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Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Which should you buy and what's the difference?

The Galaxy S24 FE is here but how does it compare to the Galaxy S24? It's definitely bigger... literally.
By

Published onSeptember 26, 2024

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
MSRP: $649.99
Check price
Positives
Same great seven year update commitment
Bigger screen than before
Larger battery
Negatives
Plastic construction
No Snapdragon option
Samsung Galaxy S24
MSRP: $799.99
Check price
Positives
Seven-year update commitment
Neat AI features
Robust battery life
Solid performance
Great build quality
Negatives
Minimal hardware upgrades
Mediocre charging
Aging cameras
AI features only guaranteed to be free through 2025

The Samsung Galaxy S24 is one of the hottest phones of 2024, but what if you’re looking for a similar experience on a tighter budget? Enter the Galaxy S24 FE, which was officially unveiled today as the latest affordable version of the company’s flagship.

The new Galaxy S24 FE comes with a heavier price tag than its predecessor and a few other changes. It’s also a much bigger phone than the Galaxy S24 compared to past years. Let’s jump in at take a closer look at the Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24 on paper to see which phone is a better fit for you.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: At a glance

  • The Galaxy S24 FE is cheaper than the Galaxy S24.
  • The Galaxy S24 FE has a bigger display than the Galaxy S24.
  • The Galaxy S24 has a faster processor than the S24 FE.
  • The Galaxy S24 FE has a bigger battery than the Galaxy S24.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Specs

Samsung Galaxy S24Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Display
Samsung Galaxy S24
6.2-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution (2,340 x 1,080)
120Hz display refresh rate (1Hz-120Hz)
HDR10+
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
6.7-inch AMOLED
FHD+ (2,340 x 1,080)
AMOLED 2x
120Hz refresh rate

Processor
Samsung Galaxy S24
US: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
Global: Samsung Exynos 2400
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Exynos 2400e
RAM
Samsung Galaxy S24
8GB LPDDR5X
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
8GB LPDDR5X
Storage
Samsung Galaxy S24
128GB or 256GB
No expandable storage

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
128GB. 256GB, or 512GB
No expandable storage
Power
Samsung Galaxy S24
4,000mAh battery
25W Super Fast Charging
15W Fast Wireless Charging
4.5W Wireless PowerShare
No charger in box
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
4,700mAh battery
25W Super Fast Charging
15W Fast Wireless Charging
4.5W Wireless Powershare
No charger in the box
Cameras
Samsung Galaxy S24
Rear:
- 50MP main
f/1.8, OIS

- 12MP ultrawide
1.4 μm, f/2.2, 120-degree FoV
1/2.55-inch sensor

- 10MP telephoto
3x optical zoom
1.12 μm, f/2.4, 36-degree FoV
1/3.52-inch sensor
OIS

Front:
- 12MP
f/2.2, 80-degree FoV, AF
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Rear:
- 50MP wide
OIS F1.8, FOV 84˚

- 12MP ultrawide
F2.2, FOV 123˚

- 8MP Telephoto Camera
3x Optical Zoom, OIS F2.4, FOV 32˚


Front:
10MP Front Camera
· F2.4, FOV 80˚
Audio
Samsung Galaxy S24
Stereo speakers
Triple mics
No 3.5mm port
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Stereo speakers
Dual mics
No 3.5mm port
Connectivity
Samsung Galaxy S24
5G (mmWave + Sub6)
Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC support
USB 3.2 Gen 1

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
5G
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC support
USB 3.2 Gen 1

SIM
Samsung Galaxy S24
Single nano-SIM tray
eSIM support
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Single nano-SIM tray
eSIM support
Security

Samsung Galaxy S24
Ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor
7 years of security updates
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
In-display fingerprint sensor

Durability/Materials
Samsung Galaxy S24
IP68
Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back
Aluminum frame
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
IP68
Gorilla Glass Victus Plus on the front and back
Aluminum frame
Connectivity
Samsung Galaxy S24
Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC support
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC support
Software
Samsung Galaxy S24
Android 14
One UI 6.1
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Android 14
One UI 6.1
Colors
Samsung Galaxy S24
Cobalt Violet, Amber Yellow, Marble Gray, Onyx Black
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Blue, Graphite, Gray, Mint
Dimensions and Weight
Samsung Galaxy S24
70.6x147x7.6mm, 167g
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
77.3 X 162.0 X 8.0mm, 213g

Typically, the Samsung Galaxy S FE is just a watered-down version of the company’s base flagship model, but this year is a little different. While the Galaxy S24 and S24 FE still share many similarities in terms of design and core features, there is more than just build materials and processor changes to set these models apart.

