Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Review: Is It Worth Upgrading From the S24 FE?

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Fan Edition is now available globally. The phone offers a blend of premium features at a more accessible price point. Many current S24 FE owners are questioning if an upgrade is necessary.

Early reviews and technical comparisons show the new model is only a minor refresh. The changes are incremental rather than revolutionary for most users.

Key Upgrades and Minimal Changes

The Galaxy S25 FE brings several small improvements. It features a more powerful Exynos 2400 chipset compared to the S24 FE’s 2400e variant. This promises a slight boost in performance for demanding tasks.

The device is also noticeably lighter at 190 grams. Its battery capacity has increased to 4,900mAh with support for 45W charging. According to technical reports, this should offer marginally better battery life.

Other upgrades include a higher-resolution 12MP selfie camera and Bluetooth 5.4. The phone ships with the latest Android 16, guaranteeing two additional years of software updates compared to its predecessor.

Analyzing the Upgrade Value for Current Users

The core question is whether these changes justify the cost. In the United States, the S25 FE debuted at a starting price of $649. Samsung offers a trade-in program that can discount this price.

An S24 FE in good condition can net up to $400 off the new model. This would leave an owner paying roughly $249 out of pocket for the upgrade. For most, this cost does not match the minor feature improvements.

The consensus among industry analysts is that the upgrade is difficult to recommend. The experience of using the S25 FE daily would feel nearly identical to the S24 FE for the average consumer.

A Potential Exception for Storage Needs

There is one scenario where an upgrade could make sense. Samsung is currently running a limited-time promotion. It offers a free storage upgrade to the 256GB model for the same $649 price.

This changes the calculation for an S24 FE owner with a 128GB model who is constantly out of space. The combination of more storage, a larger battery, and a lighter device may then hold tangible value. This offer, however, is time-sensitive and varies by region.

For most Galaxy S24 FE users, upgrading to the S25 FE is not a compelling financial decision. The new model offers only marginal gains that are hard to justify for a near-full-price payment. The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is best suited for those with older devices seeking a great value flagship experience.

Info at your fingertips

What is the main difference between the S24 FE and S25 FE?

The main differences are a slightly more powerful chipset, a lighter build, and a larger battery with faster charging. The overall design and user experience remain very similar between the two models.

Is the S25 FE camera better than the S24 FE?

The rear camera system appears identical. The front selfie camera has been upgraded from 10MP to 12MP, which may result in slightly sharper self-portraits and video calls.

How much can I get for trading in my S24 FE?

Samsung’s trade-in values can fluctuate. Current promotions offer up to $400 for an S24 FE in good condition, significantly reducing the cost of the new S25 FE.

Should I buy the S25 FE if I have an older phone?

Yes, absolutely. If you are moving from a phone that is three or more years old, the S25 FE represents a massive upgrade in performance, camera quality, and battery life, offering excellent value.