Galaxy S23+ Vs Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:307.20

Versus €1,072.00 new

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Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:290.88

Versus €1,299.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, released in February 2023, is a traditional smartphone offering a large display and robust performance. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, launched in August 2021, stands out with its unique foldable clamshell design. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but their distinct form factors and release timelines lead to notable differences in user experience, particularly concerning durability, performance, and camera capabilities.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release dates and associated software support are key factors. The Galaxy S23 Plus, being a more recent model, benefits from a longer expected period of software updates compared to the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G.

  • Software Support: The Galaxy S23 Plus is guaranteed to receive four years of Android operating system updates and five years of security updates, extending its support well into 2027. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, having launched with Android 11, is nearing the end of its major OS update cycle, though it continues to receive security patches.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S23 Plus features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, along with an Armor Aluminum frame, providing IP68 dust and water resistance. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G also uses an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus for its cover display and back. Its main foldable screen is made of Ultra-Thin Glass with a protective film, and it boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in fresh water but lacks official dust resistance.
  • Folding Mechanism: The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's hinge is rated to withstand over 200,000 folds, with some tests showing it can endure more than 400,000 cycles. While this indicates robust engineering for a foldable, the inherent nature of a folding screen introduces a potential point of wear not present in traditional slab phones like the S23 Plus.

Year of Release

2023

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

Yes

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones reflects their respective generations, with the newer Galaxy S23 Plus offering a more advanced processing experience.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 Plus is equipped with a current-generation processor optimized for Samsung devices, which translates to exceptionally smooth performance for demanding applications, multitasking, and graphic-intensive gaming. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G features a capable processor from an earlier generation, which handles everyday tasks and most applications efficiently, but may show limitations with the most intensive workloads or in future-proofing.
  • Battery Endurance: The Galaxy S23 Plus houses a 4700 mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient processor, often provides excellent battery life, with many users reporting it can last through a full day of heavy use and sometimes up to two days for lighter usage. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has a smaller 3300 mAh battery, and user feedback frequently points to a shorter battery life, often requiring more frequent charging, especially for active users.
  • Storage and Responsiveness: Both devices offer ample storage options, with the Galaxy S23 Plus available in 256GB and 512GB configurations, and the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G in 128GB and 256GB. The Galaxy S23 Plus generally exhibits faster app loading and overall system responsiveness due to its newer hardware and optimized software.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display experience on these two devices is distinct, primarily due to the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's foldable nature and the S23 Plus's larger, traditional screen.

  • Main Display Technology: Both phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The Galaxy S23 Plus has a 6.6-inch flat display, while the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G offers a 6.7-inch main foldable display.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels) with a peak brightness of 1750 nits, ensuring clear visuals and good outdoor visibility. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's main screen also has a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2640 pixels) and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, providing a sharp and bright viewing experience.
  • Refresh Rate and Unique Features: Both devices offer an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and fluid animations. A key differentiator for the Z Flip3 5G is its 1.9-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, which allows users to view notifications, check the time, and even take selfies without unfolding the device.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2640

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the Galaxy S23 Plus and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G cater to different priorities, with the S23 Plus offering a more versatile setup for varied photography needs.

  • Rear Camera Configuration: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a triple-camera system on the rear, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. This setup provides flexibility for different shooting scenarios, including improved zoom capabilities. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has a dual-camera system with a 12MP main sensor (with OIS) and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. It lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Photography Performance: The S23 Plus generally delivers strong image quality across various conditions, with good detail, color reproduction, and improved low-light performance compared to its predecessors. Its processing helps even out exposure. The Z Flip3 5G's cameras are considered capable for everyday photography, producing good results in well-lit conditions, but they may not match the advanced low-light performance or overall versatility of the S23 Plus.
  • Video and Unique Features: The Galaxy S23 Plus can record 8K video at 30 frames per second, offering high-resolution video capture. Both phones offer 4K video recording. The Z Flip3 5G's foldable design allows for unique shooting angles, such as using 'Flex Mode' to prop the phone up for hands-free photos or video calls, and using the cover screen as a viewfinder for selfies with the main cameras.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless internet. The Galaxy S23 Plus features Bluetooth 5.3 and a USB 3.2 Type-C port, offering faster data transfer speeds. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G comes with Bluetooth 5.1 and a USB 2.0 Type-C port. Neither phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S23 Plus utilizes an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, and also supports face recognition when unfolded.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 Plus is a traditional slab phone, weighing 196g and measuring 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6mm. Its flat display and balanced weight contribute to a comfortable grip. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G's defining characteristic is its foldable design. When unfolded, it measures 72.2 x 166.0 x 6.9mm and weighs 183g, making it a tall and slender device. When folded, it becomes a compact square (72.2 x 86.4 x 17.1mm), easily fitting into smaller pockets or bags.

Weight

168 g

183 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G offer distinct smartphone experiences, each with its own set of strengths and considerations based on user priorities. Users frequently praise the Galaxy S23 Plus for its consistent and long-lasting battery life, powerful performance for demanding tasks, and a versatile camera system that performs well in various conditions. Some discussions note the Full HD+ resolution on its large screen, though many users find it perfectly adequate and contributing to battery efficiency.

The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is widely appreciated for its innovative and compact foldable design, which offers a unique blend of portability and a large screen experience when unfolded. Its main display is also highly regarded. However, common criticisms often revolve around its shorter battery life, and a camera system that, while capable, does not offer the same level of advanced features or low-light performance as contemporary non-foldable flagships. Concerns about the long-term durability of the folding screen are also present, despite rigorous testing demonstrating its resilience.

Users prioritizing extended battery life, a consistently high-performing camera system with optical zoom, and a traditional, robust smartphone form factor will find the Galaxy S23 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its longer software support also makes it a strong choice for those seeking maximum longevity from their device. Conversely, individuals who value a highly portable and unique device that can fold to fit into small spaces, and who appreciate the novel interactive possibilities of a foldable screen, may lean towards the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. It is an excellent option for those who prioritize style and a compact form factor over absolute top-tier camera performance or multi-day battery life. For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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