Memory and storage The Galaxy S23 Ultra has 8 GB or 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB of internal storage options. The 128 GB version of the Galaxy S23 uses the older UFS 3.1 storage format, while versions with 256 GB and more use the newer, faster and more efficient UFS 4.0.

Connectivity

Brightness and power. As expected, the S23 Ultra's brightness performance is largely identical to the S22 Ultra. In practical conditions, you can expect the UI white level to reach up to 1,150 nits when outdoors using auto-brightness, or about 750 nits if using manual brightness with Extra brightness enabled.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is water-resistant but not waterproof If you're unfamiliar with Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, an IP68 rating signifies that the Galaxy S23 Ultra is completely dustproof and can withstand being submerged in water for at least 30 minutes.

The S23 Ultra is not the lightest, or the most compact phone to carry around, and I've had several close calls with it. Like when I'm sitting down, it almost slipped out of my pocket, or when I'm using it one-handed, I have to be extra careful not to drop it because, to be honest, it's a bit too big for my big hands.

This is one of the fastest smartphones I've ever used. Samsung packed the S23 Ultra to the brim with high-powered specs. Not only can you get 8GB or 12GB of RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage (aka the fastest storage available on smartphones), but there's also a specially tuned Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra has the unique ability to record video in 8k at 30 fps, the newest and most high-quality picture standard available. The S23 Ultra offers improved low-light capture, a wider field of view, and enhanced zoom capabilities.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra (9/10, WIRED Recommends) is the crème de la crème of Samsung's lineup. It retains the same great 10X optical zoom camera as its predecessor that lets you take sharp photos of subjects far away. It also has a 3X optical zoom, and who doesn't love options?

Keep in mind Google only offers three years. Samsung has also promised five years of security updates for the S23 series which means you can effectively use the Ultra for five years.

Galaxy S23 Ultra gets excellent battery life when watching videos. DxOMark says their Galaxy S23 Ultra can last 2 days and 19 hours on a single charge. As for pros and cons, the phone's battery life earned points in moderate use, reaching nearly 67 hours of usage.

Samsung S23 Ultra verdict Make no mistake: The S23 Ultra is one of the best Android phones that you can buy in 2023. The upgraded cameras and the highly efficient processor are welcome updates to this hulking handset, making it the most powerful that it's ever been.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is clearly the better phone to buy in 2023. It comes with a 6.8-inch AMOLED panel that gets noticeably brighter and is protected with the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2. You also get upgraded internals, complete with the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip for Galaxy and more storage options.