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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£1,250RAM capacity:12 GBInternal storage:256 GBScreen size:6.8 inchesMain camera megapixels:200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) Review: Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB)
8.0/10

Overall score

Score
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartphones on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 85% of models
Score components

90%

7.8

Technical score

10%

9.0

User score

â–²Better than 85% of smartphones
6.7

Value for money

Value for money
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Score components

70%

8.0

Overall score

30%

3.9

Price

â–¼Worse than 91%
7.8

Technical score

Technical score
7.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 83% of models
Score components

25%

8.2

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.2

Camera

15%

8.2

Display

15%

7.3

Battery

10%

7.5

Software

10%

7.7

Connectivity

4%

5.9

Audio

3%

7.4

Design

â–²Better than 83%
9.0

User score

User score
9.0/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 92% of models
Score components

70%

8.7

User ratings

30%

9.6

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
★Better than 92%
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Best prices
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Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
12GB + 256GB8GB + 256GBCheck price12GB + 512GBCheck price
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Technical Specifications of smartphone Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB)

Technical score
Technical score
7.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 83% of models
Score components:

25%

8.2

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.2

Camera

15%

8.2

Display

15%

7.3

Battery

10%

7.5

Software

10%

7.7

Connectivity

4%

5.9

Audio

3%

7.4

Design

7.8
User score
User score
9.0/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 92% of models
Score components

70%

8.7

User ratings

30%

9.6

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
9.0
Popularity
Popularity
9.6/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 91% of models
Popularity:
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) has a popularity of 9.6 points, which is higher than 90.8% of smartphones.
9.6
Value for money
Value for money
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Score components:

70%

8.0

Overall score

30%

3.9

Price

6.7
Brand name
Samsung
Processor model
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
This smartphone uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor which is faster than processors in 86.6% of smartphones and equal to processors in 2.4% of smartphones.
RAM capacity
12 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 12 GB which is larger than the RAM capacity of 59% of smartphones and equal to that of 24.3% of smartphones.
Internal storage
256 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 256 GB which is larger than the storage of 38.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 38.3% of smartphones.
CPU boost clock speed
3.2 GHz
Market range: <2 GHz – >3.3 GHz
The CPU boost clock speed of this smartphone is 3.2 GHz which is higher than the boost speed of 81.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 7.1% of smartphones.
Show more
Operating system
Android
This smartphone uses the Android operating system, which outperforms that of 1%.
Android 13
Android version
Android 13
This smartphone runs Android version Android 13 which is older than that found in 50.6% of smartphones and equal to that in 16.5% of smartphones.
Direct OS updates
no
This smartphone does not receive direct OS updates. 20.6% of smartphones receive direct updates.
Open-source OS
yes
This smartphone uses an open-source OS. 94.6% of smartphones use an open-source OS.
Dark mode
yes
This smartphone offers dark mode. 95.8% of smartphones support this feature.
Show more
Multi-lens main camera
yes
This smartphone includes a multi-lens main camera system. 93.7% of smartphones include multi-lens setups.
Main camera megapixels
200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP which is higher than that of 98.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.1% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.7
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.7 which is wider than that of 79.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.7% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
72 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 72 mm² which is larger than the main camera sensor area of 90.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 4.5% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
0.6 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 0.6 µm which is smaller than in 96.2% of smartphones and equal to the size in 1.4% of smartphones.
2.4 binned
Show more
Number of SIM slots
2
Market range: <1 – >6
This smartphone has 2 SIM slots, which is more than in 3.8% of smartphones and equal to the number in 96.1% of smartphones.
Cellular module
yes
This smartphone includes a cellular module. 100% of smartphones include cellular modules.
5G connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports 5G connectivity. 66.9% of smartphones support 5G.
LTE support
yes
This smartphone supports LTE. 99.7% of smartphones include LTE connectivity.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 100% of smartphones offer Wi-Fi support.
Show more
Screen size
6.8 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.8 inches which is larger than the screens of 84.4% of smartphones and equal to those of 4.6% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1440x 3088 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1440x3088 px which is higher than that of 93.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.3% of smartphones.
Pixel density
501 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 501 ppi which is higher than that of 93.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.2% of smartphones.
Display type
OLED/AMOLED
This smartphone uses a OLED/AMOLED display type. 58.6% of smartphones use this display technology.
Refresh rate
120 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >144 Hz
This smartphone supports a refresh rate of 120 Hz which is higher than in 34.7% of smartphones and equal to that in 55.2% of smartphones.
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Battery capacity
5,000 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 28.3% of smartphones and equal to those in 28.8% of smartphones.
Charging speed
45 W
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This smartphone supports charging speeds of 45 W which is faster than in 57.1% of smartphones and equal to speeds in 6.6% of smartphones.
Fast charging
yes
This smartphone supports fast charging. 93.1% of smartphones support fast charging.
GSMArena full wired charge time
?
Wireless charging
yes
This smartphone supports wireless charging. 25.2% of smartphones support wireless charging.
Show more
Stereo speakers
yes
This smartphone includes stereo speakers. 64.4% of smartphones provide stereo audio.
3.5 mm headphone jack
no
This smartphone does not include a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 45.5% of smartphones offer this port.
Number of microphones
3
Market range: <1 – >3
This smartphone includes 3 microphones, which is more than in 77.2% of smartphones and equal to the number in 19.7% of smartphones.
FM radio
no
This smartphone does not include an FM radio. 34.2% of smartphones offer FM radio functionality.
aptX Lossless
no
This smartphone does not support aptX Lossless. 12.9% of smartphones provide aptX Lossless.
Show more
Height
163.4 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 163.4 mm which is shorter than 52.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.2% of smartphones.
Width
78.1 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 78.1 mm which is wider than 85.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.2% of smartphones.
Thickness
8.9 mm
Market range: <7.53 mm – >10.5 mm
This smartphone has a thickness of 8.9 mm which is thicker than 75.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 4.3% of smartphones.
Weight
233 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 233 g which is heavier than 87.1% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 0.4% of smartphones.
Device volume
101,712 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 101,712 cm³ which is larger than 72.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.1% of smartphones.
Show more

