Tech Blog #201 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE : A Mixed Bag of Features...

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a smartphone that aims to deliver flagship features at a more accessible price point, but it does so with a few compromises. At first glance, the device stands out with its sleek design, featuring two Gorilla Glass panels and an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. So how this can compete with at least the siblings of S24 series?

For a start, it is thicker and heavier than its counterparts, weighing in at 213 grams and measuring 8.0 mm thick, which may not appeal to everyone. The under-display fingerprint sensor works adequately but lacks the precision of traditional sensors. While the IP68 rating for dust and water resistance is a plus, the overall design feels somewhat derivative, echoing the Galaxy S24+ without offering much uniqueness.

The display is another area where the S24 FE shines, boasting a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1080p and a 120Hz refresh rate. It supports HDR10+, making it suitable for streaming content and gaming. However, while the peak brightness reaches 1,900 nits, it still falls short compared to the Galaxy S24's impressive 2,600 nits. This means that while the display is vibrant and responsive, it may struggle in direct sunlight when compared to higher-end models.

Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 FE is powered by Samsung's Exynos 2400e chip, which offers decent performance for everyday tasks and gaming. With 8GB of RAM and options for internal storage starting at 128GB, it meets the needs of most users. However, some may find the lack of higher RAM variants disappointing, especially when competing devices offer up to 12GB. The chip's capabilities are commendable but do not quite match the performance levels seen in flagship models.

Camera performance is often a focal point for smartphones, and here the S24 FE features a 50MP main camera alongside an 8MP telephoto lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. While these specs sound promising on paper, real-world performance reveals limitations, particularly in low-light conditions where rivals may outperform it. The selfie camera remains at 10MP from previous generations, which feels somewhat outdated given current trends in smartphone photography.

Battery life is one of the stronger aspects of this device; it houses a 4,700mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. Users can expect solid daily performance without frequent recharges. However, it's worth noting that charging speeds are not as competitive as some other models on the market that offer faster charging options.

On the software front, the Galaxy S24 FE runs on Android with Samsung's One UI overlay. Samsung promises seven years of software updates, which is an impressive commitment that enhances its longevity. The inclusion of AI features enhances usability but sometimes feels gimmicky rather than essential.

Priced at approximately $649, the Galaxy S24 FE positions itself as an attractive option for those seeking flagship features without breaking the bank. However, potential buyers should weigh these benefits against its shortcomings—particularly in terms of design uniqueness and camera performance—before making a decision. Overall, while it offers good value for money, it may not fully satisfy those looking for cutting-edge specifications or innovative design elements.

Citations: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s24_fe-review-2755.php