Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Review
First Impressions & Positioning
The Galaxy S25 FE is Samsung’s 2025 “Fan Edition” variant of the S-series — designed to bring many premium features of the flagship S25 models at a more affordable price. It was officially announced on September 4, 2025, and Samsung has kept a relatively aggressive price point.
Samsung aims to use the S25 FE to grow its Galaxy AI-enabled device base, offering many of the same AI-driven features found on its higher-end models.
Design & Build Quality
- The S25 FE features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display in a body made with an Armor Aluminum frame.
- It’s rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, giving it the durability expected of a flagship-like phone.
- Despite being an FE variant, the materials and build feel premium, though there are some trade-offs compared to “Ultra” flagships.
- At 190 g and only 7.4 mm thin, it's relatively slim and light for a 6.7″ device.
Display & Screen Experience
- The 6.7″ panel supports 120 Hz refresh rate (adaptive between 60 / 120 Hz), which helps with smooth scrolling and UI interactions.
- It uses Samsung’s “Vision Booster” technology, which helps maintain high brightness even in bright outdoor conditions.
- According to some sources, it can reach very high peak brightness levels, making it suitable for HDR content.
- The AMOLED 2X panel gives good color richness and contrast.
Performance & Hardware
- Chipset: The S25 FE is powered by the Exynos 2400, built on a 4 nm process.
- RAM / Storage: The base model in the U.S. comes with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage. There are also 256 GB and 512 GB versions in some markets.
- Connectivity: Supports 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi, and has modern connectivity options.
- Software: Runs One UI 8 on Android 16, and is loaded with Galaxy AI features (Now Brief, Gemini Live, etc.).
- Support: Samsung promises 7 years of software updates for OS and security, which is very impressive for a Fan Edition device.
Cameras
- Rear Cameras:
- 50 MP main (f/1.8) with OIS
- 12 MP ultra-wide (123° field of view)
- 8 MP telephoto, 3× optical zoom (f/2.4) with OIS
- Front Camera: 12 MP (f/2.2) for selfies and video calls.
- Camera Features: It includes advanced editing and AI features via Galaxy AI, such as generative editing tools.
- Video: The S25 FE supports solid video recording, though it is not marketed as a video flagship.
Battery & Charging
- Battery Capacity: 4,900 mAh, slightly larger than some previous FE models.
- Charging:
- 45W wired (claimed)
- 15W wireless charging also supported.
- Real-world Comments: According to some user feedback, the phone may not sustain the full 45W while charging, with real-world charging speeds reportedly lower.
User Experience & Pros / Cons
Strengths:
- Excellent value for a phone with flagship-grade AI features.
- Very good display with smooth 120 Hz refresh rate.
- Long-term software support (7 years).
- Reliable camera setup with useful AI-assisted tools.
- Durable build with water/dust protection.
Drawbacks:
- The Exynos 2400 is not as fast or power-efficient as some Snapdragon or more premium chips, per some reviews.
- Charging speed may not reach the claimed 45W in real-world usage.
- Some users say the FE edition cuts corners (e.g., in materials) compared to full premium flagships.
- While it supports wireless charging, 15W is modest by current flagship standards.
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Full Specification
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy S25 FE |
|---|---|
| Model | Galaxy S25 FE |
| Release Date | September 4, 2025 |
| Price (US) | From $649.99 for 128GB 256GB: ~$709.99 |
| Body / Build | Armor Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ front & back |
| Water / Dust Resistance | IP68 |
| Display | 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2340 × ~FHD+, 120Hz adaptive, Vision Booster |
| Processor (SoC) | Exynos 2400 (4 nm) |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage Options | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB (depending on region) |
| Rear Cameras | 50 MP (main) + 12 MP (ultra-wide) + 8 MP (3× telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 12 MP |
| Battery | 4,900 mAh |
| Charging | 45W wired, 15W wireless PowerShare |
| Operating System | Android 16, One UI 8 |
| AI & Special Features | Galaxy AI (Now Brief, Gemini Live, etc.) |
| Software Support | 7 years of updates (OS + security) |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc. |
| Weight / Dimensions | 161.3 × 76.6 × 7.4 mm, 190 g |
| Colors | Icy Blue, Jet Black, Navy, White |
USA Price & Buying Info
- In the USA, the Galaxy S25 FE starts at $649.99 for the 8GB + 128GB model.
- The 256GB variant is priced at $709.99 in the U.S.
- According to PhoneArena, Samsung offers six months of free Google AI Pro when you buy the S25 FE (in some regions).
- The phone is available at Samsung’s online store and through major U.S. retailers.
Verdict
The Galaxy S25 FE is a strong “mid-flagship” pick from Samsung in 2025: it brings many of the flagship S-series benefits (good display, durable build, AI features) while keeping the price more accessible. The use of the Exynos 2400 is a trade-off: it’s not the top-tier performance chip, but is likely more than enough for most users — especially when paired with 8GB of RAM.
The battery is decent and supports fast wired charging, though some real-world reports suggest the charging speed may not always hit Samsung’s claims. The camera setup is versatile and paired with Galaxy AI, it offers solid photo flexibility.
If you want flagship-class features without paying full flagship high-end money, the S25 FE is very appealing. However, if you prioritize peak performance or ultra-fast charging, you might want to compare with higher-end or competing models.