iPhone 17 Air vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
In the competitive smartphone market, the iPhone 17 Air and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stand out with distinct features catering to different audiences. The iPhone 17 Air appeals to users seeking a lightweight device with a sleek design, offering a 6.6-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display and a powerful A19 processor. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra targets photography enthusiasts and power users with its impressive 200MP camera, a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, and a substantial 5000 mAh battery for extended usage. Both phones offer 120Hz refresh rates, ensuring smooth visuals, but they differ significantly in camera capabilities and battery life, catering to diverse user needs and preferences.
iPhone 17 Air
4.7
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
4.9
iPhone 17 Air
Processor: A19
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz)
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 8GB / 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display: 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Air vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
iPhone 17 Air
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Air | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7 | ★4.9 |
| Processor | A19 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display | 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz) | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 26h video playback | 5000 mAh |
| Weight | 5.64 oz (160g) - Ultra-thin Aluminum | 8.25 oz (234g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | Android 13 (Upgradable) |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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iPhone 17 Air
✓ Pros:
- • Finally brings 120Hz ProMotion to non-Pro models
- • Incredibly light and comfortable to hold
- • New radical design change
✗ Cons:
- • Only has one main camera (to save space)
- • Battery is smaller than the Pro Max
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
✓ Pros:
- • Incredible 10x optical zoom lens
- • Huge leap in battery efficiency
- • 200MP main camera offers great detail
✗ Cons:
- • Curved screen edges (harder for screen protectors)
- • Bulky and sharp corners
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra wins overall due to its superior camera capabilities (200MP vs one main camera) and larger battery capacity (5000 mAh vs up to 26h video playback).
Who should buy each?
- "Choose iPhone 17 Air if..." - "... you prioritize a lightweight and sleek device." - "... you value Apple's iOS ecosystem and design aesthetics." - "... you appreciate 120Hz display at a lower weight." - "Choose Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if..." - "... you need a high-resolution 200MP camera for photography." - "... extended battery life is a top priority." - "... you prefer a larger screen for media consumption." - "They're equally matched on..." - "... featuring 120Hz refresh rate displays."
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 17 Air excels if you value finally brings 120hz promotion to non-pro models. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is better if you prioritize incredible 10x optical zoom lens. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+ Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+ Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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