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It is possible to overlook the Galaxy S20 FE vs S20 within Samsung’s extensive lineup of high-end galaxy mobile devices. But, considering the features they pack and the price reduction, both these devices still pack a solid performance punch.
S20 is the older sibling here, but with somewhat limited internal storage and a smaller display. Meet the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, where the “FE” stands for “Fun Edition” – we know, it actually stands for “Fan Edition” but, considering the specs, it is certainly fun to use.
Okay, let’s clear something up. Right off the bat, these phones are pretty much the same in terms of CPU power and many specs. In fact, you can expect 90% of features from the cheaper S20 FE and save a few hundred bucks by avoiding the flagship S20.
Nevertheless, there are certain important things to talk about and some differences to identify. So, by the end of the article, you will be in a much better position to decide which model you want.
Samsung Galaxy S20 vs S20 FE: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Samsung Galaxy S20 | Samsung Galaxy S20 FE | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 163 g | 190 g |
| Dimensions | 5.97 x 2.72 x 0.31 in | 6.29 x 2.93 x 0.33 in |
| Display Size | 6.2 In | 6.5 in |
| Internal Memory | Up to 128 GB | Up to 256 GB |
| Camera | 64 MP Telephoto | 8 MP Telephoto |
| Ports | USB-C, 3.2 | USB-C, 3.2 |
| Camera | 4,000 mAh | 4,500 mAh |
Samsung Galaxy S20 vs S20 FE: What’s the Difference?
Design
The design profile of the two devices is the primary visual distinction between them. The FE has a series 7000 aluminum body, a Gorilla Glass 3 screen, and a glastic back (Samsung’s term for a hybrid glass and plastic material).
The glastic back feels more like plastic than glass, but the matte finish does a reasonable job of hiding smudges. Still, you will need to drag it across your sleeve every once in a while to keep it looking smart.
- 6.2" Dynamic AMOLED
- Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 (7nm+)
- Rear Camera: 64 MP, f/2.0 + 12 MP, f/1.8 + 12 MP, f/2.2
- Front Camera: 10 MP, f/2.2
- Single SIM
In terms of durability, they both perform pretty well. The fan edition also has the same IP68 water and dust resistance as the regular Samsung Galaxy S20 flagships, so know that they can both handle some rough use.
The S20 has a 6.2-inch screen up front, but if you want a bigger one, you should choose the S20FE, which has a 6.5-inch screen. Both of these phones have camera modules on their rear sides. However, the camera module of the Galaxy S20 FE has a more pronounced shape in contrast to the square module of the Galaxy S20.
In terms of color availability, you can get the Galaxy S20 in:
- Cloud Blue,
- Cosmic Gray,
- Cloud Pink.
On the other hand, the FE is available in:
- Cloud White,
- Cloud Navy,
- Cloud Lavender,
- Cloud Red,
- Cloud Mint,
- Cloud Orange.
Display
The Galaxy S20 sports a Dynamic AMOLED display measuring 6.2 inches with an impressive resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels. On the other hand, the Galaxy S20 FE boasts a Super AMOLED panel of 6.5 inches with a screen resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels.
The S20’s screen resolution may be higher, but the FE’s slightly larger screen may make it a better choice for watching videos and playing games. Animations and page transitions are even more fluid than usual thanks to the amazing refresh rate of 120Hz included in both panels.
Another upside of going with the S20 is that it comes with a QHD resolution. Because of this, the images and videos you see will be incredibly crisp and clear. Due to the enhanced contrast, the colors appear to burst off the screen. And the icing on the cake is the availability of HDR support.
Although the FE has a Full HD resolution, the screen is not as crisp as the S20’s. In addition, the screen does not offer HDR capability. As a result, the colors are slightly subdued. However, the screen’s outstanding refresh rate ensures everything is as smooth as ever.
In general, the Galaxy S20 is a superior option if you value a hi-res screen. But the FE may be preferable if you want a larger display and are willing to go for a lower resolution.
Performance
The Snapdragon 865 chip is present in the Galaxy S20 and the Galaxy S20 FE. The S20 comes only with 8 GB of RAM, whereas you have options to choose from when you go with the FE. There is a variant with 6 GB RAM, and if you go with that, the FE may not deliver the best multi-tasking performance even with the same chip as its older sibling.
It is important to note that Samsung supplied both the Snapdragon 865 and the Exynos 990 as its System on Chip (SoC) for the two phones. In contrast to the Galaxy S20, which differentiates between models based on geography (Snapdragon 865 in the US and China, and Exynos 990 in the rest of the world), the Galaxy S20 FE does so based on network support.
The 5G Galaxy S20 FE will always have a Snapdragon 865 processor. The Exynos 990 is standard in all 4G versions. If you are not in the US or China, this is a huge plus for the FE since it is a much more practical split when compared to the recent Samsung flagship.
Now, you have to understand that the choice of a chip is important. Both chips are comparable in performance, but they are not identical. The Snapdragon 865 is clearly faster than the home-brewed option and is also marginally more energy efficient.
