Samsung Galaxy A54 5G vs. Galaxy S23 FE: Which Budget Phone is Right for You?
If you’re on the hunt for a new smartphone but don’t want to splurge on the latest flagship models, you’ve probably come across the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and the Galaxy S23 FE. These two devices sit in that sweet spot of offering great features without breaking the bank. But with similar designs and overlapping specs, the big question is: which one should you choose? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the comparison of these two smartphones to help you make an informed decision.
Design & Build Quality
At first glance, both the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and the Galaxy S23 FE look nearly identical. Samsung’s recent approach of making all their phones look similar—whether it’s the budget A series or the flagship S series—means you won’t feel left out in terms of style. Both devices feature a 6.4-inch display, a perfect size for most people, and offer a premium feel with Gorilla Glass 5 on the back.
However, there are some differences in build materials. The Galaxy S23 FE features an aluminum frame, giving it a more solid feel compared to the plastic frame on the A54 5G. While the plastic may sound cheap, it’s actually quite durable and lightweight. In the end, if you want a device that feels a bit more premium in hand, the S23 FE might be your pick.
Display Quality
When it comes to the display, both phones pack a punch. Each offers a 6.4-inch AMOLED panel with a 2340 x 1080 resolution, and both support HDR10+ content. Whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or scrolling through social media, these displays provide vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
While the screens are similar, the Galaxy S23 FE has the newer Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, which tends to be slightly brighter and more colorful compared to the A54 5G. It’s not a massive difference, but for those who value a vivid display, the S23 FE may have the edge.
Performance & Software
Performance is one area where the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy S23 FE start to show their differences. The A54 5G is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1380 chipset, an upper mid-tier processor paired with up to 8GB of RAM. It’s decent for everyday use, but it might lag a little with heavy multitasking or gaming.
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The S23 FE, on the other hand, packs the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, a step closer to flagship performance, along with 8GB of RAM. This makes the S23 FE more powerful and better suited for intensive tasks like gaming or multitasking between apps. If you’re someone who demands speed and power, the S23 FE might be the better option.
Software updates are also similar, with both phones expected to receive four major Android updates. However, there have been some delays in the S23 FE getting the latest Android 14 update, which is a bit surprising given its higher position in the lineup.
Camera Capabilities
Both phones come with a 50-megapixel main lens, but the secondary and third lenses differ. The Galaxy S23 FE offers a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities, while the A54 5G sticks with a macro lens. For selfie lovers, the A54 5G has a higher 32-megapixel camera compared to the 10-megapixel shooter on the S23 FE, though the latter benefits from better processing.
If you’re into detailed and zoomed shots, the S23 FE is a clear winner. But if selfies are your thing, the A54 5G might be the way to go.
Battery Life and Charging
The battery life is another area where the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G shines. With a 5,000 mAh battery compared to the S23 FE’s 4,500 mAh, it offers more longevity, especially with less demanding hardware. You’ll likely get an extra hour or two of usage each day, which can be a game-changer for those on the go.
The S23 FE, however, supports wireless and reverse wireless charging—features absent in the A54 5G. So, if you appreciate the convenience of wireless charging, the S23 FE’s smaller battery might still be worth it.
Storage and Expandability
One big advantage of the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is its support for expandable storage via microSD cards. The S23 FE, while offering up to 512GB of onboard storage, does not have this feature. If you’re someone who likes to store lots of media and apps, the A54 5G’s expandable storage might sway you in its favor.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
In the battle of the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G vs. Galaxy S23 FE, it ultimately comes down to what you prioritize. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with great battery life and expandable storage, the A54 5G is a solid choice. However, if you want a bit more performance, a better camera setup, and some flagship features without the flagship price, the S23 FE is worth the extra cost.
