Samsung Galaxy S20 FE vs OnePlus 8T: Which is the Better Choice?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and OnePlus 8T are both highly regarded flagship smartphones that offer a great balance of features and affordability. In this article, we will compare these two devices in terms of design, hardware, camera, software, and price, to help you decide which one is the better choice.
Design
When it comes to design, both the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and the OnePlus 8T offer sleek and modern aesthetics. The OnePlus 8T features a design similar to its predecessor, with subtle differences such as a new camera setup. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE takes a slightly different approach, featuring a similar design to the original Galaxy S20 but with a plastic back and an aluminum frame.
Despite their distinct design languages, both phones share some common features, such as AMOLED displays with high refresh rates. The OnePlus 8T features a slightly larger 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED display, offering a bit more screen real estate, while the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE has a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen. Both devices feature punch hole displays with the S20 FE centering the hole, while the OnePlus 8T places it off to the upper left corner.
When it comes to color options, the OnePlus 8T offers only two choices: Lunar Silver and Aquamarine Green, whereas the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE provides more variety, including Cloud Navy, Cloud Red, Cloud Lavender, Cloud Mint, Cloud White, and Cloud Orange. Additionally, the Galaxy S20 FE has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, while the regular unlockable OnePlus 8T does not. However, T-Mobile users can opt for the OnePlus 8T Plus, which does offer IP68 protection.
Hardware
Under the hood, both devices are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, supporting 5G in several regions. The Galaxy S20 FE even offers 5G support with sub-6 and mmWave bands, making it a more versatile choice for certain carriers.
For those who prefer a 4G-only option, Samsung offers the Galaxy S20 FE with an Exynos 990 chip, available outside of the US. In terms of specifications, the OnePlus 8T offers two configurations: 8GB RAM with 128GB storage or 12GB RAM with 256GB storage. In contrast, the Galaxy S20 FE features 6GB LPDDR5 RAM and 128GB storage. Both devices support microSD card expansion up to 1TB, allowing users to store even more content.
In terms of charging, the OnePlus 8T stands out with a Warp Charge 65 charger, capable of charging the device to 100% in just 39 minutes. The S20 FE offers 15W wired charging out of the box but supports 25W with an optional adapter. Both devices support quick charging, but the OnePlus 8T's Warp Charge is significantly faster.
Camera
The cameras on these devices are quite different and offer various features. The OnePlus 8T features a 48MP main sensor, a 16MP ultra-wide camera, a 5MP macro sensor, and a 2MP monochrome camera. It also includes an AI-driven camera feature that detects low light settings and switches to the Nightscape mode. In our review, we found the camera quality to be average, and we were disappointed with the photos taken.
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE offers three sensors: a 12MP standard camera, a 12MP wide-angle camera, and an 8MP telephoto camera. It also features a 32MP front-facing camera, making it better suited for both photography and videography. The S20 FE can record 4K videos at 60fps, which is a significant advantage over the OnePlus 8T.
Software
Both devices come with modern operating systems. The OnePlus 8T comes with OxygenOS 11, based on Android 11, while the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE runs on Android 10 with One UI. The OnePlus 8T offers more up-to-date software, with Android 11 out of the box, while the S20 FE will likely receive the Android 11 update eventually. Samsung pledges at least three Android OS updates for the Galaxy S20 FE, along with an extra year for security updates.
Price
When it comes to pricing, the OnePlus 8T starts at ￡549 for the 8GB/128GB version, while the 12GB/256GB version starts at ￡649. The US market only offers the 12GB/256GB version at 749. For the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, the starting price is 699 in the US, with the 5G model costing 749 through Verizon Wireless. In the UK, the 5G version is available for ￡699, and the 4G version costs ￡599. In Europe, the 4G model will cost €659 and the 5G version €759.
Conclusion
While the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE offers a more robust price point, 5G capabilities, and wireless charging support, the OnePlus 8T shines with more onboard storage, a faster charging solution, and a slightly more premium glass back. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and specific needs.