Samsung and Apple are two of the largest rivals in the smartphone space. It’s therefore no surprise that both their latest releases go head to head and are quickly scoped for comparison between consumers. Both promising users cutting-edge technology and innovative features, we’ve pitted the Samsung Galaxy S23 against the Apple iPhone 15 to answer the ultimate question, ‘Which is better, the S23 or the iPhone 15?’
About the Apple iPhone 15
Before we look at the comparisons between the two, here’s a quick overview of the iPhone 15 and its key specifications.
Released in September 2023, the iPhone 15 features a 6.1-inch display and a whole host of new features and improvements compared to its iPhone 14 predecessor such as the new dynamic island feature, improved camera, long battery life, crisp display, fast chip and new USB-C port. Available in five new colours, the iPhone 15 was released alongside the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max and the iPhone 15 Plus.
Key Specifications
Weight: 171g
Dimensions: 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm
Screen size: 6.1-inch
Resolution: 1179 x 2556
CPU: A16 Bionic
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
Battery: 3,349mAh
Rear camera: 48MP+12MP
Front camera: 12MP
About the Samsung Galaxy S23
The Samsung Galaxy S23 was released in February 2023 alongside two models within the S23 series: the Galaxy S23+ and the Galaxy S23 Ultra. A high-end Android-based smartphone, the S23 reportedly sold 4.11 million units in 2023 and boasts impressive camera abilities, long battery life and a refined cooling system to ensure smooth streaming and gaming sessions. It’s available in four colourways.
Key Specifications
Weight: 168g
Dimensions: 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6mm
Screen size: 6.1-inch
Resolution: 1080 x 2340
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB
Battery: 3,900mAh
Rear camera: 50MP+12MP+10MP
Front camera: 12MP
Galaxy S23 vs iPhone 15
Due to being released within the same year, and Apple and Samsung being firm tech rivals, the Galaxy S23 and iPhone 15 are frequently compared to decide who reigns on top. Here, we dive into the key similarities and differences between the two models across design, camera ability, battery life and more.
Design
Weighing slightly less than the iPhone 15, the Galaxy S23 features a flat-screen and a similar camera design as the former S22. Made from Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and a metal frame, the S23 has an IP68 water and dust resistance rating.
In comparison, much like the S23, the iPhone 15 also has a strengthened glass back but with a recycled aluminium frame and similar IP68 rating. The rear cameras feature a different layout however and are designed within a square block near the top of the device. The iPhone 15 also features the Dynamic Island screen cutout, which was first seen on the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max and allows for more screen functionality than the S23.
Display
When we look at display, both models possess a 6.1-inch screen. However, the Galaxy S23 holds a 1080 x 2340 pixel AMOLED screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate, compared to the 1179 x 2556 pixel OLED display of the iPhone 15 with a halved refresh rate of 60Hzhy abilities.
The S23’s higher refresh rate doesn’t make it victorious when it comes to display, however. The iPhone 15 has a slightly higher resolution display and a brighter screen than the Galaxy S23.
Cameras
The Galaxy S23 features a triple-sensor camera setup whereas the iPhone 15 has a dual-lens rear camera. However, the iPhone 15 has very similar specifications to both the Galaxy S23’s main and ultra-wide cameras. The main difference is the 3x optical zoom with the S23, but overall both devices have impressive photography functionality.
Performance
In terms of performance, the iPhone 15 outperforms the Samsung S23 in most benchmarks, due to its A16 Bionic chip, despite having 2GB less of RAM. However, both smartphones offer high-end power and performance to a high level.
The biggest difference between the two models is the software they run on. The Galaxy S23 uses Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI 5.1, whereas the iPhone 15 runs iOS 17. However, not one is better than the other, it’s just done to personal preference with this one.
Battery
Battery life is very important to smartphone users, so it’s important to see that the iPhone 15 has a significantly smaller battery than the S23. The iPhone 15 has been reported to last one full day when fully charged, whereas the S23 can last more than one day. The results are not drastically different, but Samsung does come up on top here.
Price
Bought new from Samsung the S23 fetches for £699 for 128 GB and £749 for 256 GB. In comparison, the iPhone 15 bought directly from Apple starts at £799 for 128 GB and goes up to £899 for 256 GB and £1,099 for 512 GB.
The iPhone 15 is therefore slightly more expensive than the S23 but buying from second-hand retailers or trading in your old phone for cash towards a newer version, can provide cheaper alternatives.
Which Is Better – S23 or iPhone 15? The Verdict
So, which is better, the S23 or the iPhone 15? When it comes down to it, the iPhone 15 may not match all the specs of the Galaxy S23, but it does boast a powerful chipset, innovative Dynamic Island feature, and an impressive camera, making it a strong option, especially for those who are a fan of Apple. On the other hand, whilst the Samsung Galaxy S23 outshines the iPhone 15 in terms of camera and screen specifications, it falls short in overall power and represents only a minor upgrade.
Overall, the Galaxy S23 presents a dependable option for loyal Samsung users unswayed by the superior camera features of the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Conversely, the base iPhone 15 can be seen as a more budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s exceptional iPhone 15 Pro.
Smartphone users tend to be brand loyal and don’t often sway to a rival brand. In most cases, you’re ‘Team Apple’ or ‘Team Samsung’ and realistically, neither the device will likely sway existing Samsung or Apple enthusiasts to switch allegiance. Nonetheless, both stand as strong contenders in their respective domains and are excellent smartphone options.
Sell Your Old Samsung Mobile or Apple iPhone
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