Galaxy S23 FE Vs iPhone 15 Plus

Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:226.00

Versus €708.98 new

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iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:421.00

Versus €979.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE and the iPhone 15 Plus are contemporary smartphones, released in late 2023, offering distinct experiences within their respective ecosystems. While the Galaxy S23 FE operates on Android, providing a customizable interface, the iPhone 15 Plus runs on iOS, known for its integrated services. Key differentiators include their display technologies, camera systems, and overall approach to user interaction.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both offer robust build quality and extended software support, contributing to a practical lifespan of several years.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 15 Plus was released in September 2023, while the Galaxy S23 FE followed in October 2023, making both relatively new devices with current technology. [1, 5, 16, 17, 21, 23]
  • Software Longevity: Apple typically provides 5-7 years of major iOS updates, suggesting the iPhone 15 Plus will receive software support well into the future. Samsung generally offers 4 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates for its FE series, ensuring the Galaxy S23 FE remains functional and secure for a considerable period.
  • Durability Features: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion. The iPhone 15 Plus incorporates a Ceramic Shield front and a color-infused glass back, while the Galaxy S23 FE uses Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back, alongside an aluminum frame. [3, 5, 15, 25, 26, 29, 36]

Year of Release

2023

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is central to its daily usability, influencing everything from app responsiveness to demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.

  • Processing Capabilities: The iPhone 15 Plus is equipped with a powerful processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a fluid user experience. The Galaxy S23 FE features a capable processor that ensures efficient performance for everyday tasks and can manage graphic-intensive games effectively. [4, 5, 12, 18, 19, 24, 25, 34, 37]
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S23 FE comes with 8GB of RAM, which supports efficient multitasking across multiple applications. The iPhone 15 Plus includes 6GB of RAM, optimized by its operating system for smooth transitions and app management. Both devices offer various internal storage options, though neither supports expandable storage. [1, 3, 5, 8, 11, 12, 16, 17, 25, 26]
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 15 Plus is noted for its extended battery life, often lasting up to two days with moderate usage and offering up to 26 hours of video playback. The Galaxy S23 FE, with its 4500mAh battery, typically provides a full day of use for most users, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging. [1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 15, 20, 24, 25, 27, 31, 32, 33, 35]

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer vibrant and clear viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S23 FE sports a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, also known for its rich color reproduction and contrast. [1, 3, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 25, 26]
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both phones offer high-resolution displays, with the iPhone 15 Plus at 2796x1290 pixels and the Galaxy S23 FE at 2340x1080 pixels, resulting in sharp and detailed visuals suitable for media consumption and text. [1, 3, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 25, 26]
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 15 Plus can reach a peak outdoor brightness of 2000 nits, enhancing visibility in bright sunlight, and has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Galaxy S23 FE offers a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, with a peak brightness that ensures good outdoor readability. [1, 3, 5, 7, 13, 15, 22, 26]

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various conditions.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The iPhone 15 Plus features a dual-camera setup with a 48MP main sensor that outputs 24MP photos by default, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. It also offers a 2x telephoto option through its main sensor. The Galaxy S23 FE has a triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. [3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 15, 18, 19, 22, 25, 26, 29, 30, 34, 36, 37]
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 15 Plus excels in capturing detailed images with accurate colors and improved low-light performance, along with advanced portrait features. The Galaxy S23 FE also delivers vivid and detailed photos in good lighting, with its 3x optical zoom providing versatility for distant subjects. Both offer capable low-light photography. [2, 9, 19, 24, 25, 29]
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The iPhone 15 Plus supports 4K Dolby Vision video recording up to 60fps and includes Cinematic and Action modes. Its front camera is a 12MP TrueDepth sensor with autofocus. The Galaxy S23 FE can record video up to 8K at 24fps and 4K at 60fps, and features a 10MP front camera that produces clear selfies. [3, 7, 9, 15, 19, 27, 29, 30]

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily convenience of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3 for modern wireless communication. A notable difference is the port: the iPhone 15 Plus has transitioned to a USB-C port, offering universal compatibility, while the Galaxy S23 FE also uses USB-C. The iPhone 15 Plus's USB-C port operates at USB 2.0 speeds. [1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 12, 15, 25, 26, 27, 28, 37]
  • Biometric Security: The iPhone 15 Plus relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition, integrated into its Dynamic Island feature. The Galaxy S23 FE utilizes an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. [2, 4, 5, 22]
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 15 Plus measures 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm and weighs 201g, offering a larger screen experience. The Galaxy S23 FE is slightly more compact at 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209g. Both feature premium build materials, with the iPhone 15 Plus having a contoured aluminum edge and the Galaxy S23 FE an aluminum frame. [3, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 25, 26]

Weight

209 g

171 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The choice between the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE and the iPhone 15 Plus often comes down to individual preferences for operating system, design, and specific feature priorities. Users frequently praise the iPhone 15 Plus for its exceptional battery life, robust performance, and the seamless integration of its iOS ecosystem. Its large, bright OLED display and capable camera system, including the 2x telephoto option, are also commonly highlighted as strong points. Some users note the 60Hz refresh rate as a point of consideration compared to devices with higher refresh rates. [2, 8, 28, 31, 35]

The Galaxy S23 FE is often commended for its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, versatile triple-camera setup with optical zoom, and strong overall performance for its category. User feedback sometimes points to its battery life being sufficient for a day but potentially less enduring than some competitors under heavy use. The choice of processor (Snapdragon or Exynos) can also influence regional user experiences. [4, 5, 13, 20, 23, 29, 32]

For those who prioritize a consistently long battery life, a larger display, and the integrated experience of iOS, the iPhone 15 Plus may be a suitable option. Its performance capabilities and camera system are well-suited for a wide range of users. Conversely, individuals who value a smoother 120Hz display, a dedicated optical telephoto lens, and the flexibility of the Android operating system might find the Galaxy S23 FE aligns better with their needs. Both devices represent quality-assured options, and considering a refurbished model can be an eco-friendly alternative for acquiring either device.

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