Galaxy S20 FE Vs iPhone SE (2022)

Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:151.00

Versus €779.00 new

See options
iPhone SE (2022)
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at

Refurbished price:127.00

Versus €549.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, initially released in October 2020, and the Apple iPhone SE 2022, launched in March 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the Galaxy S20 FE offers a larger display and a versatile multi-camera system, the iPhone SE 2022 prioritizes a compact form factor and integrates a powerful, current-generation processor. Both devices run on their respective operating systems, Android for the S20 FE and iOS for the iPhone SE, offering different user experiences.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release date, software support, and physical durability. These two models offer different timelines and repair considerations.

  • Software Support: The Galaxy S20 FE, released in late 2020, initially ran Android 10 and has received updates up to Android 13 with One UI 5.1. The iPhone SE 2022, launched in early 2022 with iOS 15.4, benefits from Apple's typically longer software support, though it was discontinued in February 2025. This means the iPhone SE 2022 will likely receive fewer future iOS updates compared to a flagship iPhone released at the same time, but potentially still longer than the S20 FE.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S20 FE is considered moderately repairable, scoring around 7.5 out of 10, with accessible battery and screen components, though some parts are glued. The iPhone SE 2022 has an average repairability score, typically ranging from 5.5 to 7 out of 10, with the screen and battery being relatively straightforward to replace, but the home button assembly can be more challenging.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices offer water and dust resistance, with the Galaxy S20 FE featuring an IP68 rating and the iPhone SE 2022 an IP67 rating. The Galaxy S20 FE uses Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection, while the iPhone SE 2022 incorporates tougher glass on both the front and back.

Year of Release

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, with both devices offering capable experiences for everyday tasks, but with varying strengths in demanding scenarios.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2022 features a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications and multitasking with notable speed and responsiveness. The Galaxy S20 FE is equipped with a high-efficiency processor that provides a smooth experience for gaming and running multiple applications without significant delays.
  • Memory and Storage: The Galaxy S20 FE typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and offers 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with the added benefit of a microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 1TB. The iPhone SE 2022 includes 4GB of RAM and is available with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage, but does not offer expandable storage.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S20 FE houses a 4500 mAh battery, often providing up to two days of moderate use, even with its high refresh rate display. It supports fast wired, wireless, and reverse wireless charging. The iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller battery capacity, rated at 2018 mAh, but benefits from the efficiency of its processor and operating system, with Apple claiming up to 15 hours of video playback.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these devices differs significantly due to their display technologies and physical dimensions.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S20 FE features a larger 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display, which is known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The iPhone SE 2022 has a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display, offering accurate color reproduction and good viewing angles.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S20 FE provides a resolution of 1080x2400 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 407 PPI, offering clear and detailed visuals. The iPhone SE 2022 has a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, with a pixel density that ensures sharp text and images for its size.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: A notable feature of the Galaxy S20 FE is its 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid user interface experience. The iPhone SE 2022 maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Both displays offer sufficient brightness for outdoor visibility, with the Super AMOLED panel on the S20 FE generally excelling in direct sunlight.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

750 x 1334

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, but they approach photography with different hardware configurations and software enhancements.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S20 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. This configuration allows for a range of photographic options from wide landscapes to zoomed-in shots. The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12-megapixel wide-angle rear camera that benefits significantly from its advanced image processing capabilities, delivering consistent and high-quality photos in various conditions.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: The Galaxy S20 FE's multiple lenses contribute to its adaptability in different lighting, and it supports 4K video recording at 30/60fps. The iPhone SE 2022, despite having a single lens, leverages its powerful processor for improved computational photography, which enhances low-light performance and overall image quality. It also records 4K video at up to 60fps.
  • Front Camera and Audio: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S20 FE has a 32-megapixel front camera capable of 4K video recording. The iPhone SE 2022 features a 7-megapixel FaceTime HD front camera. Both devices offer stereo speakers, with the Galaxy S20 FE supporting Dolby Atmos for an enhanced audio experience.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily usability of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S20 FE and the iPhone SE 2022 support 5G connectivity, though the iPhone SE 2022 is limited to Sub-6GHz 5G, while the S20 FE supports both Sub-6GHz and mmWave in some variants. Both also include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Galaxy S20 FE uses a USB Type-C 3.2 port, offering broad compatibility. The iPhone SE 2022 retains the Lightning port. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S20 FE features an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and authentication. The iPhone SE 2022 utilizes Touch ID, an integrated fingerprint sensor within its physical home button.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S20 FE has dimensions of 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm and weighs 190g, featuring a plastic back and an aluminum frame. The iPhone SE 2022 is more compact at 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and lighter at 144g, with a glass front and back, and an aluminum frame. The S20 FE's larger size provides more screen real estate, while the SE 2022 offers easier one-handed use.

Weight

190 g

144 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

4.7

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy S20 FE often highlights its strong performance, vibrant display, and reliable battery life as key advantages, making it a well-rounded device for various tasks. Some users appreciate its versatile camera system and the option for expandable storage. Criticisms sometimes point to its plastic back as feeling less premium compared to other devices in its class.

The iPhone SE 2022 is frequently praised for its exceptional processing power, delivering a smooth and responsive experience across applications and games. Its compact size and the continued presence of Touch ID are also popular features among users who prefer a smaller phone or a physical home button. Common concerns include its dated design, smaller display, and the base storage option of 64GB, which some users find limiting in today's digital landscape.

Users prioritizing a large, high-refresh-rate display, a multi-lens camera system, and expandable storage may find the Galaxy S20 FE well-suited to their needs. This device could appeal to those who consume a lot of media or require flexibility in storage. Conversely, users who value a compact form factor, top-tier processing performance for demanding apps, and the iOS ecosystem will likely lean towards the iPhone SE 2022. It is a strong contender for individuals seeking a powerful device in a smaller package. Both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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