Galaxy S23 FE vs Motorola Edge 50 Fusion

Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$380.00

Versus A$1,172.00 new

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Motorola Edge 50 Fusion
Motorola Edge 50 Fusion
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The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in October 2023, and the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion, launched in April 2024, are both Android smartphones designed to offer a balanced user experience. While the Galaxy S23 FE integrates into Samsung's established ecosystem with a focus on camera versatility and a robust build, the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion emphasizes a large, fluid display and extended battery life. Both devices run on the Android operating system, providing access to a wide range of applications and services.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S23 FE was released in October 2023, making it slightly older than the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion, which launched in April 2024. This difference in release date impacts the duration of future software support.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S23 FE is expected to receive four years of operating system updates and five years of security updates from its release. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion is promised three years of OS updates and four years of security patches. This means the Galaxy S23 FE offers a longer period of official software support.
  • Physical Durability: Both smartphones feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water. The Galaxy S23 FE uses Gorilla Glass 5 for both its front and back, paired with an aluminum frame. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion also has Gorilla Glass 5 on the front, with options for a silicone polymer or vegan leather back and a plastic frame.

Release year

2023

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, app responsiveness, and demanding applications like gaming. Both devices offer capable hardware for a smooth user experience.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 FE is powered by a processor designed to handle demanding apps and multitasking efficiently, ensuring a responsive experience for most users. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion features a current-generation processor that smoothly manages daily tasks such as browsing, streaming, and video calls, and can handle some multitasking.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S23 FE typically comes with 8GB of RAM and offers storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion is available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 512GB, providing ample space for applications and media.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, which generally provides sufficient power for a full day of moderate use. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion has a larger 5000 mAh battery, with users often reporting it can last through a full day of heavy use and potentially longer for average users.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both the Galaxy S23 FE and Motorola Edge 50 Fusion offer vibrant viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks and vibrant colors, with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion sports a larger 6.7-inch pOLED display, offering a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, also providing rich colors and contrast.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: For outdoor use, the Galaxy S23 FE's display can reach a peak brightness of 1450 nits. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion offers a slightly higher peak brightness of 1600 nits, which contributes to good readability even in bright sunlight.
  • Smoothness and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 FE provides a smooth viewing experience with a 120Hz refresh rate. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion offers an even higher 144Hz refresh rate, contributing to very fluid scrolling and animations.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

P-OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with camera systems designed to capture moments, though they approach photography with slightly different configurations and capabilities.

  • Rear Camera Systems: 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 capable of 3x optical zoom. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion has a dual-camera system, comprising a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a 13MP ultrawide lens that can also function for macro shots.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 FE is noted for its ability to capture detailed photos, including improved night shots. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion's main camera performs well in most lighting conditions, with consistent color performance from its ultrawide lens.
  • Video and Front Camera: The Galaxy S23 FE includes a 10MP front camera and supports 8K video recording. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion offers a higher resolution 32MP front camera and supports 4K video recording. Both devices feature stereo speakers for media consumption.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily convenience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. They also feature USB-C ports for charging and data transfer. The Galaxy S23 FE supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, while the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
  • Biometric Security: For secure access, both smartphones incorporate an optical under-display fingerprint sensor and support face recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 FE measures 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209g, offering a solid feel. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion is slightly larger but lighter at 161.9 x 73.1 x 7.9 mm and 174g, which may appeal to users preferring a lighter device.

Weight

209 oz

175 oz

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE often highlights its capable camera system, particularly its telephoto lens, and its integration within the Samsung ecosystem as strong points. Some users have noted its performance is robust for everyday tasks, though it might not always match the absolute latest flagship speeds. Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life being adequate rather than exceptional for heavy users.

The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion is frequently praised for its impressive battery longevity and its large, high refresh rate display, which provides a very smooth visual experience. Users also appreciate its sleek design and capable main camera. Some feedback suggests that while its processor handles most tasks well, it might not be as powerful as some competitors for very intensive applications.

Users prioritizing a versatile camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens and a longer software support window may find the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE more aligned with their needs. Conversely, those who value extended battery life, a larger and smoother display, and a lighter device might lean towards the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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