Galaxy S23 Plus Over The S20 Fe What Am I Actually Missing Out On

If you're still using the Galaxy S20 FE and considering whether an upgrade to the Galaxy S23 Plus is worth it, you're not alone. The S20 FE was a standout device in its time—offering flagship-level features at a mid-tier price. But three years later, how much has changed? The S23 Plus isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a generational leap in multiple key areas. While your S20 FE still functions well, understanding what you’re missing can help determine if now is the right time to move up.

Performance: A Noticeable Leap in Speed and Efficiency

The most immediate difference between the S20 FE and the S23 Plus lies under the hood. The S20 FE launched with either the Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, depending on region—both solid for their time. In contrast, the S23 Plus features the custom-tuned Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, built on a more advanced 4nm process. This isn't just about higher numbers; it's about sustained performance, better thermal management, and significantly improved efficiency.

Real-world impact? Apps launch faster, multitasking feels smoother, and intensive tasks like video editing or gaming are far more responsive. The S23 Plus also comes with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, which offer faster data read/write speeds than the LPDDR5 and UFS 3.1 in the S20 FE. For users who rely on their phone for productivity or content creation, this translates into fewer lags and quicker file transfers.

Tip: If you frequently use cloud sync, large file transfers, or run multiple apps simultaneously, the UFS 4.0 storage in the S23 Plus will noticeably reduce wait times.

Camera: From Good to Pro-Grade Imaging

The S20 FE had a capable triple-camera system: 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. It delivered solid results in daylight but struggled in low light and lacked advanced processing. The S23 Plus steps up with a 50MP main sensor (with pixel binning for superior low-light shots), a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom and improved stabilization.

More importantly, the software enhancements make a dramatic difference. Samsung’s newer AI-powered processing improves dynamic range, reduces noise, and enhances detail in both photos and videos. Features like Expert RAW mode and enhanced Night Mode give creative control previously reserved for dedicated cameras.

Feature	Galaxy S20 FE	Galaxy S23 Plus
Main Sensor	12MP (f/1.8)	50MP (f/1.8, variable aperture)
Low-Light Performance	Moderate improvement with Night Mode	Significantly enhanced with larger sensor and AI processing
Video Recording	4K@30fps, limited stabilization	8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, advanced stabilization
Front Camera	32MP (f/2.2)	12MP (f/2.2, improved skin tone rendering)

“Smartphone photography isn’t just about megapixels anymore—it’s about computational intelligence. The S23 series represents a turning point where phones can rival mirrorless cameras in certain conditions.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK

Battery Life and Charging: All-Day Power vs. All-Day +

The S20 FE came with a 4,500mAh battery, which was respectable in 2020. However, battery degradation over time means many users now struggle to get through a full day with moderate use. The S23 Plus packs a larger 5,000mAh battery and benefits from a more power-efficient chipset. Real-world testing shows the S23 Plus consistently lasts 1.5 to 2 hours longer on a single charge under similar usage patterns.

Charging speed remains unchanged—both support 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging—but the S23 Plus charges more efficiently due to better power management. With Adaptive Fast Charging, it monitors battery health and adjusts charging speed to prolong lifespan.

Mini Case Study: Daily Use Comparison

Consider Sarah, a freelance designer who uses her phone for emails, social media, photo editing, and video calls. On her aging S20 FE, she starts the day at 100% and hits 30% by 6 PM, needing a mid-afternoon top-up. After upgrading to the S23 Plus, she now ends her workday at around 45%, even with heavier app usage. The combination of a fresher battery and optimized hardware means she no longer carries a portable charger.

Display and Design: Subtle Refinements That Add Up

Both phones feature 6.5”+ Super AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, but the execution differs. The S20 FE used a plastic front layer (Gorilla Glass 3) and had slightly thicker bezels. The S23 Plus uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both front and back, offering better scratch and drop resistance. Its display is brighter—up to 1750 nits peak brightness compared to the S20 FE’s 800 nits—making it far more usable outdoors.

The design language has also matured. The S23 Plus features a flatter, more premium aluminum frame and symmetrical bezels. While these may seem like cosmetic changes, they contribute to a more balanced feel in hand and improved durability. Additionally, the IP68 rating on both models ensures dust and water resistance, but the newer build materials on the S23 Plus inspire greater confidence during travel or active use.

Software and Longevity: Future-Proofing Your Device

This is where the gap widens beyond specs. The S20 FE launched with Android 10 and is eligible for two major OS updates and three years of security patches. As of 2024, it has likely reached end-of-life for official updates. In contrast, the S23 Plus launched with Android 13 and is guaranteed four major OS upgrades and five years of security updates—meaning it will be supported through at least 2028.

Regular updates mean access to new features, better privacy controls, improved performance optimizations, and critical security fixes. Staying on outdated software increases vulnerability to malware and limits compatibility with modern apps. For long-term ownership, this support window is arguably the most compelling reason to upgrade.

Tip: Check your current phone’s update status in Settings > Software Update. If it hasn’t received an update in over six months, it’s likely near end-of-support.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

• ✅ Is your phone slowing down during daily tasks?
• ✅ Does the battery die before the end of your day?
• ✅ Are you no longer receiving OS or security updates?
• ✅ Do you want better photo quality, especially in low light?
• ✅ Do you plan to keep your next phone for 3+ years?

If you answered yes to two or more, the S23 Plus offers tangible improvements that enhance both usability and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the S23 Plus worth the price jump over the S20 FE?

Yes, if you value long-term reliability, better camera performance, and future software support. The higher upfront cost is offset by extended usability and reduced need for replacements.

Can I expect noticeable improvements in gaming?

Absolutely. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 delivers up to 40% better GPU performance and improved thermal regulation. Games like Genshin Impact run at higher frame rates with less throttling.

Will my accessories work with the S23 Plus?

Most USB-C accessories and wireless chargers are compatible. However, cases and screen protectors won’t fit due to different dimensions and curved edges.

Conclusion: Making the Right Move for Your Needs

The Galaxy S20 FE was an excellent phone in its era, but technology moves quickly. Holding onto it means missing out on meaningful advancements—not just in raw power, but in everyday experiences like clearer photos, longer battery life, and ongoing software support. The S23 Plus isn’t just faster; it’s smarter, more durable, and built to last.

If you're still on the fence, consider how much you rely on your phone. For casual users, the S20 FE might suffice a little longer. But for anyone who values performance, peace of mind, and photographic capability, the upgrade to the S23 Plus delivers real, lasting benefits.

🚀 Ready to experience the next generation? Evaluate your current usage, check your update status, and consider how much more your phone could do for you. The future of mobile tech isn’t just coming—it’s already here.