Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. Galaxy S25 FE: which one should you choose?

What is the difference between the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 FE?

The biggest differences between the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 FE come down to performance, display technology, RAM and camera processing.

• Looking for maximum performance and a premium finish? Then the Galaxy S25 is the obvious choice. The Galaxy S25 is Samsung's 2025 flagship model. It runs on the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features a 6.2-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display.
• Want a bigger display and a lower price? Then the S25 FE is worth considering. The Galaxy S25 FE is the more affordable option with an Exynos 2400 processor, a larger 6.7-inch FHD+ display, and slightly less advanced hardware.

Both smartphones run Android with Samsung's One UI and receive an impressive 7 years of software and security updates. They also come with Galaxy AI, giving you access to features for photo editing, translation and more. Still, there are some clear differences. Compared to the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, the S25 delivers a more premium experience with better performance, a brighter display, and a stronger camera setup. Below, you'll find the most important differences.

Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. S25 FE: design and display

Both devices feature Samsung's familiar design language: a glass back, aluminium frame, and separate camera lenses on the back of the phone. Both devices also have an IP68 rating, which means they're resistant to water and dust.

Size and dimensions

The Galaxy S25 is the more compact device with a display measuring around 6.2 inches. That makes it ideal for one-handed use. The S25 FE comes with a larger 6.7-inch display, which is especially useful if you enjoy streaming videos or multitasking.

The S25 is also lighter at 162 grams, compared to the S25 FE's 190 grams. You'll notice the difference in daily use, especially during longer sessions. Looking for a compact phone that slips easily into your pocket? Then the Galaxy S25 is the better choice. Watch a lot of series or often work in two apps at once? Then the larger display of the Galaxy S25 FE has a clear advantage.

Display technology compared

The S25's refresh rate can dynamically switch between 1Hz and 120Hz. When you're viewing static content, like when you're reading an article, it drops to 1Hz to save battery. When scrolling or gaming, it automatically switches to 120Hz for smoother visuals.

The S25 FE does not support LTPO technology and only switches between 60Hz and 120Hz. That means slightly higher battery consumption, even when you're looking at a static image. The S25's higher peak brightness of 2600 nits also provides better contrast and improved visibility in direct sunlight.

Performance and processor: Galaxy S25 vs. S25 FE

This is where the biggest differences become clear. The Galaxy S25 is simply more powerful and more efficient than the Galaxy S25 FE, and you'll notice that in everyday use.

Chipset comparison

The Galaxy S25 runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This chipset is optimised for:

• Heavy multitasking without slowdowns
• Galaxy AI features
• Gaming at high settings
• Energy-efficient performance

The Galaxy S25 FE uses the Exynos 2400. It's a solid processor for everyday use, but it's less efficient and tends to heat up faster during demanding tasks.

RAM and storage

Everyday use and multitasking

For standard tasks like social media, email and browsing, both devices perform very well. You'll hardly notice a difference when opening apps or switching between tasks.

The difference becomes noticeable when you're:

• Editing photos with AI-powered tools
• Running multiple apps at the same time
• Gaming for longer periods without performance drops
• Using Galaxy AI features such as Live Translate

Camera comparison: Galaxy S25 vs. S25 FE

Both smartphones come with three rear cameras and a 50 megapixel main camera. Still, there are important differences in sensor quality and image processing.

Camera setup

Galaxy S25:

• 50 megapixel main camera
• 12 megapixel ultra wide camera
• 10 megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom
• ProVisual Engine for AI image processing

Galaxy S25 FE:

• 50 megapixel main camera with OIS
• 12 megapixel ultra wide camera
• 8 megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom
• Good, but less advanced AI image processing

Photo quality in practice

Selfie camera and video

Both devices feature a 12 megapixel selfie camera that supports 4K video at 60fps. Thanks to its more advanced image processing, the S25 produces slightly sharper selfies. The Galaxy S25 also records more stable 4K video with less visible noise. On top of that, it offers more AI Video Editing options.

Do you mainly take the occasional photo for social media? Then the S25 FE is a great choice. But if you record a lot of video, regularly use the zoom function or want the best possible night photography, the Galaxy S25 is the better option.

Battery and charging: Galaxy S25 vs. S25 FE

Battery life is an important factor when choosing a new Samsung phone. Both devices focus on large batteries and fast charging.

Battery overview

The S25 FE clearly has the larger battery. Even so, the Galaxy S25 delivers better overall efficiency. Its more efficient Snapdragon chipset and dynamic display reduce power consumption. The S25 FE does have an advantage when it comes to charging speed and can be fully charged in around 60 minutes with a 45W charger.

Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. S25 FE: which one is right for you?

Choosing between these two devices comes down to your budget, display preference, camera expectations and how intensively you use your phone.

Choose the Galaxy S25 if:

• You want the best performance and the most efficient chipset
• You take a lot of photos and want better night photography, zoom capabilities, and the highest image quality
• You want a more compact phone with a better display
• You use your phone heavily for work, multitasking and gaming
• You don't want to compromise on hardware or software

Choose the Galaxy S25 FE if:

• A lower price is important to you
• You want a larger 6.7-inch display for streaming, social media and multitasking
• You mainly use standard apps, social media, photography and the occasional game
• You want to benefit from 7 years of updates without paying flagship prices
• You prefer faster 45W charging

Shop your Samsung at Simyo

Have you decided between the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 FE ? Right now, you can get both from Simyo. Want to make changes to your mobile plan? No problem, just head to Mijn Simyo . Increase your data bundle before a trip or lower it when you need less data. That way, your plan always matches the way you use your phone.

Frequently asked questions