Is The Samsung S20 Fe Really That Much Better Than The S9 Plus Owners Weigh In

For long-time Samsung users, upgrading from a flagship like the Galaxy S9 Plus to a newer model isn’t just about new features—it’s about whether those improvements translate into real-world benefits. The Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition), released three years after the S9 Plus, promises modern hardware, improved performance, and better longevity. But is the leap truly transformative? We’ve gathered insights from actual S9 Plus owners who made the switch to the S20 FE to find out what changed—and whether it was worth it.

Performance: A Noticeable Leap in Speed and Responsiveness

The jump from the S9 Plus’s Snapdragon 845 (or Exynos 9810, depending on region) to the S20 FE’s Snapdragon 865 is more than just a numbers game. Users consistently report smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and fewer hiccups when switching between memory-heavy apps like video editors or mobile games.

One former S9 Plus owner, Mark T., noted: “I didn’t think my phone was slow until I used the S20 FE. Opening Instagram while running GPS and Spotify now feels instant. The S9 would stutter.”

The S20 FE also doubles the base RAM to 6GB (up to 8GB in later models), which future-proofs the device for heavier workloads and extended software support. Combined with the shift to UFS 3.0 storage, file transfers and app installations are significantly faster—something users notice daily.

Tip: If you frequently use split-screen or run productivity apps, the S20 FE’s extra RAM makes a tangible difference in stability and speed.

Display and Design: Modern Aesthetics Meet Practicality

The S9 Plus featured a beautiful 6.2-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display with slim bezels for its time. However, the S20 FE introduces a 6.5-inch 120Hz Fluid Display—a major upgrade in both size and smoothness.

While the resolution drops to Full HD+, the higher refresh rate makes scrolling, gaming, and general navigation feel dramatically more fluid. Owners describe the experience as “like moving from standard to high-definition motion.”

Design-wise, the S20 FE adopts a more angular, modern look compared to the S9 Plus’s curved glass and metal frame. It’s slightly larger but remains comfortable to hold, especially with its lightweight polycarbonate back. Importantly, it retains IP68 water resistance—something many users were relieved to see maintained.

“The 120Hz screen is addictive. After using it for a week, going back to 60Hz on my old S9 felt sluggish and outdated.” — Lena R., tech reviewer and long-time Samsung user

Camera Comparison: More Versatility, Better Low-Light

The S9 Plus had a solid dual-camera setup: 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto, both with optical image stabilization. While capable, it lacked ultra-wide shooting and struggled in low-light conditions without aggressive noise reduction.

The S20 FE steps up with a triple-camera system: 12MP wide (f/1.8), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), and an 8MP telephoto (3x hybrid zoom). This gives users far more creative flexibility, especially for landscapes, group shots, and architectural photography.

More importantly, computational photography has evolved. The S20 FE uses improved HDR processing and Night Mode across all rear lenses. Owners report clearer night photos, better dynamic range, and more consistent color accuracy—even in challenging lighting.

Front camera quality also sees a boost. The S20 FE’s 32MP selfie shooter outperforms the S9 Plus’s 8MP sensor, especially in daylight. Video calling and vlogging benefit noticeably from the sharper image and wider field of view.

Camera Feature Breakdown

Feature	Samsung S9 Plus	Samsung S20 FE
Rear Cameras	Dual: 12MP + 12MP	Triple: 12MP + 12MP + 8MP
Ultra-Wide Lens	No	Yes
Night Mode	Limited (no official mode)	Full Night Mode on all rear cameras
Front Camera	8MP, f/1.7	32MP, f/2.2
Video Recording	4K@30fps	4K@60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps

Battery Life and Charging: All-Day Power, Faster Refills

The S9 Plus came with a 3,500mAh battery—an adequate but not generous capacity even in 2018. Heavy users often needed a midday charge. The S20 FE, by contrast, packs a 4,500mAh cell, which translates to consistent all-day usage even with 5G and 120Hz enabled.

Many switchers cite battery life as the most impactful improvement. “I used to carry a power bank religiously with my S9,” said Priya K. “Now I charge every night and rarely worry.”

Charging speeds have also improved. The S20 FE supports 25W fast charging (though often sold without the charger), going from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are retained, offering added convenience.

Real User Experience: From Doubt to Delight

Daniel M., a photographer and S9 Plus owner for over four years, delayed upgrading due to satisfaction with his current device. “I loved the S9’s compact size and headphone jack,” he said. “But after six months with the S20 FE, I can’t go back.”

His turning point? Battery life and camera versatility. “Shooting events with the ultra-wide lens saved me so many times. And not having to charge at lunch? That changed how I use my phone.”

He did miss the headphone jack initially but adapted quickly with Bluetooth earbuds. “It’s a small trade-off for better waterproofing and a slimmer design.”

Software and Longevity: Future-Proofing Your Investment

One of the most critical differences lies in software support. The S9 Plus received Android 10 as its final major update, ending in 2021. Security patches continued for a while but have since ceased, leaving the device vulnerable and incompatible with newer apps.

The S20 FE, however, launched with Android 10 and is eligible for **four generations of OS upgrades**, meaning it supports up to Android 14 and potentially Android 15, along with five years of security updates. This ensures compatibility with banking apps, messaging platforms, and emerging services well into the 2020s.

Owners appreciate the peace of mind. “My S9 started glitching with newer WhatsApp updates,” said James L. “The S20 FE runs everything smoothly, and I know it’ll keep getting updates for years.”

Tip: Before upgrading, back up your data via Samsung Smart Switch. It seamlessly transfers apps, messages, photos, and settings.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Checklist for S9 Plus Holdouts

If you're still on the fence about upgrading, ask yourself the following:

• Do you regularly experience app crashes or slow performance?
• Is your battery draining before midday?
• Are you unable to install the latest OS or app updates?
• Do you want better photo quality, especially at night or in groups?
• Do you value longer software support and security?

If you answered yes to two or more, the S20 FE offers meaningful improvements that enhance daily usability and extend your smartphone lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I expect good resale value from my S9 Plus?

Yes, but timing matters. As of 2024, the S9 Plus holds modest resale value ($50–$100 depending on condition), primarily due to its discontinued status and lack of updates. Selling sooner rather than later maximizes return.

Does the S20 FE feel like a premium phone despite the plastic back?

Surprisingly, yes. Many users report that the matte finish resists fingerprints and feels durable. The flat screen also makes screen protector application easier than on curved displays.

Is 5G necessary on the S20 FE?

While 5G coverage is still expanding, having it built-in future-proofs your device. Even if you don’t use it now, it may become essential for streaming, cloud gaming, or remote work in the coming years.

Final Verdict: Yes, the S20 FE Is That Much Better

The Galaxy S20 FE isn’t just an incremental upgrade over the S9 Plus—it’s a generational leap in performance, display quality, camera capability, and long-term usability. For owners clinging to their aging flagships out of loyalty or hesitation, the feedback is clear: the upgrade pays off in tangible ways.

From smoother interactions and longer battery life to vastly improved photography and extended software support, the S20 FE delivers modern smartphone essentials that the S9 Plus, despite its past glory, can no longer match.

Technology evolves, and so should our tools. If you’re still relying on a phone from 2018, the S20 FE offers a balanced, affordable, and highly capable path into the present—without breaking the bank.

💬 Have you upgraded from the S9 Plus to the S20 FE? Share your experience, tips, or surprises in the comments below—your insight could help others make their next move!