Samsung has consolidated its position in the high-end with the Galaxy S23 family., a series that combines innovation, power, and options for all types of users. In this extensive analysis, you'll discover everything you need to know about the release date, technical specifications, recommended prices, and all the differences compared to the competition and previous generations. It also includes comparisons to help you choose the perfect model.
Official presentation and available models of the Samsung Galaxy S23
La Samsung Galaxy S23 series includes four main models: the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (Fan Edition). They all share the same premium DNA, although they have notable differences in terms of display, battery, photography settings, and advanced features. This is the evolution of the successful S family, replacing the S22 and championing Android in the highest segments of the market.
- Galaxy S23: Base model, compact and balanced, ideal for those looking for a high-end terminal without excesses.
- Galaxy S23 +: larger screen and battery, designed for users who demand autonomy and a generous display without reaching the extreme of the Ultra.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: The absolute flagship, with integrated S Pen, 200 MP professional camera, maximum resolution screen and the most advanced set.
- Galaxy S23FE: Fan Edition version, designed for those who want the S23 experience with some tweaks to make it more affordable.
La global release date This came shortly after its announcement at Samsung's Unpacked event. All models are available in international markets and through official stores, major carriers, and electronics retailers.
Design and materials: premium minimalism and extreme resistance
The design of the Galaxy S23 It focuses on sophistication and functionality. Samsung abandons the bulky camera modules of previous generations, opting for lenses integrated directly into the rear body, following the line of the S22 Ultra.
- Makings: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and rear on all models, along with a reinforced aluminum frame. This guarantees exceptional resistance to drops and scratches.
- IP68 certification: The entire range is water and dust resistant, withstanding up to 1,5 meters of immersion for 30 minutes.
- Colors: All models are available in Phantom Black, Cream, Green, and Lavender. Exclusive colors (such as Graphite and Lime) are also available if purchased directly from Samsung's website, while the Ultra adds Red and Sky Blue variants.
- Ecological and recycled finishes: Up to 22% recycled glass and the use of recycled plastics in its manufacturing and packaging, consolidating Samsung's commitment to the environment.
Ergonomics are outstanding: the S23 is especially compact and comfortable, while the S23+ and S23 Ultra feature larger displays and high-capacity batteries without losing their sleek and modern profile. The Ultra includes a built-in S Pen, thus becoming a natural heir to the defunct Note series.
Screen comparison: Dynamic AMOLED 2X, extreme brightness and total fluidity
The S23 series incorporates the latest in panel technology Dynamic AMOLED 2X With HDR10+ support, variable refresh rate, and industry-leading peak brightness. Here are the details for each model:
- Galaxy S23: 6,1-inch flat screen, Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080), 425 ppi density, adaptive refresh rate from 48 Hz to 120 Hz, maximum brightness of 1.750 nits.
- Galaxy S23 +: 6,6-inch flat screen, same resolution and technology, 393 ppi, refresh rate 48-120 Hz, brightness up to 1.750 nits.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: 6,8-inch Edge curved panel, Quad HD+ resolution (3088 x 1440), 500 ppi density, 1 to 120 Hz refresh rate with Always On mode, 1.750 nits brightness.
- Galaxy S23FE: 6,4-inch flat screen, Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080), 60-120 Hz refresh rate, maximum brightness of 1.450 nits.
All models provide Deep blacks, vibrant colors and perfect viewing angles. Improvements in Gorilla Glass Victus 2 They reinforce the display's resistance to drops on asphalt and rough surfaces. Additionally, they include fingerprint sensors integrated under the screen (ultrasonic on the S23, S23+, and Ultra; optical on the S23 FE).
Cameras: innovation, versatility, and revolution in mobile photography
La Photography is the great differentiating argument of the Samsung Galaxy S23, especially the Ultra model, which takes mobile possibilities to a new level:
- Galaxy S23 and S23+:
- Triple rear camera: 50MP f/1.8 Dual Pixel PDAF main sensor with OIS; 10MP f/2.4 telephoto lens, 3x optical zoom, OIS; 12MP f/2.2 ultra-wide angle, 120Āŗ FOV, Super Steady.
- 12MP f/2.2 front camera with Dual Pixel PDAF for professional selfies and video calls.
- 8K video recording at 30fps, 4K up to 60fps and advanced HDR10+ stabilization.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra:
- Quad Camera: 200MP f/1.7 Main (ISOCELL HP2) with PDAF, Laser AF, OIS; 10MP f/4.9 Periscope Telephoto, 10x Optical, up to 100x Space Zoom; 10MP f/2.4 Traditional Telephoto, 3x Optical; 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide, Dual Pixel PDAF.
- 12 MP f/2.2 front camera with HDR10+ recording.
- Advanced photography features: Night mode, Expert RAW with Adobe Lightroom integration, 8K recording at 30fps, Pro video, Super Steady, and AI-enhanced portrait mode.
