Galaxy S20 FE vs Motorola Moto E13

Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$270.29

Versus A$578.00 new

See options
Motorola Moto E13
Motorola Moto E13
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$121.29

Versus A$244.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition), released in October 2020, and the Motorola Moto E13, launched in January 2023, represent distinct segments of the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S20 FE was positioned as a more accessible flagship experience, the Moto E13 serves as an entry-level device. The primary differences lie in their overall performance capabilities, display quality, and camera systems, reflecting their respective target audiences and release timelines. Both devices run on the Android operating system, though with different versions and user interfaces.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, their release dates and software support policies are key factors.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S20 FE was released in October 2020, making it an older device compared to the Moto E13, which launched in January 2023. This age difference inherently impacts their remaining software support.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S20 FE launched with Android 10 and received three major OS updates, concluding with Android 13. It received security updates until October 2025, marking the end of its official software support. The Moto E13 launched with Android 13 (Go edition) and typically receives fewer major OS updates, often one, and security updates for a shorter period.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: While the Galaxy S20 FE no longer receives official software updates, its hardware remains capable for many tasks. Users may continue to use it, but without security patches, it becomes more vulnerable over time. The Moto E13, being newer, still receives security updates, but its entry-level hardware may limit its long-term usability for demanding applications.

Release year

2020

2023

Compatible with latest Update

No

No

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones varies significantly due to their different hardware and intended uses.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S20 FE is equipped with a processor that, at its release, was considered high-end, allowing it to handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The Moto E13 features an entry-level processor designed for basic smartphone functions, which means it is best suited for lighter tasks and less intensive applications.
  • System Responsiveness: Users of the Galaxy S20 FE generally report a fluid and responsive experience, even with multiple apps open or during graphically intensive gaming. The Moto E13, while capable for everyday communication and light browsing, may exhibit slower app loading times and occasional stutters, especially when switching between applications or running more complex software.
  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S20 FE offers 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space and memory for a wide range of user needs. The Moto E13 typically comes with 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of storage, which is more restrictive for users who store many files or run numerous applications simultaneously.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience offered by these devices differs considerably, primarily due to their display technologies and specifications.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S20 FE features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display, known for its deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colors. In contrast, the Moto E13 uses a 6.5-inch IPS LCD panel, which provides good viewing angles but typically offers less contrast and color saturation compared to AMOLED technology.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S20 FE boasts a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), resulting in sharp images and text. The Moto E13 has an HD+ resolution (720 x 1600 pixels), which is less sharp, and individual pixels may be more discernible, particularly when viewing detailed content.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy S20 FE offers a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid user interface. It also achieves high brightness levels, making it comfortable to view outdoors. The Moto E13 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate and lower peak brightness, which can affect smoothness and outdoor visibility.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

720 x 1600

Screen type

Super AMOLED

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera capabilities of the Galaxy S20 FE and the Moto E13 cater to different photography expectations.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S20 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and an 8 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Moto E13 has a simpler single 13 MP main camera on the rear.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S20 FE is capable of capturing detailed photos with good color accuracy in various lighting conditions, and its telephoto lens allows for zoomed-in shots without significant loss of quality. The Moto E13's camera performs adequately in well-lit environments but may struggle with detail and noise in low-light situations.
  • Video Recording Quality: The Galaxy S20 FE supports 4K video recording at 30 or 60 frames per second, offering high-resolution video capture. The Moto E13 records video at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second, suitable for casual video capture.
  • Front Camera: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S20 FE includes a 32 MP front camera, providing high-resolution images. The Moto E13 has a 5 MP front camera, which is suitable for basic video calls and casual selfies.

Main camera

12 megapixels

13 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

5 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two smartphones in daily use.

  • Connectivity Options: The Galaxy S20 FE supports 5G connectivity (in its 5G variant), Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, offering faster wireless speeds and more robust connections. The Moto E13 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, providing standard connectivity for most users.
  • Port Types: Both devices feature a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. However, the Moto E13 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Galaxy S20 FE.
  • Security and Biometrics: The Galaxy S20 FE includes an in-display optical fingerprint sensor and supports face recognition for secure unlocking. The Moto E13 relies on face unlock and traditional PIN/pattern security, lacking a fingerprint sensor.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S20 FE features a plastic back with an aluminum frame and is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance. The Moto E13 has an all-plastic construction and an IP52 rating, indicating splash and dust resistance.

Weight

190 oz

179 oz

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.5

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE often highlights its strong performance, vibrant display, and versatile camera system as key strengths. Many users appreciated its ability to deliver a near-flagship experience. Criticisms sometimes pointed to the plastic back feeling less premium than glass, and some early models experienced touch screen issues, though these were often addressed with software updates.

The Motorola Moto E13 is frequently praised for its large battery capacity, which provides extended usage, and its clean Android Go software experience. Its inclusion of a headphone jack is also a positive for many. However, common criticisms revolve around its basic performance, particularly for anything beyond light tasks, and the lower resolution of its display. The camera performance is also noted as being entry-level.

Users prioritizing a more premium experience with a high-quality display, advanced camera features, and robust performance for demanding applications may find the Galaxy S20 FE better suited to their needs. Its hardware, though older, still offers a capable experience for many. Conversely, users who require a device primarily for essential communication, light browsing, and extended battery life, and who prefer a simpler software experience, may lean toward the Moto E13. It serves well as a functional, no-frills smartphone.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be an eco-friendly alternative to extend the life cycle of these electronics.

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