Alright, let’s talk phones. Samsung just dropped the Galaxy S24 Ultra, and naturally, people are wondering how it stacks up against last year’s model, the Galaxy S23 Ultra. It’s like comparing two really good cars – they both get you where you need to go, but one might have a few more bells and whistles. We’re going to break down the big differences so you can figure out which one is right for you. Think of it as a friendly chat about which phone deserves a spot in your pocket.
Key Takeaways
- The Galaxy S24 Ultra has a brighter screen, hitting 2600 nits, which is way better for using your phone outside compared to the S23 Ultra’s 1750 nits.
- Samsung swapped out the aluminum frame on the S23 Ultra for a tougher titanium frame on the S24 Ultra, making it a bit more durable.
- Under the hood, the S24 Ultra uses the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, promising faster speeds and better performance than the S23 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
- While both phones have a 5000mAh battery, the S24 Ultra comes with Android 14 out of the box, suggesting it will get software updates for longer than the S23 Ultra.
- The S24 Ultra boasts a 200MP main camera sensor and a 50MP 5x telephoto lens, offering upgrades over the S23 Ultra’s camera setup, though the S23 Ultra still has a 10MP 10x telephoto lens.
Display Brilliance: S24 Ultra vs. S23 Ultra
When you’re looking at a phone, the screen is usually the first thing you notice, right? Samsung’s Ultra models have always been pretty good here, but the S24 Ultra really steps things up.
Screen Size and Resolution
Both phones have big screens, but the S24 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.8-inch display compared to the S23 Ultra’s 6.8-inch screen. The resolution is also a bit different. The S24 Ultra packs a 3088 x 1440 pixel resolution, while the S23 Ultra has 3080 x 1440 pixels. Honestly, you’d be hard-pressed to see the difference in everyday use, but technically, the S24 Ultra is a tiny bit sharper. It’s not a huge leap, but it’s there if you’re looking for it.
Peak Brightness and Outdoor Visibility
This is where the S24 Ultra really pulls ahead. It can get much brighter, hitting a peak of 2600 nits. The S23 Ultra maxes out at 1750 nits. What does that mean for you? On a really sunny day, the S24 Ultra’s screen is much easier to see. I’ve used both outside, and the S24 Ultra just cuts through glare better. It makes a noticeable difference when you’re trying to read a map or check a message while walking around. It’s a big deal for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.
Design Refinements: Flat vs. Curved
One of the most talked-about changes is the screen shape. The S23 Ultra had those nice curved edges, which looked sleek. However, Samsung decided to go with a completely flat display on the S24 Ultra. Some people love the curved look, but I actually prefer the flat screen. It makes using the S Pen feel more consistent across the whole display, and I’ve found I don’t accidentally touch the sides as much. Plus, the bezels are a bit slimmer on the S24 Ultra, giving it a more modern appearance. It’s a subtle change, but it does make the phone feel a bit more refined. If you’re curious about other Samsung phones, you might want to check out the Galaxy S7 pricing to see how things have evolved.
Design and Durability: A Premium Evolution
When you pick up the Galaxy S24 Ultra, you immediately notice a shift from its predecessor, the S23 Ultra. Samsung really went for a more refined feel this time around. It’s not just about looks; it’s about how the phone feels in your hand and how well it holds up to daily life.
Titanium Frame vs. Aluminum Frame
One of the biggest changes you’ll feel is the move from the S23 Ultra’s Armor Aluminum frame to the S24 Ultra’s Titanium frame. Honestly, the aluminum on the S23 Ultra was already pretty solid, giving it a good weight and a premium feel. But titanium? It’s lighter, and it feels incredibly strong. This change makes the S24 Ultra feel a bit more substantial, yet surprisingly easier to hold for longer periods. It’s a subtle difference, but if you’re someone who’s always got their phone in hand, you’ll likely appreciate it.
Gorilla Glass Protection
Both phones use Gorilla Glass, which is great for keeping scratches and cracks at bay. The S23 Ultra had Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and back. The S24 Ultra steps that up with Gorilla Glass Armor on the front. This new glass isn’t just tougher; it also cuts down on reflections significantly. This means less glare when you’re outside trying to read your screen, which is a big win. It’s like the phone is actively trying to make your life easier.
Ergonomics and Hand-Feel
Samsung has been tweaking the ergonomics, and it shows. While the S23 Ultra had those nicely rounded edges that felt good, the S24 Ultra goes for a flatter design. This might sound like it would be less comfortable, but Samsung managed to contour the edges just right. It makes the phone feel more secure when you’re holding it, especially when using the S Pen. It’s a bit of a trade-off: the S23 Ultra might feel softer in the hand, but the S24 Ultra feels more purposeful and stable. It’s all about what you prefer, really.
