Galaxy A15 5G Vs Galaxy S20 FE

Galaxy A15 5G
Galaxy A15 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:123.00

Versus €248.54 new

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Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:151.00

Versus €779.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, released in December 2023, and the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, launched in October 2020, represent different segments and generations within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both offer a comprehensive Android experience, the A15 5G focuses on delivering modern essentials with extended software support, whereas the S20 FE, originally a flagship-tier device, provides higher-end performance and features from its era. Both devices run on the Android operating system, with the A15 5G launching with a newer version and a longer update commitment.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan and software support differ significantly between these two devices due to their respective release dates and product series.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A15 5G, released in late 2023, benefits from a more recent launch, positioning it for a longer period of current software and security updates compared to the Galaxy S20 FE, which debuted in late 2020.
  • Software Longevity: Samsung has committed to providing the Galaxy A15 5G with four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, extending its usability well into the future. The Galaxy S20 FE, having launched with Android 10, received updates up to Android 12 or 13, meaning its official software support window is now closing or has already ended.
  • Durability Features: The Galaxy S20 FE features a glass front with Gorilla Glass 3 protection and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, offering a higher level of physical resilience. The Galaxy A15 5G has a glass front and plastic back and frame, without an official IP rating, suggesting it is less protected against environmental elements.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

When evaluating performance, the core capabilities of each device cater to different user expectations and demands.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S20 FE is equipped with a processor that, at its release, was considered top-tier, allowing it to handle demanding applications, complex games, and extensive multitasking with notable fluidity. The Galaxy A15 5G features a more recent but less powerful processor designed for efficient everyday tasks, web browsing, and media consumption, with occasional minor delays when switching between many applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer various RAM configurations, with the S20 FE typically starting at 6GB and the A15 5G often available with 4GB or 6GB, impacting the number of applications that can run smoothly in the background. Both support expandable storage via microSD cards, providing flexibility for users with large media libraries.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A15 5G houses a larger 5000mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient processor, generally provides extended usage times, often lasting a full day even for heavy users. The Galaxy S20 FE has a 4500mAh battery, which also offers good endurance, though its more powerful components might lead to more frequent charging for intensive use.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both smartphones is delivered through Super AMOLED technology, but with distinct differences in their specifications.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy A15 5G and the Galaxy S20 FE feature 6.5-inch Super AMOLED displays, known for their vibrant colors and deep blacks. The S20 FE offers a slightly higher resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels compared to the A15 5G's 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in a marginally sharper image.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy S20 FE boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a noticeably smoother scrolling and gaming experience. The Galaxy A15 5G has a 90Hz refresh rate, which is still smoother than standard 60Hz displays but not as fluid as the S20 FE. For brightness, the A15 5G can reach up to 800 nits in High Brightness Mode, ensuring good visibility indoors and in moderately bright outdoor conditions. The S20 FE can achieve higher peak brightness levels, which can be beneficial for outdoor use in direct sunlight.
  • Screen Protection: The Galaxy S20 FE includes Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for enhanced screen durability. The Galaxy A15 5G does not specify Gorilla Glass but mentions screen protection.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Super AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these two Samsung devices offer different strengths for capturing photos and videos.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The Galaxy A15 5G features a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens, capable of producing detailed images in good lighting conditions. The Galaxy S20 FE comes with a versatile triple camera setup including a 12MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The S20 FE's OIS and optical zoom provide an advantage for clearer shots in challenging conditions and for zooming without significant loss of detail.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: While the A15 5G's main camera performs adequately in well-lit environments, its low-light performance is more limited. The S20 FE, with its larger main sensor pixels and OIS, generally offers better low-light photography. For video recording, the S20 FE supports 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second, along with features like Super Steady mode for enhanced stabilization. The A15 5G records video at Full HD (1080p) at 30 frames per second.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The Galaxy S20 FE has a higher resolution 32MP front camera, suitable for detailed selfies and video calls. The A15 5G features a 13MP front camera. The S20 FE also includes stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience, a feature not present on the A15 5G which has a single loudspeaker.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience of these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, ensuring access to faster mobile networks. The Galaxy A15 5G retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent on the Galaxy S20 FE. The S20 FE features a more advanced USB Type-C 3.2 port, offering faster data transfer speeds compared to the A15 5G's USB-C 2.0. The S20 FE also supports Wi-Fi 6, while the A15 5G supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
  • Biometrics and Build: The Galaxy S20 FE incorporates an optical in-display fingerprint sensor, providing a seamless unlocking experience. The Galaxy A15 5G uses a side-mounted fingerprint reader integrated into the power button. In terms of build, the S20 FE combines a glass front, plastic back, and an aluminum frame, contributing to its premium feel and IP68 rating. The A15 5G has a glass front with a plastic back and frame.
  • Dimensions and Handling: Both phones have similar screen sizes and overall dimensions. The Galaxy A15 5G measures 160.1 x 76.8 x 8.4 mm and weighs 200g. The Galaxy S20 FE is slightly more compact at 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm and weighs 190g, making it marginally lighter and narrower for one-handed use.

Weight

200 g

190 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.5

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and Galaxy S20 FE cater to different priorities, reflecting their distinct market positioning and release timelines. User feedback for the Galaxy A15 5G often praises its long-lasting battery, vibrant AMOLED display, and Samsung's commitment to extended software updates, which is a significant advantage for a device in its category. Criticisms sometimes point to its performance, noting that it can feel less responsive with demanding applications compared to higher-end devices. The Galaxy S20 FE, on the other hand, is frequently lauded for its powerful performance, smooth 120Hz display, versatile camera system with optical zoom, and premium features like wireless charging and IP68 water resistance. Some users have noted its plastic back as a departure from the glass backs of other flagship phones of its time, though this also contributes to its durability.

Users prioritizing long-term software support, excellent battery life, and a modern Android experience for everyday tasks may find the Galaxy A15 5G well-suited to their needs. Its inclusion of a headphone jack is also a practical benefit for many. Conversely, users who value higher performance for gaming and demanding apps, a smoother display, superior camera capabilities with optical zoom, and robust build quality with water resistance will likely lean towards the Galaxy S20 FE. The S20 FE, despite being an older model, still offers a compelling set of features for those seeking a more premium experience. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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