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Google and Samsung have been two front-runners in the Android smartphone space. The battle for supremacy continues with the release of their latest flagship devices, the Pixel 7 vs Galaxy S23. The only way to determine which is better is to compare their specs, features, and prices and then select the one that fits your needs.
Hence, we are here with this comprehensive Pixel 7 vs. Galaxy S23 comparison to identify which is better.
Specs Showdown
When it comes to choosing between Google’s Pixel 7 and Samsung’s Galaxy S23, the devil is in the details. Both phones offer compelling features, but they also have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of their specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Processor performance: Google Tensor vs. Qualcomm Snapdragon
The Pixel 7 is powered by Google’s own Tensor G2 chip, designed to provide a seamless Android experience. On the flip side, the Galaxy S23 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. While the Tensor G2 chip is competitive on paper, real-world tests indicate that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 has a slight edge in performance. However, this doesn’t necessarily crown the Galaxy S23 as the ultimate winner; it’s more about personal preference.
Battery life and charging options
When it comes to battery life, the Pixel 7 takes the lead with a 4,355mAh battery, supported by 30W wired charging. The Galaxy S23, however, features a slightly smaller 3,900mAh battery with 25W wired charging. Both phones offer wireless charging capabilities, but only the Pixel 7 supports reverse wireless charging, allowing you to charge other devices.
RAM and storage: A tie
Both the Pixel 7 and Galaxy S23 come with 8GB of RAM and offer storage options of 128GB and 256GB. So, in terms of storage capacity and RAM, it’s a tie.
Connectivity and sensors
Both phones are well-equipped with connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. They also feature a range of sensors including an accelerometer, compass, barometer, and GLONASS for better location tracking.
OS upgrades and software experience
Google’s Pixel phones are known for receiving timely OS upgrades, often being the first to get the latest Android updates. Samsung has been improving in this regard, but still lags behind Google.
Display and peak brightness
While both phones offer stunning displays, the Galaxy S23 takes the lead in peak brightness, making it more suitable for outdoor use.
Here’s a comparison table of some other specs of both smartphones:
| Specs | Pixel 7 | Galaxy S23 |
|---|---|---|
| SoC | Google Tensor G2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Dimensions | 155.6 × 73.2 × 8.7mm | 146.3 × 70.9 × 7.6mm |
| Weight | 197g | 168g |
| Display Type | OLED | Dynamic OLED |
| Display Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels | 2340 x 1080 pixels |
| OS | Android 13 | One UI 5.1 w/ Android 13 |
| Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Cameras | Dual-lens rear camera50MP wide-angle primary camera12MP ultra-wide secondary camera | Triple-lens rear camera50MP wide-angle primary camera12MP ultra-wide secondary camera10MP telephoto rear12MP front camera |
| Video | 4K at up to 60 and 1080p at 60 fps | 8K at up to 24, 4K at up to 60, and 1080p at 240 fps |
| Battery | 4,355mAh | 3,900mAh |
| Price | From $599 | From $800 |
Design aspects
The Pixel 7, with dimensions of 155.6 × 73.2 × 8.7mm and a weight of 197g, embraces simplicity with a clean and minimalistic design. It is available in three different color options: Snow, Obsidian, and Lemongrass.
On the other hand, the Galaxy S23 boasts a sleek and futuristic aesthetic, featuring dimensions of 146.3 × 70.9 × 7.6mm and a weight of 168g. The Galaxy S23 is available in four colors: Phantom Black, Cream, Green, and Lavender.
Both devices have high-quality glasses in front and back. The Pixel 7 uses Gorilla Glass Victus, while the Galaxy S23 uses the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Moreover, the Galaxy S23 has aluminum on the sides, and the Pixel 7 has a plastic frame.
Camera capabilities
When it comes to capturing life’s moments, both Google and Samsung have upped the ante with their latest flagships. The camera setups on the Pixel 7 and Galaxy S23 are designed to offer a versatile photography experience, but they do have some key differences. Let’s delve into the details.
Triple vs. dual: Rear camera setup
The Samsung Galaxy S23 comes equipped with a robust triple rear camera setup. It features a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide secondary camera, and a 10MP telephoto lens camera. This setup allows for a range of photography styles, from capturing expansive landscapes to zooming in on distant subjects.
On the other hand, the Google Pixel 7 opts for a simpler dual-camera setup at the back. It houses a 50MP primary camera and a 12MP ultra-wide secondary camera. While it may lack the telephoto camera found in the Galaxy S23, it still offers a versatile photography experience.
Front camera: Selfie game strong?
When it comes to selfies, the Galaxy S23 has a slight edge with its 12MP front camera, offering cleaner and clearer self-portraits. The Pixel 7’s front camera comes in at 10.8MP, which, although not a huge difference, is slightly less powerful.
HDR and pixel density
Both phones offer HDR support, ensuring that your photos have balanced lighting and vivid colors. In terms of pixel density (PPI), both phones offer sharp and vibrant displays, making photo viewing a pleasure.
Additional features: PPI to MP
Both phones offer a range of additional features to enhance your photography experience. From high pixel density (PPI) for crisp photo viewing to multiple megapixels (MP) for capturing detailed images, both phones have got you covered.
Pricing
Since there are quite a few differences in performance, camera, build, etc., there’s also a substantial price difference. You can get the Pixel 7 at $599, but the Galaxy S23 costs you $200 more. It comes at a starting price of $799.
Final verdict
We believe that the Galaxy S23 can offer better performance and camera quality. However, the Pixel 7 fares better in battery capacity and has an affordable price range. So, if you have the right budget, go for the Galaxy S23, but the Pixel 7 can be equally good and can offer a better value for the price.
