Battle of the Budgets: Pixel 9a vs Galaxy S24 FE vs iPhone 16e – Performance Tested
Battle of the Budgets: Pixel 9a vs Galaxy S24 FE vs iPhone 16e – Performance Tested
The competition for the best "budget flagship" has never been fiercer as smartphone prices continue to rise. In 2025, compelling mid-range devices from Apple, Samsung, and Google aimed to provide users with high performance at a price point below four figures. This year, it’s a three-way showdown between the Google Pixel 9a, Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, and the newly introduced iPhone 16e.
Each device promises high-quality performance at a more manageable price; however, which one actually provides the most value for your money? We put these three to the test across CPU and GPU benchmarks, real-world performance, and thermal efficiency.
Specs Overview Let’s start with a look under the hood:
Pixel 9a from Google Chipset: Tensor G4 Lite
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB or 128GB Display: 6.1" OLED, 120Hz
Price: $499
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Exynos 2400 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 are the chipsets (region-dependent). 12GB and 8GB of RAM Storage: 128GB / 256GB
AMOLED, 6.4-inch, 120Hz display Price: $599
16-inch Apple iPhone Chipset: A17 Fusion (slightly underclocked version of A17 Pro)
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 256GB or 128GB Display: 6.1" Super Retina XDR
Price: $599
Benchmark Battles
Geekbench 6 (CPU - Multi-Core):
iPhone 16e: 6930
6600 Galaxy S24 FE Pixel 9a: 5920
(GPU) 3DMark Wild Life Extreme: iPhone 16e: 3650
3720 Galaxy S24 FE 3050 in Pixel 9a While Apple maintains a strong lead in CPU efficiency thanks to its custom silicon, Samsung edges out both competitors in GPU performance. The Pixel 9a trails slightly behind in raw power but still holds its own considering its lower price point.
Performance in the Real World When it comes to real-life usage, benchmark numbers only tell part of the story. We evaluated each device for app load times, multitasking, gaming, and video editing tasks. Pixel 9a: Despite slightly lower benchmark scores, the Pixel 9a remains surprisingly fluid. Google's tight software integration with Android 15 ensures a smooth experience. The app launches quickly, and everyday tasks feel quick. During prolonged gaming, the Tensor G4 Lite occasionally warms up, but there is little thermal throttling. Galaxy S24 FE: Of the bunch, the S24 FE is the best multitasker. Samsung's DeX support and RAM options up to 12GB give it a desktop-lite experience for power users. Games like COD Mobile and Genshin Impact run smoothly at high settings. However, the Exynos version runs slightly hotter under load than the Snapdragon variant.
iPhone 16e: Apple’s entry-level offering continues to punch above its weight. The A17 Fusion chip makes quick work of video editing and gaming, and animations are silky smooth. Though it has less RAM on paper, iOS 18’s efficiency closes the gap. The biggest limitation? Background app refresh can be more aggressive than on the Android competitors.
Thermals and Battery Impact
Extended gaming and video editing sessions revealed subtle but important differences in heat management:
The Pixel 9a stays cooler under typical usage but shows moderate heating during heavy tasks.
The Galaxy S24 FE, especially in Exynos regions, heats up faster and throttles slightly after 20+ minutes of intensive gaming.
The iPhone 16e maintains great thermals, with peak temperatures lower than both Android rivals, likely due to its efficient chip and thermal architecture.
In battery life, all three phones lasted over a day with moderate use. The Pixel 9a led the pack slightly in screen-on time, thanks to its smaller display and software optimizations.
Verdict: Who Wins the Budget Performance Crown?
iPhone 16e has the most raw power. Best for Multitasking/Gaming: Galaxy S24 FE
Best Value for Everyday Use: Pixel 9a
Each device shines in different areas. The iPhone 16e is ideal for consumers who want a sleek, simple device with flagship-level speed. For gamers and multitaskers, the Galaxy S24 FE offers the most versatility and performance power. The Pixel 9a, while technically the weakest in performance, delivers incredible value with clean software, strong battery life, and reliable speed for under $500.
The "best" option is ultimately determined by your priorities; but the good news? All three of these budget flagships prove you no longer have to break the bank to get a phone that performs like a premium powerhouse.
About the Creator
Md. Al-Amin
Writer fueled by curiosity and coffee. I share stories, insights, and the occasional random thought. Exploring life one word at a time—hoping to inspire, inform, or just make you smile.
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