Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs OnePlus Nord N30 5G
If you're after top-tier performance and a stunning camera, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the flagship option here. With its jaw-dropping 200MP main camera, it excels in photography, making it a no-brainer for serious shooters. However, the S23 Ultra's weight of 8.25 oz may be cumbersome for one-handed use, while the Nord N30's lighter 6.88 oz feels comfortable in hand. What matters most here is how much you value advanced features versus saving cash. Key specs: Display: 6.8" vs 6.72" and Weight: 8.25 oz vs 6.88 oz.
Why compare these? The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (premium flagship) and OnePlus Nord N30 5G (budget-friendly) 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 | OnePlus Nord |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (1,341 reviews) | 4.4★ (1,496 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Class-leading 200MP main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom | Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired) |
| Main Drawback | Slow charging speed (45W) compared to competitors | No ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Budget |
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
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates
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 OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | OnePlus Nord N30 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,341)Amazon | ★4.4(1,496)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno 740 | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5X | 8GB LPDDR4X (Plus up to 8GB Virtual RAM) |
Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 4.0) | 128GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) |
Display Size | 6.8" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 6.72" |
Screen Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 680 nits (HBM) |
Resolution | 3088 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), 500 ppi | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 1–120Hz (Adaptive) | 120Hz (Adaptive: 30/48/50/60/90/120Hz) |
Peak Brightness | 1,750 nits (Peak) | 550 nits (Typical) / 680 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 200MP Wide (f/1.7, 85° FOV), Laser AF, OIS | 108MP Samsung S5KHM6, f/1.7, EIS, 3x Lossless Digital Zoom |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | No (Not supported) — Includes 2MP Depth + 2MP Macro |
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 6x |
Video Recording | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
Front Camera | 12MP Front (f/2.2, 80° FOV), Dual Pixel AF | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 5,000 mAh (Typical) | 5,000mAh |
Wired Charging | Up to 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0 (Adapter sold separately) | 50W SUPERVOOC (Charger included) |
Wireless Charging | Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 (15W); Wireless PowerShare | No (Not supported) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC; UWB | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
Durability | IP68 (Water resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 min); Armor Aluminum frame; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | No official IP rating |
Dimensions | 6.43" x 3.07" x 0.35" (163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm) | 6.52 x 2.99 x 0.33 in (165.5 x 76.0 x 8.3 mm) |
Weight | 8.25 oz (234 g) | 6.88 oz (195 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor; Face Recognition | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Integrated S Pen (2.8ms latency); Samsung DeX; Samsung Knox | Stereo speakers (200% Ultra Volume Mode), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot |
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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
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
8GB LPDDR4X (Plus up to 8GB Virtual RAM)
128GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired)
- Large 120Hz display is smooth and responsive
Cons
- No ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors)
- LCD panel lacks the contrast of OLED competitors (e.g., Galaxy A15 5G)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the better buy for most people - its 200MP camera crushes the OnePlus Nord N30 5G's 108MP. That said, grab the Nord N30 if you want to save money and appreciate fast charging - it's 50W compared to S23 Ultra's 45W.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if: you want the best camera for photography, need top-tier performance for gaming, or value premium build quality. (6.8" display, 8.25 oz weight)
Choose the OnePlus Nord N30 5G if: you want fast charging for daily use, need a budget-friendly option, or prefer a lighter phone for one-handed use. (6.72" display, 6.88 oz weight)
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 OnePlus Nord
Class-leading 200MP main Priority
Class-leading 200MP main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Fastest charging in Priority
Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired)
→ Choose OnePlus Nord
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: Both products share a 4.4★ rating, making this comparison particularly close. Your decision should come down to which specific features matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or OnePlus Nord N30 5G?
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the better choice if you prioritize class-leading 200mp main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom. OnePlus Nord N30 5G wins if you value fastest charging in the us budget segment (50w wired). Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and OnePlus Nord N30 5G?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra offers class-leading 200mp main camera and versatile 10x optical zoom, while OnePlus Nord N30 5G stands out with fastest charging in the us budget segment (50w wired). Consider that Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra slow charging speed (45w) compared to competitors. Meanwhile, OnePlus Nord N30 5G no ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors). 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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