The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Fan Edition (FE) was released in 2017 as a revamped version of the infamous Note 7, which was recalled due to battery issues. Despite its rocky start, the Note 7 FE offered impressive specs and features at a lower price point. But is the Samsung Note 7 Fan Edition still a good buy in 2023? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review to find out.
Design and Display: A Familiar Yet Elegant Look
The Note 7 FE retains the premium design of its predecessor, featuring a sleek metal and glass construction with curved edges. It boasts a large 5.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a sharp resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, offering durability against scratches and minor drops.
Samsung Note 7 FE design
Performance and Software: Still a Capable Device
Under the hood, the Note 7 FE is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, which, while not the latest chipset, still delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and even moderate gaming. It comes with 4GB of RAM, ensuring efficient multitasking and app switching.
Camera: Capturing Memories with Clarity
The Note 7 FE boasts a 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and dual-pixel autofocus, allowing for sharp and detailed images even in low-light conditions. It also features a 5MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
Samsung Note 7 FE camera app
Battery Life and Charging: Addressing Past Concerns
Samsung addressed the battery concerns of the original Note 7 by equipping the FE with a smaller, 3200mAh battery. While this might seem like a downgrade, the Note 7 FE still provides decent battery life that can easily last through a day of moderate use. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly power up your device.
S Pen: A Signature Feature for Productivity
One of the standout features of the Note series is the S Pen, and the Note 7 FE is no exception. The S Pen offers precise pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for taking notes, sketching, and navigating the device’s interface.
Should You Buy the Samsung Note 7 Fan Edition in 2023?
The Samsung Note 7 Fan Edition remains a capable device even in 2023, especially if you can find it at a good price. Its sleek design, vibrant display, and S Pen functionality make it a solid option for users who prioritize productivity and creativity. However, it’s essential to consider that it’s an older device with some limitations, such as an aging processor and software that might not receive the latest updates.
Samsung Note 7 FE S Pen functionalities
FAQs:
Is the Samsung Note 7 FE still safe to use?
Yes, the Note 7 FE underwent rigorous battery safety tests and addressed the issues that affected the original Note 7.
Does the Note 7 FE support the latest Android version?
No, the Note 7 FE was released with Android 7.0 Nougat and might not receive updates to the latest Android versions.
Can I use the Note 7 FE for mobile gaming?
While it can handle moderate gaming, demanding games might experience lag or require lower graphics settings due to the older processor.