👍 Pros
- Dedicated microSDXC slot for expandable storage
- 5000 mAh battery capacity suggests good endurance
- 120Hz display refresh rate for smoother visuals
- 5G connectivity via Snapdragon 750G 5G chipset
- Affordable price point on the used market
👎 Cons
- TFT LCD display technology is dated compared to modern AMOLEDs
- Limited to Android 13, lacking current OS updates in 2026
- Snapdragon 750G 5G is a mid-range chipset from 2020, showing its age in 2026
- Only 4GB/6GB RAM options may lead to multitasking limitations
- 25W wired charging is relatively slow by 2026 standards
- No OIS on the main camera, potentially affecting low-light performance
Expert Review & Rating
Market Position in 2026
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy M23 primarily exists as a budget-friendly option on the used or refurbished market. Its hardware, while capable in 2022, now lags significantly behind modern budget and mid-range alternatives, particularly in display technology and processing power.
The Best Features
The 5000 mAh battery capacity stands out as a key strength, suggesting reliable all-day endurance for light to moderate usage, even in 2026. The 120Hz TFT LCD display, despite its panel type, still offers a smoother scrolling experience compared to standard 60Hz screens. Furthermore, the dedicated microSDXC slot provides a practical solution for users needing ample expandable storage without sacrificing a SIM slot.
Performance & Daily Usage
Based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G chipset, daily usage in 2026 will likely involve noticeable delays with demanding applications and multitasking. UI responsiveness, running Android 13, might feel less fluid than on newer devices. Thermal management for everyday tasks should be adequate, but sustained heavy loads could induce some performance throttling given the older architecture.
The Compromises
The primary compromise is the TFT LCD display. While 120Hz is present, the panel type inherently offers poorer contrast, color reproduction, and viewing angles compared to the AMOLED screens now standard even in budget phones. The Snapdragon 750G 5G, from 2020, is an aging chipset; it will struggle with modern mobile gaming and intensive applications, leading to slower load times and potential stuttering. The 4GB RAM variants will particularly limit multitasking capabilities. The 50MP main camera lacks Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which on paper suggests less stable video and potentially blurrier low-light photos compared to OIS-equipped counterparts. Finally, the 25W charging, while not excessively slow, is significantly outpaced by current budget phones offering 33W or faster solutions.
Buying Advice
Consider the Samsung Galaxy M23 in 2026 only if you require a very inexpensive secondary device or a basic smartphone for calls, messaging, and light browsing on the used market. For anyone seeking a primary device with modern performance, display quality, or camera capabilities, newer budget smartphones offer a substantially better experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy M23 is only a viable purchase on the used market for users with very basic needs, such as communication and light app usage, due to its aged hardware and limited software support. For a primary device, newer alternatives offer superior performance and features.
The Snapdragon 750G 5G, a mid-range chipset from 2020, will show its age in 2026. It can handle basic tasks and light applications, but users should expect noticeable slowdowns, longer loading times, and potential stuttering with modern apps, demanding games, and heavy multitasking compared to contemporary chipsets.