Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra
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Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at
£205.00£605.75 new
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S23 FE and Galaxy S23 Ultra?
Galaxy S23 FE vs Ultra comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 FE starts at £205, £164.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Front camera
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) / Exynos 2200 (4nm) on the Galaxy S23 FE, Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4500 mAh.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra specs
The Galaxy S23 FE and Galaxy S23 Ultra are both solid choices from the 2023 Samsung lineup, each suited to different needs. The Galaxy S23 FE offers a more compact size and a lower price point, with enough power and memory for everyday use. It has a smaller screen and a slightly smaller battery, making it easier to handle. The Galaxy S23 Ultra provides a larger, higher resolution screen and more RAM, ideal for users who want extra performance and screen space. It also comes with higher storage options, which suits those needing more room for apps, media, or files. Both phones support 5G and share many features, but the Ultra is built for a more premium experience.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra price
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and operating system version are important for how long the phones last through a day and how they feel to use. Both phones come from 2023 and support modern 5G networks.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, which suits users who want solid endurance for typical daily use without a large phone. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery, ideal for those who expect longer screen time between charges, especially on its larger and higher resolution display.
Operating System
The Galaxy S23 FE uses Android without a specified version, still providing a familiar and flexible smartphone experience.
Battery
Foldable
OS at launch
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra performance
Processor power, RAM, and storage affect how smoothly the phones run apps and handle multitasking. The Galaxy S23 Ultra steps up in performance and storage options for demanding users.
Processor
The Galaxy S23 FE uses either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chipset, both built on the 4 nm process. This provides capable performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The Galaxy S23 Ultra features the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, a newer 4 nm chipset designed for faster and more efficient processing, suited for users running intensive apps or multitasking.
RAM
With 8 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S23 FE keeps everyday apps running smoothly and handles routine multitasking well. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers 12 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open simultaneously and supports heavier multitasking or demanding applications.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S23 FE comes with 128GB or 256GB of storage, enough for most users with moderate app and media needs. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers larger options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, which suits users who need to store large files, lots of photos, videos, or apps directly on the device.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra screen
Screen size and resolution determine how much visual space you get and how sharp images and text appear. Both phones use Dynamic AMOLED 2X screens, offering vibrant colours and deep contrast.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S23 FE has a 6.4 inch screen, making it easier to use one-handed and more pocket-friendly. The Galaxy S23 Ultra's 6.8 inch display provides more room for watching videos, gaming, and multitasking with split screens.
Resolution
The Galaxy S23 FE's screen resolution is 1080 x 2340, delivering clear and detailed images for everyday viewing. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a higher 1440 x 3088 resolution, which means sharper text and finer detail, especially noticeable when reading small fonts or viewing high-resolution content.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra size and design
Other features impact how the phones feel to use, including size, weight, and connectivity. Both phones support 5G and dual SIM options, keeping you connected in multiple ways.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy S23 FE is smaller and lighter, measuring 158 mm tall, 76.5 mm wide, and weighing 209 g. This makes it comfortable for users who prefer a phone that fits easily in the hand or pocket. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is larger and heavier at 163.4 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and 234 g, suiting those who prioritise screen space and don't mind a more substantial device.
Physical Depth
The Galaxy S23 FE has a depth of 8.2 mm, which contributes to its slimmer feel. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is slightly thicker at 8.9 mm, reflecting its bigger screen and larger battery.
SIM and Connectivity
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, allowing fast mobile internet. Each has a dual physical SIM plus eSIM setup, offering flexible options for managing personal and work numbers or using different carriers.
Connector Type
Both devices use USB-C connectors, standard for charging and data transfer on modern smartphones.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 FE or Galaxy S23 Ultra: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 FE if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £205, £164.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra
- you want longer software support (until Oct 2028 vs until Feb 2028)
- you want a lighter build (209 g vs 234 g)
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4500 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.8 inch vs 6.4 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S23 FE praise it for looking and working like new, with many noting its excellent condition and solid performance. Users appreciate the phone's battery life and speed, describing it as a significant upgrade over models with less memory. The size and design receive positive comments, with the phone feeling premium and well suited for everyday use. Some mention minor issues like the phone heating up or needing cleaning around the charging port, but overall satisfaction is high.
For the Galaxy S23 Ultra, customers highlight its pristine condition and smooth performance. Many are impressed by how the phone looks almost brand new, with no visible scratches or marks. The camera quality and processing power get positive mention, as well as the large, sharp screen. Buyers often say the phone feels like a genuine upgrade and fits their need for a high-end device without paying full price. Some note very minor blemishes but say these are barely noticeable.
Overall, the Galaxy S23 FE suits users seeking a reliable, well-performing phone that is easier to handle and comes at a lower price. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is a good match for those wanting a premium experience with a larger screen, more memory, and higher storage capacity.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy S23 Ultra FAQs
Galaxy S23 FE vs Ultra comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) / Exynos 2200 (4nm) on the Galaxy S23 FE, Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Galaxy S23 FE is cheaper refurbished, from £205 compared with £369.24 for the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4500 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 FE gets updates until Oct 2028. The Galaxy S23 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2028.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 FE comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the Galaxy S23 Ultra in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
