Google Pixel 9 vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
Our Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has the bigger screen at 6.6" against 6.3", while the Google Pixel 9 has the sharper one at 421 PPI, and storage goes higher on the S23+ 5G, up to 512GB against 256GB. There's not much between them beyond price, so the Pixel 9 is the easier pick.
The Pixel 9 is the cheaper one to own: around £691 over a typical contract, £35 less than the S23+ 5G.
13 reviews 4.2
10 reviews
Prices updated 25 July 2026
Google Pixel 9
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 13 reviews |
4.2 10 reviews |
| Screen | 6.3" | 6.6" |
| Display | OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 390 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10.5 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 4,700 mAh | 4,700 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 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 | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 198 grams | 195 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£54.42/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£57.33/mo
£30.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £314.00 | £299.99 |
| Prices updated 25 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Google Pixel 9 is cheaper on contract at £690.54 over the life of the deal from £54.42 per month with £30.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has the bigger screen at 6.6" compared to the Google Pixel 9's 6.3", the Google Pixel 9 has the sharper display at 421 pixels per inch versus 390, and the Google Pixel 9 uses a OLED panel while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 features a 50 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 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 and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus use?
The Google Pixel 9 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 or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
It's a trade-off: the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is lighter but the Google Pixel 9 is more compact. It's 3g lighter at 195 grams, though the Google Pixel 9 is actually the more compact phone at 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is slimmer at 7.6mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
Both phones share the same water resistance rating of IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus run?
The Google Pixel 9 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.