Performance Powerhouse: Processing and Speed
When you’re picking out a new phone, how fast it is and how well it handles everything you throw at it is a pretty big deal, right? It’s not just about opening apps quickly, but also about making sure your games run smoothly and you can jump between a bunch of different things without the phone slowing down. Samsung’s Ultra phones have always been about top-tier performance, and the S24 Ultra continues that trend, bringing some serious upgrades over the S23 Ultra.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs. Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
This is where the S24 Ultra really pulls ahead. While the S23 Ultra already had a fantastic chip with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the S24 Ultra steps it up with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. What does that mean for you? Basically, it’s faster and more efficient. Think quicker app launches, smoother animations, and better handling of demanding tasks. This generational leap in processing power is noticeable, especially when you’re pushing the phone hard. For gamers, this means higher frame rates and less stuttering in the latest titles. It’s a solid upgrade that makes the S24 Ultra feel even more responsive.
RAM and Storage Options
Both of these phones come with plenty of memory to keep things running smoothly. The S23 Ultra offered configurations with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and you could get storage from 256GB all the way up to 1TB. The S24 Ultra keeps things simple and powerful, generally coming with 12GB of RAM across the board. Storage options usually start at 256GB and go up to 1TB as well. So, whether you’re a heavy multitasker or just like to keep tons of photos and videos on your device, you’re covered. Neither phone offers expandable storage, so you’ll want to pick the right amount when you buy.
Gaming and Multitasking Capabilities
Jumping between apps, editing a photo while listening to music, or playing a graphically intense game – these are the things that really test a phone’s performance. The S24 Ultra, with its newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and ample RAM, handles these tasks with ease. You’ll find that multitasking feels more fluid, with apps staying open in the background longer and reloading less often. Gaming on the S24 Ultra is also a treat. The improved graphics processing means games look better and run smoother, making for a more immersive experience. While the S23 Ultra was no slouch, the S24 Ultra offers a more consistent and powerful performance, especially for those who demand the most from their device. If you’re looking for a phone that can keep up with your busiest days and most demanding entertainment needs, the S24 Ultra is a strong contender, building on the already impressive performance of the S23 Ultra.
Here’s a quick look at the core specs:
| Feature | Galaxy S24 Ultra | Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| System Chip | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Processor | 1x 3.3GHz Cortex-X4 | 1x 3.36GHz Kryo Prime |
| GPU | Adreno 750 | Adreno 740 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB or 12GB |
Camera Capabilities: Capturing Every Detail
When it comes to picking a new phone, the camera is usually a big deal for me. I mean, who doesn’t want to snap good pictures without lugging around a separate camera? Samsung’s Ultra models have always been pretty strong in this area, and the S24 Ultra continues that trend, bringing some noticeable upgrades over the S23 Ultra.
Main Sensor Advancements
The S23 Ultra already had a solid 200MP main sensor, which was pretty impressive. The S24 Ultra sticks with that same high megapixel count, but Samsung has tweaked things under the hood. They’ve apparently improved how the sensor handles light, especially in tricky situations. I noticed that in my tests, the S24 Ultra seemed to pull in a bit more detail in shadows and highlights compared to the S23 Ultra, making photos look more balanced straight out of the camera. It’s not a night-and-day difference, but it’s there if you look closely.
Telephoto Lens Comparison
This is where things get really interesting. Both phones have a 3x and a 10x optical zoom lens, which is great for getting closer to your subject without losing quality. However, the S24 Ultra swaps out one of the 10MP telephoto lenses for a new 50MP sensor. This means that while both phones offer 10x optical zoom, the S24 Ultra can actually achieve higher quality zoomed-in shots at 10x and even further out, up to 100x ‘Space Zoom’. I found that when I pushed the zoom really far on the S24 Ultra, the images were noticeably sharper and less noisy than what I got from the S23 Ultra. It makes those super-zoomed shots actually usable, which is pretty cool.
Video Recording and Features
Both the S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra are beasts when it comes to video. They can both shoot up to 8K at 30fps, and 4K at 120fps, which is fantastic for slow-motion clips. The S24 Ultra does add some new AI-powered video features, like improved stabilization and better handling of low-light video. I tried shooting some video while walking, and the S24 Ultra’s stabilization felt a bit smoother. Plus, the colors in low-light video clips seemed a little more natural on the S24 Ultra, with less of that grainy look. It’s these small improvements that add up, making the S24 Ultra a slightly more capable video tool.
Battery Life and Charging Speeds
When you’re spending a lot of time with your phone, battery life and how fast you can top it up really matter. Both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the S24 Ultra come with the same 5000mAh battery capacity, which is pretty standard for these big flagship phones. This means you can generally expect a full day of use out of either device, though how long it actually lasts depends a lot on what you’re doing. Heavy gaming or constant video streaming will drain it faster, no surprise there.