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • 2.25x larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (72 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    72 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1440x3088 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1440x3088 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • Higher-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
    200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • 3.9x higher 3DMark Wild Life benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life than the average smartphone (12,159 vs 3,115). The average smartphone scores 3,115.
    12,159 vs 3,115
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 44.20x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    4320x30 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • 33.3% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.2 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.2 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 12.6% higher user score
    User score
    9.0/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G
    the average smartphone
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (9.01 vs 8.000).
    9.01 vs 8
  • 77.3% more popular
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (9.64 vs 5.4).
    9.64 vs 5.44
  • 3.9x higher 3DMark Wild Life benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life than the average smartphone (12,159 vs 3,115). The average smartphone scores 3,115.
    12,159 vs 3,115
  • 33.3% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.2 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.2 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 2.08x higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (1956 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    1,956 vs 942
  • 4 GB more RAM
    This smartphone has more RAM capacity than the average smartphone (12 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    12 GB vs 8 GB
  • 6x more shader units
    This smartphone features more shader units than the average smartphone (1,536 vs 256). The average smartphone has 256 shader units.
    1,536 vs 256
  • Higher CPU base clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (1x3.2 GHz & 4x2.8 GHz & 3x2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz.
    1x3.2 GHz & 4x2.8 GHz & 3x2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz
  • 3.64x higher 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited than the average smartphone (13,926 vs 3,825). The average smartphone scores 3,825.
    13,926 vs 3,825
  • 33.3% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (4 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    4 nm vs 6 nm
  • 2.5x higher memory bandwidth
    This smartphone has higher memory bandwidth than the average smartphone (64 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s). The average memory bandwidth is 25.6 GB/s.
    64 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s
  • Better processor
    This smartphone features a better processor than the average smartphone (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3).
    Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
  • Newer DDR memory version
    This smartphone supports a newer DDR version than the average smartphone (5 vs 4). The average DDR version is 4.
    5 vs 4
  • 3.09x higher 3DMark Wild Life Extreme benchmark
    This smartphone performs better in 3DMark Wild Life Extreme than the average smartphone (3,790 vs 1,226). The average smartphone scores 1,226.
    3,790 vs 1,226
  • 2.01x higher Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 multi-core than the average smartphone (5,102 vs 2,533). The average smartphone scores 2,533 in multi-core.
    average score, actual scores vary slightly by specific device
    5,102 vs 2,533
  • 2.06x higher PassMark benchmark
    This smartphone achieves a higher PassMark score than the average smartphone (9,024 vs 4,389). The average smartphone PassMark score is 4,389.
    9,024 vs 4,389
  • 2x more L3 cache
    This smartphone has more L3 cache than the average smartphone (8192 KB vs 4096 KB). The average L3 cache is 4096 KB.
    8,192 KB vs 4,096 KB
  • 2 more memory channels
    This smartphone has more memory channels than the average smartphone (4 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 memory channels.
    4 vs 2
  • 52.7% faster memory speed
    This smartphone supports faster memory speed than the average smartphone (4200 MHz vs 2750 MHz). The average smartphone supports 2750 MHz memory speed.
    4,200 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • Supports newer OpenGL version
    This smartphone supports a newer OpenGL version than the average smartphone (3.3 vs 3.2). The average version is 3.2.
    3.3 vs 3.2
  • 80.6% higher 3DMark Steel Nomad benchmark
    This smartphone performs better in 3DMark Steel Nomad benchmark than the average smartphone (1,098 vs 608). The average score is 608.
    1,098 vs 608
  • 14.3% higher maximum RAM
    This smartphone supports more maximum RAM than the average smartphone (16 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB RAM.
    16 GB vs 14 GB
  • 2.1% faster GPU clock
    This smartphone has a higher GPU frequency than the average smartphone (970 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone GPU frequency is 950 MHz.
    970 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • 5% lower TDP
