Test of the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: efficient, enduring and affordable, this smartphone will be a hit

Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

Test of the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G: the S20 cheaper, but also good

Stamping your flagship of the name “Fan Edition” could suggest a more affordable mobile to the detriment of performance. Think again ! The Galaxy S20 Fe 5g is very well designed and it is breathing.

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G test: our opinion

You found the range of Samsung Galaxy S20 sufficiently extensive between the Galaxy S20, the Galaxy S20+ (both available in 4G or 5G version) and the Galaxy S20 Ultra ? It is true that between these five models, you were spoiled for choice to find the high-end Samsung smartphone adapted to your uses and your wallet. Well Samsung was obviously not of this opinion. Affirming to have taken into account the experience feedback from the model fans, the Korean manufacturer unveiled in October 2020 the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition 5G. With specifications set back on paper compared to his big brothers, we could have expected a “light” galaxy s20. In fact, it is not. Admittedly, this new Galaxy S20 Fe 5g is only embarking 6 GB of RAM. But instead of the Exynos 990 house processor usually reserved for S20s and notes 20 distributed in Europe, Samsung had the excellent idea of ​​equipping it with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chip. The result ? A factual compatibility with 5G, but above all increased performance in certain areas and highly increased autonomy. The design is also at the party with no less than six colors available: navy blue, red, white, lavender, green and orange. And with regard to storage, this Galaxy S20 Fan Edition 5G has 128 GB of capacity.
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

A galaxy s20 fe that is manipulated with both hands

At first glance, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G is absolutely not mismatching with its fellows from the range. Of a weight very slightly higher than the Galaxy S20+ (193 grams), it is only once in hand that we realize that its back is indeed covered with plastic. This one is excellent and very little sensitive to fingerprints. The dorsal photo module is a bit more prominent than that of the Galaxy S20, but nothing unacceptable, a fortiori if you cover your mobile with a protective shell. On the right edge, we find the ignition and volume buttons and on the top, the two drawers used to insert – choice – two SIM cards or only one accompanied by a microSD memory card (up to 1 to storage). Although not benefiting from a curved edges finish, its 18/9 format panel still occupies 91.4% of the front surface of the phone. With its 6.7 -inch diagonal (or 17 cm), it therefore requires being handled with both hands if you want to cover the entire surface. However, the fingerprint sensor, very responsive, is ideally placed within thumb -in for the mobile to remain unlocked with one hand. Special mention to the tiny punch used to host the front camera. On the lower part of the mobile, we note the presence of the essential USB type-C connector, the microphone and the loudspeaker delivering a sound correct enough to watch videos or telephone in hand mode. We can simply regret the absence of a mini-jack audio intake and adapter to connect a wired audio helmet. Last hardware consideration, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G is certified IP68. This protection index guarantees that the Galaxy S20 FE is protected against prolonged immersion, a real guarantee of serenity if you are used to putting your mobile near water points (swimming pool, sink, toilet. )). Finally, with regard to the software interface, no surprise: it is always the very acclaimed house overlay one ui 2.5 which seconds the latest version of Android.

An always exceptional display

Samsung has certainly made on the screen of the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G some concessions. However, they have been carefully thought out and do not spoil the user experience. Unlike the rest of the S20 range, equipped with a Dynamic AMOLED display technology, the Korean manufacturer has opted here for a Super AMOLED panel (still a guarantee of deep blacks and an almost infinite contrast rate). In other words, the screen loses its HDR10+certification, but it is well disabling given the very limited number of videos available in this specific format ? Another important point, the Galaxy S20 Fe is satisfied with a Full HD+ definition of 1080 points per 2160. A wise choice, because the display quality remains optimal for the majority of uses and, above all, the slab is much less energy -consuming than that of superior definition equipping the other models in the S20 range. The screen benefits from adaptive 120 Hertz technology, which allows the frequency of refreshment to be varied according to the type of content displayed. This results in the user by extreme fluidity of scrolling when browsing web pages for example.
The Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is no exception to the manufacturer’s know-how: the display quality of the slab is excellent. By going through the mode of “natural” settings, the digital laboratory.com, our partner, obtained a very good Delta E of 2.3 and a color temperature of 6,800 degrees Kelvin, relatively close to the video standard fixed at 6,500 ° k. Finally, with brightness between 1.7 and 788 Candelas/M 2, no risk of damaging your retina in the dark or distinguishing anything on the screen in full sun.

