Galaxy A73 5G vs Galaxy S23 FE

The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G, released in March 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, launched in October 2023, represent distinct offerings within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the Galaxy S23 FE, positioned as a 'Fan Edition' of a flagship series, generally offers a more powerful internal processor and a dedicated telephoto camera, whereas the Galaxy A73 5G provides a larger display and expandable storage.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both offer substantial software support, though their release timelines create a difference in their expected practical lifespans.

• Software Support: The Galaxy A73 5G was promised four years of Android OS updates and five years of security updates from its release, extending its software longevity. The newer Galaxy S23 FE also receives four years of OS updates and five years of security patches, meaning its support will extend further into the future due to its later launch.
• Physical Durability: The Galaxy A73 5G features an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, capable of submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Galaxy S23 FE steps up with an IP68 rating, allowing for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, and incorporates Gorilla Glass 5 on both its front and back for enhanced scratch and drop protection.
• Build Materials: The Galaxy A73 5G utilizes a plastic unibody construction, which contributes to its lighter weight. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 FE features a more premium feel with a glass front and back, complemented by an aluminum frame.

The performance capabilities of these two smartphones cater to different user expectations, primarily due to their internal processing hardware.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy A73 5G is equipped with a processor that handles everyday tasks, app loading, and general multitasking smoothly. Users report a responsive experience for typical smartphone usage. The Galaxy S23 FE, on the other hand, features a more powerful processor, which, while a generation older than current flagship chipsets, still delivers robust performance for demanding applications, intensive gaming, and seamless multitasking.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices offer 8GB of RAM in many configurations, ensuring capable multitasking. The Galaxy S23 FE's more advanced processor generally provides a snappier overall system responsiveness, particularly noticeable during heavy usage or when switching between multiple complex applications.
• Storage Options: The Galaxy A73 5G offers 128GB or 256GB of internal storage and includes a hybrid SIM slot that supports microSD card expansion up to 1TB, providing flexibility for users who require extensive storage. The Galaxy S23 FE comes with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage but does not offer expandable storage.

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but there are distinctions in their technology and viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy A73 5G features a larger 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, providing expansive screen real estate. The Galaxy S23 FE has a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which is slightly smaller but incorporates a more advanced panel. Both displays offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080x2400 or 2340x1080 pixels), ensuring clear visuals.
• Brightness and Clarity: The Galaxy A73 5G's display offers good brightness, making it readable in various lighting conditions, including outdoors. The Galaxy S23 FE's display achieves higher peak brightness levels, up to 1450-1500 nits, which can improve visibility in direct sunlight.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both phones feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. However, the Galaxy A73 5G's 120Hz refresh rate is fixed, while the Galaxy S23 FE's display can dynamically switch between 60Hz and 120Hz, though it is not an LTPO panel.

The camera systems on these smartphones offer different strengths, particularly in terms of hardware configuration.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A73 5G features a quad-camera setup with a 108-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, a 5-megapixel macro lens, and a 5-megapixel depth sensor. The Galaxy S23 FE comes with a triple-camera system, including a 50-megapixel main sensor with OIS, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and an 8-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy A73 5G delivers good photos in daylight with strong detail and color accuracy, and decent low-light performance. The Galaxy S23 FE also produces good photos, especially in bright conditions, and handles low-light situations effectively. Its dedicated telephoto lens provides a significant advantage for zoomed-in shots.
• Video and Audio: The Galaxy A73 5G can record video up to 4K at 30 frames per second (fps). The Galaxy S23 FE offers more advanced video capabilities, supporting up to 4K at 60fps and even 8K at 24fps. Both phones feature stereo speakers, providing an enhanced audio experience for media consumption.