In the ever-competitive smartphone market of 2025, two giants have released their latest contenders in the race for mid-premium supremacy: Samsung with its Galaxy S25 FE and Apple with the iPhone Air. Both devices are crafted to balance premium features at a more accessible price point than their flagship cousins. However, which one truly offers the most bang for your buck? Let’s delve into this detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
Design and Build: Craftsmanship in Every Curve
Samsung retains its Fan Edition ethos with the Galaxy S25 FE, opting for a robust design with Gorilla Glass Victus+ and a sturdy armour aluminum frame, all bundled into a package that weighs a solid 190 grams. Meanwhile, Apple’s iPhone Air, part of the iPhone 17 line-up, takes the prize for slimness and lightness at just 5.6 mm thick and only 165 grams. Notably, Apple’s innovative redesign includes a singular sleek camera bar, setting it apart from its own Pro series.
Display Brilliance: A Clash of Screens
The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE’s crown jewel is its 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display, boasting HDR10+ compatibility and a blistering 120Hz refresh rate under peak brightness of 1900 nits. On the flip side, Apple offers a 6.5-inch OLED screen on the iPhone Air, featuring an impressive resolution, ProMotion technology, and an eye-searing peak brightness of 3000 nits. Whichever you select, both phone screens promise vivid colors and smooth animations.
Performance and Software: Power Play
On the inside, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE runs on the potent Exynos 2400 processor, promising longevity with an incredible seven major Android updates. Apple counters with the A19 Pro chip in the iPhone Air, complete with integrated Neural Accelerators that push the boundaries of AI-driven user experience, thanks to the groundbreaking iOS 26.
Camera Capabilities: Capturing the World
Opting for versatile photo options, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE packs a 50MP wide sensor, an 8MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide camera, all capable of producing 8K video. Apple’s approach in the iPhone Air showcases their commitment to innovation with a single 48MP Fusion camera, allowing unique adaptation to different photo settings, albeit missing the multipurpose lens setup.
Battery and Charging: Power the Day
A clear advantage in battery power lies with the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE’s 4900 mAh battery, facilitating 45W fast charging and improved reverse wireless charging. The slimmer iPhone Air houses a smaller 3149 mAh battery, but compensates with robust wireless charging capabilities, introducing the convenience of 20W MagSafe standards.
Price Points: Value Over Cost?
Price sets the final divide, with Samsung targeting a broader audience with an entry price of Rs. 59,999 for the base model. Apple, in contrast, positions the iPhone Air in the ultra-premium tier, beginning at Rs. 1,19,900. As stated in Hindustan Times, potential buyers must weigh whether competitive pricing or premium finishes and seamless software integration make for a more appealing investment.
Final Thoughts: The Choice Is Yours
Both the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE and iPhone Air bring unique strengths to the table. Samsung combines aggressive affordability with powerful hardware, while Apple delivers a thinner design and deeper ecosystem ties. The final decision rests on personal priorities and ecosystem allegiance, representing a true testament to the richly varied smartphone landscape of today.