On the performance side, the Galaxy S20 Fe holds the dragee high at its elders

Unlike other models that are the S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra, which embark an Exynos 990 house processor, the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is equipped with the latest high -end version at Qualcomm: the Snapdragon 865. As the digital laboratory notes.com, in a multitasking index, the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is therefore an equal game with the Galaxy S20+ and heats even the Galaxy S20 Ultra. Suffice to say that on a daily basis, a multitude of open applications and the transition from one to the other should not affect the comfort of use. It is mainly on the game part that the COTUPLE Coeur Snapdragon 865 processor drives the nail: it spray the scores obtained by the S20+ and the Ultra S20 ! With the most demanding 3D games on the market, the screen refresh rate is maintained very close to the 60 frames per second. A real feat.

Very comfortable autonomy

As we suspected, the Snapdragon processor of Qualcomm and the AMOLED Full HD panel, both relatively unnaked, very positively influence the autonomy of the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G. With its comfortable 4,500 mAh battery, this Samsung displays a beautiful 20 -hour endurance ! In intensive use, the smartphone is therefore able to hold a whole day without going through the recharge box. And as part of a classic use, you reasonably can count on two full days without recharging. The charger provided requires 1h25 to restore a full cycle to the battery.

Photo: Three complementary and effective objectives

The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is provided like its big brothers with three photographic objectives. They are from a technical point of view less sophisticated than those who equip the rest of the range: there is a main module of 12 megapixels (opening f/1.8; equivalent 26 millimeters), an ultra large angle also 12 MPX, but opening at F/2.2 and equivalent to a target of 13 millimeters, and, finally, a 3x “telephoto” of 8 megapixels (f/2.4 opening and equivalent 76 millimeters). Logically, the performances are set back, but it must be recognized that the three photo modules are very complementary and that they deliver satisfactory quality shots. Although a little too flattering with regard to colors, the main module delivers a very good level of detail in broad daylight. When the quantity of light drops, the sensor manages to immortalize animated life scenes without the slightest blur, retaining a correct exposure without it is to the detriment of the speed. Not very efficient in low lights, the ultra grand angle surprises with its high light with details well present in the image and a nice accuracy of colors. Finally, without real surprise, the telephoto produces perfectly exploitable photos if they were taken by day with 3X optical magnification. On the other hand, by day with the 30x or night digital zoom (regardless of the type of magnification), the pictures remain rather anecdotal. Finally, even in 4K to 60 images per second, video mode has good automatic monitoring of the development, thus producing quality sequences.

Who is the Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe ?

The Galaxy S20 Fan Edition 5G is undoubtedly intended for high -end phones lovers with an excellent performance/price ratio. The place occupied by this smartphone in the S20 range is perfectly justified: it is less expensive than its predecessors. And moreover, the choice of its components has been extremely well thought out to preserve the best balance between excellent comfort of daily use and first -rate performance.

The price of the Samsung Galaxy S20 5G Fe

Sold without subscription, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G costs 759 euros. But by buying it with a Bouygues Telecom 80 GB or more package, you benefit from a preferential price with a good discount, and multiple advantages included with your package !
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

In the same range at Samsung

If Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is, as its name suggests, a 5G smartphone, there is also in 4G version for 100 euros less. With the COTUPLE CHEER -CEER -CEE processor Exynos 990, it benefits from significantly lower performance. If you prefer a less imposing mobile, but with equally stripping performance, you can then turn to the Galaxy S20 5G, certainly the safe bet at Samsung.

