Samsung recently showcased the Galaxy S25 FE at IFA Berlin, and anticipation was high for this model. True to its predecessors, the S25 FE promises a flagship experience at a more budget-friendly price of $649 / £649 / AU$1,099. When I had the chance to explore its features a few weeks ago, my enthusiasm remained intact. The S25 FE is notably thinner and lighter than the previous S24 FE, and it comes equipped with Samsung’s latest AI advancements. Not to mention, it boasts an enhanced 12 MP selfie camera.
However, what stood out to me most was a less-publicized upgrade: a larger battery fit into its sleeker design. I was optimistic that the improved battery capacity, together with advanced AI tools, a larger display, and an upgraded camera, would position the S25 FE as a strong contender against the Galaxy S25—not just as a solid midrange option.
### A Closer Look at Battery Life
In our review of last year’s Galaxy S24 FE, we praised its remarkable battery life. For the S25 FE, Samsung has bumped up the battery capacity significantly, now at 4,900mAh—just shy of the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 5,000mAh. I hoped this would make it a true multi-day champion, ideal for anyone prioritizing battery performance. Unfortunately, while it delivers solid results, it hasn’t quite reached that lofty goal.
Though it still provides all-day battery life, it’s not the significant leap I had hoped for. My suspicion is that while the larger vapor chamber and increased battery capacity offer potential benefits, they may be offset by the heightened demands from the phone’s AI capabilities. So, even with faster processing and a bigger battery, those enhancements can struggle to shine due to the additional power drain from more demanding tasks.
### Everyday Performance
Battery performance varies from user to user, but for context, my day typically starts around 5 AM, packed with activities like listening to music while walking the dog and catching up on the news during my commute. With approximately 6 to 7 hours of screen time daily—primarily on social media and streaming services—the S25 FE holds its own. Unlike my iPhone 15, which often needs a midday charge, the S25 FE consistently delivered over 50% by lunchtime and hovered around 30% by the end of my workday.
While I appreciated the S25 FE’s display, cameras, and battery, it doesn’t quite stand out in the Android landscape, and certainly not in the same league as the S25 Ultra.
### Power Concerns
Another concern was the S25 FE’s Exynos 2400 chip, which typically consumes more power than its Snapdragon counterparts. In testing, Snapdragon devices have often outlasted Exynos models, highlighting the ongoing battle between these processors.
Overall, I found the S25 FE’s battery life to be quite acceptable. It may not be the best in class, but it shouldn’t be overlooked by anyone wanting flagship features at a more accessible price point. There are budget models, like the Galaxy A56, with potentially better battery life, but they fall short on premium experiences.
### Fast Charging as a Game Changer
Even if the all-day battery life doesn’t meet your every need, Samsung has an ace up its sleeve: the boost to 45W wired charging, up from 25W last year. This allows users to recharge to nearly 70% in just 30 minutes, rendering battery concerns less of an issue for those who carry a charger with them.
At its sticker price, the S25 FE appears to be a compelling choice over the flagship S25. While the camera and performance won’t eclipse the premium model, the differences are negligible for most users. If you can snag the S25 at a discount closer to the S25 FE’s price, it might still be worth the investment.
### Final Thoughts
While I would have liked to see a more significant battery upgrade, the S25 FE remains a worthy addition to the S25 lineup. The choice between it and the S25 hinges on your budget and whether you prioritize a larger display or a more advanced camera setup.
In summary, the S25 FE is a fantastic smartphone that delivers excellent value for its price. If spending upwards of $800 on a new flagship isn’t in your plans, the S25 FE should undoubtedly be on your list if you’re ready to elevate from a budget device.
