Galaxy S21 FE Replacement: Why the Galaxy A57 Is a Great Choice

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, which launched in early 2022, is approaching the end of its functional lifecycle as of May 12, 2026. While the device featured capable hardware for its time—specifically the Exynos 2100 and Snapdragon 888 chipsets—its age is becoming a primary driver for users seeking hardware upgrades.

Current S21 FE users have already received Android 16 with One UI 8.0. However, due to shifts in Samsung’s update schedules, it remains unclear if the device will receive the One UI 8.5 update.

For those looking to replace the aging Fan Edition model, there are several paths depending on budget and timing. Users seeking the highest value may choose to wait for the Galaxy S26 FE, which is expected to launch in autumn 2026. For those requiring an immediate upgrade, the Galaxy S25 FE serves as a stronger all-around option.

A third alternative for budget-conscious users is the Galaxy A57. Although positioned as a mid-range device, the A57 offers several advantages over the S21 FE due to the multi-year gap in their release dates.

Hardware and Design Improvements

The Galaxy A57 introduces several physical and display upgrades over the S21 FE. The screen size increases to 6.7 inches, up from the 6.4 inches found on the S21 FE. While the S21 FE uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, the A57 utilizes a Super AMOLED+ panel that is noticeably brighter and features Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection.

Build quality has also shifted. The A57 features an aluminum frame and a Gorilla Glass Victus+ back, replacing the plastic back used on the S21 FE.

Internal specifications show a significant increase in memory and connectivity. The A57 offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM, compared to the 6GB or 8GB available on the S21 FE. Connectivity is updated to include Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 6.0.

Battery, Charging, and Performance

Power management is improved in the A57, which carries a 5,000mAh battery, an increase from the 4,500mAh battery in the S21 FE. Charging speeds have also increased from 25W to 45W wired charging.

Under the hood, the A57 is powered by the Exynos 1680 4nm chipset. According to reporting from SamMobile, this mid-range chip outperforms the older Exynos 2100 in synthetic benchmarks. In the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme test, the Galaxy A57 scores approximately 1,600 points, while the S21 FE scores closer to 1,000 points.

The transition to a 4nm process, compared to the 5nm process of the Exynos 2100, also makes the A57 more power-efficient. These factors combined suggest the A57 may be a better option for gaming than its predecessor.

Software Longevity and Trade-offs

One of the most significant advantages of moving to the Galaxy A57 is the extended software support. The device is slated for six OS upgrades starting in 2026, providing a much longer support window than the S21 FE.

However, transitioning from the FE line to the A-series involves the loss of certain premium features. The Galaxy A57 does not support Samsung DeX or wireless charging, both of which were available on the S21 FE.

Despite these omissions, the Galaxy A57 presents a viable replacement for users who prioritize battery life, screen brightness, and updated performance over desktop integration and wireless power.