Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S21 FE 5G
Starting at
£157.11£699.00 new
Google Pixel 8
Starting at
£205.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Google Pixel 8?
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 FE 5G starts at £157.11, £47.89 less than the Google Pixel 8. The Google Pixel 8 is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm), Exynos 2100 (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 8.
- The Google Pixel 8 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
- Battery: 4500 mAh on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, 4575 mAh on the Google Pixel 8.
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 specs
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G and Google Pixel 8 both offer unlocked 5G phones with similar storage options but differ in size, camera setup, and performance features. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a larger 6.4 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen and a higher resolution front camera, which suits those prioritising selfie quality and a bigger display for media. The Pixel 8 has a sharper main camera and more RAM, appealing to users who want stronger photography and smoother multitasking. Battery capacities are close and both support dual SIM options in different formats, with the Galaxy using dual physical SIMs and the Pixel combining physical SIM with eSIM. Both are solid choices depending on whether you prefer a larger screen and front camera or a more powerful chipset and main camera.
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 price
Colour
- GreyStarting at £157.11
- GreenStarting at £172.04
- PurpleStarting at £188.49
- Dark BlueStarting at £195.84
- WhiteStarting at £189.75
- BlackSold out
- GreySold out
- Rose GoldSold out
- GreenSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity and operating system, which affect how long the phone lasts during use and the software experience you get. Both phones run Android but differ in OS versions and battery size.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, while the Google Pixel 8 comes with a slightly larger 4575 mAh battery. This difference may provide a bit more screen time and usage on the Pixel 8, which could benefit users who need longer battery life throughout the day.
Operating System
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G runs on Android without a specified version, suitable for users comfortable with standard Android features.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 performance
Performance is defined by chipsets, RAM, and storage, which influence speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on the device.
Chipset
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G or Exynos 2100, both built on a 5 nm process. The Google Pixel 8 runs on Google Tensor G3 built on a 4 nm process. The smaller 4 nm process in the Pixel 8's chipset can support improved efficiency and power management, which is useful for users who run demanding apps or multitask frequently.
RAM Capacity
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has 6 GB of RAM, which supports everyday app use and general multitasking well. The Pixel 8 offers 8 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open and running smoothly at the same time, ideal if you often switch between multiple apps.
Storage Options
Both phones come in 128GB and 256GB storage versions, providing ample space for apps, photos, and files. You can choose the storage size that fits your needs without worrying about expandable storage since neither phone supports SD cards.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with your device. These phones offer different sizes and display technologies that suit different preferences.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a larger 6.4 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340, providing more room for watching videos and browsing. The Pixel 8 has a slightly smaller 6.2 inch screen but a marginally taller resolution of 1080 x 2400, which may give a bit more vertical content space on screen.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which is known for vibrant colours and deep contrasts, making it well suited for media consumption. The Pixel 8 uses OLED, offering clear visuals and good colour accuracy, ideal for everyday use and balanced display performance.
Refresh Rate
Both phones support a 120 Hz refresh rate, which means smoother scrolling and animations. This benefits users who value fluid motion, such as when gaming or browsing social media.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 camera
Audiovisual specs focus on camera capabilities, important for photography and video calls. The two phones take different approaches with their camera resolutions.
Front Camera
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 32 megapixel front camera, offering high detail for selfies and video calls. This suits users who frequently use the front camera and want crisp images.
Main Camera
The Google Pixel 8 features a 50 megapixel main camera, capturing more detail in photos and appealing to those who prioritise high-quality photography. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has a 12 megapixel main camera, which still takes good photos but with fewer pixels.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 size and design
Miscellaneous features cover physical size, SIM options, and connectivity details that affect daily handling and network use.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G measures 155.7 mm in height, 74.5 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 177 g. The Pixel 8 is slightly shorter at 150.5 mm tall, narrower at 70.8 mm wide, and thicker at 8.9 mm, weighing 187 g. The Galaxy will appeal to those who prefer a larger but slimmer phone, while the Pixel fits better in smaller hands with a more compact footprint.
SIM Card Setup
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G supports dual physical SIM cards, ideal for users who want two separate physical numbers. The Pixel 8 combines one physical SIM with an eSIM, which suits users comfortable managing their second line digitally without swapping SIM cards.
Connectivity and Network
Both phones use USB Type-C connectors and support 5G networks, providing modern charging and fast mobile data speeds suitable for most users.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S21 FE 5G or Google Pixel 8: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S21 FE 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £157.11, £47.89 less than the Google Pixel 8
- you want a bigger screen (6.4 inch vs 6.2 inch)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (32 megapixels vs 10.5 megapixels)
Buy the Google Pixel 8 if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (50 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (until Oct 2030 vs until Jan 2027)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S21 FE 5G often praise its condition, noting that it looks almost new even when described as fair. They appreciate the large screen and good performance for everyday use, with many happy to give it as gifts for different ages. Some mention minor scratches but say these are barely noticeable with a case or screen protector. A few customers experienced issues like charging faults or WiFi problems, but many found the phone reliable and well suited for general tasks.
Those buying the Google Pixel 8 report it looking and feeling like a new phone, with a particular emphasis on the camera quality, which receives many compliments. Users find the Pixel 8 fast and well made, noting its solid battery life and clean condition. Some mention a smaller screen size but appreciate the device's speed and photo capabilities. A few noted minor inconveniences like missing SIM tools or fingerprint sensor sensitivity with screen protectors, but overall the Pixel 8 satisfies those wanting a higher-spec device.
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G suits customers who want a larger screen and a higher resolution front camera for selfies, while the Pixel 8 appeals to those prioritising a sharper main camera, more RAM, and the latest Android version. Both phones are well regarded in their own right and fit different needs depending on what features you value most.
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 FAQs
Galaxy S21 FE 5G vs Google Pixel 8 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm), Exynos 2100 (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 8. The Google Pixel 8 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £157.11 compared with £205 for the Google Pixel 8.
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G has 4500 mAh and the Google Pixel 8 has 4575 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8 has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The Galaxy S21 FE 5G gets updates until Jan 2027. The Google Pixel 8 gets updates until Oct 2030.
Both come in 128GB and 256GB refurbished.
