iPhone 17 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The iPhone 17 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra both represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology in 2023, each catering to different user preferences. The iPhone 17 Pro offers a compact design with a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display, making it ideal for users who value one-handed use without sacrificing performance, thanks to its A19 Bionic processor. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a groundbreaking 200MP camera, appealing to consumers who prioritize photography and battery life, supported by its 5000 mAh battery.
iPhone 17 Pro
4.8
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
4.9
iPhone 17 Pro
Processor: A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display: 6.3" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
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 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
iPhone 17 Pro
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.8 | ★4.9 |
| Processor | A19 Bionic (3nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display | 6.3" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz) | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 30h video playback | 5000 mAh |
| Weight | 6.70 oz (190g) - Titanium frame | 8.25 oz (234g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | Android 13 (Upgradable) |
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iPhone 17 Pro
✓ Pros:
- • Excellent one-handed use with a large screen
- • Same A19 Bionic power as the Max model
- • 5x telephoto camera is great for portraits
✗ Cons:
- • Battery life is slightly shorter than the Max
- • Standard model starts at 256GB, raising entry cost
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 with a 200MP sensor and a larger battery capacity of 5000 mAh, offering longer usage. However, the iPhone 17 Pro provides a more ergonomic experience and maintains powerful performance with its A19 Bionic chip and 120Hz ProMotion display.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Pro if... - You prefer a more compact and lightweight design. - You need a phone with excellent one-handed usability. - You want the latest iOS 19 integration. Choose Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if... - You require advanced camera features with a 200MP sensor. - You prioritize longer battery life with a 5000 mAh capacity. - You prefer a larger display for media consumption. They're equally matched on... - Storage options, with both offering up to 1TB. - High refresh rate displays at 120Hz.
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 17 Pro excels if you value excellent one-handed use with a large screen. 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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