Galaxy S24 Fe Vs S23 Fe Is The Upgrade Really Worth It 3

The Galaxy S series Fan Edition (FE) lineup has become a favorite among Android users who want flagship-level features without the premium price tag. With the release of the Galaxy S24 FE, Samsung continues its tradition of delivering high-value smartphones. But how much better is it than its predecessor, the S23 FE? For owners of the S23 FE or those considering an upgrade, this question matters—especially when budgets are tight and expectations are high.

This in-depth analysis compares the Galaxy S24 FE and S23 FE across key areas: design, display, performance, camera, battery life, software, and long-term value. We’ll also examine real-world usage patterns to determine whether the upgrade truly delivers meaningful improvements—or if you’re better off holding onto your current device.

Design and Build: Subtle Refinements, Same Core Feel

Both phones share a similar industrial design language, staying true to Samsung’s minimalist aesthetic. The S24 FE retains the aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on the front, while the back uses matte-finish glass that resists fingerprints better than glossy alternatives.

The most noticeable change is the new color palette. The S24 FE introduces Bora Purple and Mint as standout options, moving away from the more conservative tones of the S23 FE. However, dimensions remain nearly identical—both devices are comfortable in hand, with a 6.4-inch form factor that balances screen size and grip.

Tip: If you already use a case with your S23 FE, it may fit the S24 FE due to near-identical dimensions—check compatibility before buying a new one.

The under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor remains fast and reliable on both models. There’s no IP68 rating downgrade, so both handle dust and water immersion equally well. Overall, the design evolution is cosmetic rather than transformative.

Display Quality: Brighter, Smoother, but Similar Foundation

Both phones feature a 6.4-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. However, the S24 FE bumps peak brightness from 1750 nits (S23 FE) to an impressive 2200 nits—making outdoor visibility significantly better under direct sunlight.

This improvement aligns with Samsung’s broader push toward HDR and high-brightness content consumption. Whether you're reading emails on a sunny patio or watching YouTube outdoors, the extra luminance makes a tangible difference.

Color accuracy and viewing angles remain top-tier on both devices. The S24 FE does introduce adaptive touch sampling for gaming responsiveness, which can benefit competitive mobile gamers. But for everyday browsing, streaming, and social media, the visual upgrade is subtle unless directly compared side by side.

Performance: Next-Gen Chip Brings Real Gains

Under the hood, the S24 FE swaps the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (used in some S23 FE variants) for the newer Exynos 2400e (in select regions) or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, depending on market. This shift brings notable improvements in CPU efficiency, GPU performance, and AI processing.

In benchmark tests, the S24 FE scores up to 25% higher in multi-core performance and up to 35% better graphics rendering. More importantly, thermal management has improved—users report less throttling during extended gaming sessions or video editing.

“Moving to a next-gen chipset isn’t just about speed—it’s about longevity. The S24 FE will likely receive faster AI features and longer software support.” — David Kim, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Both phones come with 6GB or 8GB RAM options and 128GB/256GB storage. Neither supports expandable memory via microSD, so choose wisely based on your usage needs.

Camera System: Incremental Upgrades, Not Revolutionary

The rear camera setup remains consistent: a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. Where the S24 FE pulls ahead is in computational photography and low-light processing.

Samsung’s new Vision AI engine enhances detail retention, dynamic range, and subject separation in portrait mode. Nightography sees measurable gains—images taken after dark exhibit less noise and more accurate color reproduction. Video stabilization is also tighter, especially when walking or filming in windy conditions.

Feature	Galaxy S23 FE	Galaxy S24 FE
Main Sensor	50MP f/1.8	50MP f/1.8 (improved pixel binning)
Ultra-Wide	12MP f/2.2	12MP f/2.2 (better edge correction)
Telephoto	10MP 3x zoom	10MP 3x zoom (enhanced OIS)
Front Camera	10MP f/2.2	12MP f/2.2 (AI skin tone optimization)
Video Recording	4K@60fps	4K@60fps + HDR10+ preview

The front-facing camera now includes AI-powered autofocus and skin tone balancing, making selfies look more natural across diverse lighting environments. While not a radical overhaul, these refinements add up in daily use.

