Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Our Verdict: The Galaxy S23 FE and Galaxy S23 launched together: the S23 FE is the standard model and the S23 5G the higher-end one. The S23 FE packs the bigger battery, 4500mAh against 3900mAh, which usually means longer between charges, and the S23 FE has the bigger screen at 6.4" against 6.1", while the S23 5G has the sharper one at 422 PPI. The S23 5G is the lighter phone at 167g against 209g. Unusually, the cheaper S23 FE takes some of the spec wins as well, so it's the obvious choice for most people.
Buying outright, the S23 FE starts at £160 SIM-free.
11 reviews 3.6
11 reviews
Prices updated 6 July 2026
Samsung Galaxy S23
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Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 11 reviews |
3.6 11 reviews |
| Screen | 6.1" | 6.4" |
| Display | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 422 | 403 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 12 Megapixels | 10 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Exynos 2200 |
| Battery | 3,900 mAh | 4,500 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13 |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm | 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm |
| Weight | 167 grams | 209 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP53 - dust and splash protection |
| Contracts |
£20.00/mo
£19.00 upfront |
- |
| SIM-free | £209.00 | £159.95 |
| Prices updated 6 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Samsung Galaxy S23 or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has the bigger screen at 6.4" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S23's 6.1", the Samsung Galaxy S23 has the sharper display at 422 pixels per inch versus 403, and both use Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels.
Which has the better camera, the Samsung Galaxy S23 or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 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 S23 or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £159.95.
What storage options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE use?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is powered by the Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm), while the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE uses the Exynos 2200.
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Samsung Galaxy S23 or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is the more portable of the two: it's 42g 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 S23 or Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is rated IP53 - dust and splash protection.
What operating system do the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE run?
Both phones run Android 13.