What is the best Samsung S Series phone for me?
The Galaxy S series is Samsung's flagship smartphone range and the most popular Android phone series of all time. For many the Galaxy S series is the number one phone range in the Android community. Bursting with premium features, exceptional cameras and stunning design elements it's no wonder that the Galaxy S series is the industry leading phone range. So what is the Galaxy S series? Which model is best for you? And how does the Galaxy S series differ from other Samsung phone ranges?
Samsung Galaxy S Series explained
The Galaxy S series is Samsung's formidable smartphone range with dynamic displays, super fast processors and cutting edge cameras - each S series phone is impressive in its own right. Sitting right at the forefront of innovative phone technology, the S series has refined its offering to secure itself as Samsung’s premium line-up of handsets.
Samsung officially first unveiled the Galaxy S series in 2010 and at the time it was the most powerful phone on the market. It was an instant success with over 25 million units sold worldwide. Following the success of its predecessors Samsung continues to release new, upgraded versions of the S series each year with the latest jaw dropping Galaxy S23 range released in 2023.
Samsung S Series Explainer Video
How many Samsung S series phones are there?
Originating in 2010, the Samsung S series has continued to innovate and update its flagship S series each year with the most recent range being the Galaxy S23. Within each core Galaxy S release there are variations such as the Galaxy S23 | S23+ and in recent years there has been an ‘Ultra’ model which is even bigger and better still. 2023 saw the release of the latest noteworthy Galaxy S23 Ultra. With so many exceptional S series phones your only difficulty will be deciding on the right one for you.
2023 Models - S23
- Galaxy S23 Ultra | S23+ | S23
2022 Models - S22
- Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | S22+ 5G | S22 5G
- Galaxy S21 FE 5G
2021 Models - S21
- Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | S21+ 5G | S21 5G
2020 Models - S20
- Galaxy S20 FE 5G | S20 FE
- Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G | S20+ 5G | S20 5G | S20
- Galaxy S20 Enterprise Edition
2019 Models - S10
- Galaxy S10e | S10+ 5G | S10 5G | S10
- Galaxy S10 Lite
Preceding S series ranges:
- 2018 - Galaxy S9
- 2017 - Galaxy S8
- 2016 - Galaxy S7
- 2015 - Galaxy S6
- 2014 - Galaxy S5
- 2013 - Galaxy S4
- 2012 - Galaxy S3
- 2011 - Galaxy S2
- 2010 - Galaxy S
What is the latest Samsung S series phone?
The dazzling Galaxy S23 range is the latest Samsung Galaxy S series smartphone release. With three phenomenal phones available in the S23 series, it is the most powerful and long-lasting generation of Galaxy S Series smartphones yet. Each model benefits from intelligent dynamic displays, awesome processors and innovative cameras. Boasting the latest in phone technology advancements and future proofed with 5G capability, the S23 range turns heads for all the right reasons.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The epic Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the ultimate Galaxy S series smartphone - equipping you with everything you need to power through the day. There s a stunning 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2x display, with intelligent Adaptive Vision Booster technology and optimal 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-immersive viewing. With standout brightness, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is designed to be easy on the eyes whilst standing out from the crowd.
Whether it's work, play, or somewhere in between, your smartphone should always run smoothly. That's why with the latest Galaxy S23 Ultra and Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Processor*, you'll experience improved CPU, GPU and cooling system features1 that make small work of the big tasks. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the most powerful mobile chip in the Galaxy S series yet**.
Do you love capturing photos and video after dark? With Galaxy S23 Ultra, you'll be wowed with the quad-lens camera setup, which includes a head-spinning 200MP Ultra High Resolution Rear Camera. The latest version of Nightography boosts colours and sharpens details and now it's even built into the 12MP Dual Pixel Front-Facing Selfie Camera too. When it comes to photo and video editing the integrated S Pen lets you edit the smallest details with absolute precision.
And that's not all, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is equipped with a massive 5,000mAh (typical)2 intelligent battery*** so you can stay connected day and night. Find yourself running low? No problem. With 45W Super Fast Charging3 you'll never be caught short, so there's no need to stop doing what you do best. Available with up to 1TB of storage you can make, capture and store memories until your heart's content. If you're looking for the phone of the future with sensational cameras, battery life and powerful chip look no further than the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
- *Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.
- **when compared with Galaxy S22 devices
- ***Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
Noteworthy Specs:
- Dynamic 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED 2X display with Adaptive Vision Booster
- Integrated S Pen
- Cameras: 200MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 2 x 10MP telephoto, 12MP selfie (front)
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Battery: 5000mAh (typical)*
- Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2
- Armour Aluminium** frame
- IP68 Water Resistance rating***4
- *Typical value tested under 3rd party conditions. Rated minimum capacity is 4,855mAh.
- **Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ***Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone’s user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
- *Typical value tested under 3rd party conditions. Rated minimum capacity is 4,855mAh.
- **Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ***Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone’s user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
Samsung Galaxy S23+
With an impressive 6.6-inch Full HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display***, the Galaxy S23+ is perfect for bingeing on the latest Netflix series or playing epic graphic intensive games. With Adaptive Vision Booster technology built in to the Intelligent Display, you'll never struggle to watch a show on a sunny day, or be dazzled by it in the dark. Combined with latest Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Processor and 8GB RAM, you can unlock higher frame rates and enjoy sharper, more vivid graphics5, so even the most demanding online multiplayer marathons will feel like a breeze.
Benefitting from stunning 8K video capabilities and 5G connectivity there's no need to worry about running out of power. The Galaxy S23+ has a noteworthy 4700mAh (typical)6 battery*, so whether it's chatting on socials, shooting your own vlog or catching up with work emails you'll be covered morning, noon and night. When it's time to recharge, Super Fast Charging will get you back doing what you love most in no time. 25W/45W Travel Adapter sold separately.
Designed with an Armor Aluminium**** frame and Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 - the toughest glass on a Samsung smartphone - the Galaxy S23+ takes the title for durability. Plus, it’s IP68***** rated for dust and water resistance so there’s no need to worry if it accidentally finds itself in water. It's been tested to survive immersion in fresh water that is 1.5 metres deep for 30 minutes.**
- *As of February 1, 2023, based on specs and industry benchmarks conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
- **Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone’s user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
- ***The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster on Galaxy S23 Ultra received a certification from VDE Germany for 100 percent Mobile Colour Volume in the DCI-P3 colour range, which means your images aren’t washed out and you’