Battery and Charging: Efficiency Over Capacity

Battery capacity remains unchanged at 4,500mAh on both models. What differs is energy efficiency. Thanks to the more advanced processor and optimized software, the S24 FE typically lasts 90–110 minutes longer per charge under mixed usage.

Charging speeds are identical: 25W wired fast charging (no charger included), 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless. A full recharge takes about 65 minutes. Neither model supports faster charging standards available on non-FE flagships.

If you’re someone who drains your phone by noon, the S24 FE’s power-saving enhancements might be welcome—but don’t expect all-day endurance miracles. Carrying a power bank or using Battery Share mode remains practical.

Software and Longevity: AI Features Set the S24 FE Apart

One of the strongest arguments for upgrading lies in software. The S24 FE ships with One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, with guaranteed updates through Android 17—meaning at least four major OS upgrades and five years of security patches.

More compellingly, it includes exclusive access to Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite: live translation during calls, note summarization, generative photo editing, and Circle to Search. These tools aren’t just gimmicks—they solve real problems like language barriers or information overload.

The S23 FE will receive many of these features via update, but not all. For example, on-device AI processing for voice transcription and photo enhancement runs faster and more securely on the S24 FE’s updated architecture.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a freelance photographer based in Seoul, used her S23 FE heavily for client work—shooting product photos, editing on-the-go, and managing communications. After nine months, she considered upgrading to the S24 FE.

She tested both devices side-by-side. While the camera specs looked similar, she noticed sharper textures in shadow areas and quicker autofocus recovery in backlit scenes on the S24 FE. More crucially, the new AI-powered editor saved her 15–20 minutes per project by auto-cropping and enhancing RAW previews.

“It wasn’t the hardware alone,” she said. “It was how everything worked together—the speed, the AI, the screen clarity—that made the difference. I upgraded, and I haven’t looked back.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I upgrade from the S23 FE to the S24 FE?

If you’re within the first year of owning the S23 FE, the upgrade isn’t urgent. However, if you rely on AI tools, need better battery efficiency, or prioritize future-proofing, the S24 FE offers meaningful benefits.

Is the S24 FE waterproof?

Yes, both the S24 FE and S23 FE have an IP68 rating, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes.

Does the S24 FE support Wi-Fi 6E?

Yes, unlike the S23 FE, the S24 FE supports Wi-Fi 6E in supported markets, offering faster wireless speeds and reduced network congestion in dense environments.

Action Checklist Before Upgrading

• ✅ Assess your current phone’s condition—does it still perform well?
• ✅ Evaluate your need for AI-powered features like real-time translation or smart notes.
• ✅ Compare carrier deals—sometimes trade-in offers make the upgrade cost-effective.
• ✅ Back up all data before switching devices.
• ✅ Test the S24 FE in-store if possible to feel the brightness and responsiveness firsthand.

Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?

The Galaxy S24 FE is not a revolutionary leap over the S23 FE, but it is a thoughtful evolution. It refines what worked—performance, camera quality, build—and adds modern intelligence through AI and software polish.

For early adopters of the S23 FE, the upgrade may feel premature unless you’re deeply invested in productivity tools or content creation. But for those stepping up from older devices (like the S21 FE or earlier), the S24 FE represents excellent value and a window into Samsung’s AI-driven future.

If you’re deciding between purchasing a used S23 FE or a new S24 FE, go for the latter. The combination of longer software support, brighter display, improved thermals, and exclusive AI features justifies the price difference over time.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Whether you keep your S23 FE or upgrade to the S24 FE, understanding these differences puts you in control. Share your thoughts—do you think AI features are worth the upgrade cost?