The Samsung Galaxy Note 21 FE is a device that manages to strike a delicate balance between premium features and affordability. As a Fan Edition (FE) model, it inherits much of the DNA from its flagship siblings while trimming some of the excess to hit a more accessible price point. But does it live up to the legacy of the Note series? Let’s dive in.

At first glance, the Galaxy Note 21 FE exudes the same sleek, professional aesthetic that has become synonymous with the Note lineup. The device features a refined glass and metal construction, with a matte finish on the back that resists fingerprints—a small but appreciated detail. The signature S Pen slot is present, reinforcing the Note’s identity as a productivity powerhouse. The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is nothing short of stunning, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate that makes scrolling and note-taking feel effortless.

Under the hood, the Note 21 FE is powered by either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset, depending on the region. Both variants deliver robust performance, handling multitasking, gaming, and creative workloads with ease. Paired with 8GB of RAM, the phone rarely stutters, even when juggling multiple apps or running demanding software like Samsung DeX. Storage options start at 128GB, with a 256GB variant available for those who need more space. Unfortunately, there’s no microSD slot, which might disappoint some power users.

The camera system on the Note 21 FE is a highlight, though it’s not quite as versatile as the flagship Note 21 Ultra. The triple-lens setup includes a 12MP primary sensor with dual-pixel autofocus, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Daylight photography is excellent, with sharp details, accurate colors, and good dynamic range. Low-light performance is respectable, thanks to Samsung’s Night Mode, though it can’t quite match the prowess of more expensive competitors. The 32MP front-facing camera delivers crisp selfies and handles video calls with ease.

Battery life is another strong suit. The 4,500mAh cell easily lasts a full day of heavy use, and when you do need to recharge, the 25W fast charging support gets you back up and running quickly. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are also included, adding convenience for those invested in the ecosystem. One UI 4.0, based on Android 12, runs smoothly on the device, offering a clean, intuitive interface with plenty of customization options and useful features like Samsung Notes integration with the S Pen.

Speaking of the S Pen, it remains one of the standout features of the Note 21 FE. The latency is impressively low, making writing and drawing feel natural. Air Actions are also supported, allowing you to control the phone with gestures—a feature that’s both fun and functional. Whether you’re jotting down quick notes, editing documents, or sketching, the S Pen elevates the experience beyond what most other smartphones can offer.

Of course, no device is without its compromises. The Note 21 FE lacks some of the premium touches found in the Ultra model, such as a higher-resolution display, a more advanced camera system, or a larger battery. The plastic back, while durable, doesn’t feel quite as premium as glass. And while the S Pen is fantastic, those who don’t use it regularly might question whether the Note series is the right fit for them.

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Note 21 FE is a compelling option for those who want the core Note experience without the flagship price tag. It delivers excellent performance, a gorgeous display, and the unparalleled utility of the S Pen, all wrapped in a sleek, durable design. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its more expensive siblings, it’s a well-rounded device that excels where it counts.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2400 x 1080 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate

Processor: Exynos 2100 / Snapdragon 888 (region-dependent)

RAM: 8GB

Storage: 128GB / 256GB (non-expandable)

Rear Cameras: 12MP primary (f/1.8), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 8MP telephoto (f/2.4, 3x optical zoom)

Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.2)

Battery: 4,500mAh with 25W fast charging, wireless charging, reverse wireless charging

Operating System: Android 12 with One UI 4.0

Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC

Dimensions: 161.4 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm

Weight: 192g

Other Features: S Pen support, IP68 water and dust resistance, stereo speakers, under-display fingerprint sensor