Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Review: Can This Affordable Beast Take on the Giants?
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Review: Can This Affordable Beast Take on the Giants?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is the latest addition to Samsung’s highly successful Fan Edition lineup. Positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to the flagship Galaxy S series, the S24 FE aims to provide premium features at a more accessible price point. In this comprehensive review, we will dive deep into its design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and more to determine if it truly stands out in a crowded market.
Design and Build Quality: A Blend of Aesthetics and Durability
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE features a design that closely mirrors its flagship siblings, the Galaxy S24 and S24+. With a sleek and modern look, the device boasts a glass front and a plastic back, which some might see as a downgrade from the glass backs of its pricier counterparts. However, this choice significantly reduces the weight of the phone, making it more comfortable for prolonged use.
The frame is constructed from aluminum, providing a sturdy feel that doesn’t compromise on durability. The IP68 rating for dust and water resistance adds to the peace of mind, allowing users to take the phone on adventures without worrying about accidental splashes or drops.
Display: A Feast for the Eyes
Samsung has long been known for its stunning displays, and the Galaxy S24 FE does not disappoint. The device is equipped with a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. With a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, the screen provides a smooth and immersive viewing experience, whether you’re gaming, watching videos, or simply browsing the web.
The HDR10+ support enhances the visual experience further, offering richer details in both the darkest and brightest parts of the screen. The display also features an in-display fingerprint sensor, which is both fast and accurate, adding an extra layer of security without sacrificing convenience.
Performance: Power-Packed with Exynos 2200
Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is powered by the Exynos 2200 chipset in some regions and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in others. Both variants offer impressive performance, but the Exynos version slightly lags behind its Snapdragon counterpart in raw benchmarks. Nevertheless, for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking, the phone performs admirably, with no noticeable lag or stuttering.
The device comes with 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance even with multiple apps running in the background. Storage options include 128GB and 256GB, with the added benefit of expandable storage via a microSD card slot—something that is increasingly rare in modern smartphones.
Camera System: Versatility at Its Best
The camera setup on the Galaxy S24 FE is one of its major highlights. The device features a triple-camera array on the back, consisting of a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This combination allows for versatile photography, capturing stunning landscapes, detailed portraits, and crisp zoom shots with ease.
The Night Mode has been significantly improved, delivering clearer and brighter images in low-light conditions. The Pro Mode provides enthusiasts with more control over settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance, making it easier to capture the perfect shot.
On the front, the 32MP selfie camera produces sharp and vibrant selfies, even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera app is intuitive, with various modes and features that cater to both casual users and photography enthusiasts.
Battery Life: All-Day Power with Fast Charging
Battery life is a critical factor for any smartphone user, and the Galaxy S24 FE does not disappoint. The device houses a 4,500mAh battery that comfortably lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy use. Whether you’re streaming videos, playing games, or browsing social media, you can expect the phone to keep up with your demands.
The phone supports 25W fast charging, which, while not the fastest on the market, is sufficient to quickly top up the battery when needed. Additionally, the device supports 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, allowing you to charge other devices, such as earbuds or a smartwatch, on the go.
Software and Features: One UI 6.0 and Beyond
Running on One UI 6.0 based on Android 14, the Galaxy S24 FE offers a user-friendly interface with a plethora of customization options. Samsung’s One UI is known for its clean design and ease of use, making it simple for users to navigate through the phone’s features.
The software experience is further enhanced by Samsung’s commitment to updates, with the promise of four years of major Android updates and five years of security patches. This level of support ensures that your device remains up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements for years to come.
Additional features include Samsung DeX, which allows you to connect the phone to a monitor or TV and use it as a desktop computer. The device also supports 5G connectivity, ensuring faster internet speeds and better network reliability.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
In the competitive smartphone market, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE faces stiff competition from devices like the Google Pixel 8, OnePlus 12, and Xiaomi 14. While each of these phones has its strengths, the Galaxy S24 FE stands out for its combination of premium features at an affordable price point.
Compared to the Pixel 8, the S24 FE offers better build quality and a more versatile camera system. The OnePlus 12 may have an edge in terms of charging speed, but the S24 FE’s display and software support are superior. When pitted against the Xiaomi 14, the S24 FE holds its ground with a more refined user interface and reliable performance.
Final Verdict: A Flagship Experience Without the Flagship Price
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is an excellent choice for those seeking a flagship experience without breaking the bank. It combines a sleek design, a stunning display, solid performance, and a versatile camera system in a package that is hard to beat at its price point. While it may not have the absolute best specs in every category, the overall experience is well-balanced, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
If you’re in the market for a new phone and want a device that offers great value for money, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE should be at the top of your list. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a premium smartphone experience.
FAQs
Common Questions Answered
Q: Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE support 5G?
A: Yes, the S24 FE supports 5G connectivity, allowing for faster internet speeds.
Q: Is the Galaxy S24 FE water-resistant?
A: Yes, it has an IP68 rating, making it resistant to both water and dust.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The 4,500mAh battery typically lasts a full day of heavy use.
Tips and Tricks for New Users
- Enable Adaptive Brightness: This feature adjusts the screen brightness based on your surroundings, helping save battery life.
- Use Samsung DeX: Connect your S24 FE to a monitor for a desktop-like experience, great for productivity tasks.
