In 2023, the release of the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE came as a relief to many consumers looking for a high-quality smartphone at a reasonable price point. Priced at $599, the Galaxy S23 FE is significantly less expensive than its predecessor, the Galaxy S21 FE, which debuted at $699 almost two years back. The cost of the S23 FE is especially impressive when considering the impact of inflation in today’s market. With increased prices across the board for most products, the $599 price tag on the S23 FE is refreshing.
Price was a major issue with the Galaxy S21 FE, as it was positioned as an “accessible” flagship for fans, but the pricing was too close to that of the standard S21, making it difficult to justify. Additionally, at the time of its release, the Pixel 6 offered better value at the $599 price point. However, Samsung has made a concerted effort to correct this mistake with the S23 FE.
Beyond the attractive price, the Galaxy S23 FE boasts impressive features. It is equipped with a capable processor with 8GB of RAM, a large screen, a dedicated telephoto lens, full IP68 water and dust resistance, wireless charging, and a very generous five-year software support policy. For $600, this is a highly competitive package.
Despite its strong features, the S23 FE feels like it falls into a sort of middle ground. While its performance is good, it does not stand out significantly compared to other smartphones, like the $500 Pixel 7A. The S23 FE is appropriately priced, but it does not offer a particularly compelling deal compared to the $700 and $800 flagship phones. One of the drawbacks to the S23 FE is that its design seems to be a way to use up the supply of previous-generation Qualcomm chips, rather than introducing cutting-edge technology.
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Performance-wise, the S23 FE utilizes a late 2021 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM. The 4,500mAh battery offers a day of moderate use, but can drain faster with more demanding tasks. The device also offers wireless charging, a feature not always available on mid-range phones.
One of the standout features of the S23 FE is its vibrant display. With a 6.4-inch screen, the device provides ample space for a variety of activities. The screen’s 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate deliver a smooth and high-quality visual experience.
Another positive aspect of the S23 FE is its bold color options, which include purple, tangerine, and mint. However, some users may find the phone’s curved, smooth edges to be uncomfortable to hold. Additionally, the device’s weight and potential slipperiness may make it a candidate for a protective case.
In terms of software, Samsung’s One UI Android skin may not be to everyone’s liking, but the phone’s strong software support policy of four years of OS updates and five years of security updates is noteworthy.
The camera system of the S23 FE underscores its mid-range status, with the telephoto lens being a notable weak point. Portrait mode is also less than impressive, and the camera system as a whole does not offer any significant breakthroughs.
Ultimately, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE offers a decent smartphone experience, but it feels somewhat lacking compared to its competitors. As mid-range options have advanced significantly, the S23 FE may not offer enough to make it a top choice. Other smartphones in the same price range, such as the $500 Pixel 7A and the Nothing Phone 2, provide strong competition and may be more appealing options for consumers.
While the S23 FE adds another viable option in the $500 to $800 price range, it may not offer enough to truly stand out. For consumers seeking a phone with stronger features and performance, waiting for the release of the Galaxy S24 may be the better choice.
