The latest iteration of Samsung Unpacked has revealed three shiny new smartphones. If you aren't looking to jump back into the flip phone game: the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra are sure to entice. The smartphones range in price from $799 through $1,199, and will be available for purchase on Feb. 17.
Also:Everything Samsung just announced at Unpacked 2023
If you're staring at your current phone and thinking now may be the right time for a smartphone upgrade, you're probably right. As things stand right now, Samsung and Apple, the two largest phone manufacturers, have both launched the latest versions of their flagship smartphones, preparing now to go into a cooling period before the next set of launches. Now's a good time to shop if you want to get your hands on the latest tech.
Specifications
| Galaxy S23 | Galaxy S23+ | Galaxy S23 Ultra | |
| Starting price | $799 | $999 | $1,199 |
| Display | 6.1" Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O FHD+ | 6.6" Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O FHD+ | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O QHD+ Edge Screen |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Weight | 5.93 oz | 6.91 oz | 8.25 oz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | 8GB, 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Main camera | 8K at 30fps - 50MP f1.8 Wide, 12MP f2.2 Ultra Wide, 10MP f2.2 Telephoto | 8K at 30fps - 50MP f1.8 Wide, 12MP f2.2 Ultra Wide, 10MP f2.2 Telephoto | 8K at 30fps - 200MP f1.7 Wide w/Laser AF, 12MP f2.2 Ultra Wide, 10MP f2.2 Telephoto, 10MP f4.9 Telephoto |
| Front camera | 4K at 60fps - 12MP f2.2 | 4K at 60fps - 12MP f2.2 | 4K at 60fps - 12MP f2.2 |
| Battery | 3,900mAh | 4,700mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Connectivity | 5G: sub6 / mmW - Wi-Fi 6E | 5G: sub6 / mmW - Wi-Fi 6E, UWB | 5G: sub6 / mmW - Wi-Fi 6E, UWB |
| Durability | IP68 | IP68 | IP68 |
| Colors | Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender | Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender | Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender |
You should buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if...
1. You want the fastest Galaxy phone to date
Samsung Unpacked
The Galaxy S23 Ultra may just be, arguably, the fastest Galaxy phone to date, with the 512GB and 1TB options featuring 12GB of RAM.
Add the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, versus the Gen 1 on both the Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4, and you have the perfect recipe for a lightning-fast user experience. We'll have to see how that translates to real-world experience.
2. You want a camera that can do it all
The Samsung S23 Ultra blows other phones out of the water with its impressive camera system. The main camera is built to reach up to 200MP, an increase from 108MP on the S22 Ultra, Samsung's highest smartphone resolution.
Also:Samsung Galaxy S23 vs S22: The main differences
The back camera system also features laser auto-focus and up to f/1.7 aperture to capture low-light photos. Samsung is also one of the few companies manufacturing phones that can record 8K video, which is sure to look stunning on a larger display.
3. The phablet-stylus experience has your name written all over it
We can always count on Samsung to make a great phablet -- and even if the Galaxy S23 Ultra isn't marketed as one, it might as well be. This is the largest of the three new smartphones -- larger than the iPhone 14 Pro Max even -- with a 6.8-inch display. In true phablet fashion, the S23 Ultra also comes with an embedded S Pen for quick notes and a bevy of multitasking features, like its S22 Ultra predecessor.
The Ultra versions of Samsung Galaxy phones have been keeping the Edge technology front and center, and all the way to the sides. There are no bezels to detract from the phone screen on the S23 Ultra, making it a sleek, all-screen smartphone.
You should buy the Galaxy S23+ if...
1. You want Ultra features without the Ultra price
The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is pretty successful at being a middle-of-the-road model of the new Galaxy lineup. It's almost identical to the S23, albeit with a bigger display, while borrowing some features from the high-end S23 Ultra. Some of these features include Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, wired Super Fast Charging 2.0, a larger battery, and, of course, a larger 6.6-inch display.
More:Samsung Galaxy S23 vs S22: What are the main differences?
