Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. This isn't just about specs on paper; it’s about how these devices fit into your daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | Z Fold3: Transforms into a tablet; S24 FE: Traditional phone form. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 (Unfolded) | 162 x 77.3 x 8 | Z Fold3: Wider, thinner unfolded; S24 FE: Taller, thicker, more pocketable. |
| Weight | 271g | 213g | S24 FE: Significantly lighter, easier for one-handed use and extended periods. Z Fold3: Heavier, may require two-handed operation. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Main Screen Size | 7.6" | 6.7" | Z Fold3: Much larger, more immersive for media and multitasking. S24 FE: Smaller, standard screen size for comfortable everyday use. |
| Main Screen Resolution | 1768 x 2208 | 1080 x 2340 | Z Fold3: Sharper, more detail-rich visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 374 | 385 | Very similar, both offering crisp displays. |
| Screen Technology | AMOLED | S24 FE: Superior contrast, more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and power-saving dark mode. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer buttery-smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 0 | 1900 | S24 FE: Dramatically better outdoor visibility, crucial for sunny days. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Exynos 2400e (4nm) | S24 FE: More powerful processor, faster app loading, smoother gaming, more efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 898,700 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE: Significantly higher score, faster performance in heavy tasks, better gaming performance |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Xclipse 940 | Different architectures, but S24 FE’s GPU is generally more powerful and efficient. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Battery Capacity | 4400mAh | 4700mAh | S24 FE: Slightly larger battery, possibly longer usage per charge. |
| Charging | 25W Fast, Wireless 15W, Reverse 9W | 25W Fast, Wireless 15W | Both offer similar fast charging, wireless and wired. Z Fold3: Has Reverse Wireless Charging. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.8) | S24 FE: Much higher resolution, larger sensor, captures more detailed photos, performs better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP (f/2.2) | 10.8MP (f/2.4) | Very similar front cameras. |
| Telephoto Camera | 12MP (f/2.4) | 8MP (f/2.4) | Z Fold3: higher resolution in telephoto images |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP (f/2.2) | 13MP (f/2.2) | Similar wide-angle capabilities. |
| Video Recording | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | S24 FE: Superior video recording, captures stunning 8K video and higher 4K frame rate for smoother footage. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 120 | 133 | S24 FE: Higher overall score, proving better photo and video. |
| DxOMark (Photo) | 129 | 136 | S24 FE: Better in still imaging |
| DxOMark (Video) | 105 | 125 | S24 FE: Superior video recording capabilities. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (Up to 15) | Android 14 | S24 FE: More up-to-date OS, access to newer features and security updates. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6E | S24 FE: Faster speeds, lower latency, better performance in crowded networks with 6GHz band |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | S24 FE: Newer version, more reliable connections, supports more advanced audio codecs (LDAC, SBC) |
| GPS | Basic GPS | Enhanced GPS | S24 FE: More accurate location tracking with more satellite systems (including L1+L5 GPS, Galileo E1+E5a). |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Similar max options. |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB | Z Fold3: More RAM, more robust multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No options for expandable storage on either phone. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Z Fold3: Immersive audio with Dolby Atmos; S24 FE: Enhanced audio with noise cancellation mic |
| SECURITY | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Z Fold3: Convenient and fast side-mounted fingerprint reader |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Very similar screen protection on both phones |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Z Fold3: includes additional biometric sensors; S24 FE: Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Strengths: Its standout feature is the massive, foldable display, offering a tablet-like experience in a smartphone form. Great for multitasking, media consumption, and creative work. The 12GB of RAM makes it a good choice for heavier multitasking. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor offers a great and convenient unlock. It offers a wider aperture for the selfie camera.
- Competitive Advantages: Unique foldable design, larger screen, a better telephoto lens, and slightly more RAM for heavy multitasking. It also includes reverse wireless charging, which is great for charging other devices.
- Trade-offs: Significantly heavier, less powerful processor, inferior camera system compared to the S24 FE, and a higher price point when new. The main display brightness is very low, not ideal for outdoor use. The older operating system may not have the newest features.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:
- Strengths: More modern and powerful processor, brighter display, significantly better main camera and video capabilities, and a more up-to-date operating system, making it a better choice for photography and videography. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use with one hand.
- Competitive Advantages: Superior performance, camera quality (especially for videos), screen brightness, and battery efficiency. Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and a more accurate GPS make for a modern phone.
- Trade-offs: Traditional phone form, smaller display, and less RAM than the Fold3. It misses out on the unique foldable functionality of the Z Fold 3.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Ideal for users who prioritize screen real estate, heavy multitaskers, those who want a tablet-like experience in their pocket, and early adopters who enjoy innovative technology. It excels in media consumption, creative work, and mobile productivity.
- Galaxy S24 FE: Best suited for those who want a more standard smartphone experience with a powerful camera system, great performance, and bright display. It's perfect for avid photographers, mobile gamers, and users who value battery life and the latest software features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help users decide:
"How important is a large, immersive display for you?"
- If crucial: The Z Fold3 is the clear choice.
- If not: The S24 FE’s screen will be more than adequate.
"What will you use your phone for, primarily?"
- For heavy multitasking and a tablet experience: The Z Fold3, despite its age, is the better fit.
- For photography and gaming: The S24 FE will be better suited.
"How important is a cutting-edge OS and future software updates?"
- If very important: The S24 FE offers a newer OS with better support.
- If less important: The Z Fold3 will have less software updates.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Mobile Creative: The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, for its massive display for editing photos or videos, even though the S24FE’s camera is much more advanced.
- For the Avid Gamer: The Galaxy S24 FE, with its superior chipset and GPU for high-performance gaming and better software for smoother gameplay.
- For the Everyday User: The Galaxy S24 FE, offering a more modern, well-rounded smartphone experience with a great camera, screen, and performance, plus more future-proof features.
- For the Heavy Multitasker: The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, with its larger screen for multitasking and 12 GB of RAM.
What I Would Choose
If I were making a personal choice between these two, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.
Here's why: While the foldable design of the Z Fold3 is undeniably intriguing and innovative, the practical benefits of the S24 FE are more compelling for my daily needs. I value having a great camera for capturing moments, and the S24 FE is a clear winner in this regard. Its modern processor would ensure the phone performs smoothly for my daily tasks, including some light gaming. It also has a much brighter screen and a newer OS, which will be very important for my day to day life. Lastly, its lighter design makes it more convenient for daily use. Although I do enjoy the large screen of the Z Fold, the S24FE is a better all around phone.
The S24 FE is simply a more practical phone overall, combining performance, camera capabilities, and modern features, making it better for me.
