Galaxy S23 FE • Unlocked vs Google Pixel 7 Pro • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in October 2023, and the Google Pixel 7 Pro, launched in October 2022, are both advanced smartphones offering distinct experiences within the Android ecosystem. While the Galaxy S23 FE aims to deliver a flagship-like experience with a focus on display and camera versatility, the Pixel 7 Pro emphasizes advanced computational photography and a pure Android interface. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they differ in their approach to software features and hardware integration.

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, factors such as release timeline, software support, and physical resilience are important. The Galaxy S23 FE and Pixel 7 Pro offer different trajectories in these areas.

• Release Timeline and Software Support: The Galaxy S23 FE, being released a year later in October 2023, benefits from a more extended software support window. Samsung promises four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates for the S23 FE, meaning it will receive OS updates until Android 17 and security patches until 2028. In contrast, the Google Pixel 7 Pro, released in October 2022, was initially guaranteed three major OS updates and five years of security updates, extending OS support until Android 16 (October 2025) and security updates until October 2027.
• Durability and Repairability: Both devices feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating robust protection against environmental elements. The Galaxy S23 FE utilizes Gorilla Glass 5 on both its front and back for screen protection, while the Pixel 7 Pro features the more advanced Gorilla Glass Victus. User reports for the Pixel 7 Pro occasionally mention minor build quality concerns like rattling buttons, though overall construction is generally considered solid.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: The Galaxy S23 FE's newer release date and longer OS update commitment suggest a slightly longer practical lifespan in terms of receiving the latest Android features. However, both phones are expected to remain functional and receive critical security updates for several years, making them viable options for users seeking a device for the medium to long term.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating apps to demanding gaming sessions. Both the Galaxy S23 FE and Pixel 7 Pro are equipped with capable hardware, but their real-world usage experiences can differ.

• Processing Power and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 FE is powered by a processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. The Pixel 7 Pro features a processor designed with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning tasks, which enhances features like image processing and voice recognition. While both offer fluid navigation, the Pixel's processor is specifically optimized for Google's software ecosystem.
• Battery Performance and Storage: The Galaxy S23 FE houses a 4500 mAh battery, while the Pixel 7 Pro comes with a larger 5000 mAh battery. User experiences with battery life for both devices are mixed, with some reporting all-day usage and others noting more frequent charging, especially under heavy use or with certain regional processor variants. The Galaxy S23 FE offers 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB. The Pixel 7 Pro provides 12GB of RAM, offering more headroom for intensive multitasking, and comes with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB.
• Multitasking and Gaming: For everyday multitasking, both phones perform well. The Pixel 7 Pro's higher RAM capacity may offer a slight advantage for users who frequently switch between many applications or engage in very demanding tasks. For gaming, both devices can run current titles, though some users have noted that the Pixel 7 Pro's processor can lead to warming during extended gaming sessions.

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both the Galaxy S23 FE and Pixel 7 Pro offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels). The Pixel 7 Pro boasts a larger 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3120 x 1440 pixels), offering a sharper and more detailed image. Both technologies provide vibrant colors and deep blacks.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both phones feature adaptive refresh rates, with the Galaxy S23 FE offering up to 120Hz and the Pixel 7 Pro ranging from 10Hz to 120Hz. This adaptive capability helps conserve battery life while providing smooth scrolling and animations. The Galaxy S23 FE reaches a peak brightness of 1450 nits, while the Pixel 7 Pro can achieve a slightly higher peak brightness of 1500 nits, which can be beneficial for outdoor visibility.
• Viewing Experience: The Pixel 7 Pro's larger, higher-resolution display provides a more expansive and immersive viewing experience, particularly for media consumption and detailed content. The Galaxy S23 FE's display, while slightly smaller and lower resolution, still delivers a clear and vibrant picture suitable for everyday use.

Both the Galaxy S23 FE and Pixel 7 Pro are designed with advanced camera systems, each excelling in different aspects of photography and videography.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S23 FE features a versatile triple-camera setup including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. The Pixel 7 Pro also has a triple-camera system, comprising a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 48MP telephoto lens with a more powerful 5x optical zoom and OIS, capable of 30x Super Res Zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 7 Pro is widely praised for its computational photography, delivering consistent and high-quality images, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Its ultrawide lens also benefits from autofocus, allowing for macro photography. The Galaxy S23 FE's camera system is generally considered good, offering solid performance for everyday photos and good low-light capabilities.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: For video, the Galaxy S23 FE supports up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second, and 4K at 30/60fps. The Pixel 7 Pro records up to 4K at 60fps on all its cameras and supports 10-bit HDR video, offering enhanced dynamic range. The S23 FE has a 10MP front camera, while the Pixel 7 Pro features a 10.8MP front camera. User feedback on the Pixel 7 Pro's video quality is mixed, with some finding it less impressive than stills.