The smartphone market is brimming with choices, but a few devices stand out among the rest. Among these standout devices are the Samsung Galaxy S20 and the Samsung Galaxy S20 Fan Edition (FE). If you’re on the fence about which model to choose, you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide will dissect the differences, features, and attributes of both phones to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the intricate specifications and features of both devices, let’s understand what these models essentially offer.
The Samsung Galaxy S20, released in early 2020, is part of Samsung’s flagship lineup. It was designed for tech enthusiasts who crave cutting-edge features and superior performance. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, launched later in September 2020, was engineered to provide many flagship features at a more accessible price, aiming at fans and general users who want high-quality performance without breaking the bank.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design, both models resonate with Samsung’s signature aesthetics but present subtle differences.
Appearance
- Samsung Galaxy S20:
- The Galaxy S20 boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a glass front and back with an aluminum frame.
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The phone comes with IP68 certification, ensuring it is both dust and water-resistant, allowing it to withstand immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.
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Samsung Galaxy S20 FE:
- On the other hand, the Galaxy S20 FE opts for a plastic back instead of glass, making it lighter, though it sacrifices some premium feel.
- Similarly, it also holds an IP68 rating, ensuring durability against the elements.
Size and Weight
- Galaxy S20: 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9 mm and weighs 163 grams.
- Galaxy S20 FE: 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm and weighs 190 grams.
In terms of size, the S20 is more compact, while the S20 FE is a little bulkier but offers a larger display.
Display Quality
Size and Type
Both devices come equipped with Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks, essential for an immersive viewing experience.
- Samsung Galaxy S20: Features a 6.2-inch display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels.
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Comes with a slightly larger 6.5-inch display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels.
Refresh Rate
Both models support a high refresh rate of 120Hz, providing smoother animations and transitions, making scrolling through apps and playing games a delight.
Performance and Software
Performance is one of the critical areas where consumers assess smartphones.
Processor and Graphics
Both devices are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990, depending on the region), which provides flagship-level performance.
- RAM:
- Galaxy S20 offers either 8GB or 12GB, which is ideal for heavy multitasking.
- Galaxy S20 FE comes with 6GB or 8GB RAM, also sufficient for everyday tasks and gaming.
Storage Options
- Samsung Galaxy S20: Available in 128GB with the option to expand via microSD card.
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Offers 128GB, expandable to 1TB via microSD, which is a notable advantage for users who require extra storage.
Software
Both phones run on One UI 2.0 based on Android 10, with the promise of updates to the latest Android versions.
Camera Capabilities
The camera is often a determining factor for many smartphone users. Let’s break down the camera systems of both devices.
Rear Cameras
- Samsung Galaxy S20:
- Triple-camera setup:
- 12 MP ultra-wide
- 12 MP wide
- 64 MP telephoto
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Features like 30x Space Zoom and 8K video recording enhance its photography capabilities.
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Samsung Galaxy S20 FE:
- Triple-camera setup:
- 12 MP ultra-wide
- 12 MP wide
- 8 MP telephoto
- While the S20 FE loses some zoom capabilities, it still offers excellent photo quality and 4K video recording.
Front Cameras
- Both devices come equipped with a 32MP front-facing camera, ensuring superb selfies and video calls.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life can significantly sway the user experience, making this section a crucial aspect of comparison.
Battery Capacity
- Samsung Galaxy S20: Equipped with a 4000mAh battery.
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Offers a larger 4500mAh battery, providing longer usage periods.
Charging Time and Wireless Charging
Both devices support fast charging and wireless charging along with reverse wireless charging, facilitating convenient power solutions.
Price and Value
One of the defining differences between the two phones is their pricing.
- Samsung Galaxy S20: Being a flagship, it typically retails for around $999 (prices may vary based on sales and availability).
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Designed as a budget-friendly alternative, the starting price is around $699, making it significantly more affordable without sacrificing many features.
Which Should You Choose?
Now that we’ve broken down the key features and specifications, you might be wondering which device suits your needs better.
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S20 if you …
- Seek a more premium build with glass and aluminum.
- Desire the ultimate camera experience with superior zoom functionality.
- Prefer a more compact device that’s easy to handle.
Opt for the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE if you …
- Are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers great value.
- Need enhanced battery life for extended usage.
- Are not keen on needing advanced zoom but want reliable standard photography capabilities.
