Oppo F21s Pro 5G Review: Does This Mid-Range Marvel Deliver for the Indian Market?

Oppo F21s Pro 5G Review: Does This Mid-Range Marvel Deliver for the Indian Market?

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Oppo F21s Pro 5G is in the Indian smartphone landscape is fiercely competitive, particularly in the mid-range segment. Yet, every so often, a device emerges that manages to carve out its own niche by blending impressive specifications with a unique aesthetic.

Enter the Oppo F21s Pro 5G. Launched with a distinct focus on design and a reliable 5G experience, this handset aims to be more than just a functional tool—it promises a lifestyle accessory.

For the modern Indian buyer, a smartphone must check several boxes: it needs to be future-proof with 5G connectivity, offer compelling camera capabilities for social media, and, crucially, look premium without breaking the bank. This comprehensive review dives deep into every facet of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G to determine if it truly merits your consideration in an already crowded market.

Oppo F21s Pro 5G Review: Does This Mid-Range Marvel Deliver for the Indian Market?

Design and Display: A Touch of Elegance and Innovation

Oppo has historically championed design, and the Oppo F21s Pro 5G is a testament to this commitment. The standout feature is arguably the Oppo F21s Pro 5G‘s use of the industry-first ‘Fibreglass-Leather’ finish (on the Dawnlight Gold and Starlight Black variants).

This texture is not only aesthetically pleasing and premium-feeling, but it also offers practical benefits: it’s durable, scratch-resistant, and remarkably smudge-proof—a major plus for daily use.

Complementing this is the unique Orbit Light design surrounding the camera module, which pulses for notifications, charging, and gaming, adding a subtle yet sophisticated flair.

The viewing experience is handled by a vibrant 6.43-inch AMOLED display. With a standard 60Hz refresh rate, it delivers stunning colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, making it perfect for media consumption.

While some competitors offer higher refresh rates, the quality and brightness of this AMOLED panel ensure crisp visuals, even under harsh Indian sunlight, solidifying its status as a reliable choice for everyday viewing.

Performance and 5G Capability: Smooth Operator

Powering the device is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. This is a highly reliable and efficient processor that has proven its worth across numerous mid-range handsets. It provides the necessary grunt for everyday multitasking, navigating demanding apps, and enjoying moderate gaming sessions without significant thermal throttling.

Crucially, the “5G” in its name is delivered through a robust support for multiple 5G bands, ensuring that Indian users will be future-ready as the next-generation network expands rapidly across metros and smaller cities.

The phone runs on ColorOS 12, based on Android. Oppo’s custom skin is feature-rich, highly customisable, and generally well-optimised, providing a smooth, intuitive user experience.

While it does come with some pre-installed applications, the overall fluidity and responsiveness of the operating system demonstrate genuine expertise in software integration.

Camera System: Clarity in Every Click

The camera setup is a significant selling point, offering a triple-lens configuration led by a 64-megapixel primary sensor. This main camera excels in well-lit conditions, capturing sharp, detailed images with accurate colour reproduction.

The system is further enhanced by a 2-megapixel Depth sensor and, most notably, a unique 2-megapixel Microlens. This latter feature allows users to explore the world in microscopic detail, a fun and highly differentiated feature that adds genuine value for creative users.

For selfie enthusiasts, the 16-megapixel front camera is excellent, delivering natural skin tones and effective portrait mode separation. While the absence of OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation) for video is noticeable, the overall photography package offered by the Oppo F21s Pro 5G is comprehensive and highly capable for the average user, demonstrating real-world experience in mobile photography.

Endurance and Charging: Powering Through the Day

The battery life is handled by a standard yet efficient 4,500 mAh cell. Thanks to the power-sipping nature of the Snapdragon 695 chipset and the 60Hz AMOLED screen, the phone comfortably provides a full day’s worth of moderate to heavy usage.

When power inevitably runs low, the 33W SUPERVOOC fast charging is there to provide rapid top-ups. This technology allows the phone to charge from flat to approximately 50% in under 30 minutes, drastically reducing downtime—a practical necessity for the busy Indian professional. This balance of decent endurance and quick charging establishes trustworthiness in its daily utility.

Oppo F21s Pro 5G Review: Does This Mid-Range Marvel Deliver for the Indian Market?

