S23 offers superior performance and a versatile triple camera with optical zoom, while the Pixel 8 provides a bigger battery, pure Android experience.
Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G and Google Pixel 8 can be difficult, especially when both offer top-tier hardware, clean software, and premium build quality. Here is a detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and decide which model best suits your needs.
| Features | Samsung Galaxy S23 5G | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
Launched in |
February 2023 |
October 2023 |
Operating System |
Android 13 (upgradable) |
Android 14 |
Processor |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
Google Tensor G3 |
RAM |
8 GB |
8 GB |
Storage Options |
128 GB / 256 GB |
128 GB / 256 GB |
Display Size |
6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
6.2-inch Actua OLED |
Refresh Rate |
120 Hz |
120 Hz |
Battery Capacity |
3900 mAh |
4575 mAh |
Charging Support |
25W wired, 15W wireless |
27W wired, 18W wireless |
IP Rating |
IP68 |
IP68 |
Weight |
168 grams |
187 grams |
Disclaimer: The specifications mentioned above are based on the information available on the official website. Features may vary depending on model, configuration, and region. For the latest and most accurate details, please visit the official website or consult authorised retailers.
Both smartphones have a premium glass and metal build, with slight differences in design philosophy and ergonomics.
| Aspect | Samsung Galaxy S23 5G | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
Frame |
Armour aluminium |
Polished aluminium |
Glass Protection |
Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front/back) |
Gorilla Glass Victus (front/back) |
Dimensions (mm) |
146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 |
150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 |
Weight |
168 grams |
187 grams |
Colour Options |
Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender |
Obsidian, Hazel, Rose, Mint |
Water Resistance |
IP68 |
IP68 |
The Samsung Galaxy S23 5G vs Google Pixel 8 debate often focuses on camera performance. Here’s how they compare on paper:
| Camera Features | Samsung Galaxy S23 5G | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
Rear Camera Setup |
Triple: 50 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP |
Dual: 50 MP (main) + 12 MP (ultrawide) |
Front Camera |
12 MP |
10.5 MP |
Optical Zoom |
3x optical zoom |
No optical zoom |
Video Recording |
8K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps |
4K at 60fps |
Special Camera Features |
Nightography, Pro Mode, AI Image Enhancer |
Magic Eraser, Best Take, Real Tone |
Performance-wise, both phones handle daily tasks with ease. However, they use different chipsets, which affects power efficiency and graphics processing.
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S23 5G | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
Processor |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
Google Tensor G3 |
GPU |
Adreno 740 |
Mali-G715 |
RAM |
8 GB |
8 GB |
Battery Capacity |
3900 mAh |
4575 mAh |
Wired Charging |
25W |
27W |
Wireless Charging |
15W |
18W |
Reverse Charging |
Yes |
Yes |
Samsung Galaxy S23 5G and Google Pixel 8 both run Android, but their experiences differ significantly due to custom interfaces and long-term update policies.
| Software Aspect | Samsung Galaxy S23 5G | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
OS Version |
One UI 5.1 based on Android 13 |
Android 14 (Stock) |
Software Updates |
4 years OS, 5 years security |
7 years OS and security |
UI Skin |
One UI 5.1 |
Stock Android |
Google AI Integration |
Partial via One UI Smart Features |
Gemini Nano, Recorder, Call Screen |
Biometric Security |
Ultrasonic Fingerprint, Face Unlock |
In-display Fingerprint, Face Unlock |
Ecosystem Benefits |
Galaxy Watch, Buds, SmartThings |
Google Nest, Pixel Buds |
Here’s a look at how the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G vs Google Pixel 8 compare in terms of current market pricing in India.
| Model | Starting Price (INR) |
|---|---|
Samsung Galaxy S23 5G |
₹74,999 |
Google Pixel 8 |
₹75,999 |
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and may vary based on configuration, region, and special offers. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Choosing the right device depends on your preferences for design, camera capabilities, performance, and software features.
You want a more compact and lightweight phone.
You value versatile camera features including optical zoom.
You prefer Samsung’s software ecosystem and hardware optimisation.
You want the pure Android experience with long-term software support.
You prefer AI-powered photography tools.
You want a slightly larger battery and more frequent updates.
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The main differences lie in software experience, camera hardware, battery size, and long-term update support.
The Galaxy S23 5G is priced slightly lower, offering a compact form factor and better zoom features.
No, the Pixel 8 has a larger battery and may last longer, especially under similar usage conditions.
Both phones offer high refresh rate OLED displays, but the S23 5G has slightly higher peak brightness.
Yes, features like Samsung DeX and telephoto zoom are unique to the Galaxy S23 5G.
Only if you prioritise a compact design, Samsung ecosystem features, and zoom capabilities.