    This smartphone has a lower TDP than the average smartphone (6.3 W vs 6 W). The average TDP for smartphones is 6 W.
    6.3 W vs 6 W
  • Higher on-device AI tier
    This smartphone runs on the productivity AI tier, while the average smartphone runs on fundamental, enabling stronger on-device AI features.
    Circle to Search, Live Translate, Generative Edit, Chat Assist, Note Assist, Transcript Assist, Browsing Assist, Interpreter, Instant Slow-mo
    productivity vs fundamental
  • Supports desktop mode
    This smartphone includes desktop mode, the average smartphone does not. 9.4% of smartphones support desktop functionality.
  • 2.25x larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (72 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    72 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • Higher-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
    200 MP & 12 MP & 10 MP & 10 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 44.20x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    4320x30 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • Supports RAW photo capture
    This smartphone supports RAW photo capture, the average smartphone does not. 37.1% of smartphones allow RAW files.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    This smartphone uses a BSI sensor, the average smartphone does not. 40.5% of smartphones include BSI sensors.
  • Supports laser autofocus
    This smartphone features laser autofocus, the average smartphone does not. 21.4% of smartphones include laser AF.
  • Allows manual shutter speed
    This smartphone allows manual shutter speed control, the average smartphone does not. 29.8% of smartphones include this.
  • 1 more flash LEDs
    This smartphone has more flash LEDs than the average smartphone (2 vs 1). The average smartphone has 1 flash LEDs.
    2 vs 1
  • 43.9% higher DxOMark Selfie score
    This smartphone has a higher DxOMark Selfie score than the average smartphone (141 vs 98). The average smartphone scores 98 for selfies.
    141 vs 98
  • Supports HDR10 video recording
    This smartphone supports HDR10 video recording, the average smartphone does not. 35.9% of smartphones support HDR10.
  • Has a dual-tone LED flash
    This smartphone features a dual-tone LED flash, the average smartphone does not. 41.4% of smartphones include dual-tone flash.
  • Wider main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a wider main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.7 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.7 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • Newer USB version
    This smartphone supports a newer USB version than the average smartphone (3.2 vs 2). The average version is USB 2.0.
    3.2 vs 2.0
  • Newer Wi-Fi version
    This smartphone supports a newer Wi-Fi version than the average smartphone (Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)). The average smartphone uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
    Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
  • Has a barometer
    This smartphone features a barometer, the average smartphone does not. 19.9% of smartphones include a barometer.
  • Newer Bluetooth version
    This smartphone supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.3 vs 5.2). The average version is Bluetooth 5.2.
    5.3 vs 5.2
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1440x3088 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1440x3088 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • 26.8% higher pixel density
    This smartphone has a higher pixel density than the average smartphone (501 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
    501 ppi vs 395 ppi
  • 0.13 inches inch larger screen size
    This smartphone has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.8 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
    6.8 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • Supports HDR10 support
    This smartphone supports HDR10, the average smartphone does not. 42.7% of smartphones are HDR10 compatible.
  • Better display glass type
    This smartphone features a better display glass type than the average smartphone (Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5). The average smartphone uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
    Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
  • Higher contrast ratio
    This smartphone has a higher contrast ratio than the average smartphone (3000000:1 vs 1000000:1). The average smartphone contrast ratio is 1000000:1.
    AMOLED/OLED displays have an effectively infinite contrast ratio
    3,000,000:1 vs 1,000,000:1
  • Has an always-on display
    This smartphone features an always-on display, the average smartphone does not. 49.2% of smartphones offer always-on functionality.
  • 750 nits higher peak brightness
    This smartphone has a higher peak brightness than the average smartphone (1750 nits vs 1000 nits). The average peak brightness is 1000 nits.
    1,750 nits vs 1,000 nits
  • 380.5 nits higher GSMArena max display brightness
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena max display brightness than the average smartphone (1274 nits vs 893.5 nits). The average max brightness is 893.5 nits.
    1,274 nits vs 893.5 nits
  • Has a curved display
    This smartphone features a curved display, the average smartphone does not. 24.5% of smartphones have curved screens.
