Google Pixel 6 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date October 28, 2021 February 17, 2023
Release Year 2021 2023

Physical

Volume 110.72 cm³ 113.58 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.19 "/g 2.91 "/g
Weight 210 g 234 g
Height 163.9 mm 163.4 mm
Width 75.9 mm 78.1 mm
Thickness 8.9 mm 8.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Stormy Black
  • Cloudy White
  • Sorta Sunny
  • Red
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Sky Blue
  • Lime
  • BMW M Edition

Display

Screen Size 6.7 " 6.8 "
Resolution 1440 x 3120 1440 x 3088
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 88.6 % 89.5 %
Pixel Density 512 PPI 500 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 1200 nits
Peak Brightness N/A 1750 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 111.45 mAh/in² 108.13 mAh/in²
Battery Density 45.19 mAh/cm³ 44.02 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5003 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Google Tensor (5 nm) Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.80 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.25 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Mali-G78 MP20 Adreno 740

Connectivity

USB Version 3.1 3.2
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.1 USB Type-C 3.2, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 12 13
Maximum OS Version 14 17

Comparison Summary

The Pixel 6 Pro vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra: A Tale of Two Flagships

Let's embark on a journey beyond the spec sheet, exploring the Google Pixel 6 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra as complete user experiences. Both phones boast impressive hardware, but their design philosophies and resulting user interactions differ significantly.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeaturePixel 6 ProGalaxy S23 UltraUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignClean, minimalist, Google's Material YouFeature-rich, Samsung One UIPixel prioritizes simplicity and customization; Samsung offers extensive features and a distinct visual language.
Interaction FlowSmooth, intuitive, focused on core tasksPowerful, multitasking-oriented, slightly complexPixel provides a streamlined experience for everyday users; Samsung caters to power users who demand advanced functionality.
Accessibility FeaturesComprehensive suite, AI-poweredRobust options, but less AI integrationPixel leverages AI for innovative accessibility features; Samsung provides a wider range of traditional accessibility settings.
Design ErgonomicsDistinctive camera bar, slightly bulkySleek, integrated design, premium feelPixel's unique design is polarizing; Samsung offers a more refined and universally appealing aesthetic.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: Imagine a busy professional needing to capture notes during a conference.

  • Pixel 6 Pro: Using the Recorder app with Live Translate, the Pixel effortlessly transcribes the speaker's words in real-time, even translating languages on the fly. This seamless integration of hardware and software allows for focused note-taking without language barriers. The clean interface minimizes distractions, allowing the user to concentrate on the content.

  • Galaxy S23 Ultra: The S Pen transforms the S23 Ultra into a digital notepad, allowing for handwritten notes directly on the screen. Samsung's multitasking capabilities enable simultaneous note-taking while referencing presentation slides or browsing related information. This powerful workflow empowers users who prefer a more hands-on and multi-faceted approach.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

  • For a tech-savvy user: The S23 Ultra's extensive customization options and powerful hardware provide a playground for exploration.

  • For a senior citizen: The Pixel's clean interface, large icons, and AI-powered features like Call Screen offer a simplified and secure experience.

  • For a visually impaired user: Both devices offer robust screen readers and voice assistants, but the Pixel's AI-driven features could provide a slight edge in certain scenarios.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

The choice hinges on individual priorities and design preferences. If you value simplicity, seamless AI integration, and a clean aesthetic, the Pixel 6 Pro is a compelling option. If you prioritize power, multitasking capabilities, a premium design, and a stylus experience, the Galaxy S23 Ultra emerges as the victor.

My Choice: The Google Pixel 6 Pro

As Sophia Rodriguez, my focus remains firmly on user experience and accessibility. While the S23 Ultra boasts impressive specifications, the Pixel 6 Pro's intuitive design, clean interface, and innovative use of AI resonate deeply with my user-centered approach. Features like Live Translate exemplify how technology can seamlessly integrate into our lives, breaking down barriers and enhancing communication. The Pixel's commitment to accessibility, powered by AI, aligns perfectly with my mission to make technology accessible and engaging for everyone. Its unique design, though perhaps polarizing, represents a bold statement prioritizing function and user experience. For me, the Pixel 6 Pro tells a more compelling story about the future of mobile technology - one where technology empowers rather than overwhelms.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.