Galaxy S20 FE Vs Xiaomi 12T

Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:151.00

Versus €779.00 new

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Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:131.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and the Xiaomi 12T are smartphones designed to offer a balanced experience for everyday users. Released in October 2020, the Galaxy S20 FE focuses on a well-rounded feature set, while the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, brings more recent advancements in display technology and charging capabilities. Both devices operate on the Android platform, providing access to a wide ecosystem of applications and services.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE was released in October 2020, making it approximately two years older than the Xiaomi 12T, which launched in October 2022. This age difference directly impacts the duration of software support each device can expect.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S20 FE initially received major Android updates up to Android 13, with security updates concluding around October 2025 for most variants, though some specific models might receive security patches until 2027. In contrast, the Xiaomi 12T was promised three major Android OS updates, extending its support to Android 15, along with four years of security updates, expected to last until 2026.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S20 FE features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance and uses Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection. The Xiaomi 12T, while offering Gorilla Glass 5 for its display, has an IP53 rating, indicating protection against dust and light splashes.

Year of Release

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to engaging in demanding activities like gaming.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S20 FE, equipped with its internal components, handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. The Xiaomi 12T, featuring a more recent internal processor, offers enhanced capabilities for demanding applications and graphic-intensive games, contributing to a fluid and stable experience.
  • Memory and Storage: The Galaxy S20 FE typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with the added flexibility of expandable storage via a microSD card. The Xiaomi 12T is available with 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, but it does not offer expandable storage.
  • Battery Life and Charging: The Galaxy S20 FE includes a 4500 mAh battery, which generally provides sufficient power for a full day of moderate use. The Xiaomi 12T features a larger 5000 mAh battery, often translating to extended usage times, and supports very fast charging technology.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for user interaction, and both devices offer distinct viewing experiences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S20 FE features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 407 pixels per inch (ppi). The Xiaomi 12T sports a slightly larger 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a higher resolution of 1220 x 2712 pixels, leading to a sharper pixel density of around 446 ppi.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both smartphones offer a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations during general use and gaming.
  • Brightness: The Galaxy S20 FE provides a vibrant viewing experience. The Xiaomi 12T's display offers typical brightness of 500 nits and can reach a peak brightness of 900 nits, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Super AMOLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

For capturing moments and consuming media, the camera systems and audio capabilities are important considerations.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S20 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and an 8 MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. The Xiaomi 12T also has a triple-camera system, highlighted by a 108 MP main sensor with OIS, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens.
  • Front Camera and Video Recording: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S20 FE is equipped with a 32 MP front camera. The Xiaomi 12T features a 20 MP front camera. Both devices support 4K video recording at 30 frames per second (fps) with their main cameras, with the S20 FE also offering 4K at 60fps.
  • Audio Experience: Both smartphones include stereo speakers, enhancing the audio experience for media consumption. The Xiaomi 12T further benefits from Dolby Atmos support, which can provide a more immersive soundstage.

Main camera

12 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

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

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S20 FE and the Xiaomi 12T support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds where available. They also support modern Wi-Fi standards for robust wireless internet connections.
  • Physical 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. The Xiaomi 12T measures 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and weighs 202g, with a glass back and a plastic frame.
  • Biometric Security and Ports: Both devices incorporate in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. They utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and neither includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.

Weight

190 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.67

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and the Xiaomi 12T cater to slightly different user priorities, reflecting their respective release periods and design philosophies. Users often praise the Galaxy S20 FE for its consistent performance, reliable camera system with optical zoom, and the convenience of expandable storage. Some users have noted its plastic back as a less premium feel compared to glass, though it can offer better grip and durability against minor impacts. The Xiaomi 12T is frequently lauded for its sharp, bright display, faster charging capabilities, and its powerful main camera sensor. Criticisms sometimes point to the absence of expandable storage and a less versatile ultrawide camera compared to some competitors.

Users prioritizing a device with a proven track record for balanced performance, a telephoto camera, and the flexibility of expandable storage may find the Galaxy S20 FE well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a more modern display with higher resolution, faster charging, and a high-megapixel main camera for detailed shots might lean towards the Xiaomi 12T. Both devices offer a solid Android experience, and choosing between them often comes down to these specific feature preferences. For those considering either model, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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