Samsung Galaxy S23 (8GB + 256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Wired’s review of the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Ultra highlights a focus on refinement, with both devices earning a 9/10 rating for their improved performance and efficiency. Featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 "for Galaxy" chip, the models offer superior, snappier performance, with the S23 Ultra boasting a 200-megapixel sensor and 10x zoom, while the smaller S23 provides better one-handed ergonomics. Despite their strengths, both models lack an included charger, display some oversaturated photo processing, and come at a high price point.

The TechRadar review describes the Samsung Galaxy S23 as a "palm-friendly winner" packing top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance into a compact frame. Key improvements include significantly better battery life from the 3,900mAh capacity and a refined design featuring individual rear lenses. Pros include the brilliant 6.1-inch 120Hz display, superior low-light camera processing, and excellent performance. However, the S23 is considered an incremental upgrade over the S22, making it hard to recommend for existing owners, while lacking a charging brick in the box. Charging speed is limited to 25W, and the base 128GB model uses slower UFS 3.1 storage compared to the UFS 4.0 in higher capacities. Overall, it is a refined, powerful compact phone that suffers from conservative updates.

SamMobile calls the Galaxy S23 an outstanding, palm-friendly compact flagship that resolves previous battery issues with a more efficient, custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip. The device features a premium design, a brighter 6.1-inch display, and excellent, cool-running performance with Android 13. Major pros include stellar battery life and a four-year OS update commitment. However, the review criticizes the continued use of 25W wired charging as inadequate for a modern flagship. Other drawbacks include the lack of expandable storage, no charger in the box, and, for the 128GB base model, the use of slower UFS 3.1 storage. Camera shutter lag for moving subjects was also noted.

The Business Insider review highlights the Samsung Galaxy S23 as a top-tier compact Android device featuring a vibrant 6.1-inch, 1,750-nit AMOLED display, durable Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and IP68 water resistance, though the rear camera lens arrangement is prone to dust. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, the device offers superior performance and improved all-day battery life compared to its predecessor, although the base 128GB model uses slower UFS 3.1 storage. Photography is enhanced by a 50MP main sensor and improved low-light "Nightography," but the phone is limited by 25W wired charging and an iterative design.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 is identified by Trusted Reviews as a premium, highly pocketable 6.1-inch compact flagship featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which provides exceptionally fast performance and capable gaming capabilities. A major improvement highlighted is the achievement of genuine all-day battery life, a significant upgrade over its predecessors. The device boasts a bright 120Hz AMOLED display, yet the camera, while versatile, can produce overly vibrant images due to aggressive processing. Notable drawbacks include the lack of Dolby Vision support and relatively slow 25W charging, which lags behind competitors. Furthermore, the software experience is marred by significant pre-installed bloatware, according to the review.

According to CNN Underscored, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23+ offer high performance with a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and excellent battery life, particularly on the S23+ which achieved nearly 21 hours in testing. Pros include vibrant 120Hz AMOLED displays and camera system upgrades like improved "Nightography" and 30x "Space Zoom," while cons include slippery glossy edges requiring a case and pre-installed bloatware.

Consumer Reports rates the Samsung Galaxy S23 as a top-tier, "pocketable" 6.1-inch device, earning excellent ratings for its balance of speed, camera quality, and durability. Key advantages include a highly bright, readable display (811 cd/m²), an outstanding 50-megapixel main camera, and an improved 36.5-hour battery life. While offering high performance, drawbacks noted in testing include processor speeds that trail "Ultra" models, good-but-not-best call quality, and a non-removable battery.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 is described as a well-rounded and exceptional compact flagship phone with an ergonomic design, premium feel, and comfortable 6.1-inch AMOLED display suitable for one-handed use. It features a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 8GB RAM, and a "battery champion" 3,900 mAh battery that often retains over 50% charge after a workday, further enhanced by a fluid 120Hz display with excellent brightness. The camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, is considered a reliable "auto mode snapper," though the 30x space zoom is deemed less reliable. While fast and responsive, the review notes minor software hiccups with occasional app lock-ups or force closes.

Digital Trends reviewed the Samsung Galaxy S23 as the "Android phone for everyone," highlighting its compact design and consistent global performance with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip. Pros included its ergonomic 6.1-inch size, a vivid AMOLED display with 1750 nits peak brightness, improved battery life compared to the S22, and a refined design. Cons noted were slow 25W wired charging, camera hardware limitations compared to the S23 Ultra, pre-installed software bloat, and a higher price point in some regions. Samsung Galaxy S23 5G 8GB/256GB Dual Sim - Lavender£420.21Samsung Galaxy S22 (5g) Sm-s901u 128gb/ gb Factory Unlocked£209.994.3(31.1k)Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5g S918u 6.8" 256gb 512gb Original Unlocked£526.994.7(52k)

The Samsung Galaxy S23, reviewed by Android Authority, is described as a "giant among small phones" due to improvements in battery life and performance compared to previous models. The global adoption of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip and a larger 3,900mAh battery help the compact device last a full day. Key pros highlighted include its vibrant 6.1-inch 1,750-nit AMOLED display, durable design with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, a strong update policy, and a capable camera system. However, cons include slow 25W wired charging, lack of UWB support in the base model, slower UFS 3.1 storage in the 128GB version, and a design prone to collecting dust.

According to Tom's Guide, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is a compact phone with strong performance due to its customized Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip and a brighter 6.1-inch display. It offers significantly improved battery life compared to its predecessor and includes a versatile telephoto lens for 3x optical zoom, making it a good upgrade for users with older devices. However, the review notes drawbacks such as slow 25W wired charging, unchanged rear camera hardware from the previous model, a weak selfie camera, and a lack of significant design innovation.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 is highlighted as a significant improvement over its predecessor, primarily due to the custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset which enhances performance and battery efficiency, allowing it to last a full workday. The device's compact design and bright 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display are praised for one-handed use and durability with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while One UI 5.1 offers new features and four promised OS updates. However, drawbacks include a "boring" design, an inconsistent camera system that is largely unchanged from the S22, slow 25W wired charging, and a high price.

CNET's review of the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus highlights significant improvements in battery life and performance, driven by the custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset. While pros include enhanced efficiency, larger batteries, and a refined design, cons include largely unchanged rear camera hardware and stagnant charging speeds. CNET recommends these models primarily for users upgrading from phones two or more years old, deeming the changes insufficient for current S22 owners. Samsung Galaxy S23£299.99& more prices4.5(22k)Samsung Galaxy S23+£438.53& more prices4.6(12.3k)

PCMag rates the Samsung Galaxy S23 as a premier compact Android flagship with a bright 6.1-inch AMOLED display and durable build, notable for resolving battery issues of its predecessor. It features a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip and a respectable camera system, though it has slower 25W wired charging and lacks Ultra-Wideband support found in larger models.