“Is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra worth the upgrade from the S22 Ultra?” This question persists. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is an incremental upgrade over the S22 Ultra, with improvements in photography, processor speed, and storage technology.
The latest flagship from Samsung, the S23 Ultra, was unveiled at the company’s first Unpacked event of 2023. With a base model price of $1,199 / £1,249, the S23 Ultra boasts impressive features and is considered one of the top smartphones of 2023.
However, with a similar design to the S22 Ultra and the growing trend of foldable devices, it’s crucial to weigh the cost and features before making a decision. This review will guide you in your choice.
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Design and Build
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Display
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Performance and Storage
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Hardware
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Camera
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Cellular
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Battery
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Connectivity
- Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Multimedia
- Our Verdict: Should You Upgrade From S22 Ultra to S23 Ultra?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Design and Build
| Features | S23 Ultra | S22 Ultra |
| Size | 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9mm (6.4 x 3.0 x 0.35 inches) | 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9mm (6.43 x 3.07 x 0.35 inches |
| Weight | 233 g (8.2 ounces) | 228 g (8.04 ounces) |
| Bezel-less display | Yes | Yes |
| Colors | Standard: Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender/ Exclusive: Graphite, Sky Blue, Lime, Red | Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender |
| Glass type | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ |
| Notch | Yes | Yes |
| Fingerprint sensor | In-Display | In-Display |
| Face unlock | Yes | Yes |
| Water resistance | IP68 rated, 1.5 m for up to 30 minutes | IP68 rated, 1.5 m for up to 30 minutes |
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra share many design and build features, including a bezel-less display, in-display fingerprint sensor, face unlock, and IP68 water resistance. The S23 Ultra, however, is slightly larger and heavier than the S22 Ultra. It also features a new glass type, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, compared to the S22 Ultra’s Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra also offers more color options with its standard colors of Phantom Black, Cream, Green, and Lavender, as well as exclusive colors of Graphite, Sky Blue, Lime, and Red. This gives users more options to personalize their devices and choose a color that best fits their style.
The notch on both devices remains unchanged, offering the same level of security and convenience for users. The in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock features provide quick and easy access to the device while keeping it secure. The IP68 water resistance ensures you can take the device to the beach or in any situation where they may encounter water without worrying about damaging it.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Display
| Feature | S23 Ultra | S22 Ultra |
| Display Technology | Color Dynamic AMOLED 2X (1B Colors) | Color Dynamic AMOLED 2X (16M Colors) |
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3088 pixels | 1440 x 3088 pixels |
| Aspect Ratio | 20:9 | 20:9 |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Peak Brightness | 1500 nits | 1300 nits |
| Touch Response Time | 9ms | 9ms |
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S22 Ultra come with a large 6.8-inch display and a resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels, ensuring users get a clear and crisp image. However, the S23 Ultra takes things to a new level with its display technology. The new device boasts a Color Dynamic AMOLED 2X that displays 1 billion colors compared to the 16 million colors shown by the S22 Ultra. The aspect ratio for both devices remains the same at 20:9.
Regarding screen protection, the S23 Ultra is one step ahead of its predecessor. The device comes with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing enhanced protection from scratches and cracks. On the other hand, the S22 Ultra features Corning Gorilla Glass, which is still a good option but not as robust as the newer material.
Another noticeable difference is the peak brightness. The S23 Ultra offers 1500 nits, 200 nits higher than the S22 Ultra. This means the S23 Ultra will provide better visibility in bright outdoor conditions, making it easier to read a text and see images. Finally, both devices have a touch response time of 9ms, making them equally responsive.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Performance and Storage
| Feature | S23 Ultra | S22 Ultra |
| RAM | 8 or 12 GB | 8 or 12 GB |
| Internal storage | 256 GB/512 GB | 128 GB/256 GB |
| Storage Type | UFS 4.0 | UFS 3.1 |
| Card Slot | No | No |
From the table, we can see that the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S22 Ultra have similar RAM options, both offering 8 or 12 GB. However, the Galaxy S23 Ultra has a significant upgrade in internal storage, offering twice the options at 256 GB or 512 GB compared to the 128 GB or 256 GB of the Galaxy S22 Ultra. This increase in storage space will appeal to users who need more room for their files.