- S Pen supports remote shooting and creative editing.
- Galaxy S23FE:
- 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide angle, 8MP telephoto lens, and 10MP front camera.
- 4K video recording and multiple creative modes.
Artificial intelligence algorithms improve dynamic HDR, scene recognition, and color management. The system Scene Optimizer and the AI Deep Learning allow you to obtain sharp images even in low-light conditions, while the multi-autofocus system provides professional precision in portrait and macro photography.
Processor and hardware: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 'for Galaxy', LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage
The entire S23 series premieres on Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, an exclusive version developed in collaboration with Samsung. This includes:
- 3,36 GHz Octa-Core CPU (Cortex-X3), faster than the standard edition (3,2 GHz), and specially optimized for One UI and AI tasks. For more details on this processor, you can check out What's new in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
- Adreno GPU 740 with overclocking up to 719 MHz, ideal for gaming and multimedia editing without limits.
- X5 70G modem with full support for mmWave/Sub6 networks and AI battery optimization.
- 4nm manufacturing for maximum energy efficiency and advanced heat dissipation.
RAM and storage: The standard on the S23 and S23+ is 8GB LPDDR5X; the Ultra scales up to 12GB on the top-of-the-range versions. Internal storage ranges from 128GB (S23 and S23 FE only), 256GB, 512GB, and up to 1TB (Ultra). It's important to note that the 128GB versions use UFS 3.1, while 256GB or higher versions mount UFS 4.0, which is twice as fast in reading and writing.
- S23 FE: 8GB RAM, 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 / UFS 4.0 storage.
- S23, S23+: 8GB RAM, 128/256/512GB (S23+ only with 256/512GB).
- S23 Ultra: 8GB or 12GB RAM, 256/512GB and 1TB.
Across all models, fluidity is outstanding, whether for everyday tasks or multitasking, advanced gaming, or video editing. The redesigned internal cooling system improves heat dissipation and ensures sustained performance under intensive use.
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Battery, fast charging and real autonomy
Autonomy is one of the most demanded sections, and Samsung responds in the S23 series with higher capacity batteries and ultra-fast charging:
- Galaxy S23: 3.900 mAh, 25W fast charging (USB Power Delivery), 15W Qi wireless charging and 4,5W Wireless PowerShare reverse charging.
- Galaxy S23 +: 4.700 mAh, 45W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and PowerShare.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: 5.000 mAh, 45W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, PowerShare, and AI optimization for up to two days of moderate use.
- Galaxy S23FE: 4.500 mAh, 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse charging.
Real-world battery performance is superior to previous generations thanks to improved thermal management, lower power consumption, and optimizations in One UI. Lab tests indicate a battery life of 10 to 14 hours of intensive use, depending on the model and configuration.
Find out which Samsung devices offer 4 years of security updates..
Operating system, updates, and One UI experience
The whole series Samsung Galaxy S23 comes with Android 13 and One UI 5.1 out of the box., although Samsung has already updated part of the range to One UI 6.0 and is committed to offering:
- 4 years of Android updates for each model, ensuring access to future versions of the system. For more details, check Which Samsung devices offer 4 years of security updates?.
- 5 years of security patches, protecting your investment for an extended life cycle.
- Custom Layers: Full access to unique features like DeX (desktop mode), SmartThings (eco home), Edge panels, advanced multitasking, privacy controls, Knox, and deep integration with the Samsung ecosystem.
The fluidity of One UI 5.1/6.0 and the integration with Google and Samsung services make the S23 series a benchmark in both professional usability and entertainment. In addition, you can install business apps, manage work profiles or access advanced protection through Samsung Knox.
Connectivity, sensors and extras: 5G, Wi-Fi 6E/7, UWB and more
In terms of connectivity, the S23 includes everything you could ask for in a premium range in the midst of technological advancement:
- 5G SA/NSA/Sub6 and mmWave global, with compatibility on all international bands.
- WiFi 6E for S23, S23+ and Ultra; Wi-Fi 7 in top-of-the-range models after future updates.
- Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for mobile payments, dual GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo.
- Ultra Wide Band (UWB) on S23+ and Ultra for precise location and use of SmartTags.
- S Pen with Bluetooth LE on Ultra (writing, remote camera control, presentations and more).
- AKG stereo sound with Dolby Atmos support and top earpiece as secondary speaker.
- Under-screen fingerprint sensor (ultrasonic), facial recognition, accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, pressure sensor, magnetometer, hall sensor, proximity and RGB light.
- dual SIM: Supports nanoSIM + eSIM in most markets, as explained in Galaxy S21 FE 5G design.
- IP68 certification, USB-C 3.2, Wireless DeX and support for Samsung SmartThings.
Discover the best Android phones coming in 2023.
