1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | The S24 FE is slightly larger, which may be less comfortable for one-handed use. Both have the same thickness. |
| Weight | 177g | 213g | Realme 8 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and less fatiguing to hold. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both phones have the standard form factor. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | S24 FE provides more screen real estate for content consumption and gaming, however, might be harder to use one-handed. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are very similar, minimal visual difference in sharpness, although the S24 FE has slightly less height resolution. |
| PPI | 411 | 385 | Realme 8 offers slightly sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S24 FE provides smoother scrolling and animations. A noticeable difference in daily use, especially for gamers or those who prefer a more fluid UI. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE offers superior outdoor visibility, making it significantly better for use in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Exynos 2400e (4 nm) | S24 FE has a much more powerful chipset built on a more efficient process, offering significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. The S24 FE is also more future-proof. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE performs much better in benchmarks, suggesting a noticeable difference in real-world performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Xclipse 940 | The S24 FE's GPU is much more powerful, resulting in better graphics performance, especially in gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.70µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm | While the Realme 8 has higher MP count, the S24 FE has a larger sensor and pixel size for better low light performance, likely resulting in higher quality images. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | The S24 FE has a larger pixel size that lets in more light, potentially better low-light performance, whereas the Realme 8 has higher MP count. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", 1.00µm | S24 FE offers dedicated optical zoom capabilities for better quality zoomed photos. Realme 8 lacks this capability. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm | S24 FE has a higher resolution and slightly wider aperture resulting in better quality wide-angle shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Realme 8 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots; the S24 FE lacks this. |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Realme 8 has a dedicated Black & White sensor to assist in B&W photos; the S24 FE lacks this. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | Up to 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps, EIS and OIS | S24 FE offers significantly better video recording capabilities including higher resolution (8K) and frame rate, and includes OIS for better stabilization. |
| DXOMark | Not tested | Mobile: 133 | S24 FE has a verified camera performance score. |
| Camera Features | Quad camera, Ultra stable video | Triple camera, Night Mode 2.0, Optical zoom, OIS | S24 FE offers more advanced features such as OIS, optical zoom, and night mode. Realme 8 offers an ultra-stable video feature. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Realme 8 has slightly larger battery which may translate into slightly longer battery life, but could also depend on the efficiency of the chipset. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Realme 8 charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Non-removable, 15W Wireless charging | S24 FE offers more flexibility with features like wireless charging and reverse charging. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages
- Lighter and Smaller: More comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, especially for smaller hands.
- Slightly Larger Battery and Faster Charging: May offer slightly better battery life and faster charging, but depends on the real-world efficiency of each phone.
- Dedicated Macro and Black & White Camera: Gives the user additional options for creative photography.
- Hi-Res Audio: Appeals to audiophiles.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Advantages
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster chipset, GPU, and benchmark scores mean faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate provides a much more fluid visual experience.
- Brighter Display: Significantly better outdoor visibility.
- Better Camera System: Larger sensor, optical zoom, OIS, and more advanced video recording capabilities provide better image and video quality.
- Advanced Features: Wireless charging, reverse charging, newer Bluetooth and WiFi standards, and more satellite systems for GPS, make the phone more versatile.
- Future-Proof: More modern features, and newer OS, making it more relevant for longer.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ offers a higher degree of scratch and shatter resistance.
- eSIM support: Offers flexibility for users wanting to switch between digital carriers.
- Stereo speakers and noise cancelling microphone: Better audio experience.
Trade-offs
- Realme 8: Compromises on performance and display quality for a lighter build and slightly larger battery.
- Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: Is larger and heavier, with a slightly smaller battery, but offers significantly better performance, display, and camera capabilities.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8 Ideal User
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those seeking a reliable phone at a lower price point.
- Users with Smaller Hands: Prefer a lighter and more compact phone.
- Casual Gamers: Can handle moderate gaming, but not ideal for demanding titles.
- Users focused on battery life: Want a reliable battery for all-day use and prioritize fast charging.
- Users wanting to capture unique photos: Macro and Black & White lens options may appeal to those looking for creative options.
- Audiophiles: Value Hi-Res audio output.
Use Cases:
- Everyday social media browsing
- Basic photography
- Casual mobile gaming
- Streaming videos
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Ideal User
- Performance Enthusiasts: Prioritize speed, multitasking, and gaming capabilities.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Want a high-quality camera with advanced features.
- Users who consume a lot of video: Will appreciate the brighter screen, higher refresh rate, and larger display.
- Users who want a phone with premium features: Wireless charging, newer connectivity standards, and reverse charging.
- Frequent travelers: Benefit from the enhanced GPS system.
- Users who want a more future-proof device: Will benefit from the newer OS and flagship-level performance.
Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming
- High-quality photography and videography
- Immersive content consumption
- Professional use with multitasking and productivity
- Users needing better GPS and location features.
- Users wanting better video/audio for calls and media.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider
- How important is performance for you? If performance is a priority for gaming, multitasking, and general speed, the S24 FE is much better.
- Do you prioritize camera quality and features? If you value high-quality photos and videos with more features such as optical zoom and OIS, the S24 FE is the clear winner.
- How important is battery life vs. charging speed? The Realme 8 has a slightly larger battery and faster charging, but real-world usage might differ. The S24 FE offers wireless and reverse charging.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Budget and basic usage. If you primarily use your phone for social media, web browsing, and basic photography, the Realme 8 can save you money and still provide an enjoyable experience.
- Scenario 2: Gaming and performance. If you want to play the latest games smoothly or use resource-intensive apps, the S24 FE is the only option.
- Scenario 3: Content Creation. If you take photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions, or need optical zoom capabilities, the S24 FE provides a more professional experience.
- Scenario 4: Value and future proofing: If you want a device that lasts longer with premium features and top performance, the S24 FE is the better option.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. While the Realme 8 offers good value, the S24 FE's superior performance, display, camera, and additional features are compelling enough to justify its higher price. The significantly better performance and display alone would make the S24 FE a much more enjoyable and versatile device for everyday use and any demanding tasks I might throw at it. Although the Realme 8 has its advantages such as a lighter build, slightly larger battery, and macro lens, for my typical usage the S24 FE is a more well-rounded and capable phone. The superior camera quality will let me take better photos and videos.
