Compare the iPhone 16 and Samsung S23 Ultra to find the best flagship based on performance, features, and photography needs.
Both the iPhone 16 and Samsung S23 Ultra are flagship smartphones offering premium features, cutting-edge hardware, and superior user experiences. Choosing between them depends on your ecosystem preference, performance expectations, and photography needs. This comparison article will help you make an informed buying decision.
Both phones are powered by top-tier chipsets, delivering fast and smooth performance across tasks. Here is a detailed specification comparison to help you evaluate their core offerings:
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
Samsung S23 Ultra |
---|---|---|
Display |
6.3-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz |
6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
Processor |
Apple A18 Bionic |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
RAM |
8 GB |
12 GB |
Storage Variants |
128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
Rear Cameras |
Triple 48 MP setup |
Quad 200 MP setup |
Front Camera |
12 MP |
12 MP |
Operating System |
iOS 18 |
Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
5G Connectivity |
Yes |
Yes |
Battery Capacity |
~3,500 mAh (est.) |
5,000 mAh |
Disclaimer: Specifications are based on officially listed features and may vary slightly based on region or variant.
Both smartphones exhibit premium craftsmanship with durable materials and elegant finishes. While Apple refines its iconic look, Samsung pushes the boundaries with a bold and futuristic aesthetic. Have a glance at the table down below:
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
Samsung S23 Ultra |
---|---|---|
Frame Material |
Grade 5 Titanium |
Armour Aluminium + Titanium |
Front Protection |
Ceramic Shield |
Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
Rear Panel |
Textured Matte Glass |
Glass (matte finish) |
Dimensions (mm) |
~147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm |
163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm |
Weight |
~194 grams |
234 grams |
Water Resistance |
IP68 (up to 6m for 30 mins) |
IP68 (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
Disclaimer: Design elements and material specifications may differ based on markets and variants.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the strengths of both camera systems. While Samsung S23 Ultra offers versatility with its 200MP sensor, the iPhone 16 excels in computational photography. Have a glance at their distinctions below:
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
Samsung S23 Ultra |
---|---|---|
Main Sensor |
48 MP (wide) |
200 MP (wide) |
Ultra-Wide |
12 MP |
12 MP |
Telephoto |
12 MP with 5x optical zoom |
Dual 10 MP (3x & 10x optical zoom) |
Front Camera |
12 MP |
12 MP |
Video Recording |
4K at 60 fps |
8K at 30 fps / 4K at 60 fps |
Software Features |
Photonic Engine, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR |
Expert RAW, Super Steady Video, Nightography |
Disclaimer: Actual image results may vary based on software processing and lighting conditions.
Both devices deliver exceptional speed, ideal for multitasking, gaming, and productivity. The iPhone 16 relies on Apple’s A18 chip, while the Samsung S23 Ultra uses a custom Snapdragon chipset for top-tier Android performance. Look at the table to know more:
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
Samsung S23 Ultra |
---|---|---|
Processor |
A18 Bionic (3nm) |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (4nm) |
RAM |
8 GB |
12 GB |
Storage Options |
Up to 1 TB |
Up to 1 TB |
Battery Capacity |
~3,500 mAh (non-removable) |
5,000 mAh (non-removable) |
Charging Speed |
~20W wired, 15W MagSafe wireless |
45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse |
Endurance |
~29 hrs video playback (claimed) |
~26–28 hrs video playback (claimed) |
Disclaimer: Battery life depends on usage patterns, settings, and software optimisation.
The iPhone 16 and Samsung S23 Ultra offer refined software ecosystems. While Apple emphasises privacy and seamless integration, Samsung delivers customisability and S-Pen support for productivity. Here’s a look at their distinct features:
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
Samsung S23 Ultra |
---|---|---|
Operating System |
iOS 18 |
Android 13 with One UI 5.1 |
Voice Assistant |
Siri |
Bixby, Google Assistant |
Notable Features |
Apple Intelligence, Face ID, Dynamic Island |
S-Pen, DeX Mode, Knox Security |
Ecosystem Integration |
Deep integration with Apple devices |
Works with Samsung ecosystem and Windows PC |
Software Support Window |
5–6 years |
4 years OS + 5 years security updates |
Disclaimer: Software features vary by region and updates. Some functionalities may be exclusive to select markets or models.
Pricing plays a key role when choosing between these premium flagships. While both offer high-end specs, the iPhone 16 generally costs more, especially in higher storage variants:
Model |
Base Variant Price (India) |
Top Variant Price (India) |
---|---|---|
iPhone 16 (128 GB) |
₹89,900 (expected) |
₹1,59,900 (1 TB, expected) |
Samsung S23 Ultra (256 GB) |
₹1,24,999 |
₹1,54,999 (1 TB) |
Disclaimer: Prices may vary by region, seller discounts, and ongoing promotions.
Choosing between the iPhone 16 vs Samsung S23 Ultra depends on what you value more — ecosystem, design, camera flexibility, or software experience. If you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 16 is a natural choice. It offers polished performance, seamless integration, and long-term software support.
However, if you want a powerhouse Android phone with a larger display, better zoom capability, and productivity tools like the S-Pen, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out. In terms of camera variety, battery size, and display sharpness, the Samsung S23 Ultra leads. But for compact elegance and clean software experience, the iPhone 16 holds its ground well.
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The iPhone 16 focuses on ecosystem and performance, while the Samsung S23 Ultra leads with camera versatility and productivity features like the S-Pen.
The Samsung S23 Ultra offers more megapixels and optical zoom, while the iPhone 16 excels in colour accuracy and image processing.
The iPhone 16’s base variant is priced lower, but higher storage models may cost more than Samsung’s offerings.
Both are excellent for gaming. The iPhone 16 has efficient chip performance, while the S23 Ultra offers a larger screen and better heat management.
Yes, with the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card, you can buy either phone on easy EMIs, without using a credit card.