In the world of smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is a cheaper variant of the renowned S23 series. FE stands for Fan Edition and combines powerful features with a more attractive price. This makes it stand out in the S23 series and in comparison to the normal S23, with good price-performance.
In this article we take a close look at both the S23 and the S23 FE. We compare the various features from camera quality to processor performance and show what both models have to offer. You can also see the comparison of Samsung Galaxy S23 vs S23 FE on YouTube shorts.
Heart of the performance: the processor
Samsung S23: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
The Samsung Galaxy S23 relies on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor for good performance. The processor was introduced by Qualcomm in November 2022. Thanks to its advanced microarchitecture, it achieves clock speeds of up to 3.36 GHz. As an octa-core processor, it offers a good mix of powerful and energy-saving cores. It guarantees top performance in everyday life and when gaming.
The architecture of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 has been redesigned to increase the efficiency and speed of the smartphone. These improvements ensure a better user experience. Since its introduction in Europe at the beginning of 2023, the processor has found its way into many high-end smartphones and has impressed with its performance. It offers fast response times and smooth performance, even under high loads.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
The Samsung Exynos 2200 in the Galaxy S23 FE performs worse in terms of performance compared to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The processor has a clock speed of 2.80 GHz and an AMD GPU, bringing hardware-accelerated ray tracing to mobile devices for the first time. These technical specifications position the S23 FE firmly among powerful smartphones.
Despite this high performance, there were discussions about the efficiency of the Exynos 2200. A direct comparison shows that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Galaxy S23 is around 30% more powerful in some benchmarks. The Exynos 2200 is also criticized for its high energy consumption.
Battery: endurance and efficiency
Galaxy S23: Compact and powerful
The Galaxy S23 has a 3900 mAh battery. Compared to other brands, the capacity here seems to be rather low, but first impressions are deceptive. The efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor enables the S23 to have long runtimes. Users can last 1.5 to 2 days on one charge, even with frequent use. The battery performance is also supported by extras such as reverse wireless charging and wireless charging. Thanks to Power Delivery 3.0, the battery is half charged in just 30 minutes.
Galaxy S23 FE: Larger battery = longer battery life?
The S23 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, which is 600 mAh larger than the S23. Equipped with a larger display and a less efficient processor, these components noticeably affect the S23 FE's battery life. A 5000 mAh battery would probably have been a better choice for the S23 FE in order to achieve a similar service life to that of the Galaxy S23.
The S23 FE is charged wired with 25 watts. This means the battery is almost full in just over an hour. The device also supports wireless charging with up to 15 watts.With these charging options, the Galaxy S23 FE offers flexibility and convenience in everyday use.
Camera: A look through the lens
Galaxy S23: High-quality recordings
The Galaxy S23 features a triple camera setup that includes a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 50 MP main sensor and a 10 MP zoom lens. From capturing expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups, the possibilities are endless. The video capabilities are on par, with the option to record in up to 8K at 30 frames per second. This promises recordings of exceptional detail and clarity. With these top-class specifications, the S23 guarantees to deliver outstanding images and videos in a variety of environments and conditions.
Galaxy S23 FE: Versatile, but different
The Galaxy S23 FE follows with a similarly configured triple camera system. This consists of a 12 MP ultra wide-angle lens, a 50 MP main sensor and an 8 MP zoom lens. Despite the slightly lower resolution of the zoom lens compared to the S23, the S23 FE's camera is only slightly behind in terms of versatility and quality. The FE enables video recording in up to 8k at 24 frames per second. That's a little less than the S23, but still offers excellent quality for most needs. The camera setup proves that the S23 FE is a strong device for photography enthusiasts even with small differences in the technical data.
Both models shine with outstanding camera functions. They are equally attractive to fans of photography and videography, each with its own advantages.
How do cell phones perform in everyday life?
The design of the Galaxy S23 series remains true to its elegant and minimalist lines. Both the S23 and the S23 FE have a modern style. Small but subtle changes make the devices both visually appealing and practical.
Both models offer 128 or 256 GB of storage; storage expansion via microSD is not possible. They are also well protected against dust and water thanks to IP-68 certification. So a day at the beach is no problem.
Samsung also promises to provide the models with Android updates for four years and security updates for five years. This makes the smartphones in the S23 series a future-proof investment for anyone looking for a long-term companion.