  • 25.9% higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (831 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    831 nits vs 660 nits
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • Higher GSMArena battery life endurance score
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena battery life endurance score than the average smartphone (126 vs 99.5). The average endurance score is 99.5.
    126 vs 99.5
  • Supports reverse wireless charging
    This smartphone supports reverse wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 23.6% of smartphones offer reverse wireless charging.
  • 36.4% faster charging speed
    This smartphone supports a faster charging speed than the average smartphone (45 W vs 33 W). The average charging speed is 33 W.
    45 W vs 33 W
  • 1 more microphone/s
    This smartphone has more microphones than the average smartphone (3 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 microphones.
    3 vs 2
  • 1.5 m deeper water resistance
    This smartphone has a deeper water resistance rating than the average smartphone (1.5 m vs 0 m). The average depth rating is 0 m.
    1.5 m vs 0 m
  • Includes a stylus
    This smartphone includes a stylus, the average smartphone does not. 1.4% of smartphones come with a stylus.
  • Better IP rating
    This smartphone has a better IP rating than the average smartphone (IP68 vs IP67). The average IP rating is IP67.
    IP68 vs IP67
  • 2.5% higher French repairability index
    This smartphone has a higher French repairability index score than the average smartphone (8.2 vs 8). The average score is 8.
    8.2 vs 8
  • No live text recognition
    This smartphone does not support live text recognition, the average smartphone does. 50.9% of smartphones offer real-time text recognition.
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • Lacks app tracking protection
    This smartphone does not have app tracking protection, the average smartphone does. 70.2% of smartphones include app tracking protection.
  • 0.2 µm smaller main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a smaller main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (0.6 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average smartphone has a pixel size of 0.8 µm.
    2.4 binned
    0.6 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • 18.8% heavier
    This smartphone is heavier than the average smartphone (233 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    233 g vs 196.2 g
  • 4.81x more expensive
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£1,250 vs £260).
    £1,250 vs £260
  • 4.81x more expensive
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£1,250 vs £260).
    £1,250 vs £260
  • 8.9% worse value for money
    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB) has worse value for money than the average smartphone (6.74 vs 7.3).
    6.74 vs 7.34
  • Lacks NX Bit security
    This smartphone does not support NX Bit, the average smartphone does. 94.6% of smartphones support NX Bit.
  • No live text recognition
    This smartphone does not support live text recognition, the average smartphone does. 50.9% of smartphones offer real-time text recognition.
  • Lacks app tracking protection
    This smartphone does not have app tracking protection, the average smartphone does. 70.2% of smartphones include app tracking protection.
  • Older Android version
    This smartphone runs an older Android version than the average smartphone (Android 13 vs Android 14). The average smartphone runs Android version Android 14.
    Android 13 vs Android 14
  • 0.2 µm smaller main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a smaller main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (0.6 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average smartphone has a pixel size of 0.8 µm.
    2.4 binned
    0.6 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Lower front camera megapixels
    This smartphone has lower front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (12 MP vs 16 MP). The average smartphone has a 16 MP front camera.
    12 MP vs 16 MP
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • 25% slower wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (15 W vs 20 W). The average smartphone wireless charging speed is 20 W.
    15 W vs 20 W
  • 10% slower reverse wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower reverse wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (4.5 W vs 5 W). The average smartphone speed is 5 W.
    4.5 W vs 5 W
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • 18.8% heavier
    This smartphone is heavier than the average smartphone (233 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    233 g vs 196.2 g
  • 2.1 mm wider
    This smartphone is wider than the average smartphone (78.1 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone has a width of 76 mm.
    78.1 mm vs 76 mm
  • 0.6 mm thicker
    This smartphone is thicker than the average smartphone (8.9 mm vs 8.3 mm). The average smartphone has a thickness of 8.3 mm.
    8.9 mm vs 8.3 mm
  • 1 year/s older release date
    This smartphone is an older model than the average smartphone (2023 vs 2024). 1.00% of smartphones were released more recently.
    February 2023
    2023 vs 2024
  • Poor brand origin
    This smartphone has a poorer brand origin compared to the average smartphone. 0.00% of smartphones come from top-tier brand origins.
    South Korea vs China

