Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Starting from RM3,299.00
Pros
- With Galaxy AI
- Water and dust proof
- Exynos 2400e is good
- Comes with Samsung DeX
- Good camera
Cons
- Only comes with 8GB RAM
- Fingerprint magnet at the back
- Lacking LTPO display
- Only using optical fingerprint sensor
The Samsung Galaxy FE (Fan Edition) series has carved out a unique niche in the smartphone market, positioned as a device that bridges the gap between mid-range and flagship models. The “Fan Edition” concept originated from Samsung’s initiative to incorporate direct user feedback into their product development, creating devices that specifically address consumer preferences and pain points.
My journey with the FE series began with the impressive Galaxy S21 FE, released in early 2022. This model demonstrated Samsung’s ability to deliver flagship-level features at a more accessible price point. While Samsung unexpectedly skipped the S22 FE, they returned strong with the S23 FE in 2023, which introduced their refined design language and proved that the FE series still had a place in Samsung’s lineup.
The latest iteration marks a significant leap forward in Samsung’s smartphone technology. Most notably, it integrates artificial intelligence capabilities previously reserved for their premium flagship models. This AI integration represents a strategic shift in Samsung’s product development roadmap, potentially signaling a broader implementation across their entire smartphone portfolio, including the more affordable A series models in future releases.
The AI features implemented in Samsung’s recent devices stand out in the current smartphone landscape. Based on extensive comparisons with other AI-enabled smartphones in the market, Samsung’s implementation offers a particularly refined and practical user experience. The integration feels purposeful rather than gimmicky, enhancing daily usage in meaningful ways.
This detailed review reflects my experiences after two weeks of comprehensive testing, during which I’ve explored both the device’s AI capabilities and its core smartphone functionalities. Let’s dive into the specific features, performance metrics, and real-world usability that define this latest addition to the FE lineup.
First Look and Design
The Galaxy S24 FE maintains Samsung’s contemporary design language, adopting the sophisticated aesthetic established by the flagship S series. While sharing dimensional similarities with the Galaxy S24+, featuring a 6.7-inch display, it strikes a unique balance between premium features and practical compromises. The device’s structural integrity is reinforced by a precision-engineered aluminum frame, complemented by a dual-glass sandwich design that employs Corning’s latest protective solutions – Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and Victus 5 on the rear panel.
Unlike its flagship counterpart’s matte finish, the S24 FE opts for a glossy rear panel. While this design choice enhances visual appeal, particularly in the subtle Mint colorway, it does make the device more susceptible to fingerprints and smudges during extended use. The frame’s thoughtfully curved edges contribute to improved ergonomics, making the device comfortable for prolonged handling despite its substantial dimensions.
The device features a minimalist button configuration:
- Right side: Power button and volume rocker
- Left side: Clean, uninterrupted surface
- Top edge: SIM tray and dual microphone configuration
- Bottom edge: USB-C port flanked by stereo microphone ports and primary speaker
The S24 FE implements a stereo speaker setup:
- Primary bottom-firing speaker
- Secondary speaker integrated into the earpiece
- Enhanced stereo separation for immersive audio experience
- Quad-microphone array for improved voice capture and noise cancellation
The device showcases a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel:
- Resolution: 1080 x 2340 pixels
- Peak brightness: Up to 1900 nits (auto mode)
- Refresh rate: 120Hz (standard refresh rate without LTPO technology)
- Flat display design for improved durability and reduced accidental touches
Notable trade-offs from the flagship model include:
- Absence of LTPO technology for variable refresh rate
- Optical under-display fingerprint sensor instead of ultrasonic
- Higher camera module protrusion compared to the S24 series
The geometric aesthetic, characterized by flat surfaces and precise angles, represents a departure from the curved displays that dominated previous generations. This design choice not only enhances practicality but also reflects a growing preference among users for more utilitarian form factors.
This comprehensive design approach demonstrates Samsung’s ability to maintain premium build quality while making strategic compromises to achieve a more accessible price point. The result is a device that feels substantial and refined, successfully bridging the gap between mid-range and flagship segments.
