Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is the smarter buy if you want a premium experience without breaking the bank. It offers a vibrant 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display compared to the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)'s dated 4.7-inch LCD. You get a dedicated 3x optical zoom for photography, which the iPhone SE simply lacks. The S23 FE is bulkier at 7.37 oz, but with its premium build and features, you’ll feel the extra weight is worth it. Key specs: Display: 4.7" vs 6.4" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 120 Hz.
Why compare these? The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (budget-friendly) and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (high-end) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple iPhone | Samsung Galaxy |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.5★ (225 reviews) | ✓4.8★ (13 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem | Dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket) |
| Main Drawback | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels | Significantly thicker bezels compared to standard S23 |
| Market Position | Budget | ✓Premium |
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific*
Adreno 730
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
| Criterion | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | Samsung Galaxy S23 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(225)Best Buy | ★4.8(13)Best Buy |
Operating System | iOS | Android |
Software Support | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) | 4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific* |
Graphics | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Adreno 730 |
RAM | 4GB | 8GB |
Storage | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe | 128GB / 256GB (No microSD expansion) |
Display Size | 4.7" | 6.4" |
Screen Type | Retina HD LCD (IPS) | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1,450 nits (Peak) |
Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz / 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 625 nits (Typical) | 1,450 nits (Peak) |
Main Camera | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x | 50MP, f/1.8, OIS, Dual Pixel PDAF |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) | 12MP, f/2.2, 123-degree FOV |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | 8MP, f/2.4, OIS, 3x Optical Zoom |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | 3x Optical Zoom |
Digital Zoom | Up to 5x | Up to 30x |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps | 8K @ 24fps; 4K @ 30/60fps |
Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps | 10MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 2,018mAh (Approximate) | 4,500mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning | 25W Super Fast Charging (Adapter sold separately) |
Wireless Charging | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) | 15W Fast Wireless Charging; Wireless PowerShare (Reverse) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC | 5G (Sub-6/mmWave), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
USB | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 |
Durability | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass | IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Front & Back) |
Dimensions | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) | 6.22 x 3.01 x 0.32 in (158.0 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 5.09 oz (144 g) | 7.37 oz (209 g) |
Biometrics | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) | Optical under-display fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support | Samsung DeX, Stereo speakers, Samsung Knox |
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Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Pros
- Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific*
Adreno 730
8GB
128GB / 256GB (No microSD expansion)
Pros
- Dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket)
- Premium build with IP68 rating and aluminum frame
Cons
- Significantly thicker bezels compared to standard S23
- Uses older Gorilla Glass 5 (vs. Victus 2 on S23)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is the better buy for most people - its 50MP camera crushes the iPhone SE's 12MP. That said, grab the iPhone SE if you want a lighter phone at 5.09 oz and prefer the classic Apple ecosystem.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you want a compact phone that's easy to use with one hand, prefer the iPhone ecosystem, or need a budget-friendly option. (4.7" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE if: you take a lot of photos, want a brighter and smoother display, or need a long-lasting battery for daily use. (6.4" display, 120 Hz refresh)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.8★ vs 4.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 225 reviews vs 13
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE leads with a 4.8★ rating versus 4.5★. That said, Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the better choice if you prioritize most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE wins if you value dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket). Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.8★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
Key differences: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem, while Samsung Galaxy S23 FE stands out with dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket). Consider that Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Meanwhile, Samsung Galaxy S23 FE significantly thicker bezels compared to standard s23. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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