An electronic device includes a memory storing a plurality of fingerprint reference data files and one or more sensors identifying whether a mechanical support condition of the electronic device is a hand supported condition or a surface supported condition. A fingerprint sensor receives fingerprint data while the electronic device is in the mechanical support condition. One or more processors select a prioritized fingerprint data reference file from the plurality of fingerprint reference data files as a function of the mechanical support condition and authenticate an authorized user of the electronic device by comparing the fingerprint data to the prioritized fingerprint data reference file before comparing the fingerprint data to any other fingerprint reference data files of the plurality of fingerprint reference data files. The prioritized fingerprint reference data file can also be selected as a function of a geometric form factor of the electronic device.