Galaxy S23 Ultra review

Same Look, Tougher Build — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

At first glance, the Galaxy S23 Ultra appears identical to its predecessor. The familiar squared-off shape, integrated S Pen, and rear camera layout remain. But Samsung has quietly reinforced the package. The front and back panels now use the latest Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for improved drop and scratch resistance. The IP68 rating for dust and water resistance carries over, so you can still submerge it without worry. The phone also incorporates more recycled materials, including fishing nets in the S Pen’s inner cover and speaker module.

The 6.8-inch display has been flattened slightly, giving the stylus more usable surface area. While the design may not turn heads, the subtle changes make this a more durable daily driver. Body color options vary by region and storage tier, so you’ll want to check local availability if a specific finish matters to you.

A Display That Adapts to You — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED panel is more than just a pretty screen. It dynamically adjusts its refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz based on what you’re doing, so scrolling feels buttery smooth while static content sips power. Samsung says the display offers better color accuracy and 20% improved efficiency compared to last year’s model. The panel stays bright and legible in direct sunlight, and the adaptive refresh rate helps the 5,000mAh battery last longer.

Combined with more power-efficient LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, the phone can pull over 13 hours of active use on a single charge. The screen also makes the S Pen experience feel natural and responsive, whether you’re jotting notes or sketching. The 45W wired charging remains unchanged, which some may find slow compared to rivals, but wireless charging tops out at 15W. If you want the best screen for media and productivity, this display delivers.

Performance That Stays Fast for Years — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Under the hood, the custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip delivers a massive leap in raw power. Compared to the previous generation, it offers 51% better NPU performance, 41% better GPU performance, and 33% better CPU performance. In graphics tests, it even beats the iPhone. This means demanding games, multitasking, and video editing feel instantaneous. The phone also comes with faster LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, which help apps load instantly and keep the system feeling fresh over time.

With up to 12GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, you have plenty of headroom for years of use. The 200MP main camera uses 16-to-1 pixel-binning for brighter, more detailed shots, and you can also shoot in full 200MP mode for extra cropping freedom. The 10x optical zoom remains a standout feature for distant subjects. Battery life is much improved, often exceeding 13 hours of heavy use.

Just keep in mind that wired charging tops out at 45W, which might feel a bit slow if you’re used to faster charging speeds from other flagships. For a deeper look at alternatives, check out our extensive phone reviews or browse the full phone directory.

A 200MP Camera That Does It All — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's camera system is its standout feature. The 200MP main sensor uses 16-to-1 pixel-binning to produce brighter, more detailed shots, or you can shoot in full 200MP mode for extra cropping freedom. The 10x optical zoom remains unique in the market, and the camera's 'Nightography' abilities have been advanced for everything from general snaps to portrait photography. The phone also includes a sharper 12MP front camera and an Astro Hyperlapse mode for videos of the night sky. If you're looking for a phone with the most complete camera experience, use our phone finder to compare options.

Battery Life That Lasts All Day — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The Galaxy S23 Ultra packs a 5,000mAh battery that has been tuned for 20% improved efficiency. In testing, the battery life is much improved, lasting over 13 hours. This means you can get through a full day of heavy use without needing to recharge. The phone supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, though some reviewers note that faster wired charging would have been nice.

The phone also features a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip that delivers 51% better NPU performance, 41% better GPU performance, and 33% better CPU performance than the previous generation. For a side-by-side comparison with the Galaxy S23 Plus, check our compare tool.

Is the Galaxy S23 Ultra right for you? — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: The Best Android Phone Gets Even Better

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is not just the best Android phone you can buy; it's arguably the best phone overall among premium flagships. Its 200MP camera, custom chip, and all-day battery make it a top choice for anyone who wants the most complete smartphone experience, as long as they can afford the steep $1,199 price. The phone carries the same squared-off shape as last year's model, but the front and back use tougher Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

The 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display adjusts from 1Hz to 120Hz and has been tuned for better color accuracy and 20% improved power efficiency. The S Pen stylus is still unique and works great with the optimized display. The phone also features faster and more efficient LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Overall, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is a high-performance phone that will last for years.