The latest addition to the Samsung lineup is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, joining the ranks of the standard Samsung Galaxy S24 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus. While it brings numerous improvements, intriguingly, it shares many similarities with its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Both phones, characterized by their substantial size and robust capabilities, exhibit akin designs and mostly identical camera setups. The question arises: Is the Galaxy S24 Ultra a significant upgrade?
To delve into this inquiry, we’ve meticulously examined the key specifications and features of the Galaxy S24 Ultra in comparison to its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. To stay updated on the newest Samsung releases, explore our hands-on reviews of the Samsung Galaxy S24, Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: A Detailed Specs Comparison
A quick overview of the key specifications for both the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6mm | 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9mm |
| Weight | 232g | 234g |
| Display | 6.8-inch AMOLED | 6.8-inch AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 | 1440 x 3088 |
| Refresh rate | 1Hz-120Hz (dynamic) | 1Hz-120Hz (dynamic) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Rear cameras | 200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto (3x zoom), 50MP periscope (5x zoom) | 200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto (3x zoom), 10MP periscope (10x zoom) |
| Front camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Charging | 45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless | 45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless |
| Colors | Titanium Violet, Titanium Gray, Titanium Black, Titanium Yellow, Titanium Blue, Titanium Green, Titanium Orange | Phantom Black, Green, Cream, Lavender, Graphite, Sky Blue, Lime, Red |
In essence, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts enhancements in various aspects, from its powerful camera system to increased RAM, making it a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Price and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, introduced on January 17, 2024, is set to ship on January 31, with pre-orders currently open.
Pricing for the Galaxy S24 Ultra begins at $1,299.99 / £1,249 / AU$2,199 for 256GB storage, escalating to $1,419.99 / £1,349 / AU$2,399 for 512GB, and $1,659.99 / £1,549 / AU$2,799 for 1TB – all inclusive of 12GB RAM.
In contrast, the readily available Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is priced at $1,199.99 / £1,249 / AU$1,949 for 256GB with 8GB RAM, $1,379.99 / £1,399 / AU$2,249 for 512GB with 12GB RAM, and $1,619.99 / £1,599 / AU$2,649 for 1TB with 12GB RAM. Discounts often apply due to their one-year age.
Therefore, the Galaxy S24 Ultra commands a $100 / AU$250 premium in the starting price, while maintaining parity in the UK market.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Design Comparison
At first glance, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra mirrors the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra’s angular design. Both exhibit a quad-lens camera, glass rear, metal frame, and a large display with a punch-hole camera.
The S24 Ultra maintains IP68 water and dust resistance, matching the S23 Ultra’s durability. However, a notable shift is the S24 Ultra’s premium titanium frame, distinguishing it from the S23 Ultra’s aluminum frame.
Although the Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts slimmer bezels, subtle variations exist in weight and dimensions. The S24 Ultra measures 232g and 162.3 x 79 x 8.6mm, while the S23 Ultra weighs 234g and measures 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9mm.
Divergence extends to color options, with the S24 Ultra offering Titanium Violet, Titanium Gray, Titanium Black, Titanium Yellow, Titanium Blue, Titanium Green, and Titanium Orange. In contrast, the S23 Ultra features Phantom Black, Green, Cream, Lavender, Graphite, Sky Blue, Lime, and Red.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Display Comparison
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra flaunts a 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, matching the Galaxy S23 Ultra, except for brightness. The S24 Ultra boasts 2,600 nits, while the S23 Ultra falls slightly behind at 1,750 nits.
Noteworthy differences emerge in the display curvature—the S24 Ultra opts for a flat screen, contrasting with the curved display of the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Despite these nuances, the S24 Ultra’s screen closely parallels the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s acclaimed display. In our Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review, we praised its “stunning display with even greater color accuracy than previously.”
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Camera Comparison
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra introduces intriguing camera upgrades but also some debatable downgrades.
Equipped with a 200MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP periscope with 5x optical zoom, the S24 Ultra diverges from the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s 10x zoom on the second telephoto, now reduced to 5x but with an increased 50MP.
Additionally, the S24 Ultra boasts AI enhancements, allowing object manipulation and filling empty spaces in photos. Samsung confirms that some S24 Ultra AI features will extend to the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
While the S24 Ultra’s cameras show promise on both hardware and software fronts, the S23 Ultra already holds a stellar reputation, securing its position as one of the best camera phones. Full assessment awaits a comprehensive review.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Performance Overview
In the performance arena, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra steps up with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, a noteworthy upgrade from the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
This generational leap promises substantial power, although the Galaxy S23 Ultra still holds its ground as a formidable performer.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra packs 12GB of RAM, outshining the S23 Ultra’s options of 8GB or 12 GB. Storage options remain consistent at 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB for both models.
Both phones share a familiar software environment, running on Android with Samsung’s One UI. Notably, the S24 Ultra takes the lead in long-term support, with Samsung committing to seven years of updates.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Battery Performance
Both the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the Galaxy S23 Ultra feature a 5,000mAh battery, complemented by 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.
Expect minimal disparity in battery life between the two. The Galaxy S23 Ultra typically endures a day and a half, with Samsung’s claims of up to 25 hours of internet use, 26 hours of video playback, or 99 hours of audio playback.
While the Galaxy S24 Ultra awaits a comprehensive test, Samsung projects up to 28 hours of internet use, 30 hours of video playback, or 95 hours of audio playback. Overall, the S24 Ultra may slightly outperform the S23 Ultra in most scenarios.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Final Thoughts
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a premium build, a brighter screen, a potent chipset, and potential camera improvements. However, its optical zoom falls short compared to the S23 Ultra’s. Battery, storage, and RAM remain similar.
While both phones are priced similarly on paper, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra often presents a more affordable option post-launch. The S24 Ultra undoubtedly stands out in specs, but upgrading from the S23 Ultra may not be justified. Consider the S23 Ultra on a good deal, awaiting a comprehensive Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review for a detailed comparison.
