Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Review: 5 Surprising Pros and Cons You Need to Know
Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE delivers a fantastic balance between price and performance. With a premium design, high-end display, reliable camera system, and long-term software support, it’s ideal for users who want near-flagship quality without paying top-tier prices. But is it perfect? Let's dive into what works—and what doesn’t.
Introduction: A Flagship Feel Without the Price Tag
Samsung’s Fan Edition (FE) range has carved out a niche for users who crave flagship features without the hefty price. The Galaxy S24 FE continues that trend, slotting neatly between the mid-range A-series and premium S-series models.
It’s made for users who want that Samsung flair - premium design, solid performance, and top-notch software - without stretching their budget to reach the Ultra models. But does it deliver in real-world use? Here's the full breakdown.
Unboxing; First Impressions
What’s in the box:
- Galaxy S24 FE handset
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- SIM ejector tool
- Quick start guide
- No charger (a growing industry trend)
The phone immediately feels premium—solid build, clean matte finish, and a flat frame reminiscent of the Galaxy S24. Power it on, and the display stuns with its punchy colours.
Design: Build Quality
Materials: Aluminium frame + Gorilla Glass Victus+ (front and back)
Durability: IP68 water and dust resistant
Feel: Slim, symmetrical, and grippy
Colours: Graphite, Mint, Blue, Gray
Weight: ~213g (solid, not too heavy)
One-handed use is quite manageable thanks to the flatter design and curved edges. It's sturdy and stylish.
Display: Stunning in Every Way
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | FHD+ (2340 x 1080) |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Brightness | Up to 1900 nits |
| Extras | HDR10+ support |
Verdict: Rich colours, deep contrast, and super-smooth scrolling. Outdoor use? No problem, though not as bright as flagship models.
Performance: Fast, Fluid and Future-Ready
Processor: Exynos 2400e (global)
RAM and Storage: 8GB + 128GB/256GB/512GB (UFS 4.0)
Whether multitasking, gaming, or using demanding apps, it keeps up without lag or stutter. App switching is seamless, and it handles heavy workloads with ease, though sustained performance may drop slightly under heavy load.
Software Experience: One UI at Its Best
Running One UI 6.1 (Android 14), you get:
- Smart Modes Suggestions
- Samsung DeX support
- Edge Panel for fast access
- 7 years of Android + security updates
Minimal bloatware, and Samsung’s ecosystem plays nicely with other Galaxy devices. Note: Some Galaxy AI features may require a subscription after 2025.
Camera System: Versatile and Reliable
| Camera | Specs |
|---|---|
| Main | 50MP (OIS, f/1.8) |
| Ultra-Wide | 12MP (f/2.2) |
| Telephoto | 8MP, 3x Optical Zoom (f/2.4) |
| Front | 10MP (f/2.4) |
Daylight shots are sharp and colourful, with vibrant Samsung-style processing. Night mode reduces grain well. Portrait mode has solid edge detection. Video is crisp at 4K/60fps, with 8K/30fps available.
Battery Life and Charging
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Battery Size | 4,700mAh |
| Screen-On Time | ~7–8 hours |
| Charging | 25W wired (charger not included) |
| Wireless Charging | 15W |
| Reverse Wireless | 4.5W |
You’ll easily get a full day with moderate to heavy use, potentially two days with lighter use. Fast charging helps, but wireless speed and wired charging are slower than competitors.
Gaming Performance: Built to Play
- Handles high-FPS games like PUBG, Genshin, and CoD: Mobile
- Minimal overheating due to improved thermal management
- Game Booster optimises resources on the fly
Frame rates are smooth, even during long sessions. It's a gamer-friendly phone, especially at this price.
Audio and Haptics
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
- No headphone jack, but excellent Bluetooth audio
- Refined haptics for typing and feedback
Volume is loud, bass is solid, but lacks the depth of flagship models. Haptics are immersive enough for gaming and media.
Connectivity and Network
5G (SA/NSA), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dual SIM + eSIM support
Reliable signal strength and voice clarity
Whether it’s calls, streaming, or downloads, everything runs smoothly.
Security and Biometrics
- In-display optical fingerprint scanner
- Face recognition (decent, not the fastest)
- Samsung Knox Vault for secure data handling
Fast, safe, and business-ready security features. The optical fingerprint sensor is reliable but slower than ultrasonic.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Galaxy S23 FE | Galaxy S24 FE | Galaxy S24 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.4" AMOLED 120Hz | 6.7" AMOLED 120Hz | 6.2" AMOLED 120Hz |
| Processor | Exynos 2200 / Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Exynos 2400e | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| Camera | 50MP triple | 50MP triple | 50MP triple (tuned) |
| Battery | 4,500mAh | 4,700mAh | 4,000mAh |
| Starting Price | $599 | $649 | $799 |
Verdict: The S24 FE hits the sweet spot between price and performance.
Pricing and; Availability
Storage: 128GB or 256GB
Global rollout, available via major retailers
Starting at $649 USD
Trade-in deals may reduce cost further.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gorgeous AMOLED display
- Strong performance and gaming
- Great camera for the price
- Long-term software updates
- IP68 + Samsung ecosystem
Cons
- No included charger
- Slightly bulky feel
- Exynos variant slightly behind Snapdragon
- Slow wireless charging
- No headphone jack or SD slot
Summary: Should You Buy It?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a powerful all-rounder. It offers near-flagship performance, a stunning display, and a reliable camera system—all at a price point that's far more accessible than the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While there are some compromises (no charger, no headphone jack), they’re easy to overlook given everything else you get.
Perfect for: Value-seekers, mobile gamers, and Samsung fans who don’t need the absolute top-tier model.
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