2. You want a 'Goldilocks'-sized phone
Weighing in at 6.91 oz with a 6.6-inch display, the S23+ is not too big, but not too small -- quite the Goldilocks size. If you like the weight of a good-sized smartphone, but don't want to go as far as getting one of the largest mainstream phones on the market, the S23+ is the perfect choice. It still flaunts many of the features of the Ultra, plus a larger battery than the S23.
You should buy the Galaxy S23 if...
1. You prefer a phone that doesn't bulge out of your pocket
One of the beauties of the Galaxy S23 model compared with the others in the lineup is its compact size. If you're one to prefer a smaller smartphone that can easily fit in your pocket and not feel overwhelming in the palm of your hand, this is it, weighing in at 5.93 ounces. That being said, with a 6.1-inch display it's not trying to be a replacement forthe iPhone Mini by any means.
2. You want the same great display for less
The standard Galaxy S23 (425 ppi) has a slightly higher pixels-per-inch ratio than the S23+ at 393 ppi. While the difference won't be so noticeable to the naked eye, it's still a great benefit considering you're paying less for the regular size. Not to mention, the smaller S23 goes toe-to-toe with the larger S23+'s display, with a 1080p resolution, Samsung's own AMOLED panel, and a peak refresh rate of 120Hz.
More:Samsung Galaxy S23 vs iPhone 14: Who did it better?
3. You want the best bang for your buck
In plain terms, the Galaxy S23 isn't much different from the Plus version -- it is more compact and has a smaller battery and storage capacity, with the only options being 128GB and 256GB. But it's also the most affordable of the lineup. It doesn't feature wired Super Fast Charging 2.0 like the other two, but it does have 8GB of RAM and the same camera system as the S23+, effectively making it a powerful, yet compact, smartphone starting at $799.
Bottom line
The entire lineup of Samsung's new Galaxy S23 is worth a second look, at least, especially if you're not into flip or foldable phones. All S23 models are a clear upgrade of their respective predecessors, even if they admittedly look very similar from the outside. The upgraded camera system and the faster chipset, plus the strongest screens to date, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2, can make it well worth the upgrade. Upgrading to the S23, S23+, or S23 Ultra could make the most sense for those currently using an S21 or older phone, but you'd be just as satisfied with the handsets if you're coming from last year's models.
Alternatives to consider
Open to other new smartphone prospects? Consider these ZDNET-recommended devices:
Samsung Unpacked
- Here's everything Samsung announced at Unpacked 2023
- Samsung Galaxy S23 vs S22: Which model should you buy?
- Every Samsung Galaxy S23 model compared: Specs, display, cameras, and more
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro: Which flagship should you buy?
- How to watch Samsung Unpacked 2023
- Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra vs Apple MacBook Pro: A premium laptop showdown
FAQs
What is the difference between S23 and S23 plus? ›
The phones are virtually the same in terms of specs, with one having a slightly larger display and longer battery life. But looking at the bigger picture, the differences between the S23 and S23 Plus are negligible, and it all really comes down to your own preferences on phone size, storage, and battery.
What is the difference between S23 and S23 Ultra? ›Here's where you start seeing some differences. The Galaxy S23 has a 6.1-inch Full HD+ while the S23 Galaxy Plus's display size is 6.6-inch Full HD+ and the Galaxy S23 Ultra proudly dons a BIG 6.8-inch Quad HD+ display. The resolution on the S23 Ultra at 3088 x 1440 is higher than both S23 and S23 Plus's 2340 x 1080.
What is the difference between Galaxy S22 and S23? ›The only upgrade here is in maximum brightness really — the Galaxy S22 has 1,500 nits at peak, the Galaxy S23 can push it up to 1,750 nits. Sizes and dimensions stay the same, with both screens having a 6.1-inch diagonal, 19.5:9 aspect ratio.
What Samsung phone is coming out in 2023? ›To experience Samsung's newly announced Galaxy S23 series and Galaxy Book3 series in person, be sure to visit the Galaxy Experience Space from February 1 – 25, 2023.
