Galaxy S20 FE 5G • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Locked Verizon

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, released in October 2020, and the Apple iPhone SE (2022), launched in March 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers a larger display and a versatile multi-camera system, the iPhone SE (2022) focuses on a compact form factor and integrates a highly capable processor. Both devices provide 5G connectivity and operate on their respective ecosystems, Android for Samsung and iOS for Apple, catering to different user preferences.

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, having been released in late 2020, has concluded its major software update cycle, with security updates ending around October 2025. The iPhone SE (2022), being a newer device from March 2022, is expected to receive software updates for a longer duration, typically 5-7 years from its release.

• Software Support: The iPhone SE (2022) benefits from Apple's extended software support, offering a longer period of major iOS updates and security patches compared to the Galaxy S20 FE 5G, which has reached the end of its update lifecycle.
• Repairability: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G generally scores higher in repairability, rated around 7.5 out of 10, with accessible components like the battery and screen, though adhesive is used. The iPhone SE (2022) has an average repairability score of 5.5 or 6 out of 10, with common repairs like screen and battery replacement being relatively straightforward.
• Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing the latest software features and security updates for the longest possible time may find the iPhone SE (2022) more suitable due to its newer release and Apple's update policy. However, both devices are built to last physically, with the Galaxy S20 FE 5G featuring an IP68 rating and the iPhone SE (2022) an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.

The performance of both smartphones is driven by their respective internal components, impacting how smoothly they handle daily tasks and demanding applications. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is equipped with a processor that delivers a responsive experience for multitasking and gaming. The iPhone SE (2022) features a highly capable processor, ensuring smooth operation across various applications and providing significant performance headroom for future software.

• Processing Power: The iPhone SE (2022) integrates a current-generation processor, which provides exceptional speed and efficiency for demanding apps and complex tasks, often matching the performance of more premium devices. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G's processor offers robust performance, handling everyday usage, gaming, and multitasking effectively.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer smooth system responsiveness. The iPhone SE (2022) with its optimized software and powerful processor ensures fluid navigation and quick app launches. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G, with its ample RAM options, maintains good performance even with multiple applications running simultaneously.
• Storage Options: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G provides flexible storage with options up to 256GB and includes a microSDXC slot for further expansion, which is beneficial for users with large media libraries. The iPhone SE (2022) offers internal storage up to 256GB but does not support expandable storage.

The visual experience on these two devices differs significantly due to their display technologies and design philosophies. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G features a larger, more modern display, while the iPhone SE (2022) retains a more traditional, compact screen.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G boasts a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a high contrast ratio, which enhances media consumption and general viewing. The iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD display, known for its color accuracy and consistent viewing angles, though it does not offer the same contrast levels as an OLED panel.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G features a 120Hz refresh rate, providing noticeably smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, particularly in supported applications and games. The iPhone SE (2022) maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is adequate for most daily tasks but does not offer the same level of visual fluidity.
• Resolution and Brightness: Both displays offer good clarity for their respective sizes. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution, resulting in a sharp image on its larger screen. The iPhone SE (2022) has a 1334 x 750 pixel resolution, which provides a clear image on its smaller display. Brightness levels are generally sufficient for indoor use on both, though some users have noted the S20 FE's outdoor visibility could be improved.

The camera systems on the Galaxy S20 FE 5G and the iPhone SE (2022) are designed with different strengths, catering to varying photographic needs and preferences.

• Rear Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G features a triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide lens, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens, offering a range of focal lengths for diverse shooting scenarios. The iPhone SE (2022) has a single 12MP wide rear camera, which relies heavily on computational photography for features like Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and Portrait mode.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S20 FE 5G's multiple lenses provide flexibility for capturing wide landscapes or zoomed-in subjects. Its main camera performs well in various conditions, and the telephoto lens is a notable addition. The iPhone SE (2022), despite having a single lens, delivers consistent and high-quality images in good lighting, benefiting from its advanced image processing. Low-light performance is generally stronger on devices with larger sensors or more advanced processing, which the iPhone SE (2022) leverages.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G offers a high-resolution 32MP front camera for detailed selfies. The iPhone SE (2022) includes a 7MP front camera, which is suitable for video calls and everyday selfies.