Google Pixel 6 vs Samsung Galaxy S23+
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy S23+ commands a significant premium over the Pixel 6, delivering measurable upgrades across multiple fronts. Display quality jumps dramatically with 120Hz refresh rate and 1750 nits peak brightness compared to the Pixel's 90Hz, 800 nits panel, making scrolling noticeably smoother and outdoor visibility superior. Camera systems differ strategically: Pixel 6 excels at computational photography with its Tensor chip, while S23+ offers more hardware versatility with a dedicated 3x telephoto lens and 8K video recording. Performance favors Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which outpaces the Tensor in raw benchmarks and consistency. Battery life edges slightly toward Samsung with its larger 4700 mAh capacity and faster 45W charging. Pixel 6 remains compelling for those prioritizing software experience, value proposition, and everyday photography. However, S23+ justifies its price through superior durability (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), display technology, and raw performance metrics. Choose S23+ for flagship features; pick Pixel 6 for better value and software-first experience.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Google Pixel 6 if…
- →First Tensor chip with incredible AI photography
- →Magic Eraser and Real Tone features
- →Excellent value at $599 for flagship specs
Buy the Samsung Galaxy S23+ if…
- →Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy delivers top-tier performance
- →Bright 1750-nit display is excellent in direct sunlight
- →4700 mAh battery provides strong all-day endurance
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel 6
Pros
- First Tensor chip with incredible AI photography
- Magic Eraser and Real Tone features
- Excellent value at $599 for flagship specs
- Five years of security updates
- Clean Android 12 Material You experience
Cons
- Tensor chip runs warm under sustained load
- In-display fingerprint scanner was slow
- No telephoto camera
- 8 MP selfie camera is below average
- Thick camera bar protrudes significantly
Samsung Galaxy S23+
Pros
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy delivers top-tier performance
- Bright 1750-nit display is excellent in direct sunlight
- 4700 mAh battery provides strong all-day endurance
- Four years of OS updates and five years of security patches
- Versatile triple camera with 3x optical zoom
Cons
- Only 8 GB RAM at the $999 price point
- FHD+ resolution instead of QHD+ on the 6.6-inch display
- 45W charging is slower than Chinese competitors
- No expandable storage or microSD slot
- Design is very similar to S22+ with minimal visual changes
Full Specifications
| Spec | Google Pixel 6 | Samsung Galaxy S23+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 12 | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 207 g | 195 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 6 | Armor Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.85, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS |
| Front camera | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto | — | 10 MP, f/2.4, 3x optical zoom, OIS |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4614 mAh | 4700 mAh |
| Charging | 30W wired | 45W wired |
| Wireless charging | 21W wireless | 15W, Wireless PowerShare |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.4 inches | 6.6 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 2340 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 800 | 1750 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.80 GHz + 2x2.25 GHz + 4x1.80 GHz) | Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 3x2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP20 | Adreno 740 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.1 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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