Galaxy A53 5G Vs Galaxy S20 FE

Galaxy A53 5G
Galaxy A53 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:119.00

Versus €459.00 new

See options
Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:151.00

Versus €779.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G, released in March 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, launched in October 2020, are both Android smartphones from Samsung's diverse lineup. While both offer 5G connectivity and a smooth user experience, they cater to slightly different priorities through their internal components and feature sets. The A53 5G emphasizes extended software support and a larger battery, whereas the S20 FE 5G focuses on higher processing power and a more versatile camera system from its original flagship-tier design.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release date, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The Galaxy A53 5G, being a newer device from March 2022, benefits from Samsung's policy of providing four years of Android OS updates and five years of security updates, extending its software relevance further into the future. In contrast, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G, released in October 2020, received three major Android OS updates, concluding its OS upgrade cycle around Android 13, with security updates ending around October 2025.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices offer water and dust resistance, with the Galaxy A53 5G featuring an IP67 rating and the Galaxy S20 FE 5G boasting a slightly higher IP68 rating. The A53 5G incorporates Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection, while the S20 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass 3.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and security patches for a longer duration will find the A53 5G more aligned with their needs due to its more recent release and extended update commitment. The S20 FE 5G, while still functional, will see its software support conclude sooner.

Year of Release

2022

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The core processing capabilities and battery performance significantly impact daily usage, from app responsiveness to gaming and multitasking.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that delivers robust performance, allowing for smooth handling of demanding applications, efficient multitasking, and a responsive gaming experience. The Galaxy A53 5G features a processor that provides sufficient power for everyday tasks and general use, though some users have noted occasional slowdowns or less optimal performance during intensive gaming sessions.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A53 5G houses a larger 5000 mAh battery, which consistently provides over a full day of use, even with frequent activity. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G, with its 4500 mAh battery, also offers excellent battery life, often lasting a full day with typical usage and extending to two days for lighter users.
  • Charging and Multitasking: Both devices support 25W fast charging. The S20 FE 5G additionally offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities, features not present on the A53 5G. For multitasking, the S20 FE 5G's more powerful processor generally allows for smoother transitions and app management.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones feature vibrant displays, but there are subtle differences in their technology and viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy A53 5G and the Galaxy S20 FE 5G utilize 6.5-inch Super AMOLED displays with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, providing clear and detailed visuals. These panels are known for producing deep blacks and vibrant colors.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to a smooth scrolling experience and fluid animations. The Galaxy A53 5G's display can reach a brightness of 800 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. While the S20 FE 5G's screen is generally bright, some users have reported challenges with outdoor visibility in direct sunlight.
  • Screen Protection: The Galaxy A53 5G's display is protected by Gorilla Glass 5, offering enhanced resistance against scratches and drops. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G uses Gorilla Glass 3 for its screen protection.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Super AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both phones are designed to capture a variety of moments, each with a distinct approach to imaging.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy A53 5G features a quad-camera setup with a 64MP main lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide, a 5MP macro, and a 5MP depth sensor. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers a triple-camera system, including a 12MP main lens with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The A53 5G excels in bright conditions, producing lively photos, and its macro lens is considered usable. The S20 FE 5G's camera system is praised for its versatility, offering image quality comparable to its flagship counterparts from its release era, particularly benefiting from the dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed shots.
  • Video and Front Camera: Both phones are capable of recording video at 4K resolution at 30 frames per second (fps), with the S20 FE 5G also supporting 4K at 60fps. Both devices feature a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

Main camera

64 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity. The Galaxy A53 5G includes Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.1, while the Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers the newer Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0. Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, but neither includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: Both phones incorporate an under-display optical fingerprint scanner for secure unlocking and authentication. They also support face recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy A53 5G measures 159.6 x 74.8 x 8.1 mm and weighs 189g. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is slightly larger and heavier at 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm and 190g. Both have a plastic back, with the S20 FE 5G featuring a matte finish that helps minimize fingerprints.

Weight

189 g

190 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.5

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy A53 5G frequently highlights its vibrant display, impressive battery life, and capable camera system as strong points. However, some users have expressed concerns regarding occasional performance lag, particularly with demanding applications or games. For the Galaxy S20 FE 5G, common praise centers on its powerful processor, versatile camera with optical zoom, and generally excellent battery performance. Criticisms sometimes mention an inconsistent fingerprint reader and a less premium feel in its design compared to other devices in its original price bracket.

Users prioritizing long-term software support and a slightly larger battery capacity for extended usage may find the Galaxy A53 5G to be a more suitable choice. Its newer release date ensures a longer period of official updates. Conversely, individuals who value higher raw processing power for intensive tasks, a dedicated telephoto camera for photography versatility, and features like wireless charging might lean towards the Galaxy S20 FE 5G. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable technology.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons