Google Pixel 7 vs Samsung Galaxy S23
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Pixel 7 delivers exceptional computational photography and exceptional value at $599, with a vibrant 6.3-inch OLED display and impressive 90Hz refresh rate. Samsung Galaxy S23 commands premium pricing at $799.99 but justifies it with superior hardware: thinner 7.6mm profile, lighter 168g build, brighter 1750-nit display with 120Hz smoothness, and dedicated 3x telephoto lens. Performance differs meaningfully—Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 edges Google Tensor G2 in raw speed and gaming, though both handle daily tasks effortlessly. Battery capacity favors Pixel (4355mAh vs 3900mAh), though S23's more efficient processor may offset this. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing camera software and value, Pixel 7 excels. Those wanting premium design, higher refresh rate displays, and optical zoom should invest in Galaxy S23. Pixel 7 represents stronger value; S23 offers more refinement.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 7 | Samsung Galaxy S23 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 13 | Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 197 g | 168 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus | Armor Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm | 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.85, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 10.8 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP, f/2.2, 114-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto | — | 10 MP 3x optical |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4355 mAh | 3900 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 20W (Pixel Stand 2nd gen) | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.3 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Type | OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 2340 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1400 | 1750 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.85 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.35 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 3x2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Mali-G710 MP7 | Adreno 740 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.2 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel 7
Pros
- Clean Android experience with guaranteed updates
- Excellent main camera with Tensor G2 processing
- Compact flagship form factor
- IP68 water resistance
- Competitively priced for a flagship
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- 90Hz is not adaptive (always-on)
- Only 8 GB RAM
- Slow 20W wired charging
Samsung Galaxy S23
Pros
- Compact 6.1-inch size is rare in flagship phones
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 flagship performance
- Lightweight at 168 g for comfortable one-handed use
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Four years of OS and five years of security updates
Cons
- Small 3900 mAh battery limits all-day endurance
- Slow 25W charging with no charger in box
- Only 8 GB RAM
- No 4K@60fps ultrawide video recording
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