Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs S21 Ultra: Two Years of Evolution
Introduction
How does the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stack up against its predecessor, the Galaxy S21 Ultra? What are the key upgrades, and is it worth upgrading to the newer model?
In this comparison, we’ll explore the design, performance, display, cameras, battery life, and more, providing a detailed look at what makes the Galaxy S23 Ultra stand out—or not—against the S21 Ultra.
Key Highlights
- S23 Ultra has a wider, boxier design compared to the narrower, rounded S21 Ultra.
- The S23 Ultra boasts a brighter and more advanced display.
- Improved processing power makes the S23 Ultra significantly faster.
- Base model of the S23 Ultra has double the storage but less RAM than the S21 Ultra.
- Major camera upgrades across the board.
- Enhanced battery life on the S23 Ultra.
- Faster 45W charging on the S23 Ultra vs 25W on the S21 Ultra.
Design and Display
Despite both devices sporting a 6.8-inch screen, the Galaxy S23 Ultra feels substantially larger due to its wider aspect ratio and squared-off corners. This design echoes the Galaxy Note series and contrasts with the S21 Ultra’s more compact, rounded form factor.
Both devices are fairly heavy, weighing over 8 ounces, making them less pocket-friendly. However, the S23 Ultra’s sharper edges make it slightly less comfortable to handle.
In terms of durability, both phones are constructed from a combination of glass and aluminum. The S23 Ultra features Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which offers better drop protection compared to the first-generation Victus used on the S21 Ultra.
A significant distinction lies in the S Pen. The S23 Ultra includes a built-in S Pen, while the S21 Ultra supports S Pen functionality only as an optional accessory, requiring a separate purchase and a specialized case to carry it. For stylus users, the S23 Ultra is undoubtedly the more convenient option.
Display Improvements
The S23 Ultra’s display shines—literally. It’s brighter, with improved outdoor visibility and better color accuracy. Additionally, the screen is easier on the eyes at night thanks to its ability to dim more effectively.
Both phones support a dynamic refresh rate of up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsive performance. However, the S23 Ultra can lower its refresh rate to 1Hz, compared to the S21 Ultra’s 10Hz minimum, offering better energy efficiency.
Performance and Software
The Galaxy S23 Ultra outperforms the S21 Ultra in terms of speed, courtesy of its updated processor. While the base S23 Ultra model has less RAM (8GB vs 12GB on the S21 Ultra), its optimized hardware and software make it significantly faster.
On the software front, both devices run Samsung’s One UI, built on Android. The S23 Ultra benefits from the latest software updates, which enhance functionality and security.
Camera Upgrades
Cameras are a major highlight of the S23 Ultra. While both phones deliver impressive photography, the S23 Ultra introduces several advancements, including better low-light performance, sharper zoom capabilities, and overall improved image quality. These upgrades make the S23 Ultra a better choice for photography enthusiasts.
Audio Quality
Both models offer high-quality stereo speakers, delivering clear sound with minimal distortion. Whether watching videos or playing games, the audio experience on both phones is satisfactory, but the S23 Ultra edges ahead with subtle improvements in clarity and volume.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life sees a noticeable improvement with the S23 Ultra. While both models support all-day usage, the S23 Ultra’s enhanced efficiency provides slightly more screen-on time.
Charging is another area where the S23 Ultra excels. With support for 45W fast charging, it charges significantly quicker than the S21 Ultra, which maxes out at 25W. Both phones support wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
Specs Comparison
| Feature | Galaxy S23 Ultra | Galaxy S21 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Brighter, 1Hz-120Hz | Slightly dimmer, 10Hz-120Hz |
| Processor | Newer, faster chip | Older chip |
| RAM (Base Model) | 8GB | 12GB |
| Storage (Base Model) | 256GB | 128GB |
| Battery | Longer-lasting | Shorter |
| Charging Speed | 45W | 25W |
| Stylus | Built-in S Pen | Optional S Pen |
Summary
The Galaxy S23 Ultra represents a clear evolution from the S21 Ultra, with a brighter display, faster performance, improved cameras, and longer battery life. Its inclusion of a built-in S Pen and enhanced charging capabilities further solidify its appeal.
However, for those already using the S21 Ultra, the differences might not be compelling enough to warrant an immediate upgrade unless specific features like the built-in S Pen or camera enhancements are must-haves. For new buyers or those with older devices, the S23 Ultra is undoubtedly a top-tier choice