The Galaxy S24 FE is now officially available in Kenya, priced at KES 82,995 (Brandcart Pricing which has slashed it from RRP of KES 92,995). It joins the Galaxy S24 family as a more budget-friendly alternative to Samsung’s flagship series. Samsung’s “Fan Edition” (FE) lineup aims to deliver flagship-level experiences at reduced costs, but does the Galaxy S24 FE live up to this promise? Or is Samsung losing out because we’re in a period where there’s a sea of mid-range device alternatives? Let’s dive into its specs, positioning, and relevance in the Kenyan market.
Specifications and Features
The Galaxy S24 FE comes with a feature set that closely mimics its flagship siblings but at a slightly reduced performance level:
- Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with a 120Hz refresh rate. While vibrant and smooth, its 1080p resolution falls short of the sharper displays in the S24 lineup.
- Processor: Exynos 2400e (4nm), capable of handling daily tasks and gaming with ease, albeit slightly behind the Snapdragon processors in the premium models.
- Cameras: A 50MP main camera supported by 12MP ultra-wide and 8MP telephoto lenses. The selfie camera clocks in at 10MP. While functional, these cameras don’t match up to the flagships in low-light performance and detail compared to flagship competitors.
- Battery: 4700mAh with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging.
- AI Features: Includes tools like Sketch to Image, Photo Assist, and Circle to Search, showcasing Samsung’s focus on productivity and creativity.
- Durability: IP68 water and dust resistance, with Gorilla Glass Victus+ for enhanced protection.
- Software: Ships with Android 14 and One UI 6.1, backed by a commitment to 7 years of software updates and security patches.
At face value, these features present the S24 FE as a strong contender for users looking for flagship-inspired performance at a more affordable price.
The “Fan Edition” Argument
Samsung’s FE lineup was born during the pandemic as a way to provide high-end features at friendlier price points. However, in 2024, the concept seems to be losing its relevance.
Flagship devices like the Galaxy S24 experience price drops shortly after launch, bringing them sometimes very close to the FE’s cost. For instance, while the S24 FE official RRP is KES 92,995, the base model Galaxy S24 is currently less than 10k more in pricing while offering a way better smartphone experience. Similarly, devices like the Pixel 8A and Xiaomi’s 14T Pro offer competitive specs at lower or similar prices, undermining the FE’s value proposition.
Samsung positions the FE series as a bridge between flagship and mid-range. However, with mid-range phones growing increasingly capable, the S24 FE struggles to define its niche. It feels less like a “Fan Edition” and more like a device crafted to fill gaps in Samsung’s product lineup rather than cater to genuine fan demand.
AI Features: The Creative Edge
One area where the Galaxy S24 FE makes an attempt to shine is its integration of AI tools, offering features like Sketch to Image, Photo Assist, Circle to Search, and Live Translate. These features sound impressive on paper: Sketch to Image lets you transform basic sketches into fully realized images, while Photo Assist helps with resizing, retouching, and removing unwanted objects in photos. Circle to Search allows users to perform searches by drawing a circle around content on the screen, and Live Translate provides real-time translations during calls — a potentially useful tool for travelers and professionals.
While these tools are undoubtedly fancy and creative, they aren’t unique to the Galaxy S24 FE. Competitors like OPPO, Infinix, and Apple offer similar features in their own devices.
Moreover, there are glaring limitations to Samsung’s AI features. For example, Live Translate lacks support for African languages, limiting its usability in regions like Kenya. Circle to Search is increasingly becoming available across Android devices, making it less of a standout feature. As for tools like Sketch to Image and Photo Assist, while fun to explore initially, they are the kind of features many users might forget are even available on their phones after the novelty wears off.
Design and Build: Balancing Premium and Practical
The Galaxy S24 FE borrows heavily from its flagship siblings, featuring a boxy design with flat sides and an aluminum frame. Its 6.7-inch display is surrounded by slightly thicker bezels than the flagship models, but the overall build feels solid and premium. With Gorilla Glass Victus+ and an IP68 rating, the device promises durability, even in challenging environments.
However, subtle differences like a lower display resolution and less refined edge finishes reveal its mid-range roots. While these compromises are understandable at its price point, they may detract from the flagship-like experience some users expect.
Positioning and Target Audience
The Galaxy S24 FE is targeted at users who want a large-screen phone with decent performance and a touch of flagship design, without breaking the bank. Its extended 7-year software support is a strong selling point, appealing to buyers who prioritize longevity and value for money.
For the Kenyan market, the S24 FE strikes a balance between premium features and affordability. Its pricing makes it a more accessible option for consumers who want high-end design and functionality without opting for the flagship Galaxy S24 or S24 Plus.
Globally, the Galaxy S24 FE competes with devices like the Google Pixel 8A and Xiaomi 14T Pro, which offer similar or superior features at competitive prices. Regionally, it faces challenges from Samsung’s own Galaxy A-series and competitors like Xiaomi NOTE, TECNO Phantom, and Infinix Zero series, which are popular in Kenya for their aggressive pricing and features.
Samsung’s commitment to software updates and features like Samsung Care+ enhance its appeal in Kenya, where durability and after-sales support are significant factors in buying decisions. The S24 FE’s IP68 rating is a bonus for users navigating dusty or wet environments.
Conclusion: A Solid Option or a Missed Opportunity?
The Galaxy S24 FE offers a mix of flagship-inspired features and mid-range compromises. While it excels in areas like AI integration, build quality, and long-term software support, it struggles to stand out in a market crowded with capable alternatives.
For Kenyan buyers, the S24 FE is a great choice if you value Samsung’s brand reputation, design, and software longevity. However, for those seeking the best value for money, exploring alternatives like the Galaxy A-series or even older flagship models might be a better option.
Discover more from Techish Kenya
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
