Key takeaways:
- The Galaxy S23 is now significantly cheaper than the S23 FE due to a permanent price drop.
- Despite being older, the S23 boasts a better processor, camera, design, and build quality.
- This discount makes the S23 a compelling option for budget-conscious Samsung fans.
For many Android enthusiasts, Samsung’s latest Galaxy S24 series has stolen the spotlight, leaving the previous generation’s Galaxy S23 seemingly forgotten. However, a recent price drop has revitalized the S23, making it a surprisingly attractive choice for budget-minded Samsung loyalists.
While the cutting-edge S24 Ultra tempts power users, its hefty price tag can be a barrier. Additionally, with the upcoming Prime Day sales, even the standard S24 or S24+ might not fit everyone’s budget.
Here’s where the unassuming Galaxy S23 steps back into the ring. Currently, both Amazon and Best Buy are offering a compelling discount on the unlocked 128GB S23, bringing the price down by a cool $150. This attractive deal, combined with a permanent $100 price reduction following the S24 launch, makes the S23 surprisingly cheaper than the newer S23 FE.
While the S23 FE boasts a newer release date and a larger display, the “vanilla” S23 remains the superior phone in most aspects. This is largely due to its top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which outperforms the S23 FE’s chipset. Additionally, the S23 features a superior triple-camera system, a more durable “Armor Aluminum” frame, and a sleeker, thinner design.
This price slash positions the S23 competitively against Google’s Pixel 8 (at least for now). However, the value-oriented OnePlus 12R remains a more affordable option.
The sweet spot for this deal lies with dedicated Samsung fans on a budget. Compared to the marginally better S24 series, the discounted S23 offers significant savings, making it a smarter choice. This is especially true if you can handle a slightly smaller screen and a non-flagship price tag. However, for those on an extremely tight budget, the Galaxy A54 5G or even the A25 5G might be more suitable options.