Test of the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: efficient, enduring and affordable, this smartphone will be a hit

With its Galaxy S20 Fe, Samsung takes the risk of shading its classic S20 and S20+, two smartphones sold 250 to 350 euros more expensive. As Christmas approaches, has the Korean brand found the magic formula to slip under the trees ?

01net’s opinion.com

Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

• + Excellent value
• + High -end characteristics
• + More enduring than the S20
• + Very good quality photo

• – Plastic back

Writing note

Note published on 08/10/2020

Technical sheet

Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

System	Android 10
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 865
Size (diagonal)	6.5 “
Screen resolution	405 ppi

See the full file

The Galaxy S20 Fe (Fan Edition) marks a major break in the Samsung commercial strategy. Accustomed to launching its high -end smartphones at the start of the year and to market entry and mid -range devices in the following months, the Korean brand takes the risk of launching an affordable variation of its flagship smartphone in the fall , just before the end of year celebrations. We can find several explanations for this new experiment such as the concern of losing the battle of novelty against the iPhone 12 or the need to boost its post-Cavid sales, while 5G begins to energize the smartphone market.

Available in six colors -like the very popular Apple iPhone 11, funny coincidence no ?-, The Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe is a high -end smartphone sold from 659 euros. For our part, we tested its 5G version sold for 759 euros for over a week. And we will also explain to you why, it is better to bet exclusively on this version.

4G or 5G, the question does not arise

Given the absence of a 5G network in France, if you are rightly wondering if it is reasonable to spend 100 euros more for a compatible smartphone, allow us to make you the following recommendation: imperatively buy the 5G model. With the Snapdragon 865 processor rather than the exynos 990, the S20 Fe 5G is more powerful and more enduring than the S20 Fe 4G. This difference of 100 euros is really worth it !

Really high -end equipment

When we echoed rumors that Samsung was preparing an affordable version of the S20 for Christmas, we were convinced that this device would not have much in common with the original S20. We imagined that the Korean would sacrifice many characteristics of its flagship to make its S20 Fe less attractive and thus preserve the sales of its high -end devices. That Nenni, Samsung really spoils us !

Indeed, the Galaxy S20 Fe is a real high -end smartphone. Equipped with the Snapdragon 865 processor in its 5G version, Wi-Fi 6 compatible, IP68 waterproof certified, with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage storage, this device has a very solid technical sheet. Its compatibility with wireless recharge is also a strong point, little “flagship killers” (the name given to high-end smartphones at broken prices) are compatible with this technology. Smartphone stereo speakers are also very powerful while its design has almost nothing to envy to high-end S20+, the device that looks like it.

Equipped with a 6.5 -inch flat -flat screen, the S20 FE hoves edge. They are certainly a little thicker than on the S20+ (especially at the bottom of the device) but there is little chance that the uninformed user realizes it. The most important change is on the back where glass gives way to plastic. Failure ? It’s a question of taste. This material is certainly less premium, but it allows the S20 FE to take the fingerprints less and to weigh only 190 grams. We will therefore forgive Samsung this choice in Samsung.

Another sacrifice, the S20 FE abandons the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor of the S20 and note 20 for an optical fingerprint sensor also under the screen. Less fast, the latter only disappointed us on very few times (remember to leave your finger a little more than a second to increase the chances of success the first time). Samsung has really made the right choices with this device that has everything the reference Android smartphone of this end of the year. Design, power and practicality are there.

A very bright screen

The S20 FE screen is not only edge to board, it is also of very good quality. Like that of the S20, it has a 120 Hz refresh rate (the user chooses between 60 and 120 Hz, there is no adaptive adjustment as on note 20). Thanks to this option, the S20 FE benefits from a phenomenal navigation fluidity. We get used to 120 Hz quickly to the point that a return to a 60 or 90 Hz smartphone still hurts.