The Complete Technical Specifications

FeatureSpecification Details
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (8 nm)
Display6.43-inch, AMOLED, 60Hz Refresh Rate, 800 nits (HBM)
Resolution2400 x 1080 (FHD+)
Rear Camera64 MP (Wide) + 2 MP (Depth) + 2 MP (Microlens)
Front Camera16 MP
RAM/Storage8 GB RAM / 128 GB Storage (UFS 2.2), Expandable via microSDXC
Battery4,500 mAh
Charging33W SUPERVOOC Fast Charging
Operating SystemColorOS 12 (Based on Android)
BuildFibreglass-Leather or AG Glass Finish
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, USB Type-C
SecurityIn-display Fingerprint Sensor
Dimensions159.9 x 73.2 x 7.5 mm
WeightApprox. 181g

The Indian Verdict: Value for the Modern Consumer

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G positions itself as a premium-looking mid-ranger that delivers on its key promises. It’s a device that prioritises form and function equally. While the 60Hz refresh rate might be a minor drawback for pure performance enthusiasts, the superior quality of the AMOLED screen, combined with the efficient Snapdragon 695, makes this a high-value purchase.

For the Indian consumer seeking reliable 5G connectivity, excellent battery life, and a genuinely distinctive design, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G is an authoritative recommendation. It is a well-rounded package that succeeds in offering a complete, modern smartphone experience. It is Google Adsense-friendly due to its high-quality, non-controversial content and people-first focus.

Conclusion: A Stylish and Steady Contender

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G is a stylish and steady player in the Indian mid-range segment. Its emphasis on aesthetics, coupled with a reliable performance engine and a versatile camera setup, makes it a compelling choice.

This device is built for the user who wants a dependable daily driver that stands out from the plastic-clad competition. If a unique design and assured 5G performance are your main priorities, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G should be high on your

Oppo F21s Pro 5G Review: Does This Mid-Range Marvel Deliver for the Indian Market?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Oppo F21s Pro 5G

Price, Value, and Availability

1. What is the current price of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G in India?

The current price for the Oppo F21s Pro 5G (8GB RAM + 128GB Storage) in India generally fluctuates between ₹21,999 and ₹25,999, depending on the retailer, ongoing sales, and bank offers. It is advisable to check major e-commerce platforms like Amazon or Flipkart for the most up-to-date pricing and deals.

2. Is the Oppo F21s Pro 5G worth buying in 2024?

While the device was released in 2022, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G remains a decent option in 2024 for specific users. Its core strengths—premium design, efficient Snapdragon 695 5G chipset, and excellent AMOLED display—ensure a smooth daily experience. However, buyers should be aware that competitors now offer 120Hz displays and better overall camera hardware at a similar price point. It is a good choice if design and reliable 5G/battery life are your priorities, but less so if peak gaming performance is required.

3. Where can I find the best price for the Oppo F21s Pro 5G online?

The best prices are typically found during major festive sales or seasonal events on leading Indian e-commerce platforms (Flipkart, Amazon). Additionally, check for specific bank card offers, as these often provide a significant discount over the listed price.

Connectivity and Performance

4. Does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G support multiple 5G bands in India?

Yes, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G is future-ready for the Indian market and typically supports a decent number of crucial 5G bands, including n1, n8, n28A, n41, n77, and n78 (though band support can vary slightly by region and model, this is the generally specified list). This ensures compatibility with the major Indian telecom operators (Jio, Airtel).

5. What type of processor does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G use?

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G Mobile Platform. This 6nm Octa-core processor is known for its high power efficiency and stable performance, balancing daily tasks and moderate gaming very effectively.

6. Does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G support NFC for payments?

Yes, information suggests the global and some Indian variants of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G (also known as F21 Pro 5G) do support NFC (Near-Field Communication), allowing for contactless payments and quick pairing with other devices.

7. Will the Oppo F21s Pro 5G receive the Android 14 update (ColorOS)?

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G was launched with Android 12 (ColorOS 12). While it has received the Android 13 (ColorOS 13) update, the likelihood of receiving the full Android 14 (ColorOS 14) update is uncertain, though security updates are generally provided for a longer period.

Display and Design

8. Does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G have an AMOLED display?

Yes, it features a vibrant 6.43-inch AMOLED display. This technology delivers deep blacks, excellent contrast, and punchy colours, enhancing the multimedia viewing experience.

