Apple iPhone X vs Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date November 3, 2017 October 2, 2020
Release Year 2017 2020

Physical

Volume 78.4 cm³ 100 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.33 "/g 3.42 "/g
Weight 174 g 190 g
Height 143.6 mm 159.8 mm
Width 70.9 mm 74.5 mm
Thickness 7.7 mm 8.4 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Space Gray
  • Silver
  • Cloud White
  • Cloud Lavender
  • Cloud Mint
  • Cloud Navy
  • Cloud Red
  • Cloud Orange

Display

Screen Size 5.8 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1125 x 2436 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 81.1 % 85.7 %
Pixel Density 458 PPI 407 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 625 nits N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 80.74 mAh/in² 106.51 mAh/in²
Battery Density 34.64 mAh/cm³ 45 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 2716 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A11 Bionic (10 nm) Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+)
CPU Hexa-core 2.39 GHz (2x Monsoon + 4x Mistral) Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-A77 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (three-core graphics) Adreno 650

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 3.2, OTG

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 11.1.1 10
Maximum OS Version 16.7.7 13

Comparison Summary

Okay, let's dive into a user-focused comparison of the Apple iPhone X and the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G. Instead of just listing specs, we'll explore what these differences mean for you, the person using the phone every day.

1. Design and Usability Assessment

CategoryApple iPhone XSamsung Galaxy S20 FE 5GUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignClassic iOS, sleek, minimalist, premium feelOne UI, customizable, modern, versatileiPhone X: Intuitive for Apple ecosystem users, more rigid. S20 FE 5G: More adaptable, flexible user interface, greater freedom for customization
Interaction FlowGesture-based, single-hand friendlyMixture of gestures and on-screen buttons, larger footprintiPhone X: Feels more natural in some ways, smaller design can be easier to use. S20 FE 5G: Might require two hands for some tasks, but more screen space
Accessibility FeaturesStandard iOS accessibility featuresComprehensive Android accessibility optionsiPhone X: Excellent voice-over, text adjustments. S20 FE 5G: Android's suite of accessibility tools can cater to more diverse needs, particularly with visual customization
Design ErgonomicsCompact, lighter, feels premium in handLarger, slightly heavier, more screen focusediPhone X: Comfortable for prolonged single-hand use, good for smaller hands. S20 FE 5G: Can be cumbersome for one-handed operation, great for those wanting a big display

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration

Story 1: The Outdoor Photographer

Imagine you're a photographer who loves exploring. The sun is beating down, and you need to quickly capture a shot.

  • iPhone X: Its OLED display is clear, but the brightness might struggle in direct sunlight. Its camera is capable, with good image quality, but the lack of a wide-angle lens limits your options.
  • Samsung S20 FE 5G: The display’s 1200 nits of brightness means you’ll see everything clearly, even in the brightest sunlight. Plus, with its triple camera setup featuring a wide-angle lens, you capture breathtaking landscapes and tight urban spaces. It’s also got fast wireless charging for those quick re-ups before you head out again.

Story 2: The Binge-Watching Commuter

You're on the train, ready to catch up on your favorite show. How do these phones handle your entertainment?

  • iPhone X: Its OLED display is beautiful, offering crisp detail and vibrant colors. However, the smaller screen and mono speaker might not fully immerse you in the viewing experience.
  • Samsung S20 FE 5G: The larger AMOLED screen and 120Hz refresh rate makes videos smooth and vivid. Its stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos deliver rich, immersive sound, making your commute feel like a private theater.

Story 3: The All-Day Power User

You’re juggling work, social media, and everything in between. Which phone will last through your busy day?

  • iPhone X: The battery will get you through a day of moderate use, but heavy use might lead you to reach for a charger before the end of the day.
  • Samsung S20 FE 5G: The larger battery, coupled with fast charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities, means your phone can keep up with your demanding schedule. You can even top up your wireless earbuds if they are low on power.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation

  • For the Apple Enthusiast: The iPhone X offers a familiar, seamless experience within the Apple ecosystem. It’s simple, elegant, and reliable.
  • For the Android Explorer: The S20 FE 5G provides more customization, freedom, and options, catering to those who enjoy tweaking settings and having a versatile device.
  • For the Visually Impaired: While both have good accessibility features, the S20 FE 5G's more customizable display and Android's broader range of visual tools might offer more options.
  • For the Tech Enthusiast: The S20 FE 5G's cutting-edge features like 120Hz refresh rate, wireless charging, and the versatility of it's camera system will excite the user.
  • For the Budget-Conscious User: Both phones can be found at discounted prices, making them suitable for users seeking premium features at a lower price.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework

FeatureApple iPhone XSamsung Galaxy S20 FE 5GWhy It Matters
Screen SizeSmaller, 5.8"Larger, 6.5"For a smaller and more portable experience or an immersive viewing experience.
Display BrightnessAdequate in typical conditionsSignificantly brighterFor better outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight.
Camera SetupDual camera (Standard + Telephoto)Triple camera (Standard, Telephoto, Wide Angle)For more versatile photography, including wide landscapes, clear zoom, and portrait modes.
Battery LifeModerate battery life, standard chargingLarger battery, fast charging, reverse wireless chargingFor all-day use, quick power-ups, and the ability to charge other devices.
OS & CustomizationiOS, more streamlined experienceAndroid, highly customizableFor users loyal to Apple's ecosystem or those who love to tinker and personalize their phone.
Audio ExperienceBasic mono speakersStereo speakers, Dolby AtmosFor an enhanced audio experience, especially for music, videos, and gaming.
ConnectivityStandard Wi-Fi & BluetoothAdvanced Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, and dual sim slotFor faster, more stable connections, more accurate GPS, and having more than one phone number.
Biometric SecurityFace IDFingerprint SensorFor user security and ease of unlocking the device

Final Recommendation

If I were choosing, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G.

Why?

As a user who values versatility, I am constantly multi-tasking. I need a phone that can handle everything I throw at it, from intensive photo editing to graphic heavy games. The S20 FE 5G has some key advantages that really appeal to me:

  • Superior Display: The larger, brighter 120Hz display makes the visual experience on the S20 FE 5G much smoother and more enjoyable, whether I'm watching videos, browsing, or playing games.
  • More Versatile Camera: The wide-angle lens is a huge plus for creative photography. I often take landscape shots while on vacation, and having the option of a wide-angle lens is essential.
  • Longer Battery Life and Fast Charging: The S20 FE 5G's large battery and fast-charging capabilities are very appealing. I can always make sure I have enough juice throughout the day without worrying about always having to plug in.
  • Customization: I enjoy personalizing my devices, and Android offers more ways to do that.

While the iPhone X is a beautiful and well-designed phone, the S20 FE 5G better aligns with my needs and preferences, it feels more tailored to an active, tech-savvy user like myself.

That said, the iPhone X is still an excellent option for someone deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem or who values a smaller, premium design and a more streamlined experience. It depends on what the user values most!

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.