👍 Pros
- Still a powerhouse Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Excellent, bright AMOLED display
- Reliable and versatile camera system
- Premium glass and aluminum build
- Guaranteed software updates (up to Android 17)
👎 Cons
- No expandable storage (microSD)
- Charging speed is average by 2026 standards
- Resolution is only 1080p for a 'Plus' model
- Design feels dated compared to current flagships
- Battery life is decent but not exceptional for its size
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
In a world of ever-evolving smartphones, where does a device like the Samsung Galaxy S23+, now three years old, truly stand? Is it a forgotten relic, or a hidden gem still punching above its weight class?
The Compromises
Let’s be brutally honest: this isn’t a perfect phone, especially in 2026. The most glaring omission remains the lack of expandable storage. In an era where 1TB internal storage is common, being stuck with 256GB or 512GB without a microSD slot feels like a deliberate corner cut, especially for power users. Then there’s the charging speed. While 45W was respectable in 2023, by today’s standards, it’s merely adequate. Many mid-range phones now offer 67W, 80W, or even 120W, making the S23+’s 65% in 30 minutes feel a bit sluggish. And let’s talk about that display resolution: 1080p on a ‘Plus’ model, even with its exceptional brightness and refresh rate, is still a compromise when competitors were pushing higher pixel densities. Finally, the design, while clean, is undeniably a product of its time. Those flat edges and camera rings, while iconic, lack the futuristic flair of current flagships.
The Best Features
Despite its age, the Galaxy S23+ still brings some serious heat. That Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset? It’s an absolute workhorse. Even three years on, it handles virtually anything you throw at it with ease – demanding games, heavy multitasking, video editing – it just breezes through. This isn’t just about raw power; it’s about efficiency, meaning less throttling and more consistent performance over long sessions. Then there’s the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. At 1750 nits peak brightness, it’s still one of the best screens you’ll find, offering incredible outdoor visibility and vibrant colors. Content consumption on this panel is a joy, and the 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything silky smooth. The camera system, particularly the 50MP main sensor and the 3x optical telephoto, continues to deliver excellent, consistent results across various lighting conditions. Samsung’s color science is mature, and the OIS on both the wide and telephoto lenses ensures sharp, stable shots and videos. This isn’t just a good camera; it’s a reliable imaging tool that still holds its own.
Performance & Daily Usage
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is still a champ. UI responsiveness is instant. Apps launch quickly. Multitasking is fluid. Thermal management is surprisingly good. No excessive heating under load. Gaming performance remains top-tier. One UI 8.5, running on Android 13 (with updates to Android 17 coming), is polished. It’s a consistently smooth experience.
Is It Worth Buying?
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a fascinating proposition. At its current discounted price, it’s an absolute steal for the performance, display, and camera quality you’re getting. Yes, it’s a three-year-old device, but with guaranteed software updates up to Android 17 and a still-powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, it remains a surprisingly viable option for anyone seeking flagship-level experience without the flagship price tag. If you can live with the slower charging and lack of expandable storage, and don’t need the absolute bleeding edge of smartphone tech, then yes, it’s definitely worth considering TODAY in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While not the absolute fastest, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the S23+ is still remarkably potent. It handles demanding apps and games with ease, often outperforming newer mid-range chips and offering a consistently smooth experience that doesn't feel dated for most users.
For most everyday tasks, no. The 1080p resolution on the S23+ is still sharp enough for comfortable viewing, especially given its excellent brightness and color accuracy. Only pixel peepers or those accustomed to QHD+ displays might notice a difference, but it's not a deal-breaker at this price point.
Battery degradation is a natural process. A three-year-old S23+ will likely have some reduced battery capacity compared to new. While the 4700 mAh was good, expect perhaps 80-90% of its original capacity, which might necessitate a mid-day top-up for heavy users. It's a factor to consider when buying used.