Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 new
Google Pixel 9
Starting at
£314.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Google Pixel 9?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 9 starts at £314, £55.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The Google Pixel 9 is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4700 mAh.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger screen: 6.8 inch vs 6.3 inch.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 specs
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 differ in size, screen resolution, camera detail, and battery capacity. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a larger 6.8 inch screen with higher resolution and more megapixels in both front and main cameras, suiting those who want a more expansive display and detailed photography. The Google Pixel 9 has a smaller 6.3 inch screen with Full HD resolution and a simpler camera setup, fitting buyers who prefer a more compact device. Both phones have 12 GB RAM and support 5G, but the Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger 5000 mAh battery compared to the Pixel 9's 4700 mAh, which may appeal to heavier users. Storage options also differ, with the Galaxy offering up to 1TB and the Pixel up to 256GB.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 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
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
- PinkSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 battery life and software updates
Battery size and operating system are key durability factors. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a larger battery, which can affect how long you use the phone between charges.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a 5000 mAh battery, giving more capacity for extended use during busy days or heavy app use. The Google Pixel 9 has a 4700 mAh battery, which still supports a full day of typical use but may suit those with lighter daily demands or who charge more often.
Operating System
The Google Pixel 9 runs Android. Both offer the familiar Android experience, but the Galaxy's exact version may matter to those following OS updates and features closely.
Battery
Foldable
OS at launch
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 performance
Both phones have 12 GB of RAM, supporting smooth multitasking and app use. Their chipsets differ, which may influence performance style depending on your priorities.
Processor Differences
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset built on a 4 nm process, known for strong overall performance. The Google Pixel 9 runs on Google's own Tensor G4 chipset, also 4 nm, which is designed with AI and machine learning in mind. Your choice may depend on whether you prefer Qualcomm's chipset or Google's custom processor.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers more storage choices, including 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. This suits users who need ample space for photos, apps, and files. The Google Pixel 9 comes with 128GB or 256GB, which fits users with lighter storage needs or those who use cloud services.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 screen
Screen size, resolution, and type shape your viewing experience. Both phones have 120 Hz refresh rates for smooth scrolling and animations, but their other screen specs vary distinctly.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a larger 6.8 inch screen with a high resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels, which is ideal for watching videos, gaming, and multitasking on a spacious display. The Google Pixel 9 features a smaller 6.3 inch screen with 1080 x 2424 resolution, offering a compact and sharp display suitable for everyday use and easier one-handed operation.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which typically provides vibrant colours and deep blacks, enhancing media viewing. The Google Pixel 9 has an OLED screen, which also delivers good colour and contrast but with a simpler technology. Both screens support the same 120 Hz refresh rate for fluid visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 camera
Camera resolution is a major difference for those interested in photography and video calls. Both front and main cameras differ significantly in megapixels.
Front Camera Detail
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 12 megapixel front camera, which may capture sharper selfies and video calls. The Google Pixel 9 has a 10.5 megapixel front camera, which still supports clear images but with slightly fewer pixels.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a high-resolution 200 megapixel main camera, suited for capturing detailed photos with greater clarity and cropping options. The Google Pixel 9's main camera is 50 megapixels, offering solid image quality for everyday photography but with fewer pixels compared to the Samsung.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 size and design
Physical size, weight, SIM options, and network compatibility may influence your choice depending on portability and connectivity needs.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is larger and heavier, measuring 163.4 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and weighing 234 g. This makes it more suited to those who prioritise screen space over compactness. The Google Pixel 9 is smaller and lighter at 152.8 mm tall, 72 mm wide, and weighing 198 g, fitting those who want a more pocket-friendly device.
SIM Card Support
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, which is useful if you need two physical SIM cards alongside an eSIM for additional lines. The Google Pixel 9 includes a single Physical SIM plus eSIM, which suits users with simpler SIM needs.
Connectivity and Ports
Both phones are unlocked for any carrier and support 5G networks, offering fast mobile data. Each uses a USB Type-C connector, standard for charging and accessories.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 Ultra or Google Pixel 9: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4700 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.8 inch vs 6.3 inch)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels)
Buy the Google Pixel 9 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £314, £55.24 less than the Galaxy S23 Ultra
- you want longer software support (until Aug 2031 vs until Feb 2028)
- you want a lighter build (198 g vs 234 g)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S23 Ultra looks and works like new, often exceeding expectations for a refurbished phone. Many note that the device runs smoothly and fast, with excellent cameras including the 200MP main sensor. The screen and battery life are praised for quality, and buyers appreciate the large, premium feel despite its weight. The condition is often described as pristine or nearly flawless, with some small marks on selected units. Customers also value the environmental benefits of buying refurbished and the ease of use and setup.
Google Pixel 9 buyers report the phone looking brand new and running smoothly, with positive comments on battery life and camera improvements over earlier models. The Pixel 9's size and screen are liked for everyday use, and many find transferring data and apps straightforward. Some users mention minor scratches or initial adjustment to the OS, but overall satisfaction with the device's performance and look is common.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra suits those who want a large, high-resolution screen and top camera detail, while the Google Pixel 9 fits buyers preferring a smaller, lighter phone with solid performance and simpler storage options. Both appeal to customers who value quality refurbished phones that feel like new.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 FAQs
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4700 mAh.
The Google Pixel 9 is cheaper refurbished, from £314 compared with £369.24 for the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4700 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2028. The Google Pixel 9 gets updates until Aug 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 9 in 128GB and 256GB.
