Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra & Google Pixel 9 Pro share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra rather than the Google Pixel 9 Pro.
Why Do I Recommend The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra?
- The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip for faster processing, higher gaming performance, & better thermal efficiency, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s Tensor G4.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a 200MP main camera and 10x periscope zoom lens for sharper detail, clearer long-range shots, & superior versatility, while the Pixel 9 Pro features 50MP main and 5x zoom cameras.
- It supports built-in S Pen for precise note-taking, sketching, & remote control features, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro lacks stylus support entirely.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra uses UFS 4.0 storage for faster app loading, file transfers, & multitasking efficiency, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s slower UFS 3.1 storage.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has a larger 6.8″ curved AMOLED display for more immersive content viewing, improved stylus space, & productivity use, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 6.7″ flat screen.
- It offers 960fps super slow-motion video recording for advanced video creativity, action capture, & cinematic results, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s limited 240fps recording.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra includes a 45W fast charger for quicker power top-ups and less downtime, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s slower 30W wired charging.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features Samsung DeX support for desktop-like multitasking with apps & peripherals, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro lacks a desktop experience mode.
Maybe the Google Pixel 9 Pro price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Google Pixel 9 Pro |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 12 GB | 16 GB |
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Display Resolution | 1440 x 3088 | 1344 x 2992 |
| Display Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | LTPO OLED |
| Brightness Peak | 1750 nits | 1600 nits |
| Storage Type | UFS 4.0 | UFS 3.1 |
| Rear Cameras | 200 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP (3x) + 10 MP (10x) | 50 MP + 48 MP + 48 MP |
| Zoom Capability | 10x optical zoom | 5x optical zoom |
| Front Camera | 12 MP | 42 MP |
| Video Slow-Mo | 960fps @ 720p | 240fps @ 1080p |
| Battery Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5050 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 45W | 30W |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 23W Qi2 Wireless |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Modem | Snapdragon X70 | Exynos Modem 5400 |
| OS at Launch | Android 13 | Android 14 |
| Software Support | 4 OS, 5 years security | 7 OS, 7 years security |
| AI Features | Samsung AI, Circle to Search | Gemini Nano, Circle to Search, Call Assist, Live Translate |
| Haptics | Good | Premium tuned haptics |
| Materials | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Polished aluminum, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Audio | Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos | Stereo speakers with Spatial Audio |
| SAR Value (Head) | 0.82 W/kg | 0.98 W/kg |
| Price | Check S23 Ultra Price | Check Pixel 9 Pro Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- 5G Connectivity: Both devices support global sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks, ensuring fast download and upload speeds, better latency, and future-proof connectivity.
- AMOLED/OLED with 1–120Hz Refresh Rate: Each phone features a top-tier OLED technology with LTPO for dynamically adjusting the refresh rate between 1Hz and 120Hz. This improves power efficiency while delivering ultra-smooth animations and scrolling.
- HDR10+ and Always-On Display: The displays on both models support HDR10+, offering vivid contrast and dynamic range for content. Always-On Display lets users glance at essential info without waking the phone.
- Gorilla Glass Victus 2 & IP68: Durability is a shared focus — both use Corning’s Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back, combined with IP68 water and dust resistance for protection against splashes, rain, and accidental drops.
- Stereo Speakers: Each has a stereo speaker setup delivering immersive, high-quality audio for video streaming, gaming, or music without needing headphones.
- Wireless & Reverse Charging: Both models support wireless charging for convenience and reverse wireless charging (PowerShare/ Battery Share) to top up earbuds or other phones.
- Biometric Security: Under-display fingerprint sensors (ultrasonic for Samsung, optical for Pixel) and face unlock ensure secure and fast device access on both.
- No MicroSD or Headphone Jack: Neither includes expandable storage via microSD or a 3.5mm headphone jack, relying on USB-C and wireless audio accessories.
- USB-C & Bluetooth 5.3: Both support USB Type-C 3.2 for fast data transfers and modern accessories, and the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard for improved connection stability and energy efficiency.
- NFC and Android OS: With NFC built-in, both phones support contactless payments via Google Pay and others. They run Android OS and receive long-term updates and new features regularly.
- AI-Powered Features: From image processing to real-time transcription, both devices leverage AI enhancements for improved photography, smart replies, voice commands, and more.
- Night Photography & 8K Video: Night mode and advanced computational photography features are supported across both, with the ability to record 8K videos on the rear cameras.
- Premium Build Quality: Each device has a refined finish with aluminum frames and high-end materials, delivering a flagship-level look and feel.
Common Features
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Google Pixel 9 Pro |
| 5G Support | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Refresh Rate | 1–120Hz | 1–120Hz |
| HDR Support | HDR10+ | HDR10+ |
| Always-On Display | Yes | Yes |
| Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Front & back | Front & back |
| IP68 Dust/Water Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Stereo Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| In-display Fingerprint Sensor | Ultrasonic | Optical |
| Face Unlock | Yes | Yes |
| No MicroSD Slot | Yes | Yes |
| No 3.5mm Headphone Jack | Yes | Yes |
| USB Type-C Port | USB-C 3.2 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Bluetooth 5.3 | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check S23 Ultra Price | Check Pixel 9 Pro Price |
FAQ
Does the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra support the S Pen? Does the Google Pixel 9 Pro come with a stylus or support one? Which device has a better zoom camera: Galaxy S23 Ultra or Pixel 9 Pro? Is the Pixel 9 Pro more compact and lightweight than the Galaxy S23 Ultra? Which phone performs better in benchmarks and gaming? Do both phones have high refresh rate OLED displays? What are the charging speeds for the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Pixel 9 Pro? Does either phone offer satellite connectivity? How many years of software updates do the phones offer? Which device has a higher-resolution front camera? Are both phones IP68 water and dust resistant? Do both phones support 5G and Wi-Fi 6E or higher? Can both devices wirelessly charge and share battery? Which phone has better AI integration? Do either of these phones have expandable storage? |