Samsung has long been a dominant force in the smartphone market, consistently delivering cutting-edge devices that push the boundaries of technology. The company’s Fan Edition (FE) lineup, introduced in 2020, aims to bridge the gap between mid-range and flagship devices, offering premium features at a more accessible price point. This strategy has resonated with consumers seeking high-end experiences without breaking the bank.
Galaxy S24 FE: Pricing and Promotions
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE enters the market with a starting price of $650, positioning it as a more affordable alternative to the flagship S24 series. To sweeten the deal, Samsung is offering up to $400 worth of trade-in credit, potentially bringing the price down significantly for those upgrading from an eligible device.
In an effort to build out its FE ecosystem, Samsung is also offering the following promotions:
- 50% off the Galaxy Watch FE when purchased with the S24 FE
- 50% off the Galaxy Buds FE when purchased with the S24 FE
These promotions make the S24 FE an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their entire mobile setup. You can explore the full range of Galaxy S24 FE options and promotions on Samsung’s official website.
Long-Term Software Support: A Double-Edged Sword?
One of the standout features of the Galaxy S24 FE is Samsung’s commitment to long-term software support. The device is slated to receive:
- 7 major OS updates
- 7 years of security patches
This level of support is impressive and aligns with industry trends towards extending the lifespan of devices. However, it raises an important question: Will a device with 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage still be usable in 7 years?
As Android continues to evolve and apps become more resource-intensive, there’s legitimate concern about whether the S24 FE’s hardware will stand the test of time. This is particularly relevant when considering the base model’s specifications:
- 8GB RAM / 128GB storage – $650
- 8GB RAM / 256GB storage – $710
Galaxy S24 FE vs. Galaxy S24+: A Close Comparison
To truly assess the value of the S24 FE, it’s crucial to compare it to its more premium sibling, the Galaxy S24+. Here’s how they stack up:
Display
- S24 FE: 6.7″ FHD+ non-LTPO display
- S24+: 6.7″ QHD+ LTPO panel
Size and Weight
- S24+: Slightly smaller and 17g lighter than the FE
Battery and Charging
- S24+: 200mAh larger battery, 45W wired charging
- S24 FE: 25W wired charging
Processor
- S24+: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- S24 FE: Exynos 2400e
RAM
- S24+: 12GB RAM
- S24 FE: 8GB RAM
The Galaxy S24+ is currently offered with a $200 discount, bringing the base 12/256GB model down to $800. This narrows the gap between the S24+ and the 8/256GB S24 FE, which is priced at $710.
For those with eligible trade-ins, the deal becomes even more appealing. An old Galaxy S21+, for example, can fetch a $400 discount due to a promotional campaign that boosts trade-in values. This makes the S24+ a compelling upgrade option, especially for those with older devices.
The Certified Refurbished Option
Samsung also offers a certified refurbished program for its older models. However, the current pricing doesn’t make it a particularly attractive option:
- Refurbished Galaxy S23+: Starts at $770 for an 8/256GB unit
The trade-in offers for the refurbished program are notably generous:
- Even old, cheap phones with cracked screens are valued at $300
- A damaged Galaxy A13, for example, can fetch a $300 trade-in value
- The Galaxy S21+ is also valued at $300 for trade-in
This trade-in program makes the most sense for those who have inexpensive old devices to exchange.
Conclusion: Is the Galaxy S24 FE Worth It?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE presents an interesting value proposition in the current smartphone market. Its strengths lie in:
- A more affordable entry point to premium features
- Long-term software support
- Attractive trade-in and accessory bundle offers
However, potential buyers should carefully consider:
- The narrowing price gap between the S24 FE and discounted S24+ models
- Long-term viability of the hardware given the extended software support
- Personal needs in terms of performance, camera capabilities, and ecosystem integration
Ultimately, the Galaxy S24 FE’s worth depends on individual preferences and circumstances. For those seeking a balance between premium features and affordability, especially when combined with trade-in offers and accessory bundles, the S24 FE could be an excellent choice. However, power users or those able to stretch their budget might find more long-term value in the Galaxy S24+.
As always, we recommend hands-on experience and thorough comparison before making a final decision. You can compare all Galaxy S24 models in detail on our comparison tool to help inform your choice.
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