Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at
£159.05£779.00 new
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S20 FE and iPhone 12?
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE starts at £159.05, £10.95 less than the iPhone 12.
Refurbished from
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Refresh rate
- The Galaxy S20 FE has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
- The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 6.1 inch.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 specs
The Galaxy S20 FE and iPhone 12 both come from 2020 and serve different needs. The Galaxy S20 FE offers a larger screen with a higher refresh rate and a bigger battery, suited for users who want a roomier display and longer usage between charges. It runs Android and supports microSDXC storage for extra space. The iPhone 12 runs iOS, supports 5G networks, and offers multiple storage options including 64GB. The choice depends on whether you prefer a larger screen and battery with expandable storage or an iOS device with ongoing software updates and 5G connectivity.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 price
Colour
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 battery life and software updates
Battery size and software updates are key to device longevity.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S20 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, which is larger than the 2815 mAh battery in the iPhone 12. This means the Galaxy S20 FE could offer longer usage between charges, useful if you spend a lot of time away from power sources. The iPhone 12's smaller battery may suit those with lighter daily usage or easy access to charging.
Operating System
The Galaxy S20 FE runs Android, offering a different app ecosystem and interface style compared to the iPhone 12, which runs iOS. Your choice may depend on which operating system you prefer or are already familiar with.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 screen
Screen size, refresh rate and resolution affect how you experience media and everyday use. Both phones have OLED screens with clear displays, but they differ in size and smoothness.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S20 FE has a 6.5 inch screen, which is larger than the iPhone 12's 6.1 inch screen. This gives more room for videos and browsing on the Galaxy S20 FE. The iPhone 12 has a slightly higher resolution at 1170 x 2532, which means a sharper image on a smaller screen.
Refresh Rate
The Galaxy S20 FE supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, offering smoother scrolling and animations, which is noticeable when navigating menus or playing games. The iPhone 12 has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard and still provides a clear display but with less fluid motion.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S20 FE uses a Super AMOLED display, while the iPhone 12 has a Super Retina XDR OLED screen. Both provide vibrant colours and deep blacks, so image quality should be excellent on either device.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 camera
Camera setups and front camera resolution differ between the two phones, affecting photography and video calls. Both main cameras capture 12 megapixel images.
Camera Setup
The Galaxy S20 FE has a triple rear camera system, offering more versatility for different types of photos like wide, ultra-wide or zoom shots. The iPhone 12 has a dual rear camera setup, which still covers the basics well for everyday photography.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S20 FE features a 32 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies or video calls. The iPhone 12 has a 12 megapixel front camera, which is still capable but has fewer megapixels.
Main Camera
Both phones have a 12 megapixel main rear camera, suitable for high-quality photos. This means you can expect similar detail levels from the primary camera on either device.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 size and design
Other differences include network support, physical size, storage options, and connection ports. These factors affect daily convenience and compatibility with accessories.
Network Compatibility
The iPhone 12 supports 5G networks, which can provide faster internet speeds where available. The Galaxy S20 FE supports 4G, which covers most current networks but without 5G capability.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S20 FE is available with 128GB or 256GB storage and supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage. The iPhone 12 offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options but does not support expandable storage. Choose the Galaxy S20 FE if you want more flexible storage expansion.
SIM Card Options
The iPhone 12 supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, allowing two phone numbers or plans on one device. The Galaxy S20 FE uses a physical SIM only.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S20 FE measures 159.8 mm tall, 74.5 mm wide, and 8.4 mm deep, weighing 190 g. The iPhone 12 is 146.7 mm tall, 71.5 mm wide, and 7.4 mm deep, weighing 164 g. The iPhone 12 is slightly smaller and lighter, which may suit those who prefer a more compact phone.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S20 FE uses a USB-C connector, common on many devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 uses a Lightning connector, which works with Apple accessories and chargers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S20 FE or iPhone 12: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S20 FE if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £159.05, £10.95 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 5G
- you want a lighter build (162 g vs 190 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S20 FE often comment that the phone looks like new and is in excellent condition. Many appreciate the large screen and ease of transferring data wirelessly. Some users mention battery life concerns, with a few noting it does not last as long as expected. Overall, many find it a good purchase and enjoy the phone's size and features.
For the iPhone 12, customers consistently highlight the phone's excellent condition, with many saying it looks brand new and runs smoothly. Several mention they chose a new battery option and are pleased with the battery life. Performance is praised, with apps opening quickly and multitasking working well. The phone's compact size and inclusion of accessories like a SIM removal tool are also appreciated.
The Galaxy S20 FE suits buyers wanting a larger screen and expandable storage, while the iPhone 12 appeals to those who value ongoing software updates, 5G connectivity, and a compact design.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 FAQs
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The Galaxy S20 FE has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB. The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
The Galaxy S20 FE is cheaper refurbished, from £159.05 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S20 FE ended in Nov 2025. The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 12 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
