Nothing Phone (2) vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Get the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE unless you crave a unique design. The Nothing Phone (2) offers a striking transparent look, but its IP54 rating falls short compared to the IP68 waterproofing of the S23 FE. For everyday use, the S23 FE shines with its dedicated 3x optical zoom lens, enhancing your photography game, especially in varied lighting conditions. The Nothing Phone (2) lacks this feature, relying solely on digital zoom, which struggles to compete. If you're into photography, that’s a significant trade-off worth considering, especially as the S23 FE also boasts a brighter display at 1,450 nits compared to the Nothing Phone's 1,600 nits peak brightness. Key specs: Display: 6.7" vs 6.4" and Battery: 4700 mAh vs 4500 mAh.
Why compare these? Both the Nothing Phone (2) and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE are high-end smartphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for high-end features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Nothing Phone | Samsung Galaxy |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.6★ (397 reviews) | ✓4.8★ (13 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Iconic transparent design with functional Glyph Interface lighting | Dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket) |
| Main Drawback | IP54 rating is lower than IP68 found in competitors (Pixel 7/8, Galaxy S23 FE) | Significantly thicker bezels compared to standard S23 |
| Market Position | Premium | Premium |
Nothing Phone (2)
Android
3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 730
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific*
Adreno 730
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Nothing Phone (2) vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Nothing Phone (2)
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
| Criterion | Nothing Phone (2) | Samsung Galaxy S23 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(397)Amazon | ★4.8(13)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly) | 4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific* |
Graphics | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5 | 8GB |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB UFS 3.1 | 128GB / 256GB (No microSD expansion) |
Display Size | 6.7" | 6.4" |
Screen Type | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, 1,600 nits (Peak Pixel Brightness) | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1,450 nits (Peak) |
Resolution | 2412 x 1080 (FHD+) at 394 ppi | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 1Hz - 120Hz (LTPO Adaptive) | 60Hz / 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,600 nits (HDR Peak); 1,000 nits (Outdoor Full Screen) | 1,450 nits (Peak) |
Main Camera | 50MP Sony IMX890, f/1.88, OIS, EIS, 24mm equivalent | 50MP, f/1.8, OIS, Dual Pixel PDAF |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 50MP Samsung JN1, f/2.2, 114-degree FOV, 4cm Macro Mode | 12MP, f/2.2, 123-degree FOV |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | 8MP, f/2.4, OIS, 3x Optical Zoom |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | 3x Optical Zoom |
Digital Zoom | Up to 10x | Up to 30x |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps (Main & Ultrawide); Live HDR at 4K/30fps | 8K @ 24fps; 4K @ 30/60fps |
Front Camera | 32MP Sony IMX615, f/2.45, 1080p @ 60fps | 10MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 4,700mAh | 4,500mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | 45W PPS (Full charge in 55 mins) | 25W Super Fast Charging (Adapter sold separately) |
Wireless Charging | 15W Qi Dual-coil (Full charge in 130 mins); 5W Reverse Wireless | 15W Fast Wireless Charging; Wireless PowerShare (Reverse) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 5G (Sub-6/mmWave), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 |
Durability | IP54 (Splash, Water, and Dust Resistant); Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Front & Back) | IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Front & Back) |
Dimensions | 6.38 x 3.01 x 0.34 in (162.1 x 76.4 x 8.6 mm) | 6.22 x 3.01 x 0.32 in (158.0 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 7.09 oz (201.2 g) | 7.37 oz (209 g) |
Biometrics | Optical under-display fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock | Optical under-display fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Glyph Interface (33 addressable LED zones), Glyph Composer, Essential Notifications, Stereo Speakers | Samsung DeX, Stereo speakers, Samsung Knox |
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Nothing Phone (2)
Android
3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 730
8GB / 12GB LPDDR5
128GB / 256GB / 512GB UFS 3.1
Pros
- Iconic transparent design with functional Glyph Interface lighting
- Excellent performance stability with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
Cons
- IP54 rating is lower than IP68 found in competitors (Pixel 7/8, Galaxy S23 FE)
- Camera system lacks a dedicated telephoto/optical zoom lens
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) — *Note: US/Canada model specific*
Adreno 730
8GB
128GB / 256GB (No microSD expansion)
Pros
- Dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket)
- Premium build with IP68 rating and aluminum frame
Cons
- Significantly thicker bezels compared to standard S23
- Uses older Gorilla Glass 5 (vs. Victus 2 on S23)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is the better buy for most people - its 3x optical zoom crushes the Nothing Phone (2).
Who should buy each?
Choose the Nothing Phone (2) if: you want a unique design with a transparent back, you prefer a longer-lasting battery for daily use, or you enjoy a clean software experience without bloatware. (6.7" display, 4700 mAh battery)
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE if: you need a versatile camera system with optical zoom, you want a more durable phone with better water resistance, or you prefer a well-rounded flagship experience with long software support. (6.4" display, 4500 mAh battery)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.8★ vs 4.6★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 397 reviews vs 13
→ Choose Nothing Phone
Iconic transparent design Priority
Iconic transparent design with functional Glyph Interface lighting
→ Choose Nothing Phone
Dedicated 3x optical Priority
Dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket)
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE leads with a 4.8★ rating versus 4.6★. That said, Nothing Phone (2) could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Nothing Phone (2) or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
Nothing Phone (2) is the better choice if you prioritize iconic transparent design with functional glyph interface lighting. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE wins if you value dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket). Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.8★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Nothing Phone (2) and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
Key differences: Nothing Phone (2) offers iconic transparent design with functional glyph interface lighting, while Samsung Galaxy S23 FE stands out with dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens (rare in this price bracket). Consider that Nothing Phone (2) ip54 rating is lower than ip68 found in competitors (pixel 7/8, galaxy s23 fe). Meanwhile, Samsung Galaxy S23 FE significantly thicker bezels compared to standard s23. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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