Full HD+definition, the oled slab chosen by Samsung allows you to reach 792 cd/m 2 brightness when necessary and does not have much to envy the competition. Level of color loyalty, Samsung also strikes, provided you opt for the right adjustment. We noted a fairly average delta e by default … but in natural mode, the colors displayed are much more fair. This is evidenced by the Delta E measured of 1.87.

In other words, the S20 FE is strong. With the exception of plastic on the back which betrays its true nature, you would think you manipulate a high -end at 1000 euros and more.

Finally an enduring S20 !

By abandoning his own Exynos chip in favor of a snapdragon SOC, Samsung finally succeeds in going up the slope in terms of autonomy. After three S20s and two notes 20 little enduring, the 1:33 p.m that the S20 FE has offered our versatile autonomy test appear as a miracle, even if the device remains behind many competing mobiles. We are also very satisfied with its results in video streaming (11:59 am) and in communication (29:56)). The S20 FE and its 4500 mAh battery dominate the small family of high -end Samsung smartphones, despite the activation of the 120 Hz permanently, very greedy in resources. Despite its much more affordable price, the S20 FE manages to add to the S20 and S20+. This is probably not what Samsung hoped but, in the end, the increase in sales is at the end of the tunnel. Manufacturer and customers will be winners, what better ?

Recharge level on the other hand, we deplore the “small savings” of Korean. Compatible with 25W fast charging, the device is delivered with a 15W charger. This still allows him to go from 0 to 100% in 1h28, which is rather fast. We would still have appreciated that Samsung does not ask its users to buy an optional charger to save charging time.

To discover also on video:

A triple camera module at the top level

Finally, let’s talk about the quality of the photos of the Galaxy S20 Fe. It is usually on this specific point that “flagship killers” fail to convince us, generally because of slowness or low light difficulties (we think in particular of the mobiles OnePlus). Samsung here put the odds here by equipping his S20 FE with a triple camera module almost identical to that of the high -end S20. We find the same main “dual pixel” sensor of 12 Mpix for the main objective and the same ultra-wide-angle attached to a 12 Mpix sensor as on the device released at the start of the year … but not the same telephoto lens. The S20 FE has an X3 optical zoom attached to an 8 Mpix sensor while the S20 was entitled to a large 64 Mpix sensor with a digital zoom. In the end, the user is, in our opinion, winning. He loses the possibility of filming in 8k but wins a real zoom.

Overall, there is not much to blame this S20 FE. For 759 euros (or 659 euros if you decide not to listen to us and take the 4G model), no device is also in the exception of the excellent Google Pixel Pixel. The quality of the day is exceptional, that at night satisfactory despite some occasional difficulties in the management of light. The taking of photos is fast, the transition from the ultra grand angle to the main module does not cause bugs … Samsung demonstrates its know-how while offering with this Galaxy S20 FE an excellent value for money.

Technical sheet

Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

System	Android 10
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 865
Size (diagonal)	6.5 “
Screen resolution	405 ppi

See the full file

• + Excellent value
• + High -end characteristics
• + More enduring than the S20
• + Very good quality photo

• – Plastic back

The verdict of the test

Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G

Sold 759 euros per 5G version tested here, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE offers the best value for money of the moment (and probably 2020) for a high-end smartphone. In addition to being designed by the first world manufacturer, which generally reassures consumers, this device shines by its colorful design, its performance and its photo quality … while managing not to disappoint us in terms of autonomy unlike S20 Released at the start of the year. In our opinion, the Galaxy S20 Fe is the perfect device for Christmas, far ahead of the S20 and S20+. Satisfactory in all areas, this smartphone finally allows Samsung to compete with Apple’s iPhone 11 on the “affordable” high -end segment. We recommend it without the slightest hesitation, especially since Samsung has committed to update it for at least 3 years.

