which balances photo quality with other camera features.
Front Camera Resolution
For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S21 5G offers a 10 megapixels front camera, which suits users wanting higher resolution. The Galaxy A23 5G has an 8 megapixels front camera, suitable for clear and reliable front-facing photos.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G size and design
Other practical features include size, weight, SIM and memory card options, and connectivity that affect daily convenience.
Expandable Storage
The Galaxy A23 5G supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to expand storage by adding a memory card. This suits users who want extra space without paying for higher built-in storage. The Galaxy S21 5G does not have this feature.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S21 5G supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, providing more flexibility if you use multiple mobile numbers or plans. The Galaxy A23 5G offers Dual Physical SIM slots.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy A23 5G is larger at 165.4 mm tall and 76.9 mm wide, weighing 197 g, which suits those who prefer a bigger screen and don't mind a heavier device. The Galaxy S21 5G is more compact and lighter at 151.7 mm tall, 71.2 mm wide, and 169 g, which suits one-handed use and easier carrying.
Connector Type
Both phones use USB Type-C connectors, standard for charging and data transfer.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy A23 5G or Galaxy S21 5G: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy A23 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £117.65, £53.68 less than the Galaxy S21 5G
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.6 inch vs 6.2 inch)
Buy the Galaxy S21 5G if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (10 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy A23 5G appreciate its good price and feel, often commenting that the phone looks like new with minimal marks. Many find the size just right and the battery life generally good, though some mention it drains faster with heavy use during the day. The phone is praised for doing everything needed for everyday use, with dual SIM and expandable memory being useful features. Some customers highlight that setup is easy even for those less comfortable with technology, and the device is quick enough for daily tasks.
Galaxy S21 5G customers consistently describe the phone as in excellent or pristine condition, with many noting its battery life and performance meet expectations. The device's quality and compact size are appreciated, and several users find it perfect for dual SIM use. Some mention minor signs of wear or specific regional features, but overall the phone is reported as working smoothly and feeling like brand new. Customers value its reliable performance and good condition, often buying multiple devices from PhoneMart.
The Galaxy A23 5G suits those wanting a larger screen, longer battery, and expandable storage at a lower price point. The Galaxy S21 5G fits users who want stronger performance, a vivid AMOLED screen, higher RAM, and a more compact, lighter device.
Galaxy A23 5G vs Galaxy S21 5G FAQs
Galaxy A23 5G vs S21 5G comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) on the Galaxy A23 5G, Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 5G. The Galaxy S21 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
The Galaxy A23 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £117.65 compared with £171.33 for the Galaxy S21 5G.
The Galaxy A23 5G has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4000 mAh.
The Galaxy A23 5G has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy A23 5G ended in Oct 2026. Updates for the Galaxy S21 5G ended in Feb 2026.
The Galaxy A23 5G adds a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4000 mAh), a bigger screen (6.6 inch vs 6.2 inch) and a higher-resolution main camera (50 megapixels vs 12 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £53.68 less (from £117.65 vs £171.33).
Refurbished, the Galaxy A23 5G comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the Galaxy S21 5G in 128GB and 256GB.
