Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 new
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £180.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The Google Pixel 8a is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a specs
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a each suit different needs based on their key differences. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a larger and higher resolution screen, more RAM, and a higher capacity battery, making it well suited for users who want a spacious display, strong multitasking, and longer battery life. The Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter with a slightly higher front camera resolution, which suits buyers looking for a compact, easy-to-handle phone with a capable selfie camera. Storage options differ too, with the Galaxy S23 Ultra offering larger capacities, while the Pixel 8a provides a simpler choice. Both support 5G and come unlocked, making them flexible for network use.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a price
Colour
- BlackStarting at £378.24
- RedStarting at £425.85
- LimeStarting at £369.24
- BeigeStarting at £441.75
- GreenStarting at £369.24
- GreyStarting at £369.24
- BlueStarting at £369.24
- PurpleStarting at £425.85
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
Storage
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and release year, which impact daily use and software experience. The Galaxy S23 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a differ in battery size and OS details.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery, which suits users who prioritise longer usage between charges. The Google Pixel 8a has a 4492 mAh battery, providing solid daily endurance for everyday tasks. If you use your phone heavily or want extended screen time, the Galaxy's larger battery may appeal more.
Operating System
The Galaxy S23 Ultra runs Android 13, which offers a specific software version at release. The Pixel 8a runs Android. Both run Android, ensuring access to the same app ecosystem, but the exact user interface and update timing may differ based on the OS version.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a performance
Performance focuses on chipset, RAM, and storage options. These affect speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on the device.
Processor
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) chipset. This is designed to handle demanding apps and tasks smoothly. The Pixel 8a features the Google Tensor G3, which supports everyday use and integrates well with Google services.
Memory
The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers 12 GB of RAM, which helps keep multiple apps active and supports more intensive multitasking. The Pixel 8a comes with 8 GB of RAM, suitable for smooth everyday app use and moderate multitasking.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S23 Ultra provides several storage options ranging from 256GB up to 1TB, which suits users who store many files, photos, or apps. The Pixel 8a offers 128GB, a simpler choice that fits users with more typical storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with the device. Both have 120 Hz refresh rates, but size, resolution, and panel type differ.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 6.8 inch screen, offering a larger display area that is good for watching videos, gaming, and multitasking. The Pixel 8a has a 6.1 inch screen, making it easier to hold and use with one hand, preferred by those who want a compact phone.
Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a higher resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels, delivering sharper images and more detail on its larger screen. The Pixel 8a has a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution, which provides clear visuals suitable for everyday use on its smaller display.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which can offer vibrant colours and deep contrast, ideal for media consumption. The Pixel 8a uses OLED, which also delivers good contrast and colour but with a simpler panel type.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a camera
Audiovisual differences focus on camera resolutions, affecting photo quality and video calls.
Front Camera
The Pixel 8a has a 13 megapixel front camera, which suits users who value a slightly higher resolution for selfies and video chats. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 12 megapixel front camera, which still produces high-quality images for everyday use.
Main Camera
The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a 200 megapixel main camera, which is designed to capture very detailed photos, appealing to those who prioritise photography. The Pixel 8a has a 64 megapixel main camera, suitable for good quality pictures in typical conditions.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a size and design
Miscellaneous details include physical size, network features, SIM options, and weight. These affect how the phone feels to use and its flexibility.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy S23 Ultra measures 163.4 mm in height, 78.1 mm in width, and weighs 234 g. This larger and heavier form suits those who prefer substantial phones with bigger screens. The Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter at 152.1 mm tall, 72.7 mm wide and 188 g, which suits users looking for a more compact and portable device.
SIM Card Support
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, allowing more flexibility with two physical SIM cards alongside an eSIM. The Pixel 8a supports one Physical SIM plus eSIM, which fits users who need a single physical SIM with an additional eSIM option.
Network and Connectivity
Both phones support 5G networks and come unlocked, so you can use them with a variety of network providers. Both use USB Type-C connectors and have the same device depth of 8.9 mm.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 Ultra or Google Pixel 8a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.8 inch vs 6.1 inch)
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £180.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (until May 2031 vs until Feb 2028)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S23 Ultra looks and works like new, often describing it as pristine or brand new in condition. Many highlight its smooth performance and excellent cameras, especially the detailed photos from the 200MP main sensor. The large screen and solid battery life receive praise, with users appreciating it as a good upgrade or a high-end phone at a better price. Some note minor scratches depending on the condition selected, but generally the device feels premium and reliable.
Pixel 8a customers report the phone looks brand new and works perfectly. Many mention easy setup and smooth operation for everyday use. The battery life is described as good, with some saying it holds charge well even in fair condition. The 13MP front camera and overall quality satisfy users switching to or trying Pixel for the first time. A few note specific regional model differences but still find the phone practical and well suited for typical needs.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra suits users wanting a large screen, strong performance, and high storage options with flexible SIM support. The Pixel 8a fits buyers looking for a smaller, lighter phone with solid everyday performance and straightforward storage. Both are good refurbished choices depending on what you prioritise in size, camera detail, and multitasking.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a FAQs
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £369.24 for the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 64 megapixels.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2028. The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 8a in 128GB.