Note
writing

Samsung galaxy s20 fe 5g smartphone test: a lower technical sheet but a mobile that remains attractive

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G (Fan Edition) smartphone is a mid -range device that wants to meet expectations of the brand’s “fans”. It is based on an interesting technical sheet, especially with its Qualcomm processor where the other mobiles in the S20 series offer a Samsung SOC. Embarking a 5G connectivity but also Wi-Fi 6 compatible, it is ready to have you browse high speed in mobility situations. While waiting for a hypothetical Galaxy S21 Fe, we were able to test this version and here are our impressions.

Main technical characteristics:

• 6.5 inch AMOLED screen, 1080×2400 60 Hz pixels
• Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, Octo-Core
• 6 GB of RAM
• 128 GB of expandable internal storage
• Triple photo sensor 12+12+8 megapixels
• 32 megapixel front sensor
• Fingerprint reader under the screen
• 4500 mAh battery compatible 18 watts (compatible charger included)
• Operating system: Android 11 with ONE UI 3 overlay.0 (at the time of the test)

Design

In order to seduce an audience as wide as possible, the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is available with a wide palette of colors: blue (very) dark, lavender, mint, red, white or orange. Everyone will be able to find the color that suits them. Its design is quite sober. Indeed, mobile sports rounded lines on the edges and a matt plastic back. The fingerprints are rather limited there. His profiles are in shiny aluminum, Transfer thus with the rear. We tested the dark blue version, the edges of which are almost black. The rear shell returns to the profiles and we appreciate the integration of the supply and volume management keys that benefit from a small dropout.

The accommodation for SIM and memory cards is installed on the top of the device. Note the Possibility to insert two SIM cards or a SIM card and a micro SD card. On the lower profile, there is the speaker and the USB-C connector. On the back, the optical block is quite discreet despite its size. Of a rectangular shape, it incorporates the three sensors of the device aligned vertically as well as a LED flash placed slightly on the side.

The finishes of the S20 FE 5G are perfect and the quality of manufacture is indeed there. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G benefits from a IP68 certification which makes it completely waterproof and immersible for several minutes under (soft) water without suffering damage. We can regret theabsence of a 3.5 mm jack audio socket for the benefit of the USB-C connector Especially since the manufacturer unfortunately does not offer an adapter in the box. So you have to get a separately, always a little unpleasant.

The Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers a Son stereo Despite one might think the opposite. The rendering is correct, but is lacking, as on almost all smartphones, of magnitude and heat making a quasi-Impass on the bass. This may be enough to quickly watch a few videos, but not really to enjoy the music. In this case, we will quickly connect a helmet or use an external audio system.

An AMOLED screen with 120 Hz, but non -adaptive

The screen of the Galaxy S20 Fe 5g is flat. He stretches on a 6.5 inch diagonal showing a Definition of 1080×2400 pixels, classic. He is HDR10 compatible This is very good news for fans of videos, films and series, in particular on online compatible streaming services. He relies on a Super Amoled slab displaying 16 million colors.

The display can be set to different lively or natural modes and we can also play on the white balance in order to correct the potential problems of calibration, but, in our case, we could see a Excellent colorimetry and one very good dynamism as well as a Large color palette available. The brightness is also very good. One of its main assets is to have a 120 Hz refresh frequency. Indeed, this makes it possible to obtain movements much more fluid than with a classic slab. Please note that this 120 Hz mode is not adaptive in the sense that it does not adapt to the application executed. Either it is still in 120 Hz, or always in 60 Hz, an operation to be changed manually in the parameters of the device. The above -end models benefit from an adaptive mode which automatically changes the frequency according to the application in use. Also pay attention to energy consumption which is greater when using 120 Hz than 60 Hz.

Under the screen, there is a fingerprint reader which is optical type and not ultrasonic like other smartphones in the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 series. It turned out to be very good during our test phase, authorizing access to its sole owner (tester).