What's the difference between S22 and S23 Ultra? ›The S23 Ultra when compared to the S22 Ultra has a slightly flatter display, and the display on the S23 Ultra also has an improved peak brightness of 1750nits although the display size is identical at 6.8-inch with up to 120Hz refresh rate.
What are the benefits of S23? ›S-23 is used to increase energy, improve athletic performance, increase muscle growth, and for other uses, but there is no good scientific evidence to support its use.
Is Samsung S23 waterproof? ›All devices in the Galaxy S23 series come with an IP68 rating that denotes resistance to water, dust, dirt, and sand. However, they are not fully waterproof, meaning users should avoid submerging them in water for any length of time.
Which is better S22+ or ultra? ›Just one look at that table makes something incredibly obvious: the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the best of the lot in terms of specs. It has the biggest display, the most versatile camera setup, the largest battery capacity, and takes a top spot on our picks for the best 5G phones.
Does Samsung S23 have SD card slot? ›The Galaxy S23 does not have an SD card slot
In fact, none of the models in the S23 line do — meaning you don't get the option with the S23 Plus or S23 Ultra either. Unfortunately, this isn't surprising for Samsung. The last mainline Galaxy S phone with SD card slot support was the Galaxy S20.
In the grand scheme, the S23 is a cosmetic upgrade compared to the S22. The only noticeable changes include a slightly bigger battery, a new chip, 8K video at 30fps, an adaptive display refresh rate, higher 1750 nits peak brightness, and an additional 512GB storage option (if you can splurge on it).
Will the S23 be worth it? ›
While the Galaxy S23 may not be drastically different from the S22 that came before it, it still has a few nice features, like a bigger battery and newer chipset, which will undoubtedly make it one of the most popular phones of 2023.
Is the S23 Ultra worth upgrading from S22 Ultra? ›If you use your smartphone for all of your photo and video needs, then you'll definitely want to consider going for the Galaxy S23 Ultra for certain upgrades. The S23 Ultra has the S22 Ultra beat with an impressive 200MP main camera sensor compared to the 108MP camera on the S22 Ultra.
Which phone should I buy in 2023? ›- Google Pixel 6 Pro. Best high-end phone at a discount. ...
- Apple iPhone 13. Best everyday phone. ...
- OnePlus 10 Pro. High performance flagship with a lower price. ...
- Google Pixel 6. Best flagship Android phone at a discount. ...
- Apple iPhone SE (2022) Most affordable iPhone. ...
- Google Pixel 6A. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3. ...
- Apple iPhone 13 Mini.
Best upcoming phones: 2023's biggest smartphone releases so far. The more mainstream versions of Samsung's latest flagship phone line give a choice of screen sizes. the 6.1in Galaxy S23 also makes do with a smaller battery and slower charging, but keeps the same trio of rear cameras as the 6.6in Galaxy S23+.
What will be the next Samsung phone? ›Galaxy S22 release date: February 9, 2022.
How much better will S23 Ultra be? ›The S23 Ultra marks a major shift in Samsung strategy as the company will no longer use the Exynos processor and everywhere you buy an S23 phone, it will have the more powerful Snapdragon processor. You also have a brand new 200-megapixel main camera with a promise for much better detail and night shots.
Which is better S22+ or S22 Ultra? ›Most obviously is the size. The S22+ has a 6.6” Flat FHD+ display and the S22 Ultra has a 6.8 Edge Quad HD+ or curved screen. So, the S22 Ultra has a larger screen but due to the design, the edges of that screen are curved. This means that the resolution between the two phones is slightly different.
Why is Samsung S22 Ultra the best? ›Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 512GB
This phone truly has it all: a 4-camera system with a long-range periscope zoom lens, a built-in S Pen that doesn't come at the expense of battery size, the latest and most powerful Android processor, the newest generation Samsung AMOLED display...