Performance and Daily Use
The Galaxy S24 FE is designed to deliver flagship-like performance but at a more accessible price point. Although it uses Samsung’s Exynos 2400e chipset—an optimized, slightly scaled-down version of the Exynos 2400 used in higher-end S24 models—it holds up impressively well in day-to-day use. The “e” designation signifies a lighter processing load compared to the full-fledged Exynos 2400, but many will find that the performance difference in practical usage is minimal.
Despite initial concerns over using an Exynos variant instead of Snapdragon, my experience over two weeks of usage and testing demonstrated that the Exynos 2400e is more than capable of delivering smooth performance, making it a strong contender even alongside Snapdragon-powered devices.
The Exynos 2400e performs at near-flagship levels under most conditions, providing more power than one might expect. Samsung has optimized it well for the Galaxy S24 FE, proving to be especially capable in handling heavy tasks, including gaming. While it might not rival the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in peak power, it does an impressive job, and I quickly found it suited my needs beyond expectations. For a mid-tier flagship, this chipset achieves a fine balance of power and efficiency. Samsung’s Exynos line has seen steady improvement, and the 2400e appears to be a positive evolution in this lineup.
One of my initial concerns with the Galaxy S24 FE was its 8GB of RAM, given that many flagship models now come with at least 12GB. The device does include Samsung’s RAM Plus feature, allowing users to allocate up to 8GB of virtual RAM, but I was curious if 8GB would hold up on its own. Surprisingly, the 8GB of RAM paired with the Exynos 2400e was more than sufficient. Even without using RAM Plus, the device handled multitasking seamlessly and maintained consistent performance across apps.
My test unit came with 512GB of internal storage, which proved ample for games, videos, and photos. If you’re considering the device, a higher storage variant could be a smart choice for longevity, particularly with Samsung’s promise of 7 years of software and security updates—support that could keep this device relevant through 2031.
The Galaxy S24 FE features a 4,700mAh battery that comfortably lasted me through an entire day of moderate to heavy use without needing a recharge. On average, I ended the day with around 15% battery, allowing me to top up the next morning. Charging was also swift, reaching around 90% in just over an hour. Samsung has also included battery preservation options, allowing users to cap charging at 80% to extend battery health. However, I kept the battery settings at “Basic” or “Adaptive,” which still provided excellent battery performance without needing to activate more conservative settings.
Daily usage on the Galaxy S24 FE feels fluid, thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and transitions buttery smooth. Opening multiple apps and switching between them is seamless, with no lag even with over 20 apps active in the background. The device’s Dynamic AMOLED display enhances multimedia experiences, delivering vibrant colors and sharp contrasts. Video playback, especially 4K videos on platforms like YouTube, is flawless, and the stereo speakers add a rich layer to the audio, enhancing immersion during movie watching or music playback.
For gamers, the Galaxy S24 FE doesn’t disappoint. As an avid PUBG Mobile player, I put the device through intense gaming sessions, and it handled the demands of fast-paced, high-stakes gameplay admirably. Surprisingly, I was able to play at the highest graphical settings without experiencing any stutters or noticeable frame drops. The Exynos 2400e keeps the device cool, and I observed minimal heating even after extended gameplay sessions, a testament to Samsung’s efficient hardware design. For a fully immersive experience, pairing the Galaxy S24 FE with Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro enhances the audio, creating a cinematic soundscape perfect for gaming.
To quantify its performance, I ran several benchmark tests on the Galaxy S24 FE. The device scored an impressive 1,616,342 on Antutu 3D, crossing the 1.5 million mark, and achieved 8,899 on 3DMark’s Wild Life test. These scores confirm that the Exynos 2400e is not merely a downgraded version but a capable processor with the power to keep up with demanding applications and games. For those interested in performance metrics, these results demonstrate that the Galaxy S24 FE is more than just a budget-friendly flagship; it’s a solid performer capable of handling intensive tasks with ease.
