Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Huawei nova 12i - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date February 17, 2023 April 16, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 78.83 cm³ 102.47 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.63 "/g 3.37 "/g
Weight 168 g 199 g
Height 146.3 mm 163.3 mm
Width 70.9 mm 74.7 mm
Thickness 7.6 mm 8.4 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Lime
  • Black
  • White
  • Green

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.7 "
Resolution 1080 x 2340 1080 x 2388
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 88.1 % 89.1 %
Pixel Density 425 PPI 391 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1200 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1750 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 104.81 mAh/in² 111.38 mAh/in²
Battery Density 49.47 mAh/cm³ 48.8 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3900 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (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 (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPU Adreno 740 Adreno 610

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 N/A
Initial OS Version 13 N/A
Maximum OS Version 17

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S23Huawei nova 12iPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4S23 is significantly more compact and pocketable.
Weight (g)168199S23 is noticeably lighter, reducing hand fatigue.
BuildGlass front/back, aluminum frameMissingBuild quality and durability comparison not possible.
Display
Display TypeDynamic AMOLED 2XIPS LCDS23 offers superior contrast, vibrant colors, and deeper blacks due to AMOLED technology.
Refresh Rate (Hz)12090S23 provides smoother scrolling and animations.
Display Size (inches)6.16.7Nova 12i offers a larger screen for media consumption, S23 is more one-hand friendly.
Resolution1080 x 23401080 x 2388Similar pixel density, sharpness differences negligible.
Peak Brightness (nits)1750MissingS23 likely offers better outdoor visibility. Missing Nova 12i peak brightness limits comparison.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm)Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm)S23 boasts significantly faster CPU and GPU performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
CPUOcta-core (up to 3.36 GHz)Octa-core (up to 2.4 GHz)S23 offers much higher clock speeds, translating to quicker app loading and multitasking.
RAM (GB)88Equivalent RAM, but S23's superior processor will utilize it more effectively.
OSAndroid 13MissingOS comparison impossible without Nova 12i details. Impacts app availability, features, and updates.
Camera
Main Camera (MP)50108While Nova 12i has higher resolution, S23 likely has superior image quality due to a larger sensor and advanced processing.
Ultrawide (MP)12.2MissingS23 offers ultrawide photography options, Nova 12i's capabilities are unclear.
Telephoto (MP)10MissingS23 offers optical zoom, Nova 12i capabilities are unclear.
Video RecordingUp to 8K@30fpsUp to 1080p@30fpsS23 offers significantly higher resolution video recording.
Battery
Capacity (mAh)39005000Nova 12i offers longer battery life.
Fast Charging (W)2540Nova 12i charges faster despite larger battery capacity.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S23 Advantages:

  • Flagship Performance: Significantly faster processor, smoother display, and superior gaming capabilities.
  • Premium Display: AMOLED technology provides vibrant colors, deep blacks, and better outdoor visibility.
  • Compact Design: Easier to handle and carry.
  • Versatile Camera System: Offers ultrawide and telephoto lenses for various photography needs.
  • Higher Resolution Video Recording: Captures more detail in videos.

Huawei nova 12i Advantages:

  • Larger Battery: Significantly longer battery life.
  • Faster Charging: Quicker replenishment of battery.
  • Lower Price: Offers a more budget-friendly option. (Based on limited price data)

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy S23: Users who prioritize performance, a premium display, a compact form factor, and a versatile camera system. Ideal for:

  • Gamers: High-end gaming experience.
  • Power Users: Demanding tasks and multitasking.
  • Content Creators: High-quality photo and video recording.

Huawei nova 12i: Users who prioritize battery life, fast charging, and affordability over top-tier performance. Ideal for:

  • Casual Users: Basic tasks like social media, browsing, and calling.
  • Budget-Conscious Buyers: Seeking a cost-effective option.
  • Users prioritizing long battery life: Minimal charging required throughout the day.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your budget? The S23 is a more expensive option.
  2. What are your primary use cases? Gaming, photography, or basic tasks?
  3. Do you prioritize performance or battery life?

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S23

While the Huawei nova 12i offers enticing features like a larger battery and faster charging, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is my choice. The significantly superior performance offered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, combined with the vibrant AMOLED display and versatile camera system, make it a more compelling overall package for my needs. I prioritize a smooth and responsive user experience, high-quality media consumption, and the ability to capture great photos and videos. I am willing to compromise slightly on battery life for these benefits, especially considering the S23 still offers respectable battery performance. The more compact form factor is also a plus for me. While the missing OS details for the Nova 12i make a comprehensive comparison difficult, the known advantages of the S23 outweigh the potential benefits of the Nova 12i based on available information.

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.