Samsung’s Galaxy S23 and S23+ smartphones showcase the company’s prowess in mobile technology. Each model, while sharing the Galaxy brand, caters to different user preferences and needs. The standard Galaxy S23 features a compact design with a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, which makes it ideal for users who prefer a smaller handset without sacrificing screen quality. On the other hand, the Galaxy S23+ offers a larger 6.6-inch display suitable for those who enjoy a more expansive screen for media consumption and gaming. Both models boast a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals and an FHD+ resolution that sharpens image details for an immersive viewing experience.
Performance is a fundamental aspect of the latest Galaxy S23 series. At their core, both the S23 and S23+ are equipped with potent processors that provide the horsepower needed for multitasking and high-demand applications. Advances in battery technology have also allowed Samsung to improve device endurance, ensuring that users can enjoy longer periods of use between charges. Moreover, the differences in dimensions and weight between the two models are slight, with the S23+ being both taller and wider, which translates to a minimal difference in how the devices feel in the hand.
Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Samsung Galaxy S23+
The Galaxy S23 series launched in early 2023, and by 2026, both the S23 and S23+ remain solid mid-range flagship options on the resale and refurbished market. If you’re deciding between them today, here’s everything you need to know.
🔑 Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy S23 | Galaxy S23+ |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1″ FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.6″ FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Battery | 3,900 mAh | 4,700 mAh |
| Charging | 25W wired, 15W wireless | 45W wired, 15W wireless |
| Storage Options | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 256GB / 512GB |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Cameras | 50MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 10MP telephoto | Same triple-camera system |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 + Armor Aluminum | Same materials |
| Weight | ~168g | ~196g |
| Price in 2026 (resale) | ~$300–$400 (refurbished) | ~$400–$500 (refurbished) |
(Specs confirmed from Samsung and GSMArena source).
📺 Display & Size
- S23: Compact 6.1-inch screen, easier one-handed use.
- S23+: Larger 6.6-inch screen, better for media, multitasking, and gaming.
Both feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels with HDR10+ and 120Hz refresh rates, so the quality is nearly identical—size is the main difference.
🔋 Battery & Charging
- S23: 3,900 mAh battery, decent for a day but can feel tight with heavy use.
- S23+: 4,700 mAh battery, much better endurance.
Charging is also faster on the S23+ (45W) compared to 25W on the S23. If you’re a power user, the Plus is the better choice.
📸 Cameras
Both phones share the same triple-lens setup:
- 50MP wide
- 12MP ultra-wide
- 10MP 3x telephoto
- 12MP front camera
You’ll get identical image quality—great low-light performance, sharp zoom, and excellent selfies. No advantage here for either model.
⚡ Performance
Both use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip, which is still fast in 2026 for everyday use, gaming, and multitasking.
- RAM: Both have 8GB.
- Storage: The S23 starts at 128GB, while the S23+ starts at 256GB.
If you plan to keep the phone for years, the extra storage on the S23+ is a nice bonus.
💰 Price & Value in 2026
- Galaxy S23: Cheaper, compact, great for light users.
- Galaxy S23+: Costs a bit more, but the bigger battery, screen, and faster charging make it a better long-term buy.
✅ Which Should You Buy in 2026?
- Choose the Galaxy S23 if:
- You prefer a smaller, pocket-friendly phone.
- You want the most affordable option.
- You don’t mind charging more often.
- Choose the Galaxy S23+ if:
- You want longer battery life and faster charging.
- You enjoy a bigger display for streaming, gaming, and productivity.
- You want more storage options by default.
🏆 Verdict:
In 2026, the Galaxy S23+ is the better all-rounder thanks to its bigger battery, faster charging, and larger display. The Galaxy S23 is still a great compact flagship if portability and price are your main priorities.
Key Takeaways
- The Galaxy S23 and S23+ differ mainly in screen size and overall dimensions.
- Both smartphones offer high performance and longer battery life.
- The choice between the S23 and S23+ depends on user preference for device size and screen real estate.
Comparative Analysis of Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23+
This section takes a detailed look at the differences between Samsung Galaxy S23 and the larger S23+, focusing on various aspects from design to performance and pricing.
Design and Display
The Galaxy S23 and S23+ both feature Dynamic AMOLED displays with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for durability. The S23’s screen is 6.1 inches, making it more compact compared to the 6.2 inches of the S23+. Both phones offer vivid colors and sharp details but the S23+’s larger size might appeal to those who prefer a bigger display for media consumption.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, both smartphones utilize the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor providing a smooth performance. The Galaxy S23 starts with 128GB of internal storage while the S23+ offers 256GB as the base option which caters to storage-heavy users. They share the same RAM, ensuring equally swift multitasking capabilities.
Camera Features
The camera systems on the S23 and S23+ do not differ significantly. Both feature a triple camera setup including a main wide camera, an ultra-wide camera, and a telephoto lens. They can capture high-resolution photos and have optical zoom capabilities, although they lack the 10x zoom found on the more premium S23 Ultra model.
Battery and Charging
The Galaxy S23+ boasts a larger battery size compared to the S23, potentially offering longer battery life. Both support fast charging speeds for wired and wireless charging, allowing users to quickly replenish battery power.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Both models support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth. They have an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and feature Armor Aluminum for enhanced durability.
Operating System and Software
Samsung equips both the Galaxy S23 and S23+ with the latest Android operating system. They come with exclusive Samsung features adding to the overall user experience of the phones.
Price and Availability
The Galaxy S23 is the more economical option while the S23+ comes in at a higher price point due to its increased base storage and larger display. Both models are widely available across various markets.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S23 and S23+ present strong features in a sophisticated package. Consumers’ choice between the two may come down to preferences on size, storage capacity, and budget.