Galaxy S23 vs Galaxy S22 comparison and main competitors
The evolution compared to the previous generation is notable, and compared to its direct rivals (iPhone, Pixel, Xiaomi) the S23 stands out in several sections:
- Processor: The jump to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy improves performance by 20% over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and outperforms previous-generation Exynos processors in efficiency. The S23 Ultra outperforms the iPhone 14 Pro in multitasking and AI tasks.
- Display: The brightness of up to 1.750 nits is among the highest on the market, surpassing the direct competition in outdoor use.
- Camera: The Ultraās 200MP and Pro RAW/AI Photography modes are the benchmark in mobile photography, rivaling the Pixel 7 Proās periscope zoom and Android-leading 8K recording.
- Battery: improved battery life and support for fast, wireless and reverse charging across the range.
- Updates: Samsung leads the update policy among Android manufacturers, matching the Google Pixel and even surpassing other brands. For more information, see Samsung devices that will receive security updates for 4 years.
- Extras: S Pen on Ultra, AKG sound, IP68 resistance, option of exclusive colors and recycled finishes.
Compared to the iPhone 14 lineup, the Google Pixel 7, and the Xiaomi 13, the S23 Ultra excels in photography versatility and productivity options thanks to the S Pen. Additionally, integration with the Samsung ecosystem (Galaxy Buds, Watch, and SmartTags) offers an unparalleled connected experience.
Differences between Samsung S23 and S24: pros and cons.
Official prices of the Samsung Galaxy S23 series
Samsung has adjusted its pricing policy based on each model's RAM and storage configuration and the market it's sold in. As a guide, the recommended prices are:
- Galaxy S23: from around 850 euros (base model 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, increasing to 256 GB for an additional cost).
- Galaxy S23 +: around 1.050 euros (8GB/256GB model), rising to the 512GB option.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: between 1.250 and 1.500 euros depending on memory (8 GB/256 GB, 12 GB/512 GB and 12 GB/1 TB).
- Galaxy S23FE: priced significantly lower than the base S23, positioning itself as the affordable option with balanced specifications.
For more information on prices and offers, check out the promotions at Black Friday and special offers.
Take advantage of Black Friday to buy a Galaxy S23 at the best price..
Frequently asked questions and common doubts about the Galaxy S23
- Does it support 5G networks worldwide? Yes, the Galaxy S23 is multi-band and can be used in any country with 5G, 4G, or 3G networks.
- Does it include a charger in the box? No, only the USB-C cable is supplied. The charger must be purchased separately, in line with Samsung's green policy. For recommendations, see Ideas for saving on tech gifts.
- Does it support microSD expansion? No, none of the Galaxy S23 models have a microSD slot, but they do offer large internal capacities and cloud storage services.
- Is it possible to use dual SIM? Yes, it supports nanoSIM + eSIM (or two nanoSIMs in certain variants), ideal for international users or personal and professional profiles.
- How long does the battery really last? It varies between 8 and 14 hours of intensive use, depending on the model and tasks. The S23 Ultra lasts the longest thanks to its 5.000 mAh.
- What is the difference between One UI and pure Android? One UI adds a multitude of features, integration with the Samsung ecosystem, and exclusive updates, while maintaining the Android foundation with full support for Google Play.
Complete tutorial to master your Galaxy S23 with Expert RAW.
Quick Specs Table
| CĆ³rdoba | Screen | Cameras | Battery | Processor | RAM | Storage | price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S23 | 6,1ā³ FHD+ 120 Hz | 50+12+10 MP / Front 12 MP | 3.900 mAh | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | 8 GB | 128 / 256 / 512 GB | ~ ā¬ 850 |
| Galaxy S23+ | 6,6ā³ FHD+ 120 Hz | 50+12+10 MP / Front 12 MP | 4.700 mAh | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | 8 GB | 256 / 512 GB | ~ ā¬ 1.050 |
| Galaxy s23 ultra | 6,8ā³ QHD+ 120 Hz | 200+12+10+10 MP / Front 12 MP | 5.000 mAh | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | 8 / 12 GB | 256/512 GB / 1 TB | ~ ā¬ 1.250 |
| Galaxy S23FE | 6,4ā³ FHD+ 120 Hz | 50+12+8 MP / Front 10 MP | 4.500 mAh | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 depending on region | 8 GB | 128 / 256 GB | - |
Samsung Accessories and Ecosystem: Power and Personalization on Another Level
The Galaxy S23 experience can be expanded with official and compatible accessories:
- Official and personalized cases with S Pen holder, extra protection and different styles.
- Samsung fast chargers 25W and 45W, plus wireless charging pads and PowerShare accessories.
- Galaxy Buds (True Wireless earphones) compatible with Dolby Atmos and automatic pairing across the Samsung ecosystem.
- Galaxy Watch y Galaxy Tab to integrate health, productivity and leisure from your wrist or tablet.
- SmartTags and UWB for precise location of connected objects and devices.
Integration with services like Samsung Pay, DeX, and SmartThings positions the S23 series as the technological hub of today's digital life.
