Smartphone Comparison: Oppo Reno5 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Oppo Reno5 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-07 | 2024-10-03 | S24 FE is significantly newer, likely offering newer software, features and potentially longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 159.1 × 73.4 × 7.9 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | S24 FE is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use, while Reno5 5G is more compact and pocketable. |
| Weight | 172g | 213g | Reno5 5G is noticeably lighter, which makes it more comfortable to hold for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.7" | S24 FE offers a larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. Reno5 5G's smaller size is better for portability. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both have similar sharpness; slight difference is unlikely to be noticeable in everyday use. |
| PPI | 409 | 385 | Reno5 5G has slightly sharper display; difference is unlikely to be noticeable by most users. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks and high contrast ratios characteristic of AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S24 FE's 120Hz display provides smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the overall experience and feeling more fluid. |
| Brightness | 750 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE has dramatically higher brightness, offering significantly improved visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G (7 nm) | Exynos 2400e (4 nm) | S24 FE has a significantly more powerful and efficient chipset leading to faster performance for all tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 325,000 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE offers much better performance in benchmarks, indicating considerably faster app loading, multitasking, gaming and is generally more future-proof. |
| GPU | Adreno 620 | Xclipse 940 | S24 FE has a more powerful GPU for better gaming and graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 4700mAh | S24 FE has slightly larger battery; provides marginal improvement in battery life. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Reno5 5G charges much faster, greatly reducing charging times. |
| Features | Reverse charging, 2100mAh dual-cell battery | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, 15W wireless charging | S24 FE offers more modern charging features with wireless and bypass charging, allowing you to use the phone while charging without harming the battery. Reno 5's dual-cell battery is a more efficient solution. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.7, 1/1.7", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.0µm | Reno5 5G has higher resolution, but S24 FE has larger pixels and sensor for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.4, 0.8µm | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Reno5 5G has much higher resolution but S24 FE has larger pixels for better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", 1.0µm | S24 FE offers telephoto zoom capabilities that Reno5 5G lacks, useful for capturing distant objects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm | S24 FE has a dedicated wide-angle camera, good for landscape photography. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Reno5 5G has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 8MP, f/2.2 | None | Reno5 5G has a dedicated wide angle macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | S24 FE supports higher video resolution (8K) and frame rates (4k@120fps), providing superior video recording capabilities. |
| DxOMark | N/A | 133 (Mobile), 136 (Photo), 125 (Video) | S24 FE has significantly better scores in DxOMark, highlighting much better image and video quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 12 | Android 14 | S24 FE has a much newer Android version, with more modern features and security updates, while Reno5 is nearing end of support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 FE supports newer Wi-Fi standards for faster speeds, better performance in crowded networks and access to 6GHz band. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | S24 FE has a more advanced Bluetooth version with wider array of supported profiles |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC System | S24 FE offers more precise and reliable location tracking due to support for more satellite systems and multiple frequencies. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM) | S24 FE provides more flexibility with eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512 GB | S24 FE offers more storage capacity options, crucial for storing more media and apps. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12GB | 8 GB | Reno5 5G offers slightly more RAM options, enabling smoother multitasking on higher end models. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Both offer stereo speakers; Reno5 5G has Dolby Atmos for more immersive sound; S24 FE has noise cancellation for clearer calls. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both use basic fingerprint sensors for biometric security. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3+ | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S24 FE has significantly better screen protection, leading to improved scratch and shatter resistance. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S24 FE has a wider range of sensors, especially environmental sensors like barometer, providing more features for specific use cases like health tracking and location based services. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Oppo Reno5 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and more pocketable.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly faster than S24 FE's 25W.
- Potentially More RAM: Higher end models include 12GB RAM option, which may benefit heavy multitasking.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up photos.
- Dolby Atmos: potentially improved audio experience via Dolby Atmos support.
Practical Implications: The Reno5 5G is better for users who prioritize portability, speed of charging, and specific niche photography.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Advantages:
- Significantly Faster Performance: Modern chipset provides much faster performance, enhancing all activities from basic tasks to gaming.
- Superior Display: Larger screen, smoother 120Hz refresh rate, and much higher brightness.
- Better Camera System: Telephoto and wide-angle lens options, better sensor and higher video capabilities.
- Modern Software: Newer version of Android, and extended support period.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless charging functionality
- More Storage: Option for 512 GB of internal storage.
- Better Build: Improved screen protection.
- More Sensors: wider range of sensors, such as a barometer, that expand functionality.
Practical Implications: The S24 FE is a superior all-rounder, providing a better experience in almost all aspects except for charging and weight, making it a better option for overall performance and future proofing.
Trade-offs:
- Reno5 5G: Compromises on overall performance, camera quality, display brightness and software support for a more compact design and faster charging.
- S24 FE: Is heavier and larger; charging is slower, and it lacks a macro lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Oppo Reno5 5G Ideal User:
- Users who value portability and one-handed use over performance.
- Users who need rapid charging and a reliable device for daily tasks.
- Budget conscious buyers looking for decent performance and a competent main camera.
- Users interested in close-up macro photography and potentially better audio through Dolby Atmos.
Use Cases:
- Casual web browsing and social media
- Quick photography for social media
- Phone calls and messaging
- Users who need a compact secondary device for travel
- Audio enthusiasts who may benefit from Dolby Atmos.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize performance, media consumption and gaming.
- Users who want a versatile camera system with good low light capabilities and a variety of lenses.
- Users who want the latest software and are seeking a device that will last many years.
- Users who need excellent outdoor screen visibility.
- Those who appreciate a smooth, fluid user interface and modern features.
Use Cases:
- Gaming and demanding mobile applications
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos in various conditions.
- Extensive media consumption (movies, videos, etc.)
- Users who rely on modern wireless standards and a wider array of sensors.
- General purpose use and for those who want the latest technology.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What is your priority: portability & charging speed, or performance & camera quality? If portability and rapid charging are top priorities, the Reno5 5G is an option. Otherwise, the S24 FE wins in almost all other fields.
- How important is camera versatility? If a telephoto and wide-angle lens are essential, the S24 FE is the better option.
- How important is software support and future-proofing? If you want a device that will receive longer support and updates, the S24 FE is the clear choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious Casual User: The Reno5 5G could be adequate, especially if its price is significantly lower. However, the S24 FE offers a better overall experience for the cost.
- Photography Enthusiast: The S24 FE’s versatile camera system and higher overall camera quality are more suitable.
- Mobile Gamer/Heavy User: The S24 FE is the superior option due to its powerful chipset and display.
- Users who travel frequently: The Reno5 5G's compact size and fast charging makes it appealing as a secondary device.
My Choice
Given the choice, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. While the Oppo Reno5 5G has its merits, particularly its lighter build and faster charging, the S24 FE provides a vastly superior overall experience. The performance gains, significantly better display quality, more versatile camera system, much better software support, and advanced connectivity options make it a more future-proof and generally better device. The S24 FE aligns better with the demands of modern smartphone usage, where performance, camera quality, and software support are essential. The trade off of slightly slower charging and slightly larger size are, in my opinion, acceptable in return for the advantages it offers.
