Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Galaxy S20 Review: Which Android Flagship to Buy in 2025

 Samsung’s Galaxy series has long set the standard for Android flagships. The Galaxy S20 impressed in 2020, while the 2023 Galaxy S23 brings a full upgrade with improved performance, display, and cameras. If you’re planning to upgrade or compare options, here’s a practical review to help you decide which is best for your needs.

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Galaxy S23 vs S20 Cost & Release

• Galaxy S23: Released February 1, 2023. Base 8GB+128GB model starts at $800; 256GB at $860.

• Galaxy S20: Released February 11, 2020. 12GB+128GB version launched at $1,000.

Key Takeaway: The S23 offers newer technology at a lower price, reflecting Samsung’s updated flagship pricing strategy.

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Design & Build: Compact vs Classic

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Size	5.76×2.79×0.30 in	5.97×2.72×0.31 in
Weight	168g	163g
Glass	Gorilla Glass Victus 2	Gorilla Glass 6
Frame	Aluminum	Aluminum
Water Resistance	IP68	IP68
Biometrics	Face Unlock + Ultrasonic Fingerprint	Same
Colors	Phantom Black, Cream, Green, Lavender	Cloud Blue, Cosmic Gray, Cloud Pink, Cosmic White

Verdict: S23 is slightly smaller and more durable, making it easier to hold and carry without sacrificing premium feel.

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Best Display: Brightness vs Resolution

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Screen Size	6.1", 88.57%	6.2", 88.59%
Panel	Super AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR	Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR
Resolution	2340×1080 px (422 PPI)	3200×1440 px (566 PPI)
Peak Brightness	1750 nits	N/A
Protection	Gorilla Glass Victus 2	Gorilla Glass 6

Verdict: S20 offers sharper QHD+ detail, but S23 wins in brightness for outdoor use and improved durability.

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Performance: Top Gaming & Multitasking

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Chip	Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm)	Snapdragon 865 (7nm)
CPU	1×3.36GHz + 4×2.8GHz + 3×2.0GHz	1×2.84GHz + 3×2.42GHz + 4×1.8GHz
GPU	Adreno 740	Adreno 650
RAM/Storage	8GB LPDDR5X + 128/256GB UFS 4.0	12GB LPDDR5 + 128GB UFS 3.0
Storage Expansion	No	microSD up to 1TB
OS	Android 14 (upgradeable)	Android 13 (no major updates)
GeekBench 6	Single: 2023 / Multi: 5180	Approx. Single: 1000 / Multi: 3500

Verdict: S23 delivers faster gaming, smoother multitasking, and double the storage speed. S20 still offers microSD flexibility.

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Battery & Charging: Efficient Power

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Battery	3900 mAh	4000 mAh
Wired/Wireless	25W / 10W	25W / 15W
Usage	Browsing 15h21m, Gaming 8h1m	Browsing 7h45m, Gaming 7h43m

Verdict: Despite smaller capacity, S23’s efficient processor extends overall battery life and browsing hours. S20 has faster wireless charging.

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Cameras: Top Photo & Video

Rear Camera Specs:

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Main	50MP OIS, f/1.8	12MP OIS, f/1.8
Ultra-Wide	12MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/2.2 AF
Telephoto	12MP, 3x Optical	64MP, Digital Zoom
Video	8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080P@960fps	8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080P@240fps

Front Camera:

• S23: 12MP, 4K@60fps

• S20: 10MP, 4K@60fps

Verdict: S23 captures finer detail with a practical telephoto lens and better slow-motion/video options.

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Connectivity & Extras

Feature	Galaxy S23	Galaxy S20
Bluetooth	5.3	5.0
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 6E	Wi-Fi 6
USB	Type-C	Type-C 3.1
Extras	NFC, UWB	NFC, ANT+
5G	Sub-6 & mmWave (US)	Sub-6 only

Verdict: S23 supports modern connectivity including mmWave 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and UWB for advanced features. S20 keeps ANT+ for fitness devices.

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Which Samsung to Buy in 2025?

Choose Galaxy S23 if you want:

• Superior gaming and multitasking

• High outdoor screen brightness

• Better photo and video quality

• Compact, comfortable design

• Longer software support (4–5 years)

Choose Galaxy S20 if you want:

• Heavily discounted units

• microSD storage expansion

• QHD+ resolution over peak brightness

• ANT+ fitness accessory support

Final Take: The Galaxy S23 is a clear three-year leap, offering top performance, display, and camera upgrades at a lower launch price. For most users, it’s the best flagship choice. The S20 remains a cost-effective alternative for those satisfied with older specs.