Galaxy S24 FE • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, released in October 2024, and the Apple iPhone SE 2022, launched in March 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While both offer capable performance for everyday use, they differ significantly in their operating systems, display technologies, and overall form factors. The Galaxy S24 FE operates on Android, providing a larger screen and a versatile multi-camera system, whereas the iPhone SE 2022 runs on iOS, featuring a compact design and a focus on core performance within a familiar ecosystem.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release and Software Support: The Galaxy S24 FE, being a newer device from late 2024, benefits from a more extended software support window, with Samsung promising up to seven years of updates for its recent models. The iPhone SE 2022, released in early 2022, typically receives iOS updates for approximately five to six years from its launch. This means the Galaxy S24 FE is expected to receive security and feature updates for a longer duration into the future. [29]
• Durability and Build: Both phones offer a degree of protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S24 FE features an aluminum frame and glass panels on both the front and back, along with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. [6, 30] The iPhone SE 2022 also incorporates glass and aluminum in its construction and carries an IP67 rating, indicating good resistance to dust and water immersion. [4, 7, 9, 10, 15] While Apple states the iPhone SE uses durable glass, it does not feature the Ceramic Shield found on its flagship models. [9]
• Practical Lifespan: The practical lifespan for both devices will largely depend on individual usage and care. The longer software support for the Galaxy S24 FE suggests it will remain functionally current for a greater period. However, the iPhone SE's robust internal components ensure it can handle demanding tasks for several years.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from launching applications to managing multiple activities simultaneously.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S24 FE is equipped with a current-generation processor that handles both light and demanding applications with ease, ensuring smooth operation and responsiveness. [1] The iPhone SE 2022 features a powerful chip that delivers very responsive performance, making it capable of running the latest apps and games without significant slowdowns. [4, 17]
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S24 FE comes with 8GB of RAM, which contributes to efficient multitasking and quick app switching. [6] The iPhone SE 2022, with 4GB of RAM, is optimized by its operating system to manage applications effectively, providing a fluid user experience even with multiple apps open. [10]
• Storage Options: The Galaxy S24 FE is available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. [6] The iPhone SE 2022 offers storage configurations of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, allowing users to choose based on their storage needs for apps, photos, and videos. [10]

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and these two devices offer different visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S24 FE features a larger 6.7-inch AMOLED display, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks, which enhances the viewing experience for media consumption. [1, 16] In contrast, the iPhone SE 2022 has a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD panel. [3, 10, 12]
• Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 FE offers a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels, resulting in a clear and detailed image on its larger screen. [6] The iPhone SE 2022 has a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, which, on its smaller display, still provides a sharp visual experience for typical use. [12, 13]
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S24 FE boasts a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, along with a peak brightness of 1900 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. [1, 16] The iPhone SE 2022 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 625 nits, which is adequate for most indoor and outdoor viewing, though it may be less vibrant in direct sunlight. [3, 12, 13]

For many users, the camera system is a critical component, and both phones offer distinct photographic capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios. [6, 30] The iPhone SE 2022 comes with a single 12MP wide-angle camera on its back, which performs well in good lighting conditions. [3, 4, 10]
• Photography Features: The Galaxy S24 FE benefits from advanced computational photography features, including AI enhancements for photos and videos, and offers good detail and dynamic range in various lighting. [1, 16, 20] The iPhone SE 2022 also utilizes computational photography for improved image processing but notably lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can impact low-light performance. [3, 4, 17]
• Front Camera and Video: For selfies, the Galaxy S24 FE has a 10MP front camera. [6] The iPhone SE 2022 features a 7MP front camera. [3, 10] Both devices are capable of recording high-quality video, with the Galaxy S24 FE supporting up to 8K video recording, while the iPhone SE 2022 can record in 4K. [12, 18, 30]