SAMSUNG GALAXY S23 ULTRA 5G 12GB / 256GB | SM-S918B/DS

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review Summary

Pros:

• Camera: Overwhelmingly praised as excellent, producing high-quality photos and videos with exceptional detail, even in low-light conditions. Frequently noted as a significant improvement over older S-series models; one user called it the best camera currently available. Users frequently mention superior camera performance compared to previous S series phones. Specific praise for focus is mentioned.
• Performance and Speed: Consistently described as very fast and responsive, with smooth multitasking and no lag. The Snapdragon processor (for EU market) is specifically mentioned as a positive aspect. Games run flawlessly without overheating. Users frequently note the phone''s speed and excellent processor.
• Battery Life: Commonly mentioned as exceptionally long-lasting, easily lasting a full day on a single charge. One user noted that battery life is longer than on previous S22 Ultra.
• S-Pen: Praised for its quality; however, infrequent use is also reported by at least one user. Positive experiences with the S-Pen are mentioned by multiple users. One user called it excellent.
• Overall Experience: Many users expressed overall satisfaction and described the phone as "fantastic," "perfect," "amazing," "best ever," "the best on the market," and a "dream phone." Several users reported switching from other brands (Huawei, iPhone) after using the S23 Ultra. One user replaced their iPhone after 3 days to return to the S23 Ultra. Many users describe the phone as excellent and express high satisfaction with the device. The phone is frequently described as exceeding expectations.
• Design: The "Ultra" design is appreciated, with one user hoping the square design would remain in future models. One user considers it elegant. However, one user noted the sharp edges and camera placement as less than ideal, and another user commented that the display is easily scratched. One user noted the phone as beautiful, fast, and having an excellent battery.

Cons:

• Camera (Specific Issues): One user reported issues with the 100x zoom, particularly in low-light conditions, showing overexposed images and significant noise in videos, as well as artificial sharpening. One user reported issues with the front camera, experiencing lagging and suspecting a faulty device.
• Software Bugs: Occasional software glitches are mentioned, requiring a restart to resolve. A June software update resulted in faster battery drain for one user, and another reported a green line appearing on the display after a software update.
• Storage: One user found the 256GB version to have insufficient storage due to Android''s large footprint (30-40% usage).
• S-Pen Integration (specific issue): One user reported that the S-Pen is difficult to use with the device, with the on-screen keyboard not activating immediately. One user mentioned that the S-pen falls out of its housing.
• Packaging: One user mentioned disappointment with the packaging, considering the high price (€3000 for two phones, adapters, and protection). The user felt the packaging did not reflect the high cost of the product. The lack of included gifts was also mentioned, comparing it unfavorably to the inclusion of free earbuds with a cheaper Samsung A-series phone.
• Size: One user noted the phone as a little large.
• Software: One user described the software organization as poor and impractical.

Comments:

The price point (€3000 for two phones, adapters and protective accessories) is high enough to be noted. One user mentioned that the phone is more expensive than their car. Beyond issues relating to software bugs and the camera''s specific shortcomings (primarily related to the 100x zoom in low light), no specific areas of disappointment are consistently reported beyond the packaging and lack of bundled accessories. One user noted that Samsung DEX could benefit from more features. One user noted that the high price is a drawback.