Huawei nova 9 SE vs Samsung Galaxy S23 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date March 20, 2022 February 17, 2023
Release Year 2022 2023

Physical

Volume 98.31 cm³ 78.83 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.55 "/g 3.63 "/g
Weight 191 g 168 g
Height 164.6 mm 146.3 mm
Width 75.6 mm 70.9 mm
Thickness 7.9 mm 7.6 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Midnight Black
  • Pearl White
  • Crystal Blue
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Lime

Display

Screen Size 6.78 " 6.1 "
Resolution 1080 x 2388 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 89.5 % 88.1 %
Pixel Density 387 PPI 425 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 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 87.02 mAh/in² 104.81 mAh/in²
Battery Density 40.69 mAh/cm³ 49.47 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4000 mAh 3900 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Adreno 610 Adreno 740

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG USB Type-C 3.2, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 13
Maximum OS Version 17

Comparison Summary

Huawei nova 9 SE vs. Samsung Galaxy S23: A User-Centered Comparison

As a technology communications specialist, my goal is to help you understand these phones beyond the raw numbers. Let's explore the Huawei nova 9 SE and Samsung Galaxy S23 through the lens of user experience, weaving narratives that reveal their true essence.

1. Design and Usability Assessment

FeatureHuawei nova 9 SESamsung Galaxy S23User Experience Impact
Interface DesignEMUI 12 (based on Android 11)One UI 5.1 (based on Android 13)S23 offers a more modern, feature-rich, and regularly updated interface, contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
Interaction FlowStandard Android navigation with Huawei customizationsRefined Android experience with Samsung enhancementsS23's optimized software and powerful hardware deliver a more fluid and responsive interaction.
Accessibility FeaturesStandard Android accessibility optionsComprehensive suite of accessibility featuresS23 provides greater inclusivity with more options for users with diverse needs.
Design ErgonomicsLarger display (6.78"), slightly heavier (191g)Compact design (6.1"), lighter (168g)S23's compact form factor enhances one-handed usability, appealing to users who prioritize portability.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration

Scenario: Imagine a photography enthusiast, Sarah. The nova 9 SE's 108MP main camera sensor initially attracts Sarah with the promise of high-resolution images. However, in practice, she finds the S23's 50MP camera, powered by advanced software processing and a superior chipset, consistently delivers more vibrant, detailed photos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The S23's 3X optical zoom also provides creative flexibility that the nova 9 SE lacks.

Scenario: David, a busy professional, relies heavily on his phone for multitasking and productivity. While the nova 9 SE offers a large screen for content consumption, David finds the S23's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor significantly faster and more efficient, allowing seamless app switching and smooth performance even with demanding tasks. The S23's longer software update support also assures David of continued security and performance enhancements.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation

Both phones offer standard Android accessibility features. However, the S23 goes further with One UI's robust customization options, allowing users to personalize the interface to their specific visual and motor needs. The S23's superior performance also benefits users who rely on assistive technologies that demand processing power.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework

The choice between these phones depends on individual priorities. The nova 9 SE caters to users seeking a large display for media consumption on a budget. The S23, however, represents a more refined, powerful, and future-proof experience, excelling in performance, camera quality, software updates, and overall design.

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S23

While the Huawei nova 9 SE offers an attractive price point and a large display, the Samsung Galaxy S23 resonates more strongly with my user-centered approach. Its compact design, powerful performance powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, superior camera system, and commitment to long-term software updates contribute to a significantly more satisfying and enduring user experience. The S23's refined design philosophy and focus on user needs align perfectly with my advocacy for intuitive and inclusive technology. It's a device that not only performs exceptionally well but also elevates the everyday interactions of its users.

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.