To prevent testosterone shut down, testosterone users must complete PCT (preferably using Clomid as well as Nolvadex) to aid in restoring the natural testosterone production. S23 is best used for up to 8 weeks . you could see results just 4 weeks. S23 produces more promising results during cutting cycles.
How long does S23 take to start working? ›To avoid testosterone shutdown, users MUST do PCT (preferably with Clomid or Nolvadex) to help restore natural testosterone production. S23 should only be cycled for up to 8 weeks – you can expect to start seeing results in as little as 4 weeks.
What is the half life of S23? ›
The contraceptive effects of S23 are due to its ability to suppress FSH and LH, two key hormones for making sperm. However, this effect disappears at higher doses [1]. The half-life of S23 in male rats is 11.9 hours. When taken by mouth, ~96% of S23 is absorbed and levels peak after about 4 hours.
Is Samsung a 23 a good phone? ›With four years of security updates, a Snapdragon 695, and far and away the best display at this price point, the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G is one of the best values in the budget category you're likely to see for quite a while.
Will the S23 have a pen? ›Last but definitely not least, the S23 Ultra still comes with an S Pen. It looks and feels just like before and we haven't heard of any new features either, which just shows once again how mature this product is.
When did Samsung S23 come out? ›The Galaxy S23 phones will be released on February 17, 2023, a week earlier than the S22 launch last year, with nearly three weeks of preorder deals to be stacked to the reservation bonus if you subscribed for one beforehand.
Which is the best Samsung phone in 2022? ›- Galaxy A73 5G. Buy now. ...
- Galaxy S22 Ultra. Galaxy S22 Ultra is very slim in 17.31cm (6.8”) screen size with a bold look and linear camera. ...
- Galaxy S22/S22+ Express yourself with the range of colors, phantom white, phantom black, and green in a sleek design. ...
- Galaxy S21 FE 5G. ...
- Galaxy A53.
| Product Name | Prices | Specs Score |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S22 | Rs. 49,999 | 92/100 |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G | Rs. 124,999 | 99/100 |
| Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max | Rs. 129,900 | 98/100 |
| Google Mobile Pixel 7 Pro 5G | Rs. 78,999 | 93/100 |
The OnePlus 10 Pro can't match that stylus, but it challenges the Galaxy S22 Ultra in other ways, offering cameras that have been fine-tuned by lens specialist Hasselblad. The OnePlus 10 Pro also matches the performance of Samsung's high-end flagship, using the same chipset.
What is the price of Samsung Galaxy S23? ›Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G price in India starts from ₹1,24,999. It is available at lowest price on Amazon in India as on Feb 05, 2023. Take a look at Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G detailed specifications and features. Out of budget?
Which new Samsung phone has SD card slot? ›Samsung Galaxy phones with a microSD card slot:
Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Galaxy S20 FE. Note10+, S10e, S10, S10+, and Note9. Galaxy A12, A22, 32, A42, A52, A72. Galaxy A13, A23.
The last phones that Samsung released featuring a microSD card slot were the Galaxy S20 series. Unfortunately, it seems that the Galaxy S22 series was not the chosen one and won't bring us the return of the microSD card slot.
Is the S22 series worth it? ›
“The Galaxy S22 is a fairly capable phone that should be on top of your Android phone buying list thanks to its handy build, top-notch performance, capable cameras, and long-term software update policy.” Editor's note: The Samsung Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23 Ultra are now official, so you may want to hold off …
Is Galaxy S23 ultra out? ›Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra launched in India: Top specs, features, price, and everything else - India Today.
How much is Galaxy S23 Ultra? ›Features 6.8″ Display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Chipset, 5000 MAh Battery, 1024 GB Storage, 12 GB RAM, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra price starts from NGN 515570 Nigeria. 5.00 average based on 27047 reviews.
Is it worth buying S23 Ultra? ›Overall winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Ultimately, though, there's no question that the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the most powerful and capable smartphone in Samsung's new lineup. It has the best cameras by a long shot, support for Samsung's S Pen, and noticeably better battery life than the smaller Galaxy S23.