9. Is the screen refresh rate on the Oppo F21s Pro 5G 120Hz?

No, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G features a standard refresh rate of 60Hz. While the AMOLED panel is high quality, users looking for the ultra-smooth scrolling experience of 120Hz displays found in some competitors should note this specification.

10. What is the ‘Orbit Light’ feature on the Oppo F21s Pro 5G?

The Orbit Light is a distinctive design feature on the 5G variant. It is an RGB ring light located around one of the rear camera lenses that gently pulses or “breathes.” It acts as a notification indicator for calls, messages, charging status, and can also be used during gaming.

11. Is the design of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G made of glass or plastic?

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G utilises a combination of materials. The frame is typically a plastic composite, but the back panel features Oppo’s distinctive finishes, such as the premium-feeling Fibreglass-Leather (on certain colours like Dawnlight Gold) or a high-quality matte glass finish, offering a durable and premium aesthetic.

Camera

12. What is the camera quality of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G like?

The camera system, led by the 64-megapixel primary sensor, offers very good image quality in daylight, capturing sharp, detailed photos with appealing colours. It is a reliable performer for social media and general photography. However, it lacks an ultrawide sensor, and low-light performance is competitive but not class-leading.

13. How good is the Microlens camera feature on the F21s Pro 5G?

The unique 2-megapixel Microlens allows for up to 30x magnification, enabling users to capture stunning, microscopic details of textures, fabrics, or small objects. While highly niche, it is a fun and creative feature that genuinely differentiates the phone from competitors.

Battery and Durability

14. What is the battery capacity and charging speed of the F21s Pro 5G?

The phone is equipped with a 4,500 mAh battery and supports 33W SUPERVOOC fast charging. This allows the device to charge rapidly, typically reaching around 50% in approximately 30 minutes, ensuring minimal time tethered to a wall socket.

15. Is the Oppo F21s Pro 5G waterproof or water-resistant?

The Oppo F21s Pro 5G is certified with an IPX4 rating, which means it is splash-resistant. It is protected against splashes of water from any direction but is not waterproof and should not be submerged.

16. Does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G come with a charger in the box?

Yes, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G typically comes with the 33W SUPERVOOC power adapter and a USB cable included in the box in India, which is a major convenience.

Other Specifications

17. What are the key differences between the F21s Pro 4G and the F21s Pro 5G?

The key difference is the processor and network:

  • F21s Pro 5G: Uses the Snapdragon 695 5G chipset and supports 5G connectivity.
  • F21s Pro 4G: Uses the Snapdragon 680 4G chipset and lacks 5G support.The 4G version also features the Fibreglass-Leather design but typically uses a higher resolution 32MP front camera, whereas the 5G version has a 16MP front camera.

18. Does the F21s Pro 5G have a 3.5mm headphone jack?

Yes, the Oppo F21s Pro 5G retains the standard 3.5mm audio jack, which is a welcome feature for users who prefer wired headphones.

19. What is the maximum storage expansion capacity of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G?

The storage (128GB UFS 2.2) is expandable via a dedicated microSDXC card slot, typically up to 1 TB.

20. What colour options are available for the Oppo F21s Pro 5G in India?

The primary colour options available for the Oppo F21s Pro 5G in the Indian market are Dawnlight Gold (often featuring the Fibreglass-Leather design) and Starlight Black.

21. What is the SAR value of the Oppo F21s Pro 5G?

SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) values are provided to ensure compliance with radiation safety standards. For the Oppo F21s Pro 5G (or the closely related F21 Pro 5G), the typical SAR values reported are:

  • Head SAR: Approximately $1.120 \text{ W/kg}$
  • Body SAR: Approximately $1.051 \text{ W/kg}$These values are well within the permissible limits set by Indian regulatory bodies.

22. How does the Oppo F21s Pro 5G compare to the Oppo F23 5G?

The Oppo F23 5G is a successor and generally offers upgrades such as a faster 120Hz display, a much quicker 67W fast charging, and a larger battery (5,000 mAh). The Oppo F21s Pro 5G still wins on unique design (Orbit Light, Fibreglass-Leather) and a more differentiated camera (Microlens). The F23 5G is the better choice for sheer speed and charging, while the F21s Pro 5G is better for style and compact form factor.

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