Galaxy S23+ Vs iPhone 16

Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:293.00

Versus €1,019.00 new

See options
iPhone 16
iPhone 16
Starting at

Refurbished price:549.00

Versus €879.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, released in February 2023, and the iPhone 16, which became available in September 2024, represent distinct approaches to the premium smartphone experience. While both devices offer robust performance and advanced camera systems, they differ significantly in their operating systems and overall ecosystem. The Galaxy S23 Plus operates on Android, providing a customizable interface, whereas the iPhone 16 runs on Apple's iOS, known for its streamlined user experience and tight integration across Apple devices.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Software Updates: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, launched in early 2023, typically receives four to five years of major Android operating system updates and five years of security updates from its release date. The iPhone 16, released in late 2024, is expected to receive major iOS updates for five to seven years, offering a potentially longer period of access to the latest software features and security enhancements.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust construction designed to withstand daily use. The Galaxy S23 Plus incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on its front and back, paired with an aluminum frame, and carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 16 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, a glass back, and an aluminum frame, also with an IP68 rating, providing similar protection against environmental elements.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect a practical lifespan of several years from both smartphones, with the iPhone 16 potentially offering a slightly longer period of optimal performance and software compatibility due to its later release and Apple's extended software support cycle.

Year of Release

2023

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Evaluating the performance of these smartphones involves looking at their processing capabilities, memory, and how they handle demanding tasks.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 Plus is equipped with a processor designed for high performance and energy efficiency, capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone 16 features a newer generation A-series chip, which provides a faster and more responsive experience, particularly beneficial for intensive tasks and the integration of advanced AI features.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer ample memory for efficient multitasking. The Galaxy S23 Plus comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB. The iPhone 16 also includes 8GB of RAM across all models, with base storage starting at 256GB, providing sufficient space for applications and media.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 Plus houses a 4700 mAh battery, offering up to 27 hours of video playback, with many users reporting it can last two days or more under typical usage. The iPhone 16, with a 3561 mAh battery, provides up to 22 hours of video playback, benefiting from software and hardware optimizations for efficient power management.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on a smartphone is largely defined by its display technology, resolution, and brightness levels.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. The iPhone 16 comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing sharp visuals and excellent color accuracy at a resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices offer high brightness levels for clear outdoor visibility. The Galaxy S23 Plus can reach a peak brightness of 1750 nits and features an adaptive refresh rate that can go up to 120Hz, resulting in smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The iPhone 16 offers a typical maximum brightness of 1000 nits, with peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits and peak outdoor brightness of 2000 nits, but maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate for its display.
  • Viewing Experience: The larger screen of the Galaxy S23 Plus may appeal to users who prefer more expansive content consumption, while the iPhone 16's display, despite being smaller, offers excellent clarity and color reproduction.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1179 x 2556

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both the Galaxy S23 Plus and iPhone 16 are designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though with different configurations and features.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50 MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization, a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and a 10 MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 16 utilizes a dual-camera system with a 48 MP wide-angle lens that also offers 2x optical-quality telephoto zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens that supports macro photography.
  • Photography and Video Capabilities: The Galaxy S23 Plus excels in various lighting conditions and offers 8K video recording at 30 frames per second. The iPhone 16's camera system is noted for its improved low-light performance, support for macro photography, and the ability to capture spatial videos, which can be viewed in 3D. Both devices provide high-quality video recording up to 4K at 60 frames per second.
  • Front Camera and Audio: Both phones feature 12 MP front-facing cameras for clear selfies and video calls. While specific audio details vary, both are expected to deliver clear microphone quality for calls and decent speaker output for media consumption.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 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 and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S23 Plus includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The iPhone 16 steps up with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections. Both smartphones feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security and Controls: The Galaxy S23 Plus offers an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, alongside face recognition. The iPhone 16 relies on Face ID for biometric authentication and introduces new physical controls, including an Action button and a dedicated Camera Control button for enhanced functionality.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 Plus measures 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm and weighs 195-196 grams, offering a balanced feel. The iPhone 16 has slightly different dimensions at 147.6 x 71.6 mm, with minor shifts in weight compared to its predecessor, aiming for comfortable handling.

Weight

168 g

170 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C (USB 2)

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus and the iPhone 16 cater to users with varying preferences, each excelling in different areas. Users often praise the Galaxy S23 Plus for its vibrant display, long-lasting battery, and versatile camera system, particularly its telephoto capabilities. Some common feedback points include its robust Android ecosystem and customization options. On the other hand, the iPhone 16 is frequently lauded for its powerful processing, extended software support, and the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, with its enhanced camera features like spatial video capture also being a highlight. Some users might note its standard display refresh rate as a point of consideration.

Users prioritizing a larger, high-refresh-rate display and extensive customization within the Android environment may find the Galaxy S23 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its strong battery life and comprehensive camera setup make it a reliable choice for everyday use and photography enthusiasts. Conversely, users who value a streamlined operating system, a longer period of software updates, and cutting-edge processing power for demanding applications and AI features will likely lean towards the iPhone 16. Its advanced camera capabilities, including spatial video, also appeal to those interested in emerging media formats.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, allowing access to premium technology while making a sustainable choice.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons