Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs Google Pixel 9: A Comparison of Design and User Interface

Key Information

• When considering specifications and features, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE and Google Pixel 9 are surprisingly close, with few notable differences.
• The key distinctions are a telephoto camera on the S24 FE, additional memory on the Pixel 9, a larger display on the S24 FE, unique AI functionalities, and enhanced PC connectivity for the Galaxy model.
• Design and aesthetics are areas where these two devices significantly diverge.
• Pricing positions the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE at $649, while the Pixel 9 is available for $799.

The mid-range to high-end smartphone market has become quite competitive. The newly released Samsung Galaxy S24 FE bears a striking resemblance to the Google Pixel 9—not in design, but in terms of capabilities and features.

With the similarities between these devices, even minor differences, such as camera quality, AI integration, and build quality, can heavily influence user choice. The Google Pixel 9 has received mostly favorable reviews, while Samsung’s mid-range option also offers impressive capabilities. But does it hold up against the latest Pixel? Let’s delve into the details.

If you’re examining specifications, you’ll discover that the S24 FE and Pixel 9 are quite similar. However, several subtle differences can significantly affect daily usage, while there are areas where one clearly excels over the other.

Camera Comparison

Pixel smartphones are famous for their sharp, software-enhanced photographs that epitomize the “Pixel experience”. Yet, despite excellent post-processing abilities, the standard Pixel 9 lacks a telephoto camera. While its 50MP primary and 48MP ultra-wide cameras with up to 8X zoom are top-tier, the absence of a telephoto lens is a notable drawback that can only be remedied by upgrading to the Pixel 9 Pro.

Conversely, the Galaxy S24 FE features a triple camera setup that includes a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, allowing you to capture clear images from a distance. Additionally, the S24 FE incorporates Samsung’s advanced ‘ProVision Engine’ to elevate picture quality further.

Both front cameras are comparable, featuring a 10.5MP selfie camera on the Pixel 9 and a 10MP camera on the S24 FE. Both devices support video recording at 8K resolution at 30FPS, and both excel in low-light photography.

Overall, given its additional telephoto lens and video capabilities (the S24 FE can record at 8K 30FPS, while Pixel 9 maxes out at 4K 60FPS), the Galaxy S24 FE takes the lead in camera performance.

Artificial Intelligence Features

Both Google and Samsung are recognized as leaders in AI technology integration in smartphones. Each offers a suite of common AI features—such as generative text, image processing, Circle to Search, photo editing, etc.—with some variations.

However, the competition intensifies when exploring advanced AI functionalities.

While the Pixel 9 includes a specialized ‘Weather app’, the Galaxy S24 FE boasts a Photo Ambient Wallpaper feature. The Pixel 9’s Call Notes allow for call transcription and note-taking, whereas Galaxy S24 FE offers a Calls Assist feature that transcribes and live translates conversations in real time.

The Gemini Live voice mode, previously exclusive to the Gemini Advanced subscription (now available for free for Pixel 9 users for a year), is now accessible to all Android users at no cost.

The Pixel 9 features the unique ‘Add me’ functionality, while the Galaxy S24 FE is equipped with exclusive AI capabilities such as Live Translation, Browsing Assist, and Interpreter, which may appeal to users based on personal preferences.

Build Quality and Design

Though the design of these devices is entirely different, both are constructed with durability in mind, featuring aluminum frames. The Galaxy S24 FE uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, while the Pixel 9 opts for Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is a step up. Nonetheless, both models offer excellent scratch resistance.

Visual differentiation between the two devices is notable—particularly considering how similar they are in functionality, with form factor playing a crucial role in consumer choice.

Whether you admire the Pixel 9’s distinctive pill-shaped camera bar or prefer the S24 FE’s triple vertically aligned design, aesthetics will significantly influence decisions. Additionally, the Pixel 9 presents a vibrant color palette compared to the S24 FE’s more subdued options, which may appeal to different consumer preferences.

For those favoring the S24 FE, there are plenty of reasons to consider it as the superior choice.

Specifications Overview (Display, Size, RAM, Storage, Battery, Chip)

The Galaxy S24 FE boasts a larger 6.7-inch FHD+ display compared to the Pixel 9’s 6.3-inch FHD+ display. If you’re searching for a bigger Pixel, consider the Pixel 9 Pro XL or a foldable alternative. If a more compact Galaxy device catches your eye, the S24 or last year’s S23 FE may suit you better.

The Galaxy S24 FE is slightly heavier at 213 grams compared to 198 grams for the Pixel 9. However, both devices house a 4700mAh battery, supporting fast charging (27W for the Pixel 9 and 25W for the S24 FE), resulting in comparable performance. The larger display of the S24 FE could potentially lead to faster battery depletion over time.

The Pixel 9 features a higher memory capacity of 12GB RAM, reflecting Google’s commitment to enhancing AI capabilities. This will ensure the device’s longevity throughout OS updates, whereas the Galaxy S24 FE’s 8GB RAM might fall short in a few years, despite both devices receiving 7 years of OS support.

The Pixel 9 is offered in a single storage option of 256GB, while the Galaxy S24 FE comes in three variants—128GB, 256GB, and 512GB (in select markets)—providing added flexibility for local content storage.

Both smartphones are powered by different processors: the Samsung’s Exynos 2400e chip excels in CPU and gaming performance (including Ray Tracing) in comparison to the Tensor G4 chip in the Pixel 9. However, the Pixel 9’s chip is marginally more efficient, which may extend battery life.

App Store Support, Ecosystem, and PC Connectivity

The two devices also leverage their respective ecosystems heavily, making it worthwhile to consider which ecosystem aligns with your existing devices. If you own additional devices from one brand, such as earbuds, tablets, or smartwatches, sticking with that brand could be beneficial.

The Pixel 9 exclusively utilizes the Google Play Store for apps, whereas the Galaxy S24 FE also provides access to the Galaxy Store, which features apps optimized for Samsung devices.

In terms of wireless PC connectivity, Samsung’s Galaxy devices consistently outperform other Android models, especially concerning multitasking capabilities using the Phone Link app for tasks such as screen mirroring, file transfers, and app management—which are exclusive to Galaxy models. The Pixel 9 does not possess these advantages and shares wireless PC compatibility with other Android devices. While the Phone Link app has recently introduced additional useful features, Galaxy devices maintain a distinct advantage.

Resale Value

Samsung devices are renowned for their robust hardware and sustained performance, contributing to a higher resale value for Galaxy devices specifically. However, the long-term viability of 8GB of RAM in a device focused on AI features raises questions.

While the Pixel lineup has not historically been known for hardware quality, each new iteration improves significantly. The Pixel 9 stands out as one of the best devices in the Pixel series, with ample memory and extended OS updates, promising a decent resale value even after prolonged use.

Comprehensive Specifications Comparison

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the specifications for the Google Pixel 9 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:

Final Verdict

If price is not a concern, both the Google Pixel 9 and Galaxy S24 FE are remarkably similar and nearly indistinguishable. While design and aesthetics are significant influencing factors, on-paper specifications do not highlight a clear winner.

Based on your priorities—like camera quality, memory, available storage options, resale value, ecosystem compatibility, AI features, and color choices—you might skew toward one device over the other. Ultimately, both the Pixel 9 and Galaxy S24 FE stand out as impressive smartphone options. Even so, given the Galaxy S24 FE’s competitive pricing compared to the Pixel 9, it takes a slight edge, though personal preference could easily sway the decision either way.

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