Samsung Galaxy M32 vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date June 28, 2021 October 5, 2023
Release Year 2021 2023

Physical

Volume 99.02 cm³ 99.11 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.56 "/g 3.06 "/g
Weight 180 g 209 g
Height 159.3 mm 158 mm
Width 74 mm 76.5 mm
Thickness 8.4 mm 8.2 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Light Blue
  • Purple
  • Graphite
  • Mint
  • Cream
  • Indigo
  • Tangerine

Display

Screen Size 6.4 " 6.4 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 83.9 % 83.2 %
Pixel Density 411 PPI 403 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 800 nits N/A
Peak Brightness N/A 1450 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 122.07 mAh/in² 109.86 mAh/in²
Battery Density 50.49 mAh/cm³ 45.4 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) Exynos 2200 (4 nm) - International
CPU Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x2.8 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3x2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A510) - International
GPU Mali-G52 MC2 Xclipse 920 - International

Connectivity

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

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 13
Maximum OS Version 13 17

Comparison Summary

Alright, let's break down the Samsung Galaxy M32 and the Galaxy S23 FE. These phones sit in very different segments of the market, so it’s less about "which is better" and more about "which is right for you." I'll use the specs you've provided to create a comparison that is both technically detailed and easy to understand.

1. Specifications Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up:

FeatureSamsung Galaxy M32Samsung Galaxy S23 FEReal-World Implications
Design
Physical Size159.3 × 74 × 8.4 mm158 × 76.5 × 8.2 mmThe M32 is a bit taller and thicker, while the S23 FE is a little wider. Differences are minor but may affect one-handed use for some.
Weight180g209gThe M32 is noticeably lighter, which can make a difference during long periods of use. The S23 FE feels more substantial.
Display
Size6.4"6.4"Identical screen size means a similar viewing experience for content consumption and gaming.
Resolution1080x24001080x2340Very similar sharpness. You likely won't notice a difference in everyday use.
PPI411403Both displays are sharp, so individual pixels are tough to discern.
TechnologyAMOLEDAMOLEDExpect vibrant colors and deep blacks on both devices.
Refresh Rate90Hz120HzThe S23 FE's display will feel smoother, especially when scrolling or playing fast-paced games.
Brightness0 nits0 nitsThis data point is missing or inaccurate, so it can't contribute to the comparison.
ProtectionUnknownCorning Gorilla Glass 5The S23 FE will likely be more resistant to scratches and cracks, enhancing durability.
Performance
ChipsetMediatek Helio G80 (12 nm)Exynos 2200 (4 nm)The S23 FE's chip is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. It's also more energy efficient, which can extend battery life.
AnTuTu Score204,0001,188,176This benchmark clearly shows the performance gap. The S23 FE will handle demanding tasks with ease, while the M32 may struggle.
GPUMali-G52 MC2Xclipse 920The S23 FE will deliver a much better gaming experience, with higher frame rates and more detailed graphics.
Camera
Main Camera64MP, f/1.850MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" sensorWhile the M32 has a higher megapixel count, the S23 FE's larger sensor size generally translates to better low-light performance and dynamic range.
TelephotoNone8MP, f/2.0The S23 FE has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom, enabling you to get closer to your subjects without significant quality loss.
Ultrawide8MP, f/2.213MP, f/2.2The S23 FE's ultrawide lens is better for capturing expansive scenes and group photos. The M32 lacks this, limiting versatility.
Selfie Camera20MP, f/2.210.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" sensorThe M32 has a higher resolution, but the S23 FE's larger sensor size and pixel size could result in better low-light selfies.
Video Recording1080p@30fpsUp to 8KThe S23 FE can record much higher quality video, making it suitable for content creators and those who want the best possible video quality.
Camera FeaturesQuad CameraTriple Camera, OIS, EIS, RAW, Night ModeThe S23 FE has better image stabilization, RAW capture for editing flexibility, and a dedicated night mode for improved low-light shots.
Battery Life
Capacity5000mAh4500mAhThe M32 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life.
Charging25W25WBoth phones support fast charging at the same rate.
Wireless ChargingNoYes, 15WThe S23 FE supports convenient wireless charging.
Software
OSAndroid 11, up to 13Android 13, up to 17The S23 FE launches with a newer version of Android and is expected to receive updates for a longer period, meaning it will be supported longer.
Connectivity
Wi-FiWi-Fi 5Wi-Fi 6The S23 FE supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connectivity.
Bluetooth5.05.3The S23 FE has a newer version of Bluetooth with improved efficiency and range.
Storage
Internal64GB/128GB128GB/256GBThe S23 FE offers more storage options, which is important if you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, and apps.
ExpandableNoNoNeither phone supports expandable storage, so you're stuck with what you choose upfront.
Audio
FeaturesBasicStereo speakers, Dolby AtmosThe S23 FE offers a much better audio experience with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support for immersive sound.

2. Key Insights

  • Samsung Galaxy M32:

    • Strengths: Larger battery, lighter weight, potentially lower price.
    • Competitive Advantages: Good battery life at a budget price point.
    • Trade-offs: Significantly weaker performance, older software, less versatile camera, lacks premium features.
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 FE:

    • Strengths: Significantly more powerful processor, better camera system with more features, faster display, wireless charging, and better audio.
    • Competitive Advantages: Flagship-level performance and features at a more accessible price.
    • Trade-offs: Smaller battery, heavier, higher price.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

  • Samsung Galaxy M32:

    • Best Suited For: Users on a tight budget who prioritize battery life and basic smartphone functionality. Ideal for those who primarily use their phone for calling, texting, and light social media browsing.
    • Use Cases: A good option for students, elderly users, or anyone who needs a reliable phone without breaking the bank.
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 FE:

    • Best Suited For: Users who want a premium smartphone experience with excellent performance, a versatile camera, and advanced features, but don't want to pay full flagship prices.
    • Use Cases: Gamers, photographers, content creators, and anyone who values a fast and responsive smartphone.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three questions to help you decide:

  1. What's my budget? If your budget is very limited, the M32 might be your only option. But if you can stretch it, the S23 FE offers far more value.
  2. How important is performance? If you play demanding games or run resource-intensive apps, the S23 FE is the clear winner.
  3. What do I value most in a phone's camera? If you just want basic snapshots, the M32 is fine. But if you want better quality, versatility, and features like optical zoom and night mode, the S23 FE is the better choice.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: A student needs a phone for basic communication and note-taking with long battery life. -> Samsung Galaxy M32.
  • Scenario 2: A budding photographer wants a phone with a versatile camera for capturing high-quality photos and videos. -> Samsung Galaxy S23 FE.
  • Scenario 3: A gamer wants a phone that can handle demanding games smoothly without breaking the bank. -> Samsung Galaxy S23 FE.
  • Scenario 4: Someone who only cares about battery life and does very little on their device. -> Samsung Galaxy M32.

My Choice

If I were personally choosing between these two phones, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE.

The main reason is the significant performance boost. As someone who uses their phone for everything from work to entertainment, I need a device that can keep up with my demands. The faster processor, better GPU, and smoother display of the S23 FE would make a noticeable difference in my daily use. Plus, I value the improved camera system with features like optical zoom and better low-light performance. The wireless charging is a nice convenience too. While the smaller battery and heavier weight are minor drawbacks, the overall experience would be far superior with the S23 FE. I'm willing to pay a premium for that.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.