Samsung Galaxy S26 FE improves performance and battery life but downgrades USB and speaker specs

The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE brings notable performance and battery life improvements over its predecessor, the S25 FE, but introduces several unexpected downgrades. Powered by the Exynos 2500 chipset with 8GB of RAM, the device demonstrates superior sustained performance and thermal management in benchmarks. Its 4,900 mAh battery achieves a significantly higher active use score of nearly 15 hours, supported by slightly faster 45W wired charging that reaches 69% in 30 minutes. The 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display retains a peak brightness of over 1,250 nits, remaining highly usable outdoors. However, the S26 FE compromises on several hardware features. The USB-C port has been downgraded to USB 2.0 speeds from the previous model's USB 3.2, and it no longer supports wired video output, limiting Samsung DeX to wireless connections. Additionally, the stereo speakers are noticeably quieter despite maintaining solid audio quality. The camera system remains unchanged from previous generations, featuring a 50MP main, 8MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide setup that delivers decent but unremarkable results. Given its higher launch price, the S26 FE faces stiff competition unless retail prices decrease.

The Galaxy S26 FE is powered by the Exynos 2500 chipset, showing improved sustained performance and thermal stability over the S25 FE. The device features a 4,900 mAh battery that achieved an active use score of nearly 15 hours in testing.

Wired charging speeds have slightly improved, reaching 69% in 30 minutes with a 45W charger. The USB-C port has been downgraded to USB 2.0, removing wired video output and wired Samsung DeX support.

The stereo speakers are quieter than the previous generation's, though they maintain similar sound quality. The camera hardware remains unchanged, utilizing a 50MP main, 8MP 3x telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide array.