Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Nokia XR21 5G
If you're weighing the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra against the Nokia XR21 5G, the choice is pretty clear: the S23 Ultra is the flagship option, boasting a jaw-dropping 200MP camera and a stunning 6.8" display. Key specs: Display: 6.8" vs 6.49" and Battery: 5000 mAh vs 4800 mAh.
Why compare these? The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (premium flagship) and Nokia XR21 5G (mid-range) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Samsung Galaxy | Nokia XR21 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.4★ (1,341 reviews) | 3.5★ (60 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Class-leading 200MP main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom | Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets) |
| Main Drawback | Slow charging speed (45W) compared to competitors | Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Mid-range |
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Qualcomm Adreno 740
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
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: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs Nokia XR21 5G
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Nokia XR21 5G
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Nokia XR21 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,341)Amazon | ★3.5(60)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates | 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno 740 | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5X | 6GB |
Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 4.0) | 128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 6.8" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 6.49" |
Screen Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 550 nits (Sunlight Boost), Wet Hands/Glove Support |
Resolution | 3088 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), 500 ppi | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 1–120Hz (Adaptive) | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,750 nits (Peak) | 450 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 200MP Wide (f/1.7, 85° FOV), Laser AF, OIS | 64MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Dual-LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | 8MP, f/2.2, 112-degree FOV, Fixed Focus |
Telephoto Camera | 10MP Telephoto (3x optical, f/2.4) + 10MP Periscope (10x optical, f/4.9); OIS | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | 3x, 10x Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 100x Space Zoom | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps | 1080p @ 30/60fps (Chipset limitation) |
Front Camera | 12MP Front (f/2.2, 80° FOV), Dual Pixel AF | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 5,000 mAh (Typical) | 4,800mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | Up to 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0 (Adapter sold separately) | 33W Fast Charging (QC3.0 / PD 2.0 compatible) |
Wireless Charging | Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 (15W); Wireless PowerShare | No (Not supported) — *Note: Downgrade from Nokia XR20* |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC; UWB | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, GNSS (L1+L5) |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) |
Durability | IP68 (Water resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 min); Armor Aluminum frame; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | IP68/IP69K (High Temp/Pressure Jets); MIL-STD-810H; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
Dimensions | 6.43" x 3.07" x 0.35" (163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm) | 6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in (168.0 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm) |
Weight | 8.25 oz (234 g) | 8.15 oz (231 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor; Face Recognition | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Integrated S Pen (2.8ms latency); Samsung DeX; Samsung Knox | Two Programmable Buttons (Top Emergency/Side Quick Access), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Dual Stereo Speakers (96dB) |
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Qualcomm Adreno 740
8GB / 12GB LPDDR5X
256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 4.0)
Pros
- Class-leading 200MP main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom
- Custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy provides top-tier performance
Cons
- Slow charging speed (45W) compared to competitors
- Large and heavy (8.25 oz) form factor is difficult for one-handed use
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
6GB
128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable)
Pros
- Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets)
- Guaranteed 3 OS updates and 4 years of monthly security patches
Cons
- Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless)
- Removed microSD card slot (The older XR20 had expandable storage)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the better buy for most people - its 200MP camera crushes the Nokia XR21 5G's 64MP.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if: you want the best camera for photography, need high performance for gaming, or love a large, vibrant display. (6.8" display, 5000 mAh battery)
Choose the Nokia XR21 5G if: you want a tough phone for outdoor adventures, need a lighter device for one-handed use, or want guaranteed software updates for a few years. (6.49" display, 4800 mAh battery)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.4★ vs 3.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,341 reviews vs 60
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Nokia XR21
Conclusion
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Nokia XR21 5G are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra edges ahead with a 4.4★ rating compared to 3.5★. However, Nokia XR21 5G remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or Nokia XR21 5G?
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the better choice if you prioritize class-leading 200mp main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom. Nokia XR21 5G wins if you value certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 3.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Nokia XR21 5G?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra offers class-leading 200mp main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom, while Nokia XR21 5G stands out with certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Consider that Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra slow charging speed (45w) compared to competitors. Meanwhile, Nokia XR21 5G removed wireless charging (the older xr20 had 15w wireless). 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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