Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition), released in October 2020, and the iPhone 12 Pro, also launched in October 2020, represent distinct approaches to premium smartphone experiences from their respective manufacturers. While both devices offer high-end features, they differentiate themselves through their operating systems, display technologies, and camera philosophies. The Galaxy S20 FE runs on Android, offering a customizable interface, whereas the iPhone 12 Pro operates on Apple's iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, several factors contribute to their expected practical lifespan.

• Release Timeline and Software Support: Both devices were released in October 2020. The Galaxy S20 FE launched with Android 10 and received major OS updates up to Android 13, with security updates concluding around October 2025. The iPhone 12 Pro, released with iOS 14, typically receives software support for approximately 5-6 years from its launch, suggesting it will continue to receive updates for a longer period than the S20 FE.
• Repairability: The iPhone 12 Pro received a repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, indicating that many components are modular and accessible, though proprietary screws and increased waterproofing can complicate repairs. The Galaxy S20 FE is considered moderately repairable, with some sources suggesting a score around 7.5 out of 10, noting that while some components like the battery are accessible, adhesive use can make disassembly challenging.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: Users can expect the iPhone 12 Pro to maintain software compatibility and security updates for a longer duration, potentially extending its functional life. The Galaxy S20 FE, having reached the end of its official software support, may still function well but will not receive new security patches or OS features.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding games and multitasking.

• Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S20 FE is equipped with either a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 or an Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region and connectivity variant. The iPhone 12 Pro features Apple's A14 Bionic chip. In real-world usage, both processors handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, though the A14 Bionic generally offers a higher level of sustained performance, particularly for graphically intensive tasks.
• Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S20 FE typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, with the added benefit of expandable storage via a microSD card. The iPhone 12 Pro offers 6GB of RAM and internal storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, but without expandable storage. For users who frequently manage large files or prefer to expand storage, the S20 FE offers more flexibility.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S20 FE houses a 4500 mAh battery, often reported by users to provide good endurance, especially the Snapdragon variant. The iPhone 12 Pro has a 2815 mAh battery, which, combined with iOS's power efficiency, generally provides a full day of typical use, though heavy users might find themselves charging more frequently.

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, influencing everything from media consumption to daily interactions.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S20 FE features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 407 ppi. The iPhone 12 Pro has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a higher resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels, yielding a sharper pixel density of around 460 ppi. Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: A key differentiator is the refresh rate; the Galaxy S20 FE boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, providing noticeably smoother scrolling and animations. The iPhone 12 Pro features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. For brightness, the iPhone 12 Pro offers a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak of 1200 nits for HDR content, while the S20 FE also provides good brightness for outdoor visibility.
• Screen Size and Protection: The Galaxy S20 FE offers a larger 6.5-inch screen, which can be more immersive for media. The iPhone 12 Pro's 6.1-inch display is protected by Apple's Ceramic Shield, designed for enhanced drop performance, while the S20 FE uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

Both devices offer versatile camera systems designed to capture a wide range of photos and videos.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S20 FE features a triple camera setup with a 12MP wide lens (f/1.8, OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens (f/2.2, 123˚), and an 8MP telephoto lens (f/2.4) capable of 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 12 Pro also has a triple 12MP camera system, including a wide (f/1.6, OIS), an ultrawide (f/2.4, 120˚), and a telephoto (f/2.0) with 2x optical zoom. The iPhone 12 Pro also includes a LiDAR scanner, which assists with faster autofocus in low light and improved augmented reality experiences.
• Photography Performance: Both phones excel in good lighting conditions, producing detailed and vibrant images. In low-light scenarios, the iPhone 12 Pro benefits from its larger aperture on the wide lens and the LiDAR scanner for improved focus and Night mode capabilities across all cameras. The S20 FE's main sensor also performs well in low light, though its telephoto lens may show more noise.
• Video Recording and Audio: The iPhone 12 Pro supports HDR video recording with Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second, offering enhanced dynamic range and color accuracy. The Galaxy S20 FE records 4K video at 30/60fps. Both devices feature stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption.