Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S24 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date February 17, 2023 January 24, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 113.58 cm³ 78.87 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 2.91 "/g 3.71 "/g
Weight 234 g 167 g
Height 163.4 mm 147 mm
Width 78.1 mm 70.6 mm
Thickness 8.9 mm 7.6 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Red
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Sky Blue
  • Lime
  • BMW M Edition
  • Onyx Black
  • Jade Green
  • Marble Grey
  • Cobalt Violet
  • Amber Yellow
  • Sandstone Orange
  • Sapphire Blue

Display

Screen Size 6.8 " 6.2 "
Resolution 1440 x 3088 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 89.5 % 90.9 %
Pixel Density 500 PPI 416 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1200 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1750 nits 2600 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 108.13 mAh/in² 104.06 mAh/in²
Battery Density 44.02 mAh/cm³ 50.71 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 4000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) - USA/Canada/China
CPU Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) 8-core (1x3.39GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x3.1GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.9GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.2GHz Cortex-A520)
GPU Adreno 740 Adreno 750 (1 GHz) - USA/Canada/China

Connectivity

USB Version 3.2 3.2
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A 1.2
USB Features USB Type-C 3.2, OTG USB Type-C 3.2, OTG, DisplayPort 1.2

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 13 14
Maximum OS Version 17 21

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S23 UltraSamsung Galaxy S24Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9147 x 70.6 x 7.6S24 is significantly smaller and more pocketable.
Weight (g)234167S24 is noticeably lighter, reducing hand fatigue.
Display
Size (inches)6.86.2S23 Ultra offers a larger screen for immersive content consumption.
Resolution (pixels)1440 x 30881080 x 2340S23 Ultra has a sharper display (higher pixel density).
Peak Brightness (nits)17502600S24's screen can get brighter, improving outdoor visibility.
Panel TypeDynamic AMOLED 2XDynamic LTPO AMOLED 2XBoth offer excellent color accuracy and contrast, but LTPO allows for variable refresh rate, potentially saving battery on the S24
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Snapdragon 8 Gen 3S24 has a newer, potentially faster processor.
CPUOcta-core (up to 3.36 GHz)Octa-core (up to 3.39 GHz)Marginal difference in CPU frequency; Gen 3 architecture may yield better performance per watt on the S24
GPUAdreno 740Adreno 750S24 likely has improved graphics performance.
RAM (GB)8/128S23 Ultra offers a 12GB RAM option for better multitasking.
Camera
Main Camera (MP)20050S23 Ultra boasts significantly higher resolution, potentially capturing more detail. However, sensor size and processing play a critical role, so real-world differences need further investigation.
Telephoto Capabilities3x & 10x Optical Zoom3x Optical ZoomS23 Ultra offers a more versatile zoom range.
Battery
Capacity (mAh)50004000S23 Ultra likely has longer battery life.
Fast Charging (W)4525S23 Ultra charges significantly faster.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Advantages:

  • Larger, sharper display: Better for media consumption and productivity.
  • More versatile camera system: Superior zoom capabilities and potentially higher detail.
  • Larger battery: Longer usage time between charges.
  • Faster charging: Less downtime.
  • Higher RAM option: Smoother multitasking.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Advantages:

  • Smaller and lighter: Easier to handle and carry.
  • Brighter display: Improved outdoor visibility.
  • Newer processor and GPU: Potentially faster performance and better efficiency.
  • Lower starting price: More affordable entry point.

Trade-offs: The S23 Ultra prioritizes screen size, camera features, and battery life, resulting in a larger and heavier device. The S24 focuses on portability, performance, and affordability, compromising on some premium features.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Ideal for power users, content creators, and those who prioritize a large, high-quality display and a versatile camera system.

Samsung Galaxy S24: Suitable for users who value portability, performance, and affordability. A good choice for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions:

  1. What screen size do you prefer? Large and immersive (S23 Ultra) or more compact and pocketable (S24)?
  2. How important are camera features? Prioritize zoom range and high resolution (S23 Ultra) or good enough for everyday shots (S24)?
  3. What's your budget? Premium price for top-tier features (S23 Ultra) or a more affordable option (S24)?

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

While the S24 offers a newer processor and improved portability, the S23 Ultra's superior camera system, larger and sharper display, and longer battery life are more compelling to me. I prioritize these features for productivity, media consumption, and capturing high-quality photos and videos. The size and weight difference, while noticeable, are acceptable trade-offs for the significant advantages offered by the S23 Ultra. The faster charging is also a significant benefit in my usage scenario. Ultimately, the S23 Ultra offers a more well-rounded premium experience that aligns better with my needs.

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.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.