Galaxy S20 FE 5G • Unlocked vs Google Pixel 7 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, released in October 2020, and the Google Pixel 7 Pro, launched in October 2022, are both Android smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S20 FE 5G focuses on delivering a balanced feature set, the Pixel 7 Pro emphasizes advanced camera capabilities and a streamlined software experience. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they differ in their approach to software updates and hardware design.

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators. The Google Pixel 7 Pro, being a newer device, benefits from a longer guaranteed software support period.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G was released in October 2020, making it an older device compared to the Google Pixel 7 Pro, which launched in October 2022.
• OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G launched with Android 10 and received major OS updates up to Android 13, with security updates continuing into late 2024. The Pixel 7 Pro, launched with Android 13, is guaranteed to receive five years of OS and security updates, extending its support until at least October 2027.
• Practical Lifespan: Users of the Pixel 7 Pro can expect a longer period of official software and security updates, which contributes to a more extended practical lifespan for the device. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has transitioned to quarterly security updates, indicating it is nearing the end of its official support cycle.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to gaming. Both devices offer capable performance, but the newer Pixel 7 Pro incorporates more recent hardware advancements.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is powered by a processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly, and can manage demanding games, though some users report it can warm up during intensive use. The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a more recent processor designed for enhanced AI capabilities and efficient handling of complex tasks, offering smoother performance for demanding apps and gaming.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, which some users found could struggle to last a full day with heavy use, though it supports fast wired and wireless charging. The Pixel 7 Pro has a larger 5000 mAh battery, providing a full day of use for many users, though some report it can get warm with heavy usage.
• Storage and RAM: Both devices offer various storage options. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Pixel 7 Pro offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM, which can contribute to more fluid multitasking and app management, especially with multiple applications open simultaneously.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both models offer vibrant viewing experiences with some key differences in technology and resolution.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution. The Pixel 7 Pro boasts a larger 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a higher 1440 x 3120 pixel resolution, offering greater clarity and detail.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. The Pixel 7 Pro offers a higher peak brightness of 1500 nits, which can improve outdoor visibility compared to the Galaxy S20 FE 5G.
• Screen Protection: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection, while the Pixel 7 Pro utilizes the more advanced Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, offering enhanced durability against drops and scratches.

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and these two smartphones approach photography with different strengths and features.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G includes a triple camera setup with a 12MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, and 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Pixel 7 Pro features a more advanced triple camera system, including a 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, allowing for greater detail and zoom capabilities.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is noted for good daytime photos, though some users find its low-light performance and telephoto camera limitations in certain modes. The Pixel 7 Pro is praised for its strong still image capture, often competing well with current flagship phones, though some users have noted issues with video quality and post-processing.
• Video Recording: Both devices support 4K video recording at 30fps, with the Pixel 7 Pro also offering 4K at 60fps and additional slow-motion options. The Pixel 7 Pro's video recording has been a point of criticism for some users due to issues like noticeable exposure shifts and choppy zoom transitions.