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Galaxy S23+ Vs Galaxy S26 Ultra

  • 1-year minimum warranty
  • Free delivery on all orders
  • Free 30-day returns
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:334.00

Versus €1,337.64 new

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Galaxy S26 Ultra
Starting at

Refurbished price:919.00

Versus €1,449.00 new

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Differences at a glance

The Samsung Galaxy S23+ (2023) and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (2026) represent different eras and tiers within Samsung's flagship smartphone lineup. While the Galaxy S23+ focuses on a streamlined, large-screen experience with balanced daily capabilities, the Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a massive visual workspace, advanced processing architecture, and expanded camera versatility. Both devices run on Android with Samsung's customized interface, though they occupy distinct generation milestones in software longevity and hardware engineering.

Available Models

Colour

Storage (GB)

Scores

Durability

Lifecycle expectations differ due to release timelines, with the Galaxy S26 Ultra benefiting from a significantly extended software support window compared to its older counterpart.

  • Software Support Window: The Galaxy S26 Ultra launches with a commitment to prolonged operating system upgrades and security patches, extending several years past the scheduled support lifecycle of the Galaxy S23+.
  • Repairability and Build Integrity: Both models utilize durable glass and metal structures with robust water and dust resistance ratings, though newer manufacturing techniques in the Galaxy S26 Ultra offer refined structural rigidity against daily wear.
  • Long-term Reliability: Users can expect dependable multi-year operation from both, though the Galaxy S26 Ultra retains peak performance headroom longer due to its advanced hardware generation.

Year of Release

2023

2026

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Processing capabilities and day-to-day responsiveness reflect a three-year gap in silicon evolution between the two flagship devices.

  • Multitasking and System Speed: The Galaxy S26 Ultra handles intensive multi-app workflows, high-frame-rate gaming, and on-device processing tasks with noticeable swiftness, while the Galaxy S23+ comfortably manages everyday browsing, media streaming, and standard productivity apps.
  • Memory and Storage Configurations: The Galaxy S26 Ultra provides higher baseline RAM tiers for sustained background application handling, whereas the Galaxy S23+ relies on standard configurations suited for typical user routines.
  • Power Efficiency: Refined thermal management and advanced processor architecture allow the Galaxy S26 Ultra to sustain heavy workloads with minimal heat buildup and efficient battery discharge.

Screen quality

Visual immersion varies significantly through display size, panel technology, and peak brightness capabilities.

  • Display Technology: Both feature vibrant Dynamic AMOLED panels supporting smooth 120Hz refresh rates, ensuring fluid scrolling and responsive touch interactions.
  • Workspace and Dimensions: The Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a larger, wider screen surface paired with sharper resolution, while the Galaxy S23+ provides a slightly more compact large-screen format that remains easy to handle with one hand.
  • Outdoor Visibility: Higher peak luminance levels on the Galaxy S26 Ultra improve legibility under direct sunlight, whereas the Galaxy S23+ delivers adequate brightness for standard outdoor viewing environments.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3120

Audiovisual

Imaging hardware and media recording tools cater to different levels of photography depth and audio capture requirements.

  • Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S26 Ultra features a high-resolution main sensor alongside extensive optical zoom lenses for distant subjects, while the Galaxy S23+ utilizes a reliable triple-lens array geared toward everyday portraits and wide-angle scenery.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: Advanced image processing on the Galaxy S26 Ultra captures clearer details in dim environments and stabilizes high-resolution video effectively, whereas the Galaxy S23+ produces clean, balanced results under standard lighting conditions.
  • Audio and Media Output: Stereo speakers on both devices deliver clear sound for hands-free calls and media consumption, supported by robust microphone arrays.

Front camera

12 megapixels

12.0

Miscellaneous

Physical handling, connectivity standards, and daily utility features shape the practical ergonomics of each smartphone.

  • Build and Ergonomics: The Galaxy S23+ features a lighter, more rounded profile that rests comfortably in pockets, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra adopts a larger, squared footprint to accommodate its expanded display area and built-in stylus integration.
  • Connectivity and Ports: Both models support rapid cellular data networks and modern local wireless standards, utilizing reversible USB-C ports for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security: Quick and secure authentication is handled by responsive under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensors and facial recognition on both units.

Weight

196 g

214 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.9

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

What the community thinks

Community feedback highlights the Galaxy S23+ for its lightweight handling, dependable daily battery persistence, and balanced feature set that avoids unnecessary bulk. Users frequently praise its comfortable ergonomics and reliable performance for standard messaging, media, and web browsing. Conversely, discussions surrounding the Galaxy S26 Ultra emphasize its expansive workspace, sharp optical zoom capabilities, and advanced processing headroom, though some users note its larger physical footprint requires deliberate two-handed operation.

Users prioritizing a lightweight profile, straightforward functionality, and comfortable pocketability will find the Galaxy S23+ well-suited to their daily routines. Meanwhile, users prioritizing maximum screen workspace, advanced camera zoom options, and extended software longevity may lean toward the Galaxy S26 Ultra. For buyers exploring sustainable technology choices, exploring a quality-assured refurbished option provides a reliable way to access these capabilities while reducing environmental impact.