Conclusion
Overall, both the Samsung Galaxy S20 and the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE offer exceptional smartphone capabilities. The main distinctions lie in their build quality, camera specifications, battery life, and price point. By considering your personal preferences and how you plan to use your smartphone, you can confidently choose between these two stellar devices.
Ultimately, the decision rests on what you value most: whether it’s the premium design and advanced camera features of the Galaxy S20 or the practicality and affordability of the Galaxy S20 FE. Whichever you choose, you’re bound to enjoy a top-tier smartphone experience that Samsung consistently delivers.
What are the key differences in display between the Samsung Galaxy S20 and S20 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, offering stunning clarity and peak brightness of up to 1200 nits. In contrast, the S20 FE comes with a slightly larger 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display, featuring a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. While the S20 offers a higher pixel density, both displays support a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals for gaming and scrolling.
Despite these differences, both devices provide vibrant colors and deep blacks, characteristic of AMOLED technology. The S20 FE’s display may appear less sharp due to its lower resolution, but for many users, the visual experience remains excellent, especially in everyday usage. Ultimately, the choice between them may come down to user preference for size and resolution.
Which device has a better camera system?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 is equipped with a versatile triple-camera system, featuring a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, a 12MP wide sensor, and a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid zoom capabilities. This combination allows for impressive photography across various conditions, and the S20 excels in low-light situations thanks to its advanced image processing algorithms. It also supports 8K video recording, standing out as a feature for videography enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE sports a slightly different camera setup, also comprising a triple-camera system: a 12MP ultra-wide, a 12MP wide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. While the S20’s telephoto lens has a higher resolution, the S20 FE still delivers solid performance and great photo quality for the average user. Therefore, both phones are capable of producing excellent images, but the S20 may have a slight edge in more advanced photography scenarios.
How do the battery capacities compare between the two models?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 is powered by a 4000mAh battery, which is designed to keep the device running for a full day under moderate usage. With advanced power management features and the option for 25W fast charging, the S20 can quickly be recharged when needed. However, with the high-resolution display and demanding features, heavy usage scenarios may cause the battery to drain faster than some users would prefer.
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE comes with a larger 4500mAh battery, providing even more longevity for users. This substantial battery capacity, combined with its slightly lower screen resolution, allows the S20 FE to outperform the S20 in terms of everyday battery life. Users who prioritize battery endurance may find the S20 FE to be more accommodating, especially for tasks that require prolonged screen-on time.
Which device offers better performance in gaming and multitasking?
Both the Samsung Galaxy S20 and S20 FE are powered by powerful processors, with the S20 featuring the Exynos 990 (or Snapdragon 865 in certain markets) and the S20 FE equipped with the Snapdragon 865 across all regions. In terms of RAM, the S20 comes with 8GB, while the S20 FE offers a choice between 6GB and 8GB. The Snapdragon 865 processor ensures top-tier performance in both models, providing users with smooth gaming and multitasking experiences.
When it comes to gaming and demanding applications, both devices can easily handle modern titles without lag. However, the S20’s 8GB RAM configuration may give it a slight advantage in intensive multitasking scenarios. Nevertheless, the S20 FE’s combination of a robust processor and sufficient RAM allows it to keep pace with most users’ needs, providing an excellent overall experience for casual and dedicated gamers alike.
What are the storage options available for the Galaxy S20 and S20 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 offers a couple of storage options: 128GB and 512GB, catering to users with varying storage needs. Additionally, the S20 supports expandable storage through a microSD card slot, allowing users to increase their device’s storage significantly. This flexibility makes it an appealing choice for those who frequently capture large media files, such as photos and videos.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE comes in 128GB and 256GB variants but notably lacks expandable storage. This limitation could affect users with extensive media libraries or those who rely on numerous apps. Despite this, the internal storage options should suffice for most users, particularly if they utilize cloud storage solutions for managing files.
Which device is more budget-friendly?
When it comes to pricing, the Samsung Galaxy S20 is positioned as a premium flagship device, reflecting its advanced features and specifications. As a result, it comes with a steeper price tag that may not fit everyone’s budget. Customers who are looking for high-end performance and display quality may consider the investment worthwhile, but it can be a significant expenditure for average users who seek high performance without the premium price.
In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE was specifically designed to be more affordable while still offering a range of high-end features. It provides excellent value for users seeking a flagship experience without the premium cost. The lower price point makes the S20 FE appealing to a broader audience, particularly those who want modern smartphone capabilities without breaking the bank.