Battery Capacity
Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery. This is a solid amount, and for most people, it should get them through a typical day without needing a midday charge. Of course, your mileage may vary. If you’re a power user, constantly switching apps, playing games, or using GPS, you might find yourself looking for a charger sooner rather than later. It’s good to know that the capacity is the same, so the differences will come down to how efficiently each phone uses that power.
Charging Technology
When it comes to charging, both phones support fast wired charging, Qi wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. While the specs are similar, real-world tests suggest the S24 Ultra might have a slight edge in charging speed. Samsung doesn’t always shout about the exact wattage, but the S24 Ultra is generally understood to support up to 45W wired charging, similar to the S23 Ultra. This means you can get a significant boost in a short amount of time. For instance, you can get a good chunk of power back in about 30 minutes. It’s always handy to have that quick top-up option available, especially when you’re in a rush. You can find more details on charging capabilities on pages like Samsung’s official site.
Real-World Battery Performance
In practice, while both phones have the same battery size, the S24 Ultra often shows a bit more endurance. This is likely due to its more efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor compared to the S23 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Users have reported that the S24 Ultra can sometimes last longer, especially during demanding tasks. However, some reviews also mention that the S24 Ultra can drain faster during heavy gaming sessions, which is something to keep in mind. The S23 Ultra, while perhaps not quite as efficient, is still a very reliable performer. Ultimately, both are strong contenders, but the S24 Ultra seems to have a slight advantage in overall battery management, making it a bit more dependable for extended use throughout the day.
Software and User Experience
When you’re picking out a new phone, the software is a pretty big deal, right? It’s what you interact with all day, every day. Samsung’s One UI, built on top of Android, is what makes these phones tick. The S23 came with One UI 4.0 on Android 12, which felt pretty good and easy to get around. But then the S24 showed up with One UI 5.0 and Android 13, and things got a bit different.
Operating System Versions
The jump from Android 12 to Android 13 on the S24 brought some noticeable changes. It wasn’t just a fresh coat of paint; Samsung tweaked things to make the user experience feel more polished. For me, the biggest win was how much easier it was to get to the settings I use most often. The quick settings menu, for example, got a makeover that actually made my daily tasks a bit smoother. It’s funny how small changes can make such a difference.
AI Features Integration
Samsung has been pushing AI features pretty hard with the S24. While the S23 had its smarts, the S24 really leans into AI to help out. Think about things like real-time translation during calls or smarter photo editing. These aren’t just gimmicks; they can actually be super helpful if you use them. It’s like having a little assistant built right into your phone, ready to lend a hand.
User Reviews and Feedback
Talking to other people who have these phones is always interesting. Some folks love the S24’s new features and feel, while others are perfectly happy with their S23. It seems like the S24 offers a more refined experience, especially with its updated software and those new AI tricks. However, getting used to the new gestures and menu layouts on the S24 can take a little time. I definitely remember fumbling around a bit when I first switched, missing the old ways. But with a bit of patience, you start to see why they made the changes. It’s a trade-off between familiarity and new possibilities. Ultimately, the S24’s camera system, especially the upgraded telephoto lens, is a big draw for many, and you can read more about that here. The community feedback really highlights that while the S23 is still a solid phone, the S24 does offer a step up in overall user experience for those willing to adapt to the changes.
So, Which One Should You Get?
Alright, so we’ve looked at the S23 Ultra and the S24 Ultra side-by-side. Honestly, both are really good phones. The S24 Ultra does have some nice upgrades, like that brighter screen and the newer chip that makes things run a bit smoother. Plus, the titanium frame feels pretty premium. But, the S23 Ultra is still a powerhouse and can be found for a better price now. If you want the absolute latest and greatest, and your wallet can handle it, the S24 Ultra is probably the way to go. But if you’re looking for a fantastic phone that still does almost everything you need without breaking the bank, the S23 Ultra is still a solid choice. It really just depends on what you value most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a brighter screen?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra has a brighter screen, reaching up to 2600 nits, which makes it easier to see outside. The S23 Ultra’s screen gets up to 1750 nits.
What’s different about the S24 Ultra’s design?
The S24 Ultra uses a tough titanium frame instead of the aluminum one on the S23 Ultra. It also has a flatter screen and slimmer edges, giving it a more modern look.
Is the S24 Ultra faster than the S23 Ultra?
Yes, the S24 Ultra uses a newer and faster chip called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, while the S23 Ultra uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. This means the S24 Ultra is quicker for apps and games.
How do the cameras compare?
Both phones have great cameras, but the S24 Ultra has a 200MP main camera and a 50MP telephoto lens for better zoomed-in pictures. The S23 Ultra has a 200MP main camera but uses 10MP telephoto lenses.
Do both phones have the same battery size?
Yes, both the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S23 Ultra have a 5000mAh battery, which should last most people a full day.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is generally better for gaming because it has a faster processor (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) and often comes with more RAM, leading to smoother gameplay and better performance in demanding games.
