Samsung Galaxy S23 Review: Compact Flagship, Big Value
Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is the smallest and most affordable model in Samsung’s 2023 flagship lineup, sitting below the S23+ and S23 Ultra. It packs serious performance into a 5.9-inch frame, delivering top-tier speed, display quality, and camera performance—all in a device that actually fits in your pocket.In 2024, with prices dropping and the S24 on shelves, the S23 is more compelling than ever—especially if you want flagship power without the bulk or cost.
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Section 1: Key Specs at a Glance
•Display: 6.1” Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, FHD+ (2340 x 1080)
•Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
•RAM: 8GB
•Storage: 128GB / 256GB
•Battery: 3,900mAh
•Charging: 25W wired, 15W wireless, reverse wireless
•Cameras:
•50MP main (OIS)
•12MP ultrawide
•10MP 3x telephoto
•12MP front camera
•OS: Android 13 (upgradable to Android 14), One UI 6
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Section 2: Design and Build Quality•Flat display and back with aluminum frame
•Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and back
•IP68 water and dust resistant
•Compact, sleek, and premium in-hand feel
At 5.9 ounces, it’s one of the few small phones that doesn’t feel compromised. It’s minimalist but classy—and very easy to use one-handed.
Design Rating: 9/10
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Section 3: Display Quality
•Stunning AMOLED panel with HDR10+ support
•120Hz adaptive refresh rate = super smooth
•Bright enough for full sun (up to 1750 nits peak)
•Excellent color accuracy and contrast
Whether you’re streaming, scrolling, or gaming—this screen punches well above its size class.
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Section 4: Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, the S23 is fast—very fast.•Apps open instantly
•Zero lag in multitasking
•Great thermal control—doesn’t overheat like earlier models
•Easily handles demanding games like Genshin Impact, Apex Legends
For a phone this size, it’s top-tier performance without throttling or excessive heat.
Performance Rating: 9.5/10
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Section 5: Battery Life
•3,900mAh battery sounds small—but it’s well optimized
•Easily lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use
•One of the best battery performances for a compact phone
•25W charging is decent (0–100% in ~1 hour), but not top of class
Real-world usage: 5–6 hours of screen time daily, sometimes more.
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Section 6: Camera System
Rear Cameras
•50MP main: Sharp, balanced, natural color (Samsung toned down saturation)
•12MP ultra-wide: Great for landscapes, architecture—minimal distortion
•10MP 3x telephoto: Surprisingly good for a small phone, detailed zoom shots
Front Camera•12MP selfie camera with improved skin tones and detail
•Great for social media, video calls, and low-light selfies
Video
•Up to 8K 30fps, with super steady 4K video
•Excellent stabilization and HDR performance
This isn’t an Ultra-level camera, but for the size and price—it punches above its weight.
Camera Rating: 8.8/10
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Section 7: Software and Features
•One UI 6 is clean, customizable, and stable
•Android 14 ready, with 4 years of OS updates + 5 years of security
•Samsung DeX supported (for turning your phone into a desktop)
•Secure Folder, Link to Windows, Good Lock customization
Samsung’s software is heavy, but it’s mature and powerful. And it runs great on this hardware.
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Section 8: Pros and Cons
Pros:
•Compact and premium design
•Excellent screen and speakers
•Superfast performance and battery efficiency
•Very good triple camera system
•Long software support
•Lower price in 2024 (~$599–$699)
Cons:
•No expandable storage
•Slower charging than some competitors
•No LTPO screen (so no variable refresh below 48Hz)
•128GB model has slower UFS 3.1 storage (vs UFS 4.0 in 256GB)
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Section 9: Best For
•People who want a small phone that’s still powerful
•Android users looking for flagship performance without breaking $1,000
•Anyone who hates oversized phones
•Long-time Galaxy S users who want a clean upgrade
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Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is a rare find in 2024: a compact, premium Android phone that doesn’t sacrifice speed, battery, or camera quality. It’s the best small Android phone on the market—and now that it’s more affordable, it’s an even better buy.
If you want big power in a small, pocket-friendly package, the S23 still delivers.
Final Score: 9.1/10