Galaxy S23 FE Vs Google Pixel 7 Pro

Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:226.00

Versus €708.98 new

See options
Google Pixel 7 Pro
Google Pixel 7 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:201.00

Versus €640.98 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (Fan Edition), released in October 2023, and the Google Pixel 7 Pro, launched in October 2022, are both Android smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S23 FE aims to deliver a flagship-like experience with some compromises, the Pixel 7 Pro stands as Google's premium offering, emphasizing advanced camera capabilities and a streamlined software experience. Both devices operate on the Android platform, providing access to a vast ecosystem of applications and services.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

  • Release and Software Support: The Google Pixel 7 Pro, released in October 2022, typically receives three major Android OS updates and five years of security updates from its launch date. The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, launched a year later in October 2023, is promised four years of OS upgrades and five years of security updates. This means the S23 FE will likely receive software support for a longer duration into the future.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust builds. The Galaxy S23 FE is protected by Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back and carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The Pixel 7 Pro utilizes the tougher Gorilla Glass Victus for its display and also boasts an IP68 rating, offering strong protection against environmental elements.
  • Repairability: Repairability scores indicate the ease with which a device can be fixed. The Pixel 7 Pro received a repairability score of 5.5 out of 10, with challenges noted in battery removal due to strong adhesive and the charging port being soldered to the motherboard. While a specific score for the S23 FE is not widely available, Samsung devices are sometimes considered to be comparatively easier to repair than Pixel phones.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding games and multitasking.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 FE is powered by a processor that, while capable, was a top-tier chip from the previous year at its release. This allows it to handle everyday applications and light gaming smoothly. However, during extended periods of intensive use, such as heavy gaming or complex tasks, some users have noted that the device can warm up and experience a reduction in sustained performance. The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a processor designed with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning tasks. This contributes to a very fluid user interface and efficient handling of Google's unique software features. For general use and AI-driven tasks, the Pixel 7 Pro offers a responsive experience, though some benchmarks suggest the S23 FE might have an edge in raw graphical horsepower for certain gaming scenarios.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 FE comes with 8GB of RAM across all its configurations, which is sufficient for smooth multitasking and switching between several applications. The Pixel 7 Pro offers up to 12GB of RAM in some configurations, providing ample headroom for heavy multitasking and ensuring that demanding applications run without significant slowdowns. Both devices offer a responsive overall system experience for typical smartphone usage.
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S23 FE is available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, without the option for expandable storage. The Pixel 7 Pro provides more flexibility with storage options, offering 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants, also without expandable storage.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels). This panel delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast, characteristic of AMOLED technology. The Google Pixel 7 Pro boasts a larger 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3120 x 1440 pixels). The higher resolution on the Pixel 7 Pro results in a sharper image, which can be noticeable when viewing detailed content or small text.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both smartphones offer a smooth visual experience with a 120Hz refresh rate. The S23 FE maintains a consistent 120Hz refresh rate, while the Pixel 7 Pro's LTPO technology allows for an adaptive refresh rate, dynamically adjusting from 1Hz to 120Hz based on content to optimize battery consumption. Both displays can reach a peak brightness of 1500 nits, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Viewing Experience: The Pixel 7 Pro's larger screen and higher resolution provide a more expansive and detailed viewing area, which can enhance media consumption and productivity. The S23 FE's display, while slightly smaller and lower resolution, still offers an immersive experience with its vibrant colors and smooth scrolling.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3120

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

LTPO AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera performance is a significant consideration for many users, and both the Galaxy S23 FE and Pixel 7 Pro offer capable imaging systems.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is equipped with a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and an 8-megapixel telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. It can record video up to 8K at 24 frames per second. The Google Pixel 7 Pro also features a triple-camera system, comprising a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens with a wider field of view and macro capabilities, and a 48-megapixel telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom. The Pixel 7 Pro records video up to 4K at 60 frames per second.
  • Photography Performance: The S23 FE's main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, including low light, producing detailed photos. However, Samsung's image processing can sometimes lead to oversaturated colors and oversharpening. The Pixel 7 Pro is highly regarded for its computational photography, delivering natural-looking images with excellent detail, dynamic range, and strong low-light performance across its lenses. Its zoom capabilities, particularly the 5x optical and 30x Super Res Zoom, are a notable strength.
  • Front Camera and Audio: Both devices feature capable front-facing cameras, with the S23 FE having a 10-megapixel sensor and the Pixel 7 Pro a 10.8-megapixel sensor. For audio, both phones include stereo speakers. The S23 FE's speakers offer good clarity and can be loud, though some reviews suggest potential distortion at maximum volume. The Pixel 7 Pro's stereo speakers provide clear and crisp sound, suitable for media consumption. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10.8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of a smartphone.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S23 FE and the Pixel 7 Pro support modern connectivity standards, including 5G for fast mobile data, Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed wireless internet, and Bluetooth for connecting accessories. Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. Neither phone includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: For secure unlocking, the Galaxy S23 FE features an optical under-display fingerprint sensor. The Pixel 7 Pro offers both an under-display fingerprint reader and face unlock functionality.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 FE measures 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209g. It features a design with a matte aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and back, contributing to a premium feel. The Pixel 7 Pro is slightly larger and heavier at 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm and 212g. Its design includes an aluminum finish and Gorilla Glass Victus for the display. The choice between the two may come down to preference for a slightly more compact device (S23 FE) or a larger screen experience (Pixel 7 Pro).

Weight

209 g

212 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE often highlights its premium build quality and vibrant display as strong points, making it feel like a higher-end device. Its main camera system is generally praised for producing good photos, especially in well-lit conditions. However, some users have noted that the processor, while capable, can lead to the device warming up under heavy load and that Samsung's image processing can sometimes be overly aggressive with saturation and sharpening.

The Google Pixel 7 Pro consistently receives acclaim for its exceptional camera system, particularly its computational photography, impressive zoom capabilities, and strong low-light performance. Users also appreciate its clean Android experience and the smooth performance driven by its specialized processor. Common criticisms include its repairability, which can be challenging due to internal design choices, and some users have found its battery life to be good but not always class-leading, with charging speeds that are not the fastest available.

For users prioritizing a balanced smartphone experience with a strong main camera, a vibrant display, and a premium feel, the Galaxy S23 FE presents a compelling option. It suits those who appreciate Samsung's software features and a slightly more compact form factor. Conversely, individuals who place the highest value on an advanced and versatile camera system, particularly for computational photography, zoom, and low-light scenarios, alongside a pure Android experience, will likely find the Google Pixel 7 Pro better suited to their needs. Both devices offer robust performance for everyday use, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative for making an informed choice.

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