Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Galaxy S23 Plus: a tough choice to ma…

When it comes to choosing a smartphone that balances performance, style, and innovation, Samsung’s Galaxy S series has long been at the forefront of many consumers’ minds. With the release of the Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23 Plus, Samsung continues its tradition of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology. Both devices promise cutting-edge features and sleek designs, but they cater to slightly different audiences with their unique set of strengths.

In this introduction, we’ll embark on a comparative journey, highlighting the distinctive characteristics of each model, to help you decide which device might be the right fit for your pocket and lifestyle. From their cameras and display sizes to battery life and processing power, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23 Plus are set to compete not just with the market at large, but also with each other, in a sibling rivalry that’s as innovative as it is fascinating.

It’s not easy to choose a smartphone, particularly when the manufacturer launches identical models at the same time. Samsung released its three flagship Galaxy phones earlier this year, the Galaxy S23 Plus and Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra handset is the top of the line and in its own league. It’s a bit more difficult to tell the Galaxy S23 from the Galaxy S23 Plus. You can use our analysis to determine which device is best for your requirements.

Galaxy S23 vs S23 Plus: Specifications

Samsung Galaxy S23Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
size2.79 x 5.76 x 0.3 inches3 x 6.21 x 0.3 inches
weight5.93 ounces6.91 ounces
Display6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED

120Hz adaptive refresh rate

425ppi

1,750nit extreme outdoor brightness

6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED

120Hz adaptive refresh rate

393ppi

1,750nit extreme outdoor brightness

display aspect ratio19:5:919:5:9
RAM/Storage8 GB RAM

128GB/256GB

8 GB RAM

256GB/512GB

processorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2 for GalaxySnapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
biometricsUltrasonic fingerprint sensor and face recognitionUltrasonic fingerprint sensor and face recognition
rear camera50MP (OIS) main, f/1.8

12MP ultra-wide, f/2.2

10MP (OIS) telephoto, f/2.4

50MP (OIS) main, f/1.8

12MP ultra-wide, f/2.2

10MP (OIS) telephoto, f/2.4

selfie camera12MP (2PD AF), f/2.212MP (2PD AF), f/2.2
VideoRear: 8K at 30 fps/4K at 60 fps

FHD at 120 fps and 960 fps

Selfie: 4K at 60 fps

Rear: 8K at 30 fps/4K at 60 fps

FHD at 120 fps and 960 fps

Selfie: 4K at 60 fps

zoom3X optical

30X space zoom

3X optical

30X space zoom

Battery3,900mAh4,700mAh
chargeWired: Super Fast Charging (up to 25W)

Wireless: Fast Wireless Charging 2.0

Wireless PowerShare

Wired: Super Fast Charging 2.0 (up to 45W)

Wireless: Fast Wireless Charging 2.0

Wireless PowerShare

Galaxy S23 vs S23 Plus: Design

A white Samsung Galaxy S23 next to a pink Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus.
Joe Maring/

The Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus indeed showcase a design continuity from the Galaxy S22 series, with a few notable refinements that set them apart. The emphasis on the camera layout as the primary differentiator echoes a broader industry trend towards a more minimalist and cleaner aesthetic.

Camera Aesthetics:

Moving away from the contiguous camera island that characterized the S22, the S23 series opts for a discrete lens approach where each camera element is individually set into the back of the phone. This “floating” lens design is not just a visual change but also speaks to a shift in smartphone design language that emphasizes simplicity and symmetry.

Color Palette:

The color options for both the S23 and S23 Plus maintain a palette that is both modern and understated, with Phantom Black, Cream, Green, and Lavender. These choices reflect a design ethos that favors subtle elegance over bold statements. The absence of a pink option may disappoint some, but the available selections are crafted to appeal to a wide audience with their soothing tones.

Ergonomics and Comfort:

For those who prioritize ease of handling and pocketability, the Galaxy S23 will naturally be more appealing. Its smaller dimensions are tailored for one-handed use and portability. Conversely, the S23 Plus, with its larger size, caters to those who prefer a more substantial device, be it for multimedia consumption, gaming, or reading, where a larger canvas enhances the experience.

Design Philosophy:

The similarity in curvature and the choice to retain flat displays suggest a deliberate decision by Samsung to maintain a familiar user experience in terms of grip and usability. The flat display, in particular, may be seen as a functional choice that avoids accidental touches and makes screen protectors more effective and easier to apply.

Balancing Act:

Ultimately, the design choices represent a balancing act between innovation and familiarity. Samsung appears to be refining rather than revamping, which could be a strategic move to appeal to both loyal customers and those who appreciate the incremental yet impactful design evolution. The changes in the camera layout, while seemingly a small shift, reflect a broader design update that keeps the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus fresh and in line with contemporary design trends.

The Final Verdict:

The choice between the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus is less about which is superior and more about personal preference. Those who prefer a more compact and manageable phone will lean towards the S23, while users who value a larger screen for an enhanced viewing experience will gravitate towards the S23 Plus. The absence of a camera island and the new color options are refinements that serve to update the series’ identity subtly, ensuring the S23 line is recognizably Samsung while also being perceptibly current.

Galaxy S23 vs S23 Plus: Display

Joe Maring holds a Samsung Galaxy S23 and a Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus.
Andrew Martonik /

The distinction between the Galaxy S23 and the Galaxy S23 Plus is predominantly centered around their display characteristics, reflecting a thoughtful balance between compact convenience and expansive visibility.

Display Size and User Experience:

The Galaxy S23’s 6.1-inch screen size is tailored for users who prefer a device that is easy to navigate with one hand and fits comfortably in pockets. This compact size doesn’t compromise on quality, as it maintains the high standards of Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology. On the other hand, the S23 Plus, with its 6.6-inch display, caters to those who prioritize a larger screen for activities like gaming, streaming, or multitasking. The larger screen real estate enhances user engagement and provides a more immersive experience.

Resolution and Pixel Density:

While both models sport Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O FHD+ panels with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and impressive peak brightness, the difference in screen size results in varied pixel densities. The S23, with its smaller display, boasts a higher pixel density of 425 ppi, leading to potentially crisper visuals. The S23 Plus, despite its larger size and slightly lower pixel density of 393 ppi, is expected to deliver visuals that are still sharp and vibrant, with the difference in pixel density being subtle enough that it may not significantly impact the viewing experience for most users.

Comparative Perspective with Google Pixel 8 Series:

In the broader smartphone market context, the display sizes of the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus are comparable to those of Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. This suggests a trend where manufacturers are offering a range of sizes to cater to different user preferences within the same flagship series.

Choosing Based on Preference:

Ultimately, the decision between the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus boils down to individual preferences regarding display size. Users who prefer a more manageable and portable phone may lean towards the S23, while those who appreciate a larger display for enhanced visibility and an immersive experience might favor the S23 Plus. The slight variation in pixel density between the two models is unlikely to be a major deciding factor, given the high-quality displays used in both.

In summary, the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus offer a choice between compactness and expansive visibility, both encapsulated within high-quality displays that showcase Samsung’s commitment to visual excellence. This choice aligns with a growing trend in the smartphone industry to cater to diverse consumer needs within the same product line.