Battery life and charging
The more efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 should allow the S23 Ultra to edge out the S21 Ultra in terms of battery life. This is especially true if your battery has degraded a bit over the past few years. They both support Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 and Wireless PowerShare (reverse charging).
The Galaxy S22 Ultra Isn't Fragile
However, like the phone, the stylus is also water-resistant. The video also shows that Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra scratches at the same level as Gorilla Glass Victus but there isn't a drop test to show if it is better in terms of surviving drops.
The S22 Ultra will receive at least five years of software updates from release, including four major Android version updates and monthly security patches, making it one of the longest-lasting Android devices available and just behind Apple's six-year-plus support for its iPhones.
How long should the S22 Ultra last? ›The Galaxy S22 Ultra's 5,000mAh battery is good for around 15 and a half hours of heavy use in this reviewer's hands. Like the Galaxy S21 Ultra before it, the Galaxy S22 Ultra lets you enable or disable fast charging and fast wireless charging if you tend to charge the phone at night.
Which Android phone to buy 2023? ›- Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra. Best Android phone overall. View now.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. Best foldable Android phone. ...
- Asus Zenfone 9. Best compact Android phone. ...
- Google Pixel 7 Pro. Best camera Android phone. ...
- OnePlus 10T. Best fast-charging Android phone.
Which is the No 1 phone in world? ›
If you're shopping for the ultimate smartphone experience in 2022, the Samsung Galaxy Ultra S22 is top of the tree. Superlative in every respect, it exceeded all expectations in testing.
What's the best smartphone in the market Reading answers? ›Answer explanation: The new iPhone offers the sharpest and clearest display of any smartphone on the market, and in terms of design, it excels as well. Hence, the answer is C.
Will a smartphone last for 4 years? ›Some devices can even last upwards of five years if treated gently. However, you might start noticing a decline at around the three-year mark. It's usually at this point that your hardware becomes outdated, with no new operating system updates from developers.
What phones will be obsolete soon? ›A lot of older cellphones, including the IPhone 5, IPhone 5S and Samsung Galaxy S4, as well as many of the flip phones, will become obsolete in 2022 as mobile providers make the switch to 5G networks.
What phones will not work next year? ›All of the major cellphone carriers — AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile — are planning to shut their older 3G networks in 2022. Like millions of people in the United States who use 3G phones and other 3G devices, she will have to buy a new device if she wants to text, make calls or even reach 911.
Why Samsung stopped making phones? ›Another reason behind the Galaxy Note's lineup death is foldables. The Korean giant believes the Galaxy Z Flip and Fold devices are the future. Consumer interest and sales of Galaxy foldables have picked up steadily over the years. Plus, their high price tag means they offer a higher profit margin.
Is Samsung stopping making phones? ›Samsung's reportedly cutting its phone production for 2022 - The Verge.
What is the latest a series Samsung? ›What is the latest Samsung A series phone? As of 2022, the newest models of the Samsung A series are the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G and the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G. Both phones are 5G-ready, making them the most affordable Samsung phone with 5G connectivity.
Is the Samsung S23 real? ›The best Samsung phones that don't bend - Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra - are now available for early adopters to grab with all the S23 preorder deals and bonuses that include 256GB and 512GB storage upgrades and extra Samsung store credit on us via the links below.
Is Galaxy S23 Ultra out? ›Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra launched in India: Top specs, features, price, and everything else - India Today.
Will the S23 have an SD card slot? ›
Simply put, no, the Galaxy S23 doesn't have a slot for microSD cards. In fact, none of the models in the S23 line do — meaning you don't get the option with the S23 Plus or S23 Ultra either.
Is Samsung Galaxy f23 is good? ›It is my first samsung phone and I'll say I am satisfied enough till date . It's camera quality is good , the colour contrast is good and videos are stable but not 60fps . It's battery backup is real good lasts 2 days with 80-85% charge and Charging is also very quick .. I'd say go with this phone !