Galaxy S23+ Vs iPhone 14

Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:300.00

Versus €1,337.64 new

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iPhone 14
iPhone 14
Starting at

Refurbished price:287.25

Versus €759.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, released in February 2023, and the Apple iPhone 14, launched in September 2022, are both prominent smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S23 Plus operates on Android with Samsung's One UI, the iPhone 14 runs on Apple's iOS, providing different ecosystems and interface approaches. Key differentiators between these two devices include their display technology, camera systems, and overall design philosophy.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both offer substantial software support and robust build quality.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 14 was released in September 2022, making it slightly older than the Galaxy S23 Plus, which launched in February 2023. This difference in release dates means the iPhone 14 may receive major iOS updates for a slightly shorter period compared to the Galaxy S23 Plus's Android updates.
  • Software Longevity: Apple typically provides iOS updates for approximately five to seven years from a device's initial release, suggesting the iPhone 14 could receive updates until around 2028. Samsung also offers several years of Android and security updates for its flagship devices, with the S23 Plus expected to receive updates until at least 2028. Both phones are designed to remain functional and secure for an extended period.
  • Durability Features: The iPhone 14 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, offering enhanced drop performance. The Galaxy S23 Plus is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on its display, providing resistance against scratches and impacts. Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating they can withstand submersion in water up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both smartphones deliver smooth and responsive performance for daily tasks, though they achieve this through different hardware and software optimizations.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 14 provides a fluid user experience, handling app launches, multitasking, and general navigation with ease. The Galaxy S23 Plus also offers a very fast and smooth experience, capable of managing demanding applications and extensive multitasking without noticeable slowdowns.
  • Application Handling: For users who frequently engage in graphically intensive gaming or run multiple complex applications simultaneously, both devices are well-equipped. The Galaxy S23 Plus, with its advanced processor, is noted for its strong graphics performance. The iPhone 14 also offers robust performance for gaming and heavy use, ensuring a consistent experience.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 14 is available with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB of internal storage. The Galaxy S23 Plus offers 256GB and 512GB storage configurations. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 Plus generally offers longer battery life, often lasting a day and a half with moderate use, and supports faster wired and wireless charging. The iPhone 14 provides all-day battery life for many users, though heavy usage might require more frequent charging.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interaction point, and both phones offer vibrant and clear viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone 14 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. The Galaxy S23 Plus comes with a larger 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. Both OLED technologies deliver deep blacks and high contrast.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 14 has a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels, resulting in approximately 460 pixels per inch (ppi). The Galaxy S23 Plus offers a 2340 x 1080 pixel resolution, with a pixel density of around 393 ppi. Both provide sharp visuals for text and images.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The iPhone 14 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 Plus boasts a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid experience, particularly in gaming and fast-paced content.
  • Brightness Levels: Both displays offer high brightness, making them suitable for outdoor use. The iPhone 14 can reach up to 800 nits typical brightness and 1200 nits peak brightness for HDR content. The Galaxy S23 Plus can achieve up to 1200 nits HBM (High Brightness Mode) and 1750 nits peak outdoor brightness, providing excellent visibility even in bright sunlight.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both devices offer capable camera systems, but they approach photography with different hardware configurations and processing philosophies.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 14 features an advanced dual-camera system with a 12MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. The Galaxy S23 Plus sports a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 14 is praised for its ability to capture great-looking shots, especially in low light, thanks to its enhanced image pipeline. The Galaxy S23 Plus also delivers very good photos, with its 50MP main sensor often binning down to 12MP for improved detail and light capture, and it offers better zoom capabilities due to the dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Video Recording: Both phones offer high-quality video recording. The iPhone 14 includes features like Cinematic Mode and Action Mode, enhancing video capabilities. The Galaxy S23 Plus can record 8K video at 30fps and features improved video stabilization, making it a strong contender for video enthusiasts.
  • Front Camera: Both devices are equipped with 12MP front-facing cameras, capable of capturing detailed selfies and supporting high-quality video calls.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

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

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S23 Plus and the iPhone 14 support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast mobile data speeds where available. They also feature modern Wi-Fi standards and Bluetooth for wireless connections.
  • Port Types: The iPhone 14 utilizes Apple's proprietary Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Galaxy S23 Plus uses the more universal USB-C port.
  • Biometric Security: The iPhone 14 relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Galaxy S23 Plus features an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The iPhone 14 has dimensions of 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm and weighs 172 grams. The Galaxy S23 Plus is slightly larger and heavier, measuring 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm and weighing 196 grams. The choice between them may depend on preference for screen size and one-handed usability.
  • Additional Features: The Galaxy S23 Plus offers reverse wireless charging, allowing it to charge other compatible devices wirelessly. The iPhone 14 includes emergency satellite connectivity for specific regions.

Weight

196 g

172 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy S23 Plus often highlights its excellent overall performance, vibrant display, and impressive battery life, with many users appreciating its smooth operation and capable camera system. Some users note that while the camera is very good, it might not reach the absolute top tier of smartphone photography compared to some higher-end models. The iPhone 14 is generally praised for its consistent performance, reliable camera, and the seamless iOS ecosystem. Common observations include its solid display and good battery life for typical use, though some users coming from Pro models might find the 60Hz refresh rate less fluid.

Users prioritizing a larger display, a higher refresh rate for smoother visuals, and a versatile camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens may find the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its longer battery life and faster charging capabilities also make it a strong contender for those who are frequently on the go. Conversely, individuals who prefer the Apple iOS ecosystem, a slightly more compact device, and a camera system known for its consistent image processing and video features might lean towards the iPhone 14. Both devices represent quality-assured options, and considering a refurbished model can be an eco-friendly alternative for acquiring either of these capable smartphones.

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