The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is expected to arrive as a powerful yet affordable entry in Samsung’s flagship lineup. With its targeted audience being fans of value-packed smartphones, it naturally invites comparisons to earlier models—most notably, the Galaxy S20 FE, released in 2020. As loyal Samsung users look ahead to their next upgrade, one pressing question remains: Is the S24 FE a worthy upgrade from the S20 FE?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down critical aspects such as performance, camera improvements, software longevity, and more to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re holding on to your S20 FE or exploring the option of finally upgrading, this guide will provide the insights you need.
Design and Display
Visually, fans of the FE series will notice some refinement in the S24 FE’s design. While the S20 FE came with a plastic back and flat display, the S24 FE is expected to include a more modern aesthetic aligned with the S23 series—likely featuring a thinner profile, symmetrical bezels, and flatter edges.
- S20 FE: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 3
- S24 FE: Expected 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass Victus or higher
While both phones stick to a 120Hz refresh rate, the S24 FE will likely offer brighter output and better color accuracy, enhancing the viewing experience for gaming, video content, and general use.
Performance and Hardware
The performance gap between the S20 FE and the S24 FE could be one of the most convincing reasons to upgrade. The S20 FE is powered by either the Snapdragon 865 (5G variant) or Exynos 990 (4G variant), both of which are now several generations old. In contrast, the S24 FE is anticipated to include the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Exynos 2400, depending on the region.
- S20 FE: Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990, 6GB or 8GB RAM, LPDDR4X
- S24 FE: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 / Exynos 2400, 8GB RAM (LPDDR5 or higher)
With the S24 FE, users can expect faster app launches, significantly better multitasking, and lower power consumption. Additionally, the improved GPU performance means the S24 FE will be much more suitable for mobile gaming and creative tasks like video editing and photo processing.
Camera Capabilities
The camera setup is another department that has seen significant progression. The S20 FE offered a solid triple-lens setup that remained competitive for years, but the computational photography improvements and hardware upgrades in the S24 FE are poised to leap ahead.
- S20 FE: 12MP wide + 8MP telephoto + 12MP ultrawide
- S24 FE: Expected 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 8MP telephoto
The most notable upgrade is the main 50MP sensor in the S24 FE, which is not only higher in resolution but benefits from a larger sensor size and better low-light performance. Expect sharper images, more accurate colors, and more effective night mode photos.
Video capabilities should also see refinement, potentially offering 4K 60fps recording with improved stabilization and dynamic range. For casual photographers and content creators, this could be a strong reason to consider an upgrade.
Battery and Charging
The battery life on the S20 FE was one of its strong points, hosting a 4,500mAh battery paired with efficient power management. In the S24 FE, Samsung is expected to maintain a similar capacity but with new chipset efficiencies that prolong battery life further.
- S20 FE: 4,500mAh, 25W wired charging
- S24 FE: 4,500–5,000mAh (expected), 25W or potentially faster charging
Both phones support wireless charging and reverse wireless charging; however, differences in thermal efficiency and charging speed may make daily use more comfortable on the newer model.
Software and Longevity
Software updates are where the S24 FE clearly outshines its predecessor. The S20 FE, although launched with Android 10, is nearing the end of its official update cycle. Samsung generally offers three years of Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates for its older devices, which means the S20 FE is near its final stretch.
The S24 FE, in contrast, will launch with Android 14 and benefit from Samsung’s now-standard policy of four Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates. This makes the S24 FE a future-proof choice that ensures your device remains secure and capable for many years.
Other Features and Connectivity
Aside from the big-ticket specifications, several smaller but equally important features have seen updates in the newer model:
- 5G Support: Both devices offer 5G, but the S24 FE includes newer bands and modem improvements for more reliable connectivity.
- Wi-Fi: S20 FE supports Wi-Fi 6, while the S24 FE is expected to support Wi-Fi 6E or even Wi-Fi 7 depending on release.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0 vs. Bluetooth 5.3 – more stable and energy-efficient connections in the newer chip.
- AI and Software Features: Expect Galaxy AI features like real-time translation, image editing, and smarter battery management in the S24 FE—tools unavailable to the S20 FE due to hardware constraints.
Who Should Upgrade?
Deciding whether to move from the S20 FE to the S24 FE ultimately depends on your personal use case, but key recommendations can be identified for specific user types:
You Should Consider Upgrading If:
- Your S20 FE is beginning to feel sluggish during gaming or multitasking.
- You want access to new camera technology for better photos and videos.
- You need longer software support and enhanced security updates.
- You’re interested in cutting-edge AI-powered features exclusive to newer hardware.
You Can Hold Off If:
- Your S20 FE remains responsive for web browsing, messaging, and media use.
- You’re satisfied with the existing camera capabilities and image quality.
- You mostly use your phone for basic tasks and don’t anticipate needing newer features yet.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S24 FE marks an important evolutionary step from the S20 FE, delivering modern enhancements in every key area—performance, design, camera technology, and software longevity. If you’re someone who holds onto smartphones for three to four years, the upgrade can be seen not just as an immediate spec bump but an investment in user experience for years to come.
While the S20 FE continues to be a reliable device, its aging chipset and limited software support make it less suitable for future-forward needs. In contrast, the S24 FE stands as a continuation of Samsung’s dedication to offering premium features at a more affordable price point, making it an appealing option for pragmatists and enthusiasts alike.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a refresh that balances performance, features, and long-term value—and your budget allows—the S24 FE is more than a viable upgrade; it’s a smart one.