Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra: Should You Upgrade?

Two years have passed since Samsung launched the Galaxy S23 Ultra, its flagship smartphone at that time. With the recent introduction of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, many owners of the Galaxy S23 Ultra are wondering if it's time to upgrade. Let's explore the key differences between these two devices to help you decide.

Specifications Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra

	Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra	Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Size	162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm (6.41 x 3.05 x 0.33)	157.7 x 78 x 8.9 mm (3.07 x 6.43 x 0.35)
Weight	218 grams (7.69 ounces)	234 grams (8.25 ounces)
Screen	6.9 inches LTPO OLED 440 x 3120 pixels 1-120Hz 2,600 nits peak brightness Gorilla Armor 2	6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X 1440 x 3088 pixels 1-120Hz 1,750 nits peak brightness Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Operating system	Android 15 with One UI 7	Android 13 with One UI 5.1
RAM & Storage	12GB + 256GB 12GB + 512GB 12GB + 1TB	8GB + 256GB 512GB 12GB + 1TB
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy	Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Camera	Rear: 200-megapixel primary, OIS 50MP ultrawide 10MP telephoto, 3x optical zoom 50MP periscope telephoto, 5x optical zoom Front: 12MP, f/2.2, autofocus	Rear: 200MP primary with Laser Auto Focus 12MP ultrawide 10MP telephoto Front: 12MP
Battery & charging	5,000mAh with 45W wired charging Wireless charging Reverse wireless charging	5,000mAh with 45W wired charging Wireless Charging Wireless PowerShare
Colors	Black, Silver, Green	Phantom Black, Cream, Green, and Lavender
Price	Starting from $1,300	Starting at $1,200
Review	Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra	Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Design and Display of Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces a fresh design that moves away from the boxy look of the S23 Ultra. The new model features rounded corners and flat sides, showcasing modern design trends in smartphones. It uses high-quality materials like titanium and Corning Gorilla Glass Armor 2, making it lighter and thinner than the S23 Ultra.

Both phones have outstanding AMOLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate. Yet, the S25 Ultra offers a 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display that reaches a brightness of 2600 nits, outperforming the S23 Ultra's 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which peaks at 1750 nits.

However, one trade-off is that the S Pen that comes with the S25 Ultra lacks Bluetooth connectivity, missing out on some features available with the older model's S Pen.

Performance: S25 Ultra vs. S23 Ultra

Performance-wise, the S25 Ultra is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, providing a boost over the S23 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The advancements in processing power translate to faster app loading times and seamless multitasking.

Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced GPU architecture in the S25 Ultra, which supports higher frame rates and improved graphics. Additionally, a larger vapor chamber cools this device more effectively, preventing overheating during intense use, making it an excellent choice for heavy users.

While both devices offer ample memory and storage, the Galaxy S25 Ultra's upgrades make it ideal for content creators and users engaging in demanding tasks like video editing and high-performance gaming.

Camera Comparisons: S25 Ultra vs. S23 Ultra

The camera setups on both devices highlight Samsung's commitment to excellence in mobile photography. The 200MP main sensor on the S23 Ultra raised the bar for clarity and detail, along with a 12MP ultrawide lens and dual telephoto lenses for versatile shooting.

With the S25 Ultra, Samsung retains the 200MP sensor but includes larger pixels to enhance low-light performance. It is expected to feature an upgraded ultrawide lens, improved telephoto capabilities, and enhanced image processing thanks to the more powerful processor.

Battery and Charging Features

Both the S25 Ultra and S23 Ultra come with 5,000mAh batteries and support 45W wired charging, along with wireless charging options. However, the S25 Ultra is “Qi2 Ready,” allowing for a better wireless charging experience with compatible accessories.

Overall, daily usage for both models can last up to two hours with minimal differences due to efficiency improvements in the S25 Ultra.

Software and Long-Term Support

The Galaxy S25 Ultra runs on the latest Android version and One UI 7, promising seven years of updates and security patches. This longevity in support contrasts with the S23 Ultra's limited future updates due to its earlier operating system version.

Pricing and Availability

The S25 Ultra is now available for purchase in various colors, starting at $1,300 for the 256GB model, while the S23 Ultra originally launched at a starting price of $1,200.

Should You Upgrade from Galaxy S23 Ultra to S25 Ultra?

Both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra are remarkable smartphones in their respective times. The newer model offers improved performance, enhanced camera capabilities, and an extended software support period. If you find a compelling trade-in deal, it might be the right time to upgrade. However, if your Galaxy S23 Ultra meets your needs, you could continue using it and reassess the situation next year when the Galaxy S26 Ultra arrives.

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