Samsung Galaxy S21 vs Samsung Galaxy S23
Our verdict: With a 6.2" display, the Samsung Galaxy S21 gives you more viewing area. If the camera matters most, the Samsung Galaxy S21 has the edge at 64MP. Front-camera quality goes to the Samsung Galaxy S23 at 12MP. Water protection goes to the Samsung Galaxy S23 with its superior IP68 rating.
9 reviews 4.2
11 reviews
Samsung Galaxy S21
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Samsung Galaxy S23
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.1 9 reviews |
4.2 11 reviews |
| Screen | 6.2" | 6.1" |
| Display | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 424 | 422 |
| Rear Camera | 64 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 | Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm | 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 171 grams | 167 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP53 - dust and splash protection | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts | — |
£20.99/mo
£39.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £159.95 | £199.99 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 has the bigger screen at 6.2" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S23's 6.1", both screens are similarly sharp at around 424 pixels per inch, and both use Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels.
Which has the better camera, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 features a 64 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 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 Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £159.95.
What storage options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S23 use?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 uses the Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is the more portable of the two — it's 4g lighter at 167 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm, and is slimmer at 7.6mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Samsung Galaxy S21 or Samsung Galaxy S23?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is rated IP53 - dust and splash protection, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Samsung Galaxy S21 and Samsung Galaxy S23 run?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 runs Android 11 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 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.