Galaxy S23 FE vs Motorola Moto E32

Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$380.00

Versus A$1,172.00 new

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Motorola Moto E32
Motorola Moto E32
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The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in October 2023, and the Motorola Moto E32, launched in May 2022, are both Android smartphones designed for different user needs. While the Galaxy S23 FE offers a more premium experience with advanced display technology, a versatile camera system, and robust performance, the Moto E32 focuses on delivering essential smartphone functionalities with a strong emphasis on battery longevity. Both devices run on the Android operating system, though they differ in their software versions and update commitments.

Scores

Durability

The expected practical lifespan of these devices varies significantly, primarily due to their release timelines and software support policies.

  • Software Longevity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE launched with Android 13 and is expected to receive four generations of Android OS upgrades, extending its support to Android 17, along with five years of security updates. In contrast, the Motorola Moto E32, released with Android 11, typically receives fewer major OS updates, with some reports suggesting it might receive Android 12, but long-term support is generally more limited.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S23 FE features an IP68 rating, indicating high resistance to dust and water immersion, and is protected by Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back. The Moto E32 offers IP52 splash resistance, meaning it can withstand light splashes but is not designed for immersion, and typically uses a glass front with a plastic frame and back.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and enhanced physical protection will find the Galaxy S23 FE designed for a longer functional life, while the Moto E32 is built for more immediate, basic use.

Release year

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of the two devices cater to distinct user expectations, influenced by their internal components and software optimization.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a powerful current-generation processor, allowing it to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphic-intensive games smoothly. Users generally experience fluid navigation and quick app loading. The Moto E32, on the other hand, utilizes an entry-level processor, which is suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: With 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy S23 FE facilitates efficient multitasking, allowing users to switch between numerous applications without significant slowdowns. It offers storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The Moto E32 typically comes with 2GB, 3GB, or 4GB of RAM and 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, which can lead to more frequent app reloads and may require external storage for extensive media libraries.
  • System Responsiveness: While the Galaxy S23 FE provides a consistently responsive experience, some users have noted that it can warm up during prolonged heavy use. The Moto E32 delivers acceptable responsiveness for its class, though occasional lag may be observed, particularly when running more intensive applications or games.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience offered by each device's display technology presents a clear difference in clarity, color reproduction, and smoothness.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Full HD+ resolution, providing deep blacks, vibrant colors, and sharp image clarity. The Motorola Moto E32 has a 6.5-inch IPS LCD panel with HD+ resolution, offering a larger screen size but with less pixel density and contrast compared to the AMOLED display.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S23 FE boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations, along with a high peak brightness of 1450 nits, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Moto E32 offers a 90Hz refresh rate, which provides a smoother experience than standard 60Hz displays, but its typical LCD brightness levels are less suited for direct sunlight.
  • Viewing Experience: Users prioritizing a premium visual experience with superior color accuracy, contrast, and outdoor readability will find the Galaxy S23 FE's display more appealing. The Moto E32's larger screen and smoother refresh rate make it suitable for general media consumption and everyday tasks, particularly for those who prefer a bigger viewing area.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

720 x 1600

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems of the Galaxy S23 FE and Moto E32 are designed for different levels of photographic capability and versatility.

  • Rear Camera System: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a triple-camera setup featuring a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for a wide range of photographic scenarios, including detailed shots, expansive landscapes, and zoomed-in subjects. The Motorola Moto E32 also has a triple-camera system, consisting of a 16MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 FE generally produces good photos in well-lit conditions, with capable low-light performance, though some users have noted inconsistencies in image processing, noise, and dynamic range compared to other premium devices. The Moto E32's camera is considered modest, performing adequately for basic photography in good lighting, but may exhibit exposure issues and noise in challenging conditions.
  • Video and Audio: The Galaxy S23 FE supports high-resolution video recording, including 8K at 24 frames per second. The Moto E32 records video at 1080p at 30 frames per second. For audio, the Galaxy S23 FE features stereo speakers, while the Moto E32 has a single speaker, and some users have reported its microphone quality can be quiet during recordings.

Main camera

50 megapixels

16 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S23 FE supports 5G networks, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster data speeds and more stable wireless connections. It features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Moto E32 is limited to 4G connectivity, Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 b/g/n), and Bluetooth 5.0. It includes a USB-C port and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the S23 FE.
  • Biometrics and Design: For security, the Galaxy S23 FE incorporates an under-display fingerprint sensor. The Moto E32 uses a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. In terms of physical design, the Galaxy S23 FE measures 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209g, featuring an aluminum frame and glass construction. The Moto E32 is slightly larger at 163.95 x 74.94 x 8.49 mm but lighter at 184g, with a plastic frame and back.
  • Battery and Charging: The Galaxy S23 FE has a 4500 mAh battery and supports 25W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging. The Moto E32 comes with a larger 5000 mAh battery and supports 18W fast charging, though it often ships with a 10W charger.

Weight

209 oz

184 oz

Screen size (in)

6.4

6,5

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE and Motorola Moto E32 cater to different segments of the smartphone market, each with its own set of strengths and trade-offs. The Galaxy S23 FE is often praised by users for its excellent display quality, capable camera system, and smooth performance for daily tasks and more demanding applications. However, some users have expressed concerns regarding its battery life, which can be inconsistent for heavy use, and occasional warming during intensive tasks. The camera's image processing has also been a point of discussion, with some finding it less refined than other premium devices.

Conversely, the Motorola Moto E32 receives positive feedback for its large battery capacity, which often provides extended usage, and its generally clean Android software experience. It is recognized as a solid option for basic smartphone needs. Criticisms often revolve around its entry-level performance, which can lead to lag with more demanding apps, and its more limited software update policy. The camera quality is generally considered modest, suitable for casual photos but not for advanced photography.

Users prioritizing a vibrant, high-resolution display, a versatile camera system with optical zoom, and robust performance for gaming and multitasking, along with long-term software support, may find the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE well-suited to their needs. For individuals seeking a device primarily for essential communication, web browsing, and media consumption, with a focus on extended battery life and a straightforward user experience, the Motorola Moto E32 could be a fitting choice. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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