The Samsung Galaxy S20 comes equipped with 8 GB of RAM by default; it is obviously going to open multiple applications with authority. But, if you are willing to spend more and go with the 8 GB RAM variant, the FE will definitely become nippier in terms of performance.
Camera
The Galaxy S20 and S20 FE both boast excellent cameras, but their specs are slightly different in ways that could compromise their effectiveness.
First of all, triple rear cameras are included on both the Galaxy S20 and S20 FE, though their arrangements change slightly. There are three cameras on the Galaxy S20: one with 12 megapixels, one with 64 megapixels for telephoto, and one with 12 megapixels for ultra-wide shots.
On the other hand, the Galaxy S20 FE includes a primary camera that is 12 megapixels, an ultra-wide camera that is 12 megapixels, and a telephoto camera that is 8 megapixels. The FE offers 3X optical zoom, whereas the S20 offers 1.1X optical zoom, as well as 3X hybrid zoom.
The front-facing cameras on both these devices are 10-MP. It is important to note that the telephoto lens on the FE has a larger aperture (f/2.2) than the S20 (f/2.0). It is because of this lower aperture that Galaxy S20 may have marginally better results in dim light scenarios.
Speaking of camera performance, you just cannot ignore the fact that, aside from its ability to record 4K video at 60 fps, the Galaxy S20 also records 8K video at 24 fps. You will definitely notice a difference in video quality with 8K, especially when combined with improved video stabilization features.
Overall, both these phones have outstanding camera systems capable of capturing high-quality stills and moving images. Yes, there are differences in camera specs on paper, but an average user is less likely to notice that difference in real-world situations.
Additional Features
Speaking of additional features, both these phones are 5G-ready. This includes compatibility with both mmWave as well as sub-6Hz 5G networks. It is true that 5G is not available everywhere just now, but coverage is expanding across the country, so customers will be satisfied with either phone.
Similarly, even though you may only be using four digits to unlock your phone, you are not limited to this option. You can use the in-display fingerprint sensor on both devices, which works great as long as your fingers are not too damp or dry. Not only this, but you can also unlock your phone using the facial recognition feature on these smartphones.
What’s more, One UI 2 is Samsung’s customized version of Android 10 and is used on both devices. However, you can also upgrade it to Android 13. It is worth mentioning that you can upgrade the S20 to UI 5, whereas the FE can go up to UI 5.1.
Battery Performance
There is a difference of 500 mAh between the S20 and the S20 FE batteries. In comparison to the S20, the S20 FE’s battery life is superior due to its greater capacity. The maximum charging speed for both these devices is 25W, so fast charging is supported regardless of the model you choose.
As an added bonus, you can charge these devices wirelessly. The FE has a longer battery life than the S20 because of its higher battery capacity. Depending on usage, the FE can go all day without charging, whereas the S20 may prompt you to charge it in the middle of the day.
However, the battery time changes significantly based on screen brightness, the programs running in the background, and your device use. As a result, the real battery life may differ from one user to the next.
Samsung Galaxy S20 vs S20 FE: 5 Must-Know Facts
- The Galaxy S20’s battery capacity is 4,000mAh, whereas the Galaxy S20 FE’s battery stands at 4,500mAh.
- The Galaxy S20 boasts a more luxurious design because of its glass back and metal frame, whereas the Galaxy S20 FE is constructed entirely of plastic.
- The Galaxy S20 boasts a more sophisticated camera system thanks to its 64MP telephoto lens, whereas the Galaxy S20 FE just has an 8MP telephoto lens.
- Galaxy S20 boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen with a greater resolution and the Galaxy S20 FE has a 6.5-inch screen.
- Unlike the S20, the FE is not capable of handling reverse wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy S20 vs S20 FEL Which One Should You Choose?
Considering how visually distinct each of these phones is, your final choice will likely come down to personal taste. The bigger 6.5-inch S20 FE display is a major improvement over the smaller 6.2-inch one on the flagship S20. Interestingly, the FE is one of the largest phones on the market at this price point.
It means more screen real estate for the user to enjoy their media. But do not rule out the flagship S20 too quickly because its smaller form factor makes it much simpler to use, especially when using only one hand.
Your budget will have an impact here, as well. Normally, Samsung’s flagship smartphones are not exactly cheap, but the fun edition gives you a taste of that high-end technology at a price that is not too darn horrifying. But, when you pay less, you have to let go of certain features as well.
If there is one area in which Samsung skimps, it is on the material it uses. Unlike its more expensive counterpart, the S20 FE’s back is composed of plastic rather than glass. Also, the rear camera arrangement has been downgraded. But, are you going to miss these features?
Well, it depends on your unique circumstances and whether you want to buy a phone just to capture stunning images, watch high-quality movies, or play games. If you want to do a bit of everything, they both work just fine. But if you want to save some money in the process, go with the FE!
- Samsung Galaxy S20
- 6.2" Dynamic AMOLED
- Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 (7nm+)
- Rear Camera: 64 MP, f/2.0 + 12 MP, f/1.8 + 12 MP, f/2.2
- Front Camera: 10 MP, f/2.2
- Single SIM
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE
- 30X Space Zoom
- Single-Take AI
- No MicroSD Expansion Capability
- 128 GB RAM
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