Android 11 and the ONE UI 3 software overlay.0

The Galaxy S20 FE 5G benefits from the latest version of Android 11 with a ONE UI 3 software overlay.0 At the time of our test. Security updates are very recent which is always a very good thing. On this side, Samsung is increasingly reactive in order to offer versions in line with their time. We appreciate the neat design of icons and possibilities of personalization offered. Gesture navigation is of course planned. The notification center can now occupy the entire screen in order to better present the options available to you. Thanks also to Android 11, the media player is directly accessible. The display of notifications can be simplified or extended, depending on whether you want to see more or less information. The parameters, finally, benefit from a revised and optimized organization. The search engine has grown and suggestions are offered to help you find what you are looking for.

Performance well at the rendezvous

With her Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chip, 5G compatible and associated with 6 GB of RAM, The Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers very good performance. Normally, the Galaxy S has a Samsung chip for Europe, except this model. With his RAM capacity, they are not the best on the market, but it still allows him to run all the applications with a good fluidity and especially when it comes to switching from one to the other. For games, no problem either with the possibility of playing Fortnite up to 30 images per second, for example, and having no slowdown in Asphalt 9, always for the example.

There is 128 GB of storage space in UFS 3 format.0 allowing higher reading and writing speeds than the average. It is possible to go up to 1 TB of memory space with a micro SD card.

A multimedia part perfectly

With its premium positioning, it is possible to enjoy a very nice multimedia experience with the Galaxy S20 Fe 5G. This is mainly due to the quality of its screen. He is thus capable of Read HD content From streaming platforms and we appreciate the HDR compatibility For brighter scenes than with a classic slab.

The photo part is entrusted to a Triple sensor including an 12 megapixel main module opening to f/1.8 Associated with a 12 -megapixel wide angle module and an 8 megapixel telephoto lens with 3X optical zoom. The objectives are therefore less than on the other mobiles in the S20 series.

Overall, we could see a good quality of the photos taken with the S20 FE 5G. The shots show a good level of detail as well as a wide dynamic color range which are relatively faithful. For night scenes, we take advantage of a correct exhibition which gives acceptable photos even if they are not transcendent. There is sometimes a little noise, but nothing unacceptable. The wide angle module is just as satisfactory without too much chromatic aberration or excessive deformation. A maximum of light is to be advised for this type of shooting, because the sensor has more difficulty lightening the image in dark environments. We appreciate the 3x optical zoom and especially the possibility, within the camera application can go directly from the level 1x then 2x, then 4x, 10x, 20x to finish in 30x rather than having to spread the two fingers on the screen or to use graduation to reach a certain level of zoom.

Note the possibility of Film with an 8K definition at 60 images per second, If you have a compatible TV.

The Samsung Galaxy S20 Fe 5G is therefore compatible with telecommunications networks 5g. It is also Wi-Fi 6 In order to take advantage of the highest speeds for download. He also supports the NFC For contactless payments and instant pairing with devices that also support this technology. It is therefore perfect for all the networks of today and tomorrow.

A satisfactory autonomy of a good day and a half

The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a battery with a capacity of 4500 mAh. This can be recharged with the power supply provided to 18 watts. Here, no possibility of wireless or reversed load, as is the case for other S20. After half an hour of loading, it goes from 12% to 45%. It can be used for a good day and a half without forcing too much, even two days if you take care of your consumption. Please note, it can drop significantly if you use 120 Hz mode.

Our conclusion

As a whole, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers a completely interesting and rather attractive experience. Its design is quite classic, but completely successful. He shows himself efficient with its snapdragon 865 chip and offers globally satisfactory photo capacities without doing too much. We appreciate the possibility of Film in 8k For those who have a compatible television and its large connectivity in particular 5G, but also Wi-Fi 6. We regret the absence of the jack, but we will quickly associate a bluetooth helmet and we finally have in our hands, a mobile rather pleasant to use on a daily basis.*