Smartphone Comparison: Oppo Find X3 Neo vs. Samsung Galaxy S23
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Oppo Find X3 Neo | Samsung Galaxy S23 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-19 | 2023-02-17 | Samsung Galaxy S23 is significantly newer, likely with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 72.5 × 8 mm | 146.3 × 70.9 × 7.6 mm | Oppo Find X3 Neo is larger and slightly thicker, while S23 is more compact and pocketable. |
| Weight | 184g | 168g | Samsung Galaxy S23 is lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.1" | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a larger screen, better for media consumption, gaming, and users who prefer larger text/UI. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer sharp images, but the difference is negligible in daily use. |
| Pixel Density | 402 ppi | 425 ppi | Samsung Galaxy S23 has a slightly sharper display due to its higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent contrast, vibrant colors, and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Samsung Galaxy S23 provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1750 nits | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Samsung Galaxy S23 has a much more powerful and efficient chip, leading to better performance and battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 743,500 | 1,456,671 | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers vastly superior performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 740 | Samsung Galaxy S23 provides better graphics performance for games and graphically intensive apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" | Both have similar resolution, aperture, and sensor sizes. Oppo has larger sensor which means slightly better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74" | 12MP, f/2.2 | Oppo Find X3 Neo has higher resolution while Samsung Galaxy S23 has a wider aperture, potentially better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.4" | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" | Oppo Find X3 Neo has higher resolution, and a larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2 | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | Samsung Galaxy S23 has larger pixel size (1.40 µm) meaning it gathers more light, while Oppo has higher MP (16 MP vs 12.2 MP). |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | None | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, Samsung Galaxy S23 does not. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers higher resolution video recording, especially for those interested in higher quality. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 106, Photo: 104, Video: 106 | Mobile: 133 | Samsung Galaxy S23 demonstrates a higher overall camera score, but Oppo performs better in video and photo tests. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3900mAh | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Oppo Find X3 Neo charges significantly faster. |
| Wireless Charging | No | 10W | Samsung Galaxy S23 supports convenient wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 13 (upgradable to 17) | Samsung Galaxy S23 has a much newer version of Android and will receive more updates. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers more storage options, which may be critical for storing lots of media. |
| RAM | 12 GB | 8 GB | Oppo Find X3 Neo offers slightly more RAM for heavier multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Other | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Samsung Galaxy S23 has a newer Bluetooth version, which may offer slightly better connectivity. |
| SIM Support | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM/eSIM | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers eSIM for easier carrier switching. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Oppo Find X3 Neo features Hi-Res audio, while Samsung offers a noise cancellation mic. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Samsung Galaxy S23 offers better scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Samsung Galaxy S23 has additional Barometer sensor for air pressure readings. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Oppo Find X3 Neo Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.55" screen is better for media consumption and users who prefer a bigger UI.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is much faster than the 25W on the Samsung S23.
- Larger Battery: The 4500mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- More RAM: 12GB RAM is better for heavy multitasking and gaming.
- Better Telephoto & Macro Lens: Offers a dedicated Macro Lens for close-up shots.
- Better Video & Photo score in DxoMark: Performs better in Video and Photo tests compared to the Samsung.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Advantages:
- Newer and More Powerful Chipset: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 offers a significant performance boost.
- Brighter Display: 1750 nits brightness means much better visibility outdoors.
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz provides a smoother user experience.
- Better Overall Camera Score: Better overall camera scores from DxOMark
- 8K Video Recording: Offers higher resolution video recording.
- eSIM Support: Offers flexibility for carrier switching.
- Wireless Charging: Provides convenient wireless charging.
- More Storage Options: Up to 512GB of internal storage is available.
- More Up-to-date Software: Comes with a newer version of Android and will receive more updates.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers superior scratch and drop resistance.
Trade-offs:
- Oppo Find X3 Neo: Sacrifices performance, display brightness, software updates, and advanced features for a larger screen and better charging speeds.
- Samsung Galaxy S23: Smaller battery, slower charging speed, and less RAM but gains significantly in performance, camera capabilities, software support, and display quality.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Oppo Find X3 Neo Ideal User:
- Users who value a larger display and are comfortable with a larger device.
- Users who prioritize fast charging and battery life over peak performance.
- Users who take macro shots regularly and value more video and photo features.
- Users on a tighter budget seeking a capable phone with a larger display.
Specific Use Cases for Oppo Find X3 Neo:
- Watching videos and movies on the go
- Gaming and multitasking for longer sessions.
- Capturing detailed macro shots and other photography.
- Users who do not need the absolute latest software or peak performance.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ideal User:
- Users who value the best performance, camera quality and latest software features.
- Users who want the best performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
- Users who frequently take photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
- Users who prefer a more compact and premium phone with wireless charging.
Specific Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S23:
- Demanding gaming and running performance-intensive applications.
- Capturing high-quality photos and 8K videos in various lighting conditions
- Everyday use where a bright and smooth display is important.
- Users who want frequent software updates and the latest features.
- Professionals needing eSIM support.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Oppo Find X3 Neo, being an older model, might be more affordable now, offering good value for users focused on display size and charging speed.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23, being a newer flagship, comes at a higher price point, but justifies this with superior performance, display quality, camera, and software support.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize display size and battery life, or performance and image quality? (Oppo for the former, Samsung for the latter)
- Is fast charging a must, or do you prefer wireless charging and a premium build? (Oppo for fast charging, Samsung for wireless and build)
- Do you need the latest software and long-term updates, or are you okay with older software with a potentially cheaper price? (Samsung for latest, Oppo for potentially cheaper price)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious Media Consumer: If you need a larger screen for media consumption and are on a tighter budget, and don't care too much about the performance, the Oppo Find X3 Neo is a good choice.
- Performance Enthusiast & Photographer: If you want the best performance, camera quality, and cutting-edge features, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is worth the higher price.
- On-the-Go Professional: If you need wireless charging, eSIM and a premium compact device that offers great video recording, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is the better option.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would personally pick the Samsung Galaxy S23. Here's why:
- Performance is King: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 offers a significant performance leap, which is crucial for a smooth and responsive experience, especially when multitasking and gaming.
- Display Quality Matters: The higher refresh rate and brightness on the S23 would make a noticeable difference in daily use, especially outdoors.
- Camera Versatility: While the Oppo has a good camera, the Samsung offers better overall performance, and the 8K video recording is valuable for capturing high-quality videos.
- Software and Long-Term Support: The Samsung S23’s newer software and expected longer update cycle are significant advantages.
While the Oppo Find X3 Neo has some compelling features like fast charging, a larger battery and RAM, the overall experience of the Samsung Galaxy S23, with its vastly superior chipset, display, camera, and software support, justifies the higher price point. The slightly smaller screen and battery is a compromise I am willing to make for the significant improvements in the other aspects.
