Galaxy S23 FE • Unlocked vs iPhone 12 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in October 2023, and the Apple iPhone 12, launched in October 2020, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the Galaxy S23 FE offers a more recent Android experience with updated hardware, the iPhone 12 provides a streamlined iOS environment and a proven track record. Key differences lie in their release timelines, display technology, and camera versatility, catering to varied user preferences.

The age difference between these two devices significantly influences their expected longevity and software support. Both devices feature robust builds designed for daily use, but their respective ecosystems offer different update policies.

• Software Support: The Galaxy S23 FE, being a newer device, is expected to receive four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates, potentially extending its major OS support until Android 17 around 2027. The iPhone 12, released three years prior, typically receives major iOS updates for about five to six years from its launch, with security updates often extending longer. It is likely to receive major iOS updates until around 2025 or 2026, with security patches continuing until at least 2027.
• Physical Durability: Both smartphones boast an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating good protection against environmental elements. The iPhone 12 introduced a Ceramic Shield front cover, designed for enhanced drop performance. The Galaxy S23 FE utilizes Gorilla Glass 5 for both its front and back, providing a durable surface.
• Repairability: The iPhone 12 benefits from a well-established global network of repair centers, both official and independent. The Galaxy S23 FE's design incorporates more recent manufacturing trends, which can influence component accessibility for repairs.

Performance characteristics highlight the evolution of mobile hardware, particularly in multitasking and efficiency, with both devices offering capable experiences for their respective generations.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a current-generation processor, providing smooth operation for demanding applications and multitasking. The iPhone 12 features a capable processor that, despite its age, continues to deliver a fluid and responsive user experience for everyday tasks and many modern applications.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy S23 FE handles multiple applications simultaneously with ease, contributing to a responsive overall system. The iPhone 12, with 4GB of RAM, maintains strong system responsiveness within the iOS ecosystem, efficiently managing background processes.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 FE houses a larger 4500 mAh battery, generally offering longer usage times for many users. The iPhone 12, with a 2815 mAh battery, provides solid battery life for a full day of moderate use, though heavy usage, especially with 5G connectivity, may require more frequent charging.

The visual experience on both devices is a significant factor, with differences in display technology and refresh rates impacting overall smoothness and clarity.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a sharp Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels). The iPhone 12 comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its excellent contrast, color accuracy, and a crisp resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A notable difference is the refresh rate; the Galaxy S23 FE boasts a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which provides noticeably smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the visual fluidity. The iPhone 12 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is consistent but does not offer the same level of visual smoothness as higher refresh rate displays.
• Brightness for Outdoor Use: For visibility in bright conditions, the Galaxy S23 FE can reach a peak brightness of 1450 nits. The iPhone 12 offers a peak brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring good readability outdoors.

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, but they differ in their configurations and specialized features, influencing their photographic and videographic versatility.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S23 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. This configuration provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios, including distant subjects. The iPhone 12 has a dual-camera system, comprising a 12MP wide lens with OIS and a 12MP ultrawide lens. It lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, relying on digital zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 FE delivers good image quality in various lighting conditions, with users noting strong performance in well-lit environments. The iPhone 12 is praised for its consistent color reproduction, detail, and excellent low-light performance across both lenses, supported by its Night mode feature.
• Video Recording and Audio: The Galaxy S23 FE supports video recording up to 8K resolution, offering high-detail capture. The iPhone 12 records video up to 4K with Dolby Vision HDR, known for its cinematic quality and strong stabilization. Both devices provide clear audio recording and offer a good media consumption experience through their stereo speakers.