Samsung Galaxy S23+ vs Samsung Galaxy A15 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date February 17, 2023 December 16, 2023
Release Year 2023 2023

Physical

Volume 91.39 cm³ 103.28 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.37 "/g 3.25 "/g
Weight 196 g 200 g
Height 157.8 mm 160.1 mm
Width 76.2 mm 76.8 mm
Thickness 7.6 mm 8.4 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Lime
  • Brave Black
  • Optimistic Blue
  • Magical Blue
  • Personality Yellow

Display

Screen Size 6.6 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1080 x 2340 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 88.9 % 84.3 %
Pixel Density 393 PPI 396 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1200 nits 800 nits
Peak Brightness 1750 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 107.90 mAh/in² 118.34 mAh/in²
Battery Density 51.43 mAh/cm³ 48.41 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4700 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Adreno 740 Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

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

Software

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

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S23+Samsung Galaxy A15Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6160.1 x 76.8 x 8.4S23+ is slightly smaller and thinner. A15 might feel bulkier in hand.
Weight (g)196200Negligible weight difference in practical use.
Display
Display Size (inches)6.66.5Virtually identical screen sizes.
Resolution (px)1080 x 23401080 x 2340Same resolution, but S23+ has a higher pixel density due to slightly smaller size, resulting in sharper images.
Refresh Rate (Hz)12090S23+ offers smoother scrolling and animations, especially noticeable in gaming and fast-paced content.
Display TypeDynamic AMOLED 2XSuper AMOLEDS23+'s Dynamic AMOLED 2X likely offers better color accuracy, brightness (1750 nits peak vs 800 nits), and HDR performance.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm)S23+ has a significantly more powerful processor, leading to much faster performance in demanding tasks, multitasking, and gaming.
CPUOcta-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & ...)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & ...)S23+'s CPU architecture is superior, resulting in significantly faster processing speeds.
GPUAdreno 740Mali-G57 MC2S23+ boasts a considerably more powerful GPU, translating to a vastly improved gaming experience and smoother graphics rendering.
RAM (GB)84/6/8 (Variant Dependent)More RAM in certain S23+ variants allows for better multitasking and app switching. Base A15 model with 4GB RAM may struggle with heavy usage.
Camera
Main Camera (MP)5050Megapixel count is similar, but S23+ likely utilizes a superior sensor (Samsung GN5) and optics, resulting in better image quality.
Video RecordingUp to 8K@30fpsUp to 1080p@30fpsS23+ offers significantly higher resolution video recording capabilities.
Battery
Capacity (mAh)47005000A15 has a slightly larger battery capacity, potentially offering longer battery life for basic usage.
Fast Charging45W25WS23+ charges significantly faster.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S23+ Advantages:

  • Significantly faster performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip offers a substantial performance advantage for demanding tasks and gaming.
  • Superior display: Brighter, smoother, and with better color accuracy due to the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display.
  • Faster charging: 45W fast charging replenishes the battery much quicker than the A15's 25W.
  • Better camera system: Expected to produce higher quality photos and videos, especially in low light, due to better sensor and processing.

Samsung Galaxy A15 Advantages:

  • Potentially longer battery life: The 5000 mAh battery may last longer for less demanding users.
  • Lower price: Significantly more affordable, catering to budget-conscious consumers.

Trade-offs:

  • Performance vs. Price: S23+ offers top-tier performance but at a premium price. A15 sacrifices performance for affordability.
  • Features vs. Simplicity: S23+ is packed with features, while A15 provides a more basic experience.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy S23+: Ideal for users who prioritize performance, a premium display, fast charging, and a capable camera. Suitable for power users, gamers, and content creators.

Samsung Galaxy A15: Best suited for budget-conscious users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, social media browsing, and light web browsing.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your budget? The S23+ is significantly more expensive.
  2. What are your primary phone usage patterns? Heavy users will appreciate the S23+'s performance, while light users may find the A15 sufficient.
  3. How important are features like a high-quality display, fast charging, and a top-tier camera?

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S23+

While the Samsung Galaxy A15 offers a tempting price point, the S23+'s significant performance advantage, superior display, and faster charging make it the clear winner for me. I prioritize a smooth and responsive user experience, which the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 delivers. The brighter, more vibrant display is also a major draw, enhancing media consumption and gaming. Although the A15 boasts a larger battery, the S23+'s fast charging mitigates any potential battery life concerns. The higher initial cost of the S23+ is justified by the long-term value provided by its superior features and performance, ensuring a more enjoyable and future-proof smartphone experience.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.