The Galaxy S24 FE proves that Samsung has crafted a device that balances power and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those who want near-flagship performance at a more affordable price. The Galaxy S24 FE stands as a versatile option that can meet the needs of both everyday users and mobile gamers alike.
Camera Performance
The camera is often one of the most defining features of a smartphone, and for the Galaxy S24 FE, this is no exception. Designed with a versatile triple-camera setup on the back and a high-quality front camera, the Galaxy S24 FE aims to deliver flagship-level imaging at a more accessible price. Let’s dive into how well each camera performs and whether it can truly compete with the higher-end S24 series.
Here’s a breakdown of the Galaxy S24 FE’s camera specifications:
- Main Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), dual pixel PDAF, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- Telephoto: 8 MP, f/2.4, 75mm, PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom
- Ultrawide: 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 123˚ (ultrawide)
- Selfie Camera: 10 MP, f/2.4, 26mm (wide)
Main Camera
By default, the main camera captures images at 12MP, which is Samsung’s way of optimizing for both quality and storage space. However, users can toggle to the full 50MP resolution for even finer detail when desired. The 12MP setting is more than adequate for most needs, offering excellent sharpness, vibrant but natural color reproduction, and rich detail. This represents a significant improvement from previous generations, where Samsung’s tendency to over-saturate colors was noticeable. The Galaxy S24 FE’s main camera maintains a well-balanced color profile that feels realistic, making it a great choice for a variety of shooting conditions.
Ultrawide and Telephoto Cameras
The ultrawide and telephoto cameras on the Galaxy S24 FE offer great flexibility. The 12MP ultrawide lens provides a wide 123˚ field of view without distorting or warping the edges, a common issue with many ultrawide lenses. Color and detail hold up well, making this lens ideal for landscapes or large group shots.
The 8MP telephoto lens, equipped with 3x optical zoom, is effective for capturing distant subjects. Details remain sharp up to around 10x zoom, particularly in good lighting. Beyond that range, quality may diminish slightly, but the overall zoom performance is still impressive for a phone in this price range. Whether capturing details in the distance or experimenting with creative compositions, the Galaxy S24 FE’s telephoto lens performs well, providing versatility for a range of scenarios.
Low-Light and Night Photography
Low-light photography is where many smartphones struggle, but the Galaxy S24 FE’s main camera remains capable in darker conditions. In standard low-light settings, the camera automatically activates an “auto night mode” that adjusts exposure to enhance brightness and clarity. Additionally, a dedicated Night Mode offers longer exposure times, which captures more light for clearer, more detailed night shots. This mode is particularly useful for cityscapes or evening portraits, allowing the camera to maintain color accuracy and reduce noise while pulling in enough detail to create striking night images.
Portrait Mode
The Galaxy S24 FE also includes a Portrait Mode, which leverages depth sensing to create a professional-looking bokeh effect. The subject is nicely separated from the background, with a natural-looking transition that doesn’t appear overly processed. Fine details, like hair edges, are handled smoothly, contributing to realistic portrait shots that mimic the quality of higher-end models. This mode is particularly useful for users looking to capture professional-quality portraits on a smartphone.
Video Capabilities
When it comes to video, the Galaxy S24 FE can record at up to 8K at 30 fps, though most users may find 4K at 60 fps more than adequate, offering a balance between quality and storage efficiency. The inclusion of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) makes handheld shooting significantly smoother, allowing for high-quality videos without the need for a gimbal. The video quality is rich and detailed, and the colors remain vibrant, capturing moving subjects or scenic videos with ease. This stable, high-resolution capability has made video recording enjoyable on this device, and I found myself recording videos as often as I took photos.
Overall, the Galaxy S24 FE’s camera system is a strong performer that holds its own even against more expensive flagship models. While it might not match the absolute high-end quality of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, particularly in terms of telephoto reach and possibly finer low-light performance, it provides an impressive camera experience for most users. In everyday conditions, you’d be hard-pressed to distinguish between photos taken on the Galaxy S24 FE and those from pricier models in the S24 series.