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

S
sciencefocus.com
29/04/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: Overkill has never looked so good
I
ign.com
10/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review
T
thecanadiantechie.com
08/04/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review – TheCanadianTechie
P
petematheson.com
15/06/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra - Long Term Review
T
thestreet.com
16/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: The New King Of Android
P
phonearena.com
17/10/2024
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: no one big new feature but many smaller ones
P
pcmag.com
08/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review
A
androidauthority.com
17/01/2024
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: The boss of Android
T
theguardian.com
28/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review - The Guardian
T
tomsguide.com
18/09/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review
T
trustedreviews.com
February 2023 (Updated 2024)
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: Still worth buying in 2024?
M
me.pcmag.com
08/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review
C
creativebloq.com
24/03/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: the ultimate Android phone?
B
businessinsider.com
16/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: Overkill in All the Right Ways
A
androidpolice.com
25/03/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: More phone than you need
T
techradar.com
13/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: indomitable showman
C
cnet.com
16/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: The King of Extra
T
theverge.com
15/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: practically peerless
L
lesnumeriques.com
10/02/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: A finally perfected model on Les Numériques
(Translated)Show original
L
leclaireur.fnac.com
02/03/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Lab Test - L'Éclaireur Fnac
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: August 2026 · How we calculate this

What we like about Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB)

  • Stunning, bright, and vibrant 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, easily visible in direct sunlight.
  • Exceptional battery life, often lasting a full day of intense use or even up to two days with moderate use.
  • Blazing-fast performance for gaming and multitasking, powered by the custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor which runs cool and efficient.
  • Versatile and high-quality camera system, including a 200MP main sensor and powerful 10x optical zoom lens that captures great detail and vibrant colors.
  • Integrated S Pen stylus is highly useful for note-taking, editing, and as a remote camera shutter button, a key differentiating feature.
  • Durable build with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP68 water/dust resistance rating.
  • Promises excellent software support, including four OS upgrades and five years of security updates.
  • High-quality stereo speakers that deliver loud and clear sound.
  • Clean and feature-rich software (One UI) with useful additions like Samsung DeX and Galaxy AI features.

What we don't like about Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (12GB + 256GB)

  • It is a large, heavy, and expensive phone, which can be bulky or uncomfortable for some users to hold with one hand.
  • Charging speeds are considered slow compared to other modern Android flagships, and a charger is not included in the box.
  • Some users find the camera's post-processing inconsistent, occasionally over-sharpening or oversaturating images.
  • No expandable storage (microSD card slot) or a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • The design is largely similar to its predecessor, leading some to find it unexciting or not worth upgrading from the previous model.
  • Curved screen edges can sometimes lead to accidental touches or make screen protectors harder to fit without chipping.
  • Occasional software glitches or slight animation lag has been reported by some users after certain updates.

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (12GB + 256GB) is a top-tier Android flagship defined by its expansive 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz display, a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, a versatile and powerful quad-camera system featuring a 200MP main sensor with 10x optical zoom, an integrated S Pen stylus, a durable build with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and excellent all-day-plus battery life from its 5,000mAh capacity. Its main pros are the outstanding display quality, best-in-class performance and camera zoom capabilities, and long-term software support. Primary cons are its very high price, large and heavy build which can be hard for one-handed use, and relatively slow 45W wired charging speed compared to some competitors.

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