The Samsung Galaxy S23 stands out in the market as a smaller smartphone that doesn’t compromise on capabilities. While many compact handsets often come with limited features, the S23 offers an impressive range of specifications that are on par with its larger and more expensive sibling, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus. In this review, we will explore the key features of the Samsung Galaxy S23 and its overall performance.
Compact Size with Great Features: The Samsung Galaxy S23 sets itself apart with its smaller form factor. Measuring at 146 x 71 x 7.6mm, it easily fits into tight pockets and is comfortable to use, especially for individuals with smaller hands. Despite its smaller size, it boasts a range of advanced features that match those of larger smartphones in the market.
Performance and Battery Life: One of the notable improvements in the Galaxy S23 is its performance. It is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which offers a substantial boost in processing power compared to its predecessor. The Geekbench 5 results show a 23% increase in single-core performance and a significant 40% improvement in multi-core performance. The overall experience is enhanced with faster boot-up times, seamless app switching, and improved camera features.
The battery life of the Galaxy S23 has also received an upgrade, with a larger 3,900mAh battery compared to the previous model. In video playback tests, the S23 lasted an impressive 22 hours and 27 minutes, surpassing its predecessor, the S22 Plus. However, it’s important to note that among the S23 models, it still has the weakest battery life. If extended battery life is a priority, the S23 Plus may be a better option.
Display and Design: The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an FHD+ resolution of 2,340 x 1,080. The screen is vibrant and supports HDR10+ playback, delivering excellent visuals for both regular use and HDR content. The addition of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides improved durability and sustainability in its construction.
In terms of design, the Samsung Galaxy S23 has opted for a more streamlined approach compared to its predecessor. The camera block has been eliminated, and the lenses are now placed vertically on the back. While some may appreciate this cleaner look, others may feel that the S23 has lost some of its distinctive character.
Camera Capabilities: The Galaxy S23 retains its camera setup from the previous model, featuring a 50MP main camera, a 12MP 120-degree ultrawide lens, and a 10MP 3x optical telephoto lens. The image quality is excellent, capturing rich detail and vibrant colors. Low-light photography is particularly impressive, with images showcasing balanced highlights and reduced visual noise. The zoom capabilities are decent, allowing hybrid zoom up to 30x, although optimal results are achieved at lower zoom levels.
Price and Competition: The Samsung Galaxy S23 starts at £849 for the entry-level 128GB model, which is a slight increase compared to its predecessor. It falls in line with the pricing of other flagship devices, such as the iPhone 14 and the Pixel 7 Pro. However, the S23 offers better value for storage, making it a compelling choice.
In Conclusion:
The Samsung Galaxy S23 impresses with its compact size and powerful performance. It offers a seamless user experience, a vibrant display, and impressive camera capabilities. While the battery life is not the strongest among the S23 models, the overall package makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a smaller smartphone without compromising on features.