In 2024, the “Fan Edition” concept struggles to hold up. Midrange phones have improved significantly, including Samsung’s own lineup. With the Google Pixel 8A priced at $499, a $600 phone with flagship aspirations just doesn’t carry the same appeal it once did. Perhaps that’s why the Galaxy S24 FE feels more like a strategic move in retail positioning than a device truly aimed at “fans.”
The S24 FE is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2400e chipset instead of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 found in the main S24 series. Depending on your perspective, this represents a step down in processing power. In practice, however, the Exynos performed reliably during testing, even staying cool through a prolonged gaming session with Pocket City 2.
It also supports the same AI features as Qualcomm-equipped models, such as real-time phone call translations, note summarization, and surprisingly effective photo editing tools. While these features are interesting, they don’t feel essential. Still, if Samsung’s AI ambitions take off, the S24 FE is equipped to handle them—just like last year’s model.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: Decent Features, but Not a Standout
The FE’s 6.7-inch display matches the size of the S24 Plus, but its 1080p resolution falls short of providing the sharpness a screen this large demands. It includes 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM as standard, along with a triple rear camera setup: a 50-megapixel main sensor, an 8-megapixel 3x telephoto, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens.
Charging options include 15W wireless and 25W wired, complemented by a solid 4,700mAh battery. Samsung has also committed to seven years of OS updates for the S24 FE, which is a standout feature in this price range. For an upper-midrange phone, the inclusion of a 3x zoom lens—something rarely seen under $800—is noteworthy.
As for the camera system, it performs adequately, much like last year’s FE model. It’s not exceptional enough to feel like a steal at $649, but it’s also not underwhelming to the point of being a dealbreaker. The 50-megapixel main sensor delivers solid results, but at this price point, that’s the least you’d expect.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: A Midrange Contender That Struggles to Stand Out
To its credit, the S24 FE’s 3x telephoto lens resists defaulting to the main sensor in dim indoor lighting, but images still show noticeable noise, even at ISO 200. Autofocus on the main camera is inconsistent, often shifting between subjects, and portrait mode’s live view suffers from lag. While the camera system is serviceable, the telephoto lens doesn’t quite live up to its promise as a standout feature.
When compared to the $999 S24 Plus, the S24 FE’s $649 price tag does seem appealing. The smaller S24, starting at $799, offers less screen real estate—something that only a niche audience might prefer. But the real competitor here is Google’s Pixel 8A, widely regarded as the best midrange phone in the US.
The Pixel 8A does come with compromises: its 6.1-inch screen is smaller, it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, and its water resistance isn’t as robust. However, it delivers wireless charging, an excellent camera, and seven years of software support—all for $499. At $649, the S24 FE has to work hard to justify the extra cost, and it doesn’t quite get there.
The S24 FE feels more like a high-end midrange device than a scaled-down flagship. While it features Gorilla Glass on both sides and an aluminum frame, small details—slightly larger bezels, less refined seams, and the not-so-crisp 1080p display—detract from its premium aspirations. Of course, the FE is meant to be cheaper, but it ends up feeling more like a polished Galaxy A-series phone than a true member of the flagship S24 family.
As I reflect on the S24 FE, one question lingers: why does this phone exist? The answer seems less about satisfying “fans” and more about catering to wireless carriers. Both Verizon and T-Mobile are offering the S24 FE for $0—with the catch of locking into expensive unlimited plans for two years. From this perspective, the phone appears designed with carriers in mind, not die-hard Galaxy enthusiasts.
Then there’s the Apple factor. Samsung isn’t about to let new iPhones dominate the holiday season unopposed. With the Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, and S24 Ultra launching back in January—practically ancient history in the tech world—the S24 FE steps in as a fresh face. Its price undercuts the base iPhone, conveniently timed to boost year-end sales.
If you’re in the market for a new Samsung phone right now and your carrier offers a great deal on the S24 FE, it’s a solid option. But outside of that specific scenario, it’s hard to recommend. The Pixel 8A delivers much of the same experience at a more budget-friendly price. Plus, the Galaxy S25 series is on the horizon, likely paired with Samsung’s generous trade-in deals.
If you’re a true Galaxy fan, you probably already know this: save your money and either go with the Pixel 8A or wait for the next Galaxy flagship.
