Samsung Galaxy S23 Series: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide [2023]

By Richard Goodwin

Updated: 08/30/23 • 15 min read

The Samsung Galaxy S23 will get a release date in 2023. Here’s a complete breakdown of everything currently known about Samsung’s new flagship phones…

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The Samsung Galaxy S23 Series

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Series is the latest offering from one of the giants in the smartphone industry, Samsung. Consisting of three distinct models—Samsung Galaxy S23, Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra—this series aims to cater to a variety of needs and preferences.

Each model varies in size, performance, and features, offering choices that range from a balanced all-rounder to a top-of-the-line powerhouse.

With operating systems running on Android 13 (now Android 14) and equipped with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, these phones are designed to redefine what you can expect from a smartphone.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Galaxy S23 series before you buy one…

What Makes the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series Stand Out

The Series brings some of the highest camera capabilities on the market, especially with the Ultra model featuring a 200MP camera sensor. Furthermore, with state-of-the-art CPU and GPU components, these phones offer unparalleled speed and performance.

The battery life is also noteworthy, with the S23 Ultra boasting a 5000mAh Li-ion battery, coupled with fast-charging capabilities.

From its diverse range of models to its advanced features like high-definition AMOLED displays with up to 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and a myriad of storage options going up to 1TB for the Ultra model, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series is built to impress.

But it’s not just the internal specs that catch your eye. Even the design and build quality exhibit Samsung’s commitment to excellence, with sleek dimensions and mass that vary across the models to suit every hand size and preference.

Samsung Galaxy S23 vs S23 Plus vs S23 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S23 Series: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide [2023]

Introduction to the Different Models in the Series

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Series is not a one-size-fits-all offering; rather, it provides a range of options to cater to the varied needs of different users.

Comprising the Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, and S23 Ultra, this series has been designed to offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a compact device with robust capabilities or a high-end flagship with premium features, the Galaxy S23 Series has you covered.

Of course, being technical products, none of them are perfect. Here’s a detailed guide to all the on-going and reported Galaxy S23 bugs and issues experienced by users to date.

Choosing the Right Model

Your choice of smartphone affects not only your user experience but also the range of activities you can accomplish with the device.

From photography to gaming to productivity, each model in the Galaxy S23 Series targets different user needs and comes with its unique set of features and specifications.

Picking the right model will ensure that you’re not paying for features you don’t need or missing out on capabilities that are crucial for your lifestyle. Here’s a guide that compares the prices of the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23 Plus, and the Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Key Specs and Differences Between Each Model

Samsung Galaxy S23

Target User: Ideal for everyday users who want a compact yet powerful device.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: More compact size at 146.3 mm x 70.9 mm x 7.6 mm
- Battery: Li-ion 3900 mAh
- Storage: Options ranging from 128GB to 512GB
- Rear Cameras: Standard triple-camera setup with up to 50MP
- Display: 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 120Hz refresh rate

Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

Target User: Suitable for tech-savvy users and mobile gamers needing a bit more punch.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: Slightly larger at 157.8 mm x 76.2 mm x 7.6 mm
- Battery: Li-ion 4700 mAh
- Storage: Starts at 256GB
- Rear Cameras: Similar to S23 but designed for slightly more advanced mobile photography
- Display: 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 120Hz refresh rate

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Target User: Designed for power users and professional photographers who demand nothing but the best.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: Largest among the series at 163.4 mm x 78.1 mm x 8.9 mm
- Battery: Robust Li-ion 5000 mAh
- Storage: Options up to 1TB
- Rear Cameras: A beastly 200MP primary sensor among its quad-camera setup
- Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with an even higher resolution
- Extras: Comes with S Pen support

Learn more about the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra inside our detailed Galaxy S23 Ultra review.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design and build quality, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series certainly does not disappoint. These smartphones sport a high-end look and feel, which is what you’d expect from a flagship series by Samsung.

The company has a reputation for delivering top-tier design aesthetics coupled with robust build quality, and the S23 Series carries on that tradition beautifully.

Color Options Across Models

One of the most exciting aspects of the design for many users will be the variety of color options available. Whether you opt for the basic Galaxy S23, the S23 Plus, or the high-end S23 Ultra, you’ll have a palette of sophisticated colors to choose from.

These colors not only make the phones visually appealing but also allow users to choose a device that best reflects their personal style.

Here’s a complete breakdown of all the current Samsung Galaxy S23 series color options.

Display and Visuals

In a world where we consume an ever-increasing amount of digital content, the quality of a smartphone’s display is more critical than ever.

