The location of the fingerprint sensor on a Samsung phone can vary significantly depending on the model and its release year. Samsung utilizes several types of fingerprint sensor technologies, primarily integrating them into the screen itself, the power button on the side, or on the back of the device.
Common Fingerprint Sensor Locations on Samsung Phones
Samsung smartphones feature fingerprint sensors in three primary locations, each offering a distinct user experience:
- In-Display (Under-Screen) Sensor: Found on most flagship and many mid-range Samsung Galaxy phones released in recent years, these sensors are embedded directly beneath the display. To unlock the phone, users simply place their finger on a specific area of the screen, which illuminates to scan the fingerprint. This provides a seamless and modern aesthetic.
- Side-Mounted Sensor: These sensors are typically integrated into the phone's power button, usually located on the side of the device. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S10e features a newly designed fingerprint sensor built into its power button, offering quick and intuitive access as you naturally grip the phone.
- Rear-Mounted Sensor: Predominantly found on older Samsung Galaxy models or some budget-friendly devices, these sensors are located on the back of the phone, often near the camera module. Users would typically use their index finger to unlock the device.
Detailed Breakdown by Sensor Type
1. In-Display Fingerprint Sensor
These are the most prevalent on Samsung's premium devices. They come in two main types:
- Ultrasonic: Samsung's flagship Galaxy S series (from S10 onwards, excluding S10e) and Note series (from Note 10 onwards) primarily use ultrasonic fingerprint sensors. These sensors send ultrasonic pulses through the display to map the 3D ridges and valleys of your fingerprint, offering high security and reliability.
- Examples: Galaxy S24 series, S23 series, S22 series, Note 20 series, S10/S10+/S20/S21 series, Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series.
- Optical: Some mid-range Galaxy A series phones also feature in-display sensors, often utilizing optical technology. These sensors use light to capture a 2D image of your fingerprint.
- Examples: Certain Galaxy A series models (e.g., A50, A51, A71, A52, A53, A54).
2. Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor
Integrated directly into the power button, this location is ergonomically convenient for many users, as their thumb naturally rests on the button.
- Key Advantage: Offers a quick and natural way to unlock the phone while simultaneously pressing the power button.
- Examples: As mentioned, the Samsung Galaxy S10e utilizes this design. Other models include the Galaxy A32, A42, A52s, A72, and various budget-friendly Galaxy M series phones.
3. Rear-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor
While less common on newer Samsung devices, this placement was standard for a period and is still found on some entry-level models.
- Identification: Look for a dedicated, slightly recessed oval or square area on the back of the phone, typically below the camera module.
- Examples: Older Galaxy S and Note series models (e.g., Galaxy S8, S9, Note 8, Note 9), and various older Galaxy A and J series devices.
Summary of Fingerprint Sensor Locations
To help identify the sensor location on your specific model, refer to the table below:
| Sensor Type | Location on Phone | Common Samsung Galaxy Series/Models |
|---|---|---|
| In-Display | Directly under the screen | S10/S10+ to S24 Ultra, Note 10 to Note 20 Ultra, Z Fold/Flip series, A5x/A7x (newer) |
| Side-Mounted | Integrated into Power Button | Galaxy S10e, A3x, A4x, A52s, M series (many models) |
| Rear-Mounted | Back of the phone | Older S8/S9, Note 8/9, various older A and J series models |
If you are unsure about your specific Samsung phone model, checking its user manual or the "About Phone" section in your device settings will provide the exact model number, which can then be used to find its specifications online.