In terms of storage type, the Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts UFS 4.0 technology, which is faster and more efficient than the UFS 3.1 found in the Galaxy S22 Ultra. This upgrade will result in improved performance and reduced latency when accessing files and applications on the device.
Unfortunately, neither the Galaxy S23 Ultra nor Galaxy S22 Ultra has a card slot for expanding storage through external memory cards. This may be a drawback for some users who need more storage and prefer the convenience of easily adding it through a memory card.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Hardware
| Feature | s22 | s23 |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 740 |
| System Chip | Snapdragon 8 gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 gen 2 |
| Processor | Octa-core, 1x 3.00GHz Cortex-X2 + 3x 2.50GHz Cortex-A710 + 4x 1.80GHz Cortex-A510 | Octa-core, 1x 3.36GHz Kryo Prime + 4x 2.8GHz Kryo Gold + 3x 2.0GHz Kryo Silver |
| OS | Android 12, upgradable to Android 13 | Android 13 |
As highlighted above, the two smartphones offer impressive hardware specs. The most significant upgrade in the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the GPU, which has been upgraded from Adreno 730 to Adreno 740. This means the new phone will be able to handle more demanding graphics and provide a better gaming experience.
Another major upgrade is the system chip, which has gone from Snapdragon 8 gen 1 to Snapdragon 8 gen 2. This will result in better performance, increased power efficiency, and faster download and upload speeds. The processor of the Galaxy S23 Ultra has also been upgraded with a more powerful octa-core setup.
The operating system of the Galaxy S23 Ultra is also a step up from its predecessor. Both phones run on Android 12, but the Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with Android 13 out of the box. This means users will have access to the latest features and security updates immediately.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
| Main Camera | 200 MP | 108 MP |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 12 MP | 12 MP |
| Telephoto Camera | 10 MP | 10 MP |
| Periscope Telephoto Camera | 10 MP | 10 MP |
| Zoom | 3x & 10x optical zoom; 30x digital zoom option | 3x & 10x optical zoom, 100x digital zoom |
The latest iteration of Samsung’s flagship smartphone series, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, boasts an impressive camera setup compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S22 Ultra. The main camera has been upgraded from 108 MP to 200 MP, offering higher resolution and more detail in your photos.
The ultra-wide camera and telephoto camera remain the same, with 12 MP and 10 MP, respectively, while the periscope telephoto camera remains at 10 MP. The Galaxy S23 Ultra introduces a new 3x and 10x optical zoom, along with a 30x digital zoom option. This gives users even more flexibility and versatility in their photography.
In comparison, the Galaxy S22 Ultra had 3x and 10x optical zoom and a 100x digital zoom. While the digital zoom has been improved on the new model, the optical zoom remains the same.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Cellular
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| LTE (FDD) | Yes | Yes |
| LTE (TDD) | Yes | Yes |
| UMTS | Yes | Yes |
| Data Speed | Up to 2.0 Gbps download, 150 Mbps upload | Up to 2.0 Gbps download, 150 Mbps upload |
| SIM Type | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM |
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the Galaxy S22 Ultra are both 5G capable phones. Both devices are equipped with LTE (FDD) and LTE (TDD) technology, ensuring fast and reliable mobile data connections. In addition, both devices support UMTS, allowing fast data transmission over 3G networks.
Regarding data speed, both devices offer a maximum download speed of 2.0 Gbps and a maximum upload speed of 150 Mbps. Users can expect fast download and upload speeds, essential for tasks such as streaming videos or downloading large files.
