Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20 FE 5G
Starting at
£163.65£759.00 new
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S20 FE 5G and iPhone 12?
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G starts at £163.65, £6.35 less than the iPhone 12.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) on the Galaxy S20 FE 5G, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12.
- The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 specs
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G and iPhone 12 both launched in 2020 and offer 5G connectivity, unlocked use, and high-quality displays. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is suited for those who want a larger screen with a higher refresh rate, a bigger battery, and expandable storage with a microSD card. Camera setups differ with the Galaxy offering a triple rear camera and a higher resolution front camera, while the iPhone has a dual rear camera and a 12-megapixel front camera. Performance balance depends on preferences for chipset architecture and RAM. Your choice depends on what features matter most in daily use.
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 price
Colour
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, operating systems, and physical build. These factors influence how long the device runs on a charge, stays current with software, and how it feels in hand.
Battery Capacity and Daily Use
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 12's 2815 mAh. This means the Galaxy can support longer use between charges, which benefits users who need extended battery life for all-day activity. The iPhone 12's smaller battery suits those with lighter daily usage or who prioritise a lighter phone.
Software Updates and Operating System
Your choice here depends on whether you prefer iOS or Android and the importance of ongoing updates.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These determine how well the phone handles apps, multitasking, and storage needs.
Chipset and RAM
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chipset with 6 GB of RAM, offering ample memory for multitasking and everyday apps. The iPhone 12 features the Apple A14 Bionic chipset with 4 GB of RAM, known for efficient performance and smooth app operation. The Galaxy may suit users who want more RAM for keeping multiple apps open, while the iPhone offers strong performance with a smaller RAM size.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is stocked with 128GB or 256GB storage, and supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage. The iPhone 12 comes in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options but does not support expandable storage. Galaxy users who need extra storage flexibility can add a memory card, while iPhone buyers choose from fixed storage sizes.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 screen
Screen quality affects how enjoyable and comfortable the phone is for viewing content. Key differences include screen size, refresh rate, resolution, and screen type.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a 6.5 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, offering a larger viewing area suitable for watching videos or browsing. The iPhone 12 has a smaller 6.1 inch screen but with a higher resolution of 1170 x 2532, which means sharper images and text. Choose the Galaxy for a bigger display or the iPhone for crisper detail.
Refresh Rate and Screen Type
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G supports a 120 Hz refresh rate which makes animations and scrolling appear smoother, ideal for gaming or fast navigation. The iPhone 12 has a 60 Hz refresh rate, providing standard smoothness. Both use OLED technology with the Galaxy's Super AMOLED and the iPhone's Super Retina XDR OLED, delivering vibrant colours and good contrast.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 camera
Audiovisual features focus on cameras and front-facing sensors, important for photography, video calls, and selfies.
Camera Setup
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G includes a triple rear camera setup, giving more options for different types of shots. The iPhone 12 has a dual rear camera setup, covering essential photography needs. Both have 12 megapixel main cameras, ensuring detailed photos.
Front Camera Detail
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a 32 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail in selfies and video calls. The iPhone 12's front camera is 12 megapixels, which still delivers good quality for everyday use. Those who prioritise selfie resolution may prefer the Galaxy.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 size and design
Miscellaneous features include physical dimensions, connectivity, SIM options, and other practical details that impact everyday handling and compatibility.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is larger and heavier, measuring 159.8 mm tall, 74.5 mm wide, and 8.4 mm deep, weighing 190 g. The iPhone 12 is more compact and lighter at 146.7 mm tall, 71.5 mm wide, 7.4 mm deep, and 164 g. If you want a smaller, lighter phone, the iPhone 12 suits you better. The Galaxy offers a bigger device that some may find easier to hold for media.
Connectivity and SIM Options
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G uses a USB-C connector and supports dual physical SIM cards plus a microSDXC card slot for storage expansion. The iPhone 12 uses a Lightning connector and supports one physical SIM plus an eSIM. Choose based on your preference for ports and SIM card flexibility.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S20 FE 5G or iPhone 12: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S20 FE 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £163.65, £6.35 less than the iPhone 12
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 12 if
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Nov 2025)
- you want a lighter build (162 g vs 190 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S20 FE 5G often highlight the phone's excellent condition and value. Many mention the large, bright screen and smooth performance with apps. The battery life is praised for lasting all day, and the SD card slot is appreciated for storing images. Some users were impressed with how quickly data transferred to the phone. The device's feel and solid build also receive positive remarks. While most customers are very happy, a small number note issues with battery life or support. Overall, the Galaxy appeals to those who want a larger display, more memory, and expandable storage.
The iPhone 12 attracts customers who appreciate its like-new appearance and smooth performance with the A14 Bionic chip. Many buyers are pleased with the battery condition, especially when a new battery is included. The phone is described as spotless and reliable for everyday use, with smooth multitasking and fast app opening. Users value the iOS updates and build quality. The iPhone 12 suits those who want a lighter, compact device with good performance and the latest software support. Many customers say the phone looks brand new and works well.
Both phones receive praise for their condition and performance from customers. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G fits users who prefer a larger, feature-rich phone with more RAM and storage options. The iPhone 12 is better suited to buyers wanting a lighter, well-updated device with a sharp screen and smooth operation.
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 FAQs
Galaxy S20 FE 5G vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) on the Galaxy S20 FE 5G, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12. The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £163.65 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
The Galaxy S20 FE 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S20 FE 5G ended in Nov 2025. The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 12 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
