Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
Our Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has the better camera on paper, 50MP versus 48MP, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has the bigger screen at 8" against 6.6", while the S23+ 5G has the sharper one at 390 PPI. The S23+ 5G is the lighter phone at 195g against 257g, and only the S23+ 5G has a water-resistance rating (IP68); the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has none. Only pay up for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold if you'll use what it offers; if not, the S23+ 5G makes more sense.
The S23+ 5G is the cheaper one to own: around £725 over a typical contract, £515 less than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
13 reviews 4.2
10 reviews
Prices updated 25 July 2026
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 13 reviews |
4.2 10 reviews |
| Screen | 8" | 6.6" |
| Display | Foldable LTPO AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2076 x 2152 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 374 | 390 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 4,650 mAh | 4,700 mAh |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 13 |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e-SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 155.2 x 150.2 x 5.1 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 257 grams | 195 grams |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£100.25/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£57.33/mo
£30.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £619.99 | £299.99 |
| Prices updated 25 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is cheaper on contract at £725.46 over the life of the deal from £57.33 per month with £30.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has the bigger screen at 8" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus's 6.6", the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has the sharper display at 390 pixels per inch versus 374, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold uses a Foldable LTPO AMOLED panel while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has a 50 Megapixels rear camera. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.
Which is cheaper to buy SIM-free, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £299.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available in 256GB, 512GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus use?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus uses the Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is the more portable of the two: it's 62g lighter at 195 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is slimmer at 5.1mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is rated IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins), while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus run?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs Android 14 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus runs Android 13. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.