Samsung’s ‘Fan Edition’ model for 2026 is a phone I used on the side while traveling for work for this short form review.
It’s a solid flagship alternative, full of eye-catching colors and solid build quality – but it’s almost identical to the previous S25 FE, but is even more expensive.
Where does the S26 FE fit in the Samsung Galaxy range?
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
The Samsung range goes like this: Galaxy S26 Ultra at the top of the stack, then the step-down S26 Plus and smaller base S26 to address format and smaller requirements.
The Galaxy S26 FE, while sitting among that trio of phones, is more similar to the Plus in terms of scale, with a 6.7-inch display size. It is a typical tall and narrow design.
How much does FE cost?
The S26 FE went on sale on September 18, completing the Samsung Core Galaxy range line-up for 2026.
It’s available in Blueberry, Pistachio or Graphite finishes, starting at £699 / $699 / €799 for the 128GB storage model. That’s an increase of £50/$100 over the previous S25 FE model.
What is actually different about the S25 FE?
In summary: not much. There is a new processor to justify this price increase, while the ultra-wide camera sensor changes to a new type for marginally better performance.
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| Row 0 – Cell 0 | S25 FE | S26 FE |
Display | 6.7 inches, 1080 x 2340 | 6.7 inches, 1080 x 2340 |
Processor | Samsung Exynos 2400 | Samsung Exynos 2500 |
Storage + RAM | 128/256/512GB + 8GB | 128/256/512GB + 8GB |
cameras | 50MP main, 12MP wide, 8MP 3x telezoom | Same core spec, but new ultrawide sensor |
Battery | 4900mAh, 45W charging | 4900mAh, 45W charging – slightly faster charging stations |
Software | One UI 8 at launch | A UI 9 at start, added My FanCam and Horizontal Lock |
completion | Ice Blue, Jet Black, Navy, White | Blueberry, pistachio, graphite |
So who is the S26 FE aimed at?
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
What has always been key to the S26 FE is that its asking price underpins the flagship range – making it a potentially great outright purchase rather than necessarily a purchase on contract.
That’s especially true if you’re looking for a flagship-quality product, as this glass sandwich design makes no compromises, from the finish to the clarity of the display, and all the important factors in between.
The target customer has a lot of choice when looking for an affordable Android handset, but for the Fan Edition model to push that price ceiling will challenge its appeal a bit.
How does the S26 FE work?
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
As a daily Galaxy Z Fold 8 user myself — that’s Samsung’s new foldable, if you’re unfamiliar — the S26 FE’s similar software delivers a solid experience.
What I found better in the S26 FE, however, is the addition of the zoom camera – which is one of the three on the rear. That was super handy when shooting during my travels, despite its moderate resolution.
The move to Samsung’s own Exynos chip is a key hardware aspect of this Fan Edition phone, but I found it could run games and multi-task no problems. Battery life is also decent, lasting more than a typical day of use without any drama.
Should you buy the S26 FE?
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
If I were to use the Galaxy S26 FE as my everyday phone, I’d be more than happy. From the way it looks to the way it works, it’s a great Android option in isolation – and recommended from that point of view.
That said, the year-over-year improvements are so small that last year’s S25 FE is a no-brainer buy for even less cash. And with more and more competition, I have to wonder if the Fan Edition has run its course among Samsung’s wider line-up.
Also consider
At the risk of repeating myself: the Galaxy S25 FE is almost the same device, but even cheaper. Even the Galaxy S25 Plus would be a viable option, if it’s true.
Otherwise, should cutting costs be your main goal, then look at Nothing’s Phone (4a) Pro provides a striking metal capable alternative with some cash savings.