This year, the Galaxy S24 FE is increasing in size, thanks to its 6.7-inch FHD Plus display. That’s a full 0.5 inches bigger than the Galaxy S24 (and 0.3 inches bigger than the S23 FE), aligning more closely with the Galaxy S24 Plus. While the screen difference is the most obvious distinction, processing power is another key differentiator.

The Galaxy S24 runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy SoC in the United States, while most other markets have the Exynos 2400. As expected, the Galaxy S24 FE uses a cheaper chip to reduce costs.

galaxy s24 fe aa 10
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

While the Galaxy S23 FE previously used the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, this year, Samsung is pushing the Exynos 2400e, which is essentially a lower-clocked variant of the Exynos 2400. In fact, the only change is that the Cortex-X4 prime core runs at 3.11GHz instead of 3.21GHz. The other nine cores remain unchanged from the standard 2400 SoC.

This adjustment is likely made to prevent overheating, similar to how Tensor chips in the Pixel A series tend to have more aggressive throttling due to potential heat issues from cheaper packaging materials and other cost-cutting measures. Additionally, the Exynos is the only processor option, even in the US, marking the first time Samsung hasn’t offered Snapdragon chips in the region.

The fingerprint scanning technology also differs between these two handsets. While the Galaxy S24 uses an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint scanner, the Galaxy S24 FE sticks with a less accurate in-display scanner. While some people have better experiences with these than others, I honestly disliked the idea of touching my display to unlock a phone until my Galaxy S24 changed my mind as I’d had too many subpar experiences previously. I suspect the Galaxy S24 FE wouldn’t impress me in comparison.

You can expect a mostly similar software experience, including the same seven years of OS update and security fix support. You’ll also get Samsung Galaxy AI features such as Interpreter, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and more. If you’re familiar with the Galaxy S24 AI experience, you won’t find anything new here, but you can learn more about these features in our Galaxy AI guide.

As for the rest of the experience? The main other differences have to do with design, camera, and battery.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Design, size comparison, and colors

 

The Galaxy S FE has always been noticeably larger and thicker than its mainline Galaxy S counterpart, but the differences are even more pronounced this year, thanks to the much larger display onboard.

The Galaxy S24 FE has dimensions of 162 x 77.3 mm and a thickness of 8 mm. This is significantly larger compared to the Galaxy S24, which measures 147 x 70.6 mm and has a thickness of 7.6 mm. The Galaxy S24 FE is also notably heavier at 213g, compared to the Galaxy S24’s 167g.

galaxy s24 fe aa 13
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

The Galaxy S24 FE compares more favorably with the Plus model, which comes in at 158.5 x 75.9 mm with a thickness of 7.7 mm. However, the Galaxy S24 FE is still heavier, as the Galaxy S24 Plus weighs only 196g.

As expected, there are also some differences in the build materials. The Galaxy S24 features an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while the Galaxy S24 FE has a plastic frame paired with Victus Plus glass.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 offers more variety in color choices, with options including Cobalt Violet, Amber Yellow, Marble Gray, and Onyx Black. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S24 FE will be available in Blue, Graphite, Gray, and Mint.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Camera

galaxy s24 fe aa 11
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S24 offers a solid camera experience, even though the sensors are starting to show their age as we previously noted in our Galaxy S24 review. Regardless, the Galaxy S24 can still take decent photos in almost any lighting condition. You’ll also find helpful AI features and plenty of other software extras.

On paper, the Galaxy S24 FE doesn’t seem too different. Both phones have a 50MP wide shooter and a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and many of the specs are the same. However, we don’t have exact sensor information, so we can’t say precisely what sensors are being used here. The Galaxy S24 FE also swaps out the 10MP telephoto shooter from the Galaxy S24 for a more modest 8MP lens.

