OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G vs Samsung Galaxy S23+ - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date February 22, 2022 February 17, 2023
Release Year 2022 2023

Physical

Volume 91.7 cm³ 91.39 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.72 "/g 3.37 "/g
Weight 173 g 196 g
Height 160.6 mm 157.8 mm
Width 73.2 mm 76.2 mm
Thickness 7.8 mm 7.6 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Gray Mirror
  • Bahama Blue
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Lime

Display

Screen Size 6.43 " 6.6 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 84.9 % 88.9 %
Pixel Density 409 PPI 393 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 108.84 mAh/in² 107.90 mAh/in²
Battery Density 49.08 mAh/cm³ 51.43 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 4700 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 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-G68 MC4 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 13 17

Comparison Summary

OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy S23+: A User-Centered Comparison

Let's embark on a journey beyond the spec sheet, exploring the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G and Samsung Galaxy S23+ through the lens of the user. We'll uncover how design choices translate into real-world experiences, empowering you to choose the device that truly resonates with your needs.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureOnePlus Nord CE 2 5GSamsung Galaxy S23+User Experience Impact
Interface DesignOxygenOSOne UIOne UI offers a more polished and refined aesthetic, while OxygenOS leans towards a cleaner, stock Android feel. Personal preference plays a key role.
Interaction FlowSmooth, responsiveHighly fluid, intuitiveThe S23+'s higher refresh rate (120Hz) delivers a noticeably smoother experience, especially in scrolling and animations.
AccessibilityStandard AndroidEnhanced featuresOne UI generally provides more robust accessibility options for users with diverse needs.
ErgonomicsLighter (173g)Heavier (196g)The Nord CE 2 5G's lighter weight enhances comfort during extended use, while the S23+'s heft conveys a premium feel.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: Imagine capturing a vibrant sunset on a backpacking trip. The S23+'s superior camera system, with its advanced sensor and Night Mode, allows you to preserve the breathtaking scene with stunning detail and clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions. While the Nord CE 2 5G captures the moment, the S23+'s result is closer to reality, with richer colors and dynamic range.

Scenario: You're navigating a bustling city using your phone for directions. The S23+'s brighter display (1750 nits) ensures clear visibility even under direct sunlight, preventing frustrating squinting and ensuring you stay on course. The Nord CE 2 5G's display, while adequate indoors, may struggle in bright outdoor environments.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

User Profile: A senior citizen who prioritizes simplicity and ease of use. The Nord CE 2 5G's lighter weight and OxygenOS's relatively straightforward interface might be more appealing.

User Profile: A young professional who values performance and cutting-edge technology. The S23+'s powerful processor, superior camera, and smoother display cater to demanding tasks and multimedia consumption.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Prioritize:

  • Seamless Performance and Longevity: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23+. Its powerful processor ensures a future-proof experience.
  • Comfort and Affordability: Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G. Its lighter weight and lower price point make it a practical option.
  • Bright Outdoor Visibility: The S23+'s significantly brighter display is a crucial factor for outdoor usage.

My Choice: The Samsung Galaxy S23+

While the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers a compelling blend of features and affordability, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ resonates more strongly with my personal values and user experience priorities. The significantly brighter display, dramatically faster performance, superior camera system, especially in low light, and the promise of longer software updates make it a worthwhile investment for a power user who values a premium and future-proof experience. The smoother 120Hz display contributes significantly to a fluid and enjoyable user experience, a key element in my evaluation framework. The S23+'s robust build quality and advanced camera features solidify its position as the device that best aligns with a user seeking a seamless blend of performance, design, and longevity.

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.