For those looking for a premium camera experience without the flagship price tag, the Galaxy S24 FE is a great choice, offering versatile photography and video features that will satisfy casual and enthusiast photographers alike.
Other Photo Samples
AI Features
Samsung has made AI a core part of its marketing strategy for the Galaxy S24 FE, even using the tagline “Galaxy AI is here.” However, the AI-powered experience doesn’t feel fully realized on the device. While there are useful AI features, they’re not prominently integrated into everyday use; instead, they require users to explore settings and manually download certain features like Browsing, Note, and Transcript Assist to unlock their potential. This scattered implementation may leave users unaware of what the device has to offer in terms of AI, diminishing the overall experience.
One of the more useful AI tools is Photo Assist, which offers editing capabilities similar to Google’s Magic Editor or Eraser. With Photo Assist, you can resize, move, remove, or transform objects in photos, providing creative freedom in post-editing. The tool works reasonably well, particularly in well-lit conditions and on simpler backgrounds.
The Galaxy S24 FE also includes a suite of assistive tools designed to improve communication and productivity. For instance, Chat Assist offers translation, text generation, and spelling or grammar suggestions, which are handy for quick responses or drafting messages. Additionally, Call Assist and Interpreter offer real-time translation, a valuable feature for travelers or those needing instant language support.
A unique AI-driven feature is Sketch to Image, which allows users to draw a rough sketch that the AI then transforms into a photorealistic image. For example, I sketched a basic drawing of a cat on a desk chair, and the AI rendered a realistic image with a cat in the exact spot I imagined. While the rise of AI-generated art brings ethical and creative debates, there’s no denying the fun and functionality this feature offers for casual creativity.
Samsung DeX
While AI takes center stage in Samsung’s marketing, the Galaxy S24 FE also offers one of Samsung’s hallmark features, Samsung DeX. DeX allows you to connect the device to a monitor and use it as a desktop interface, transforming your phone into a fully functional workstation. Imagine you’re a student heading to the library without your laptop; with DeX, you can use the Galaxy S24 FE with a monitor, keyboard, and mouse for a laptop-like experience. This feature is ideal for those needing portable productivity, turning a phone into a convenient tool for editing documents, presentations, or even light coding tasks.
In summary, while Samsung’s AI features are promising, they don’t yet offer a fully seamless experience. For users who enjoy AI tools and don’t mind navigating some settings, there are valuable assistive features here, but the overall experience may benefit from more intuitive integration in future updates. Nonetheless, with robust tools like Samsung DeX, the Galaxy S24 FE delivers an impressive level of versatility, making it a well-rounded device beyond its AI aspirations.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S24 FE delivers an impressive experience that’s hard to beat at its price point. It strikes a remarkable balance between performance, quality, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for those seeking flagship-like features without the flagship price. From performance to multimedia capabilities, the Galaxy S24 FE has proven itself more than capable for daily use and even intensive tasks, such as gaming and media streaming. I spent hours gaming on this device without experiencing lag, and binge-watching movies on its stunning Dynamic AMOLED display was equally enjoyable, especially when paired with the immersive audio of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.
For photography and videography enthusiasts, the Galaxy S24 FE does not disappoint. The camera system produces high-quality photos and videos with excellent color accuracy and detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. An added bonus for content creators is the enhanced audio quality during video recording, thanks to the additional microphones positioned to capture balanced sound in landscape mode. This setup significantly improves voice clarity and reduces background noise, making it a fantastic tool for creators who want to capture high-quality audio on the go without needing a separate microphone.
The Galaxy S24 FE is now available for purchase on Samsung’s official website, starting at an attractive price of RM3,299.00. If you’re in the market for a versatile smartphone that provides near-flagship capabilities without breaking the bank, the Galaxy S24 FE is an excellent choice. With its robust performance, impressive camera system, and enhanced audio features, it’s a device that brings a premium experience within reach.