While this might sound similar, there’s more to a camera sensor than just a megapixel count. For its part, Samsung claims the Galaxy S24 FE has a much better camera experience than its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 FE. Not only does it feature upgraded sensors, but it also benefits from Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, which uses AI to further enhance photo quality.

The Galaxy S24 FE also includes many of the same AI editing tools as the Galaxy S24, such as Generative Edit for removing background objects, Portrait Studio for turning selfies into cartoons or paintings, edit suggestions for fixing flaws, and Instant Slow-Mo.

Overall, the Galaxy S24 FE seems like an upgrade in the camera department, but can it hold its own against the company’s flagship? That remains to be seen until we have a chance to put it through its paces.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Battery life and charging

galaxy s24 fe aa 5
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S24 packs a 4,000mAh battery and is more than capable of lasting through a full day, as long as you’re not playing games or engaging in other high-performance activities for hours on end. Personally, I’ve never had an issue with my Galaxy S24’s battery performance, though I do wish it would charge a bit faster than the 25W speed limit it’s currently stuck with. Generally it takes me a little over an hour to get back to 100% from nearly empty.

As expected, the Galaxy S24 FE doesn’t improve on the slow charging speeds but does offer a larger 4,900mAh battery. While you might expect this to result in better battery life, we wouldn’t necessarily count on it, as the larger display is likely to offset the extra capacity.

Still, you’re likely to easily get a full day’s use out of the Galaxy S24 FE without needing to reach for a charger. Once you do deplete the battery, expect it to take a while, given the bigger capacity. Around an hour and a half for a full charge seems likely but that’s just speculation until we’ve had hands-on time with the device.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Price and availability

Galaxy S24: Starts at $799

Galaxy S24 FE: Starts at $709

The Samsung Galaxy S24 first arrived in January 2024 and has since become widely available at most major retailers globally. The Galaxy S24 starts at $799.99 for the base model, though you can regularly find it on sale.

In contrast, the Galaxy S24 FE is available for pre-order in the US starting today at a price of $709.99 via Samsung.com. All other retailers will start pre-orders on October 3rd, including most global markets. That’s $50 higher than the Galaxy S23 FE and only about $40 cheaper than the Galaxy S24 — without factoring in potential sales discounts now that the Galaxy S24 is about nine months old.

Before you complain, keep in mind that the Galaxy S24 FE is actually closer in size to the Galaxy S24 Plus, which starts at $999.99. In fact, this new size and pricing strategy makes a lot of sense when you consider this. The Galaxy S24 FE is still going to be cheaper than the Plus model in most cases, and its larger size might tempt those who would otherwise consider getting the Galaxy S24 base model on sale.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Galaxy S24: Which should you buy?

galaxy s24 fe aa 14
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Ultimately, it depends on what you value. The Galaxy S24 is available right now and offers a more premium design, a faster processor, a better camera, and a few other extras. On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 FE will come with a larger display and a bigger battery, but with a few sacrifices as a result.

For most people, I’d recommend getting a Galaxy S24 on sale or just spending the extra $40, even without sale pricing. You’ll get a true flagship phone and might even save money compared to the Galaxy S24 FE.

Samsung Galaxy S24
Samsung Galaxy S24
AA Recommended
Samsung Galaxy S24
Seven-year update commitment • Neat AI features • Robust battery life
MSRP: $799.99
Powerful AI smarts and slimmer bezels
The Samsung Galaxy S24 series focuses on added AI technology. With a 6.2-inch, 120Hz display, 128GB or 256GB of storage, 8GB of RAM, and up to 2,600 nits peak display brightness, the S24 is promising to be a quality update in the line. The new AI features go deep, improving your experience with the camera, search, and much more.

If you prefer bigger screens and are tempted by the Plus but aren’t willing to pay as much, the Galaxy S24 FE will be a worthwhile option. Even when the Galaxy S24 Plus is on sale, it has never dropped below $800, which still makes the Galaxy S24 FE nearly $100 cheaper.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Large display and battery • Good camera • Value-purchase
MSRP: $649.99
Capable phone, valuable compromises
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a surprisingly minimal downgrade from the flagship Galaxy S24. A solid chipset, similar cameras, large battery, and larger display, the Fan Edition again demonstrates that mid-range phones are worth consideration.
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