Another notable feature of these devices is the presence of dual Nano SIM + eSIM support. This feature allows users to use two different SIM cards, providing added flexibility and convenience. The eSIM feature also allows users to activate a plan from a carrier without inserting a physical SIM card, making it easier to switch carriers or change plans.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Type | Not user replaceable | Not user replaceable |
| Charging | Fast charging, Qi wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging | Fast charging, Qi wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging |
| Max Charge Speed | 45W | 25W |
The S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra share similar battery capacities and types. Both devices have a 5000 mAh battery that is not user replaceable, giving you peace of mind. You can rely on the devices for a full day without worrying about running out of juice.
One of the biggest differences between the two smartphones is their charging capabilities. Both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S22 Ultra offer fast charging, Qi wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. However, the S23 Ultra takes things a step further with its max charge speed of 45W, significantly faster than the 25W offered by the S22 Ultra.
This difference in charging speed is sure to appeal to users who are always on the go and need to recharge their devices quickly. With the ability to charge their device up to 50% in just 30 minutes, the S23 Ultra is the perfect choice for those who don’t have the time to wait around for their phone to charge.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) |
| USB Type C | Yes | Yes |
| Features (NFC/MST) | NFC/MST/eSIM/5G/Wi-Fi Direct/Miracast/ANT+/Samsung DeX/Wireless PowerShare/Reverse Wireless Charging 2.0W (Qi compatible) | NFC/MST/eSIM/5G/Wi-Fi Direct/Miracast/ANT+/Samsung DeX /Wireless PowerShare /Reverse Wireless Charging 2.0W (Qi compatible) |
| Location Technology (A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) | A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BDS | A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo |
| Other Connectivity Features | Wi-Fi Direct / ANT+ / Mobile Hotspot | N/A |
Both devices offer Bluetooth 5.0, which means users can enjoy fast and reliable wireless connections with other compatible devices. Likewise, both smartphones are equipped with 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), which delivers faster speeds, better coverage, and improved battery life compared to previous Wi-Fi standards.
Another common feature is the USB Type C. This USB port provides fast charging and data transfer capabilities, making it easier for users to power up their devices and transfer data quickly. In addition, both smartphones offer NFC/MST, which allows users to make payments and share files with other compatible devices. They also come with eSIM, 5G, and other connectivity features.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra: Multimedia
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
| Headphones | 3.5mm jack | 3.5mm jack |
| Speakers | Dolby Atmos stereo loudspeakers with meatier, more spacious soundstage | Dolby Atmos stereo loudspeakers with meatier, more spacious soundstage |
| Screen Mirroring | Wireless DeX support | Wireless DeX support |
| Additional Microphone(s) | Multi-source microphone options to capture sounds from different directions or when using connected devices | No additional microphone options |
The S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra have a 3.5mm jack for headphones, making it easy for users to listen to music or take calls without worrying about compatibility issues. Both models are also equipped with Dolby Atmos stereo loudspeakers, which provide a meatier and more spacious soundstage.
The two Galaxy phones support Wireless DeX, allowing users to mirror their screens onto other devices easily. This feature makes it easy for users to share content with others or to work on the go.
One key difference is the additional microphone options on the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The S23 Ultra has multi-source microphone options, which can capture sounds from different directions or when using connected devices. This makes it ideal for users who need to record audio in various environments. In contrast, the Galaxy S22 Ultra does not have this feature.
Our Verdict: Should You Upgrade From S22 Ultra to S23 Ultra?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is an incremental upgrade over the S22 Ultra, with improvements in photography, processor speed, and storage technology. However, these upgrades may not be enough to justify a pricey upgrade from the S22 Ultra.
The S23 Ultra has a slightly faster processor than the S22 Ultra, but the performance improvement may not be noticeable. Additionally, both phones have a 6.8 inch dynamic AMOLED screen that refreshes at 120 Hz and maintains a peak brightness of 1750 nits. Therefore, it is up to you to decide if the upgrades are worth it or not, from the S22 Ultra to the S23 Ultra.
