Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Review: Mid-Range Marvel with AI Smarts for 2025

Milesh Kumar

Publish on: 25 August, 2025

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE emerges as a compelling mid-range flagship that delivers premium features at an accessible price, making it a smart pick for US users balancing performance and budget. Launched globally on October 4, 2023, with US availability from October 26, 2023, it starts at $255.99 for the 128GB unlocked model, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 256GB variant is $709.99. A solid best 5G phone 2025 contender, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE boasts a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, an Exynos 2200/Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, and Galaxy AI.

The unlocked model supports Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T with 5G bands n1/n2/n5/n41/n66/n77. Black Friday 2025 deals are projected (up to $150 off or $300 trade-ins, based on historical trends, noted transparently as exact details are pending).

Design & Build

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE features a sleek, ergonomic design that’s durable and modern, appealing to US users who want a phone that feels premium without the flagship cost. Available in vibrant Samsung Galaxy S23 FE colors like Graphite, Mint, Cream, and Purple, it has a Gorilla Glass Victus+ back and aluminum frame. For protection, consider a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE phone case like the official silicone covers ($20-40) and a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE tempered glass screen protector ($30) to guard the display. Is the Galaxy S23 FE waterproof? Yes, with an IP68 rating (1.5 m/30 min submersion).

Materials: Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ back, Gorilla Glass 5 front.
Dimensions & Weight: 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm, 209 g.
Durability: IP68 water/dust resistance (is the Galaxy S23 FE waterproof rating).
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Colors: Graphite, Mint, Cream, and Purple.
US Availability: Unlocked on Samsung.com/us and Amazon US; Galaxy S23 FE phone case like the Standing Cover ($39.99); Galaxy S23 FE tempered glass screen protector ($17.99).

Display & Audio

In this review, the 6.4-inch display steals the show with its vibrant AMOLED panel and 120 Hz smoothness, perfect for US streaming and gaming. HDR10+ support ensures rich visuals, while stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos deliver immersive sound. A Samsung Galaxy S23 FE screen protector is essential to maintain clarity, especially in Samsung Galaxy S23 FE colors like Mint for a fresh look.

Display Type: 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1,080 x 2,340 resolution (FHD+), 120 Hz refresh rate.
Brightness: Up to 1,900 nits peak, Vision Booster for outdoor visibility.
Audio: Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, no 3.5mm jack.
Features: HDR10+ certified, Always-On Display, Eye Comfort Shield.

Performance & Software

Performance in the review is reliable for mid-range, powered by the Exynos 2200/Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 for smooth multitasking and AI tasks. The unlocked model offers broad US carrier compatibility, with Android 13 and One UI 5.1 providing 4 OS updates and 5 years of security (to 2028). The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 256GB variant handles apps effortlessly.

Processor: Exynos 2200 (global)/Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (US, 4 nm octa-core up to 2.8 GHz).
Benchmarks: Geekbench 6: ~1,800 single-core, ~4,800 multi-core (mid-range optimized).
OS: Android 13 with One UI 5.1, 4 OS upgrades, 5 years of security (to 2028).

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Camera

The camera array in our review offers solid versatility with AI enhancements, great for casual US photographers. The 50MP main sensor captures detailed shots, and the 8MP telephoto provides 3x zoom. Is the Galaxy S23 FE waterproof? Its IP68 build protects during outdoor shoots—pair with a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE phone case for lens safety.

Rear Camera: 50MP main (f/1.8, OIS), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2, 123° FOV), 8MP telephoto (3x optical zoom, f/2.4).
Front Camera: 10MP (f/2.4).
Features: Nightography, 8K@24fps video, Expert RAW, AI Scene Optimizer.
Performance: Good low-light, natural colors, reliable zoom

Read Also: 
1. Top 5G Gaming Phones Under $800 for 2025
2. Best Budget Android Phones in the US (2025): Top Picks for $200–$300

Battery & Charging

Battery life in the review is impressive for mid-range, with the 4,500mAh cell lasting a full day for US users. 25W charging refuels quickly, and wireless options add convenience. The Galaxy S23 FE 256GB model’s efficiency shines, and the Galaxy S23 FE’s IP68 waterproof rating ensures safe use near water.

Battery: 4,500 mAh typical, up to 28 hours of video playback.
Charging: 25W Super Fast wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless.
US Context: No charger included; Qi-compatible for US pads; mixed use ~10-12 hours.
Features: Adaptive charging; is the Galaxy S23 FE waterproof for damp environments?

Pros & Cons

Pros:
- Vibrant 6.4-inch AMOLED in Samsung Galaxy S23 FE colors (Graphite, Mint, etc.).
- Exynos/Snapdragon for capable 5G and AI.
- Versatile 50MP camera with 3x zoom.
- Spacious Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 256 GB storage option.
- IP68 rating (is the Galaxy S23 FE waterproof); Samsung Galaxy S23 FE phone case available.
Cons:
- ~$255.99 starting price for base model.
- 25W charging is not the fastest.
- No charger included.
- Slightly heavier at 209 g.

Verdict

The Galaxy S23 FE suits budget-conscious users, casual creators, and those wanting flagship vibes without the cost opt for Samsung Galaxy S23 FE refurbished deals ~($200-400) for savings. In Samsung Galaxy S23 FE colors like purple, it pops, and a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE screen protector ($17) keeps it pristine. The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 256GB is perfect for storage needs, and the Galaxy S23 FE’s IP68 waterproof rating adds reliability. At ~$255.99, it’s a steal with US trade-ins (up to $300) and Black Friday 2025 deals. Verdict: 4.5/5 stars a fantastic 2025 mid-range 5G phone. Grab the unlocked Samsung Galaxy S23 FE at US retailers!

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