Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

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The Fan Edition returned in India in October 2023, with the Galaxy S23 FE starting at Rs 59,999 for 8 GB/128 GB. Indian units used Samsung's own Exynos 2200, the chip from the international Galaxy S22, rather than a Snapdragon part. Samsung's pitch was simple: the look, water resistance and camera layout of the S23 for a noticeably lower price.

It feels like a larger S23, with a 6.4-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, flat aluminium frame and separate camera rings. At 209 g it is denser than you expect. The Exynos 2200 is quick for daily use, but it gets warm during long gaming sessions and camera use, and battery life from the 4500 mAh cell is good rather than great.

The 50 MP main camera with OIS, 12 MP ultrawide and 8 MP 3x telephoto give it real zoom, something the Pixel 7a and OnePlus 11R lacked at the time. Charging is limited to 25W wired, with wireless and reverse wireless included. Discounts quickly pushed its street price far below launch, and at those prices it became a sensible route into Samsung's flagship ecosystem.

Key specifications

Launch price (India)Rs 59,999 (base variant)
India launchOctober 2023
SegmentUpper mid-range
Display6.4-inch, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
ProcessorExynos 2200
RAM8 GB
Storage128 GB / 256 GB
Expandable storageNo
Rear cameras50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide + 8 MP 3x telephoto
Front camera10 MP
Battery4500 mAh
Charging25W wired, wireless
Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5.1
5GYes
Water/dust ratingIP68
Headphone jackNo
Weight209 g

What we like

  • 3x telephoto rare at this price
  • IP68 and wireless charging included
  • Good 120Hz AMOLED panel
  • Samsung's long update policy

What could be better

  • Exynos 2200 runs warm under load
  • Heavy for its size
  • Slow 25W charging

Who should buy it

Samsung fans who want flagship features like zoom, IP68 and wireless charging without paying S23 prices.

Specifications and price are as at the India launch (October 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.