Galaxy A23 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile

Galaxy A23 5G • Unlocked
Galaxy A23 5G • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$123.00

Versus $279.99 new

See options
Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$277.00

Versus $799.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G, released in 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24, launched in 2024, represent different tiers within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both operate on the Android platform, the Galaxy S24 introduces significant advancements in performance, display technology, and camera capabilities, reflecting its position as a flagship device compared to the A23 5G's more budget-conscious design.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its build quality, software support, and the pace of technological advancements. These two devices offer different expectations in these areas.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A23 5G was released in August 2022, while the Galaxy S24 launched in January 2024. This two-year difference means the S24 benefits from newer components and a longer potential support window.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S24 is part of Samsung's commitment to provide seven years of OS and security updates, extending its software support into 2031. The Galaxy A23 5G, on the other hand, was promised two major Android updates and four years of security updates, with some models receiving Android 15 by mid-2025.
  • Build Materials: The Galaxy S24 features an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, along with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Galaxy A23 5G uses Gorilla Glass 5 for its display and a plastic back, offering a more basic level of protection.

Release Year

2022

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run, how quickly tasks are completed, and the overall responsiveness of the device.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S24 is equipped with a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphic-intensive games with ease. The Galaxy A23 5G utilizes a mid-range processor, which provides adequate performance for everyday tasks and lighter usage, though some users have reported occasional sluggishness, especially with the 4GB RAM variant.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S24 comes with 8GB of RAM and offers storage options up to 512GB, utilizing faster UFS 4.0 storage in higher variants, contributing to quicker app loading and smoother transitions. The Galaxy A23 5G typically comes with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM and up to 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via microSD.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 has a 4000mAh battery, designed to last through a full day of regular use, with some users reporting it can extend further depending on usage patterns. The Galaxy A23 5G features a larger 5000mAh battery, and due to its more power-efficient processor, it often provides extended battery life, with many users reporting two days of use on a single charge.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is significantly shaped by the display technology, resolution, and refresh rate of each device.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. It has an FHD+ resolution (2340x1080 pixels) across a 6.2-inch screen. The Galaxy A23 5G uses a PLS LCD display, which provides good visuals for its category, with an FHD+ resolution (2408x1080 pixels) on a larger 6.6-inch screen.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S24 boasts a peak brightness of up to 2600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, and an adaptive refresh rate that ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and power efficiency. The Galaxy A23 5G offers a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, which is notable for its segment, though its peak brightness is lower than the S24.
  • Viewing Experience: The S24's AMOLED panel and higher peak brightness contribute to a more immersive and comfortable viewing experience, especially for media consumption and outdoor use. The A23 5G's larger screen size can be beneficial for users who prefer more screen real estate.

Resolution

1080 x 2408

1080 x 2340

Screen type

PLS LCD

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both devices offer multi-camera setups, but their capabilities and resulting image quality differ based on their hardware and software processing.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 features a versatile triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy A23 5G comes with a quad-camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 5MP ultrawide camera, and two 2MP sensors for macro and depth.
  • Photography Performance: The S24's camera system is designed for high-quality photography across various conditions, including improved low-light performance and advanced computational photography features. Users generally praise its overall image quality and versatility. The A23 5G's main camera performs well in good lighting, but its ultrawide and other auxiliary lenses offer more basic functionality.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The Galaxy S24 supports 8K video recording at 24/30fps and 4K at 30/60fps, along with a 12MP front camera capable of 4K video. The Galaxy A23 5G records Full HD video at 30fps and has an 8MP front camera.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily usability of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity. The Galaxy S24 includes newer Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 standards, offering faster and more stable wireless connections. The Galaxy A23 5G supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1.
  • Ports and Biometrics: The Galaxy S24 features a USB-C port and an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. The Galaxy A23 5G includes a USB-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack, with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S24 has a more compact design, measuring 147.00 x 70.60 x 7.60mm and weighing 168 grams, making it comfortable for one-handed use. The Galaxy A23 5G is larger at 165.4 x 76.9 x 8.4mm and weighs 197 grams, offering a larger screen but potentially requiring two hands for comfortable operation.

Weight

7 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.8

6.2

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

T-Mobile

User feedback for the Galaxy S24 often highlights its powerful performance, vibrant display, and long-term software support as key strengths. Many appreciate its compact form factor and improved battery life compared to previous S-series models. Some users, particularly those with the Exynos variant outside North America, have noted occasional concerns regarding battery drain under heavy use or perceived inconsistencies in performance, though overall sentiment remains positive for its flagship capabilities.

For the Galaxy A23 5G, common praise points include its excellent battery life, large 120Hz display, and the inclusion of a headphone jack. However, criticisms frequently mention its slower performance, especially with the 4GB RAM variant, and some users have expressed dissatisfaction with its overall responsiveness and camera quality in certain conditions.

Users prioritizing a premium experience with top-tier performance, advanced camera features, and extended software longevity will find the Galaxy S24 well-suited to their needs. Its compact design and high-quality display make it ideal for those who consume a lot of media or engage in demanding tasks. Conversely, users who prioritize exceptional battery life, a larger screen for casual use, and the convenience of a headphone jack, while being mindful of a more modest performance, may lean toward the Galaxy A23 5G. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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