From streaming movies and TV shows to scrolling through social media feeds, a good display can make all the difference in user experience. A vibrant, high-resolution screen can not only make your content more enjoyable but also reduce eye strain during extended use.

Differences Between the Models

When it comes to the Galaxy S23 Series, each model offers a different display experience tailored to various needs and budgets:

The Galaxy S23 comes with a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 2340 × 1080 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
The Galaxy S23 Plus takes it a step further with a slightly larger 6.6-inch screen, maintaining the same resolution but offering more screen real estate.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra, aimed at those who demand the best of the best, features a whopping 6.8-inch display with an impressive 3088 × 1440 resolution and an adaptive 120 Hz LTPO refresh rate.

Whether you’re a casual user, a media enthusiast, or a power user, there’s a model in the Galaxy S23 Series designed with a display that suits your specific needs.

Here’s an overview of why 120Hz screens are worthy of your consideration, including PROS and CONS of the technology.

Camera Capabilities

In today’s social media-driven world, having a capable camera on your smartphone is not just a luxury but a necessity. From capturing life’s important moments to creating content for social media, the camera’s performance often serves as a make-or-break factor when choosing a new smartphone.

Features that Make the S23 Series’ Camera Stand Out

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Series is designed to offer a robust camera setup across all its models, but with key differences that cater to various user needs.

How The Ultra Model’s Camera Ups The Ante

Standard Models (S23 & S23 Plus): Both the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus feature a versatile triple-camera setup:
- A 50 MP wide-angle camera for general photography.
- A 10 MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom.
- A 12 MP ultra-wide lens for capturing broader scenes.
These specs make the standard models very competent in a range of scenarios, from landscape photography to portrait shots.
The Ultra Model: The Galaxy S23 Ultra takes smartphone photography to the next level with its unique features:
- A groundbreaking 200 MP primary sensor that offers unparalleled detail.
- A periscope telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom for capturing distant subjects.
- Enhanced autofocus and low-light capabilities.

Find out more about Samsung’s 200MP ISOCELL sensor and what it brings to the table.

Why the Difference Matters

Choosing between the standard models and the Ultra boils down to your specific camera needs:

If you’re an average user who wants a good, all-around camera for everyday photos and some light videography, the standard S23 or S23 Plus models would suffice.
On the other hand, if you are a photography enthusiast or a content creator who requires top-notch camera features, the S23 Ultra, with its advanced capabilities, is undoubtedly more tailored to meet your demands.

In summary, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series offers compelling camera capabilities across the board. Whether you opt for the standard models or decide to splurge on the Ultra, you’re getting a camera setup that’s versatile and more than capable of meeting today’s smartphone photography needs.

Performance and Speed

All the models in the S23 Series are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 system-on-chip, ensuring fast and fluid operation. With Octa-Core CPUs and Adreno 740 GPUs, these smartphones are more than capable of handling multitasking, heavy gaming, and resource-intensive apps without breaking a sweat.

Software Enhancements

The Galaxy S23 Series runs on Android 13 with One UI 5.1, providing a seamless user experience. The software is optimized to work in harmony with the hardware, reducing lag and ensuring that apps load quickly.

Additionally, One UI 5.1 offers various performance modes that allow you to optimize the phone’s capabilities according to your specific needs—whether it’s gaming, content creation, or professional tasks.

And now that Android 14 and One UI 6 are official, there’s even more new features and abilities packed inside Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series phones.

Memory and Storage

With options for 8 or 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of storage space in the Ultra model, these phones are built to handle a variety of tasks efficiently. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, you will find these smartphones more than capable of meeting, and likely exceeding, your performance expectations.

Here’s a detailed guide on the different storage variants for the Galaxy S23 series.

Battery Life and Charging

Imagine you’re on a long flight, and you can’t charge your phone, or perhaps you’re on a day-long hike away from any power sources. In scenarios like these, a robust battery life can be a lifesaver.

Having a dependable battery ensures that your phone can serve its myriad of functions from morning until night without needing a recharge.

New Charging Features

The Galaxy S23 Series offers a variety of new charging features aimed at making your life simpler. For starters, all models in the series come equipped with different capacities to suit your usage patterns.

The standard S23 has a 3900 mAh battery, the S23 Plus comes with 4700 mAh, and the Ultra sports a substantial 5000 mAh.

What’s even more intriguing is the charging speeds. The standard S23 model supports super fast charging at 25W, while both the S23 Plus and Ultra models step it up a notch with Super Fast Charging 2.0 at 45W.

