Galaxy S20+ 5G Vs Galaxy S23

Galaxy S20+ 5G
Galaxy S20+ 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:191.00

Versus €590.00 new

See options
Galaxy S23
Galaxy S23
Starting at

Refurbished price:240.00

Versus €959.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus 5G, released in March 2020, and the Samsung Galaxy S23, launched in February 2023, represent different generations within Samsung's flagship smartphone series. While both devices offer a premium Android experience, the Galaxy S23 introduces advancements in processing power, camera capabilities, and display technology, reflecting three years of mobile innovation. Both run on the Android operating system, with the S23 benefiting from a more recent version and a longer update commitment.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline and Age: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G was released in March 2020, making it an older model compared to the Galaxy S23, which launched in February 2023. This age difference directly impacts their remaining software support.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G initially ran on Android 10 and received updates up to Android 13. While it continues to receive security patches, the frequency of these updates has dwindled. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 launched with Android 13 and is promised four major OS updates, extending its support to at least Android 17, with security updates expected until 2028.
  • Durability Features: Both models feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes. The S20 Plus 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass 6 for screen protection, while the S23 features the newer Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced resistance to scratches and drops. The Galaxy S23 also shows improvements in repairability, with features like battery pull tabs designed to simplify battery replacements.

Year of Release

2020

2023

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its internal components, affecting everything from app loading times to multitasking efficiency and gaming experiences.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G is powered by either the Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region. The Galaxy S23 features a more recent and optimized processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which is a custom version designed specifically for Samsung devices. This newer processor in the S23 generally translates to faster app launches, smoother transitions, and more efficient handling of demanding applications and games.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G typically comes with 12GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for multitasking. The standard Galaxy S23 model is equipped with 8GB of RAM. Despite the difference in RAM, the S23's more advanced processor and optimized software often result in a highly responsive user experience, handling multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer various internal storage configurations, including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The Galaxy S23's 256GB and larger storage options utilize the faster UFS 4.0 standard, while the 128GB version uses UFS 3.1. The S20 Plus 5G uses UFS 3.0. This can lead to quicker data read/write speeds on the S23 for larger files and app installations.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G has a 4500 mAh battery. The Galaxy S23 has a 3900 mAh battery. Despite the S23 having a smaller battery capacity, its more power-efficient processor and display technology can contribute to optimized battery life for typical daily use.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interaction point, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with some notable distinctions.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Galaxy S20 Plus 5G and the Galaxy S23 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S20 Plus 5G has a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels on its 6.7-inch screen. The Galaxy S23 has a 6.1-inch screen with a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels (FHD+). The S20 Plus 5G offers a slightly higher pixel density due to its resolution, but the S23's display still provides excellent clarity for everyday viewing.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The S20 Plus 5G supports a 120Hz refresh rate at FHD resolution, dropping to 60Hz at its maximum QHD resolution. The Galaxy S23 features an adaptive refresh rate that can vary between 48Hz and 120Hz, adjusting dynamically to content for smoother scrolling and animations while conserving power.
  • Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S23 offers a peak brightness of 1750 nits, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions. While the S20 Plus 5G also provides a bright display, the S23's higher peak brightness can offer a more comfortable viewing experience under direct sunlight.
  • Screen Size and Viewing Experience: The S20 Plus 5G has a larger 6.7-inch display, which can be more immersive for media consumption and multitasking. The Galaxy S23's 6.1-inch screen offers a more compact form factor, making it easier for one-handed use.

Resolution

1440 x 3200

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with versatile camera systems, but the newer Galaxy S23 brings enhancements in sensor technology and processing.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G features a quad-camera setup with a 12MP wide lens, a 64MP telephoto lens offering 3x hybrid optical zoom, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 0.3MP DepthVision camera. The Galaxy S23 has a triple-camera system, including a 50MP wide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The S23's larger main sensor and improved image processing contribute to better detail and low-light performance.
  • Video Recording Quality: The S20 Plus 5G can record 8K video at 24 frames per second (fps). The Galaxy S23 improves upon this, offering 8K video recording at 30fps, along with enhanced stabilization and a wider field of view for 8K footage. Both support 4K video recording at 30/60fps.
  • Front Camera: The S20 Plus 5G has a 10MP front-facing camera. The Galaxy S23 features a 12MP front camera, which offers improved clarity and better performance in various lighting conditions, including low light.
  • Audio Experience: Both devices offer stereo speakers tuned by AKG, providing a rich audio experience for media consumption. Neither phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S20 Plus 5G and Galaxy S23 support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds where available. The S23 benefits from newer Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6E, though not explicitly stated for the base S23, it's common for its generation) and Bluetooth 5.3, offering potentially more stable and faster wireless connections compared to the S20 Plus 5G's Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Biometrics: Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer and lack a 3.5mm headphone jack. For security, both integrate an in-display fingerprint sensor. The S23 uses an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Build Materials: The S20 Plus 5G features an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass 6 on the front and back. The Galaxy S23 also has an aluminum frame but upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced durability on both the front and back. The S23 has a more refined design, with a flatter aesthetic and individual camera lenses protruding directly from the back, unlike the S20 Plus 5G's camera bump.
  • Dimensions and Weight: The Galaxy S20 Plus 5G measures 161.9 x 73.7 x 7.8 mm and weighs 188 grams. The Galaxy S23 is more compact and lighter at 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm and 168 grams, making it easier to handle for some users.

Weight

188 g

167 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus 5G and the Galaxy S23 involves weighing the benefits of a more recent device against the continued capabilities of an older, yet still functional, model. User sentiment often highlights the S20 Plus 5G's still-capable performance and large display as strong points, with some users noting its battery life as a potential area for improvement over time. The S23, on the other hand, frequently receives praise for its significant camera upgrades, improved processing power, and enhanced battery optimization, even with a smaller physical battery.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor, the latest software support, and superior camera performance, particularly in low-light conditions and video recording, may find the Galaxy S23 better suited to their needs. Its extended software update policy also offers a longer period of security and feature updates. Conversely, individuals who prefer a larger screen and are content with slightly older, but still robust, performance and software may find the Galaxy S20 Plus 5G to be a suitable option. Both devices offer a premium Android experience, and the decision often comes down to how much value a user places on the latest technological advancements versus established performance.

For those looking for a more sustainable and quality-assured option, considering refurbished versions of either model can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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