When Samsung launched the Galaxy S23 Ultra back in early 2023, it instantly became the gold standard for Android smartphones. With its massive 200MP camera, gorgeous display, and top-notch performance, it was hard to imagine anything better. But now that we are in 2025, a natural question arises: is the Galaxy S23 Ultra still relevant, or has it been left behind by newer flagships?
Display & Design
The 6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is still one of the best in the market. With a resolution of 3088 x 1440 pixels, 500 PPI sharpness, and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, the viewing experience remains smooth and stunning. Watching content, gaming, or even everyday scrolling feels premium.
On the durability side, Samsung used Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an aluminum frame, giving it a solid build. The IP68 water and dust resistance also makes it safe for daily use, something many mid-range phones in 2025 still skip.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, the S23 Ultra still delivers blazing-fast performance. Whether it’s gaming, multitasking, or editing videos, the phone doesn’t feel outdated. And thanks to Samsung’s long-term software support, it continues to get major Android updates — which means you’re not stuck on old software even in 2025.
Camera – Still a Beast
The S23 Ultra’s 200MP main camera, paired with a 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto, and 10MP periscope lens, remains one of the most versatile setups even today. With up to 100x zoom, excellent low-light performance, and 8K video recording, it’s still a dream for photography lovers.
The 12MP selfie camera may not sound huge on paper in 2025, but it continues to deliver sharp and natural-looking selfies, which shows how ahead of its time this device was.
Battery & Charging
The 5000mAh battery with fast charging ensures a full day of heavy usage. Even though newer phones now boast slightly faster charging speeds, the endurance of the S23 Ultra is still reliable.
Why It’s Still Relevant in 2025
Now, the real question — why should someone still consider the Galaxy S23 Ultra today?
- Software Updates Are Still Ongoing – Samsung promised long-term support, and the S23 Ultra is still receiving regular Android updates in 2025.
- Tech Hasn’t Leaped Too Far – While newer flagships have improved, the upgrades in the last two years are more incremental than revolutionary. The S23 Ultra still holds its ground.
- Camera & Performance Remain Top-Tier – It’s still among the best when it comes to photography, gaming, and overall speed.
- Discounted Pricing – Perhaps the biggest reason — the phone is now available at much lower prices compared to launch. You’re essentially getting a premium flagship at a mid-premium cost.
Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra might be two years old, but it’s far from irrelevant. With its stunning display, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, excellent camera system, and strong software support, it remains one of the most complete smartphones in 2025.
If you’re looking for a flagship experience without spending extra on the latest Galaxy S25 Ultra, the S23 Ultra in 2025 is still a fantastic buy.