Galaxy S23: elegant and compact
The Galaxy S23 impresses with its elegant compactness. It features a 6.1-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,340 pixels, ensuring sharp and vivid images. The refresh rate of 120 Hz enables smooth display, especially with moving content. At just 168g, the S23 is one of the lightest smartphones. Its weight and slim design make it comfortable to hold even for long periods of time and ensure it fits easily into any pocket. This makes it the perfect companion for everyday life.
Galaxy S23 FE: large and easy to grip
With its 6.4-inch display, the Galaxy S23 FE has more screen space, ideal for multimedia fans and users of productive apps. Its AMOLED display shows content in a resolution of 2,380 x 1,080 pixels, which delivers razor-sharp images and text. The 120 Hz refresh rate ensures very smooth motion display, which is noticeable in fast games and when scrolling.At 209 grams it is heavier, but still fits well in the hand and feels robust. The size and handling of the S23 FE offers a different user experience than the more compact S23 and underlines its advantages for more intensive multimedia use.
What do the reviewers say?
The latest generation of Samsung Galaxy S series, the S23 and S23 FE, have attracted a lot of attention since their release. Technology YouTubers such as Technikfaultier, SwagTab and iKnowReview have published their opinions on the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 FE smartphones. They have highlighted both the advantages and disadvantages of these devices.
Feedback on the Samsung Galaxy S23:
- Performance: The powerful features with a new processor and fast memory ensure smooth use.
- Battery life: The battery life is robust, allowing extended use without constant charging.
- Processing: The pleasant handling, the high-quality display and the good speaker quality are positive.
- Main camera: The quality of the main camera, especially the vivid colors, the pleasant contrast and the successful video mode stand out positively.
- Ultra wide-angle camera: There is criticism for the lack of autofocus and macro mode as well as for the limited resolution and noise behavior in poor lighting conditions.
Feedback on the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Stereo speakers and IP68: Stereo speakers and IP68 certification ensure a good audio experience and make the device robust.
- Update Promise: Samsung's promise of long-term software support including Android and security updates is an advantage for the longevity of the device.
- Color Options: A wide range of color options provides an attractive option for customers.
- Performance deficits: Compared to the rest of the S23 lineup, the performance of the S23 FE is perceived as inadequate, particularly due to the inefficient processor and outdated display technology.
- Lack of unique selling points:The lack of significant innovations or specific features that would make the S23 FE stand out within the series or in comparison to other models is criticized.
Price check and value for money: What's more worth it?
When comparing the prices of the Galaxy S23 series, it is noticeable that the standard S23 model is available for 699 euros. The FE version with 128 GB of storage, however, costs 949 euros. These price differences reflect the different features and performance of the models.
Price-conscious buyers who still value quality will find a good alternative in the market for refurbished devices. Refurbished models of both variants are often around 200 euros cheaper than new.This option is particularly attractive for those who pay attention to the price-performance ratio and at the same time want to act in an environmentally friendly manner.
Conclusion: Samsung Galaxy S23 vs. S23 FE - Which model is the right choice?
The decision between the Samsung Galaxy S23 and the S23 FE depends largely on the individual needs and priorities of the user. The main differences between the two models are in the areas of processor, camera, display, battery and price.
Differences between S23 and S23 FE
- Processor: The S23 is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is more powerful than the Exynos 2200 in the S23 FE.
- Camera: With its 64MP telephoto zoom camera, the S23 offers higher photo quality compared to the 8MP telephoto zoom camera of the S23 FE.
- Display: With a 6.4-inch display, the S23 FE offers more screen space than the 6.1-inch display of the S23.
- Battery: The S23 FE has a larger battery at 4,500 mAh than the S23 at 3,900 mAh, which promises a longer battery life.
Decision criteria:
Users who value maximum performance and high-quality camera functions as well as a compact design will be better served with the S23.
For those who want a larger display and longer battery life while looking for a good price-performance ratio, the S23 FE is the more suitable choice.
Final words:
The S23 and S23 FE models impress with their features and performance. The S23 is aimed at users looking for the highest performance and the best photography quality. In contrast, the S23 FE offers a convincing price-performance ratio with its larger display and longer battery life. Both benefit from four years of Android updates and five years of security updates, emphasizing their longevity. Their elegant, minimalist design and range of colors and storage options make them attractive choices for different user groups.