This means less time tethered to a wall outlet and more time being productive or enjoying your device.

Additionally, all models support Qi certified Fast wireless charging at 15W, offering a convenient alternative to traditional charging. And for those times when a friend’s phone or your wireless earbuds need a quick boost, all models offer Wireless Powershare at 4.5W.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the Galaxy S23 series battery performance.

Samsung Exclusive Features: S-Pen, Samsung DeX, and More

While hardware specs like battery life, camera quality, and display might be the first things people consider when buying a new smartphone, the software and unique features often prove just as crucial for an enhanced user experience.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Series doesn’t disappoint in this aspect, providing a slew of Samsung exclusive features that add value and versatility to your smartphone experience.

The S-Pen: A Creative and Productive Tool

Available exclusively with the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the S-Pen is not just a stylus but a powerhouse of productivity and creativity.

With its high sensitivity and pressure-responsive tip, it enables a natural handwriting experience, whether you’re jotting down notes during a meeting or sketching out a quick doodle.

Coupled with Samsung’s suite of S-Pen apps, this feature turns your phone into a mobile office and a canvas for artistic expression.

Samsung DeX: Turn Your Phone into a Desktop

Imagine converting your smartphone into a full-fledged desktop experience. That’s what Samsung DeX does.

All models in the S23 series are compatible with DeX, allowing you to plug your device into a monitor, grab a keyboard and a mouse, and operate your smartphone like a PC.

Whether you’re on a business trip and need to make last-minute changes to a presentation or you’re at home and want to watch a movie on a bigger screen, DeX makes it possible.

Other Noteworthy Features

The Galaxy S23 Series also comes equipped with other Samsung exclusive features, such as an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for quick and secure authentication.

The phones offer IP68 water and dust resistance, allowing for usage in various environmental conditions, from a dusty trail to a sudden downpour.

All these features are managed by the Android 13 with One UI 5.1, offering a sleek and intuitive user interface that places what you need right where you need it.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Series: Which Model is Right for You?

Choosing the right smartphone can often feel like a daunting task, given the plethora of options available.

When it comes to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series, the choices may seem even more overwhelming because each model comes loaded with features and capabilities.

But fear not; this section aims to help you navigate through the choices by highlighting the real-world differences between the models and who they are best suited for.

For the Average User: Samsung Galaxy S23

If you’re an average user who wants a reliable, high-quality smartphone for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, taking casual photos, and the occasional game, the standard Galaxy S23 is a great fit.

Dimensions & Weight: With its smaller dimensions and lighter weight (168g), it’s easier to carry around and manage.
Battery Life: A 3900 mAh battery is generally sufficient for a day’s usage under normal conditions.
Storage: Options up to 512 GB should provide plenty of room for your apps and media.

For the Power User: Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

Suppose you’re the sort of person who lives on their phone—streaming, gaming, multitasking with various apps, and so forth. In that case, the Galaxy S23 Plus is tailored for you.

Dimensions & Weight: Slightly larger and heavier (195g) than the standard S23 but brings more screen real estate.
Battery Life: A 4700 mAh battery provides a bit more leeway for heavy usage.
Storage: Starts at 256 GB, providing ample room for your digital life.

For the Pro User: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

If you’re a professional user who demands the absolute best—in terms of productivity, media, or even mobile photography—the S23 Ultra is your go-to.

Dimensions & Weight: Largest and heaviest (233g) in the lineup, but it’s a powerhouse.
Battery Life: A hefty 5000 mAh battery ensures you’re not left searching for an outlet during crucial moments.
Camera: With up to 200 MP and specialized lenses for telephoto and periscope telephoto shooting, it’s almost like having a professional camera in your pocket.
S-Pen: Exclusive to the Ultra, the S-Pen adds an additional layer of functionality, particularly useful for creative or business-oriented tasks.

Additional Resources: Samsung Galaxy S23 vs The Competition

The Samsung Galaxy S23 series isn’t the only game in town, of course, so before making a decision about what your next phone should be, it is always advisable that you’re aware of how Samsung’s latest phones compare to the competition.

Here’s a selection of comparisons, whereby we’ve pitted the Galaxy S23 models up against its main rivals:

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Richard Goodwin

Richard Goodwin has been working as a tech journalist for over 10 years. He has written for Den of Geek, Fortean Times, IT PRO, PC Pro, ALPHR, and many other technology sites. He is the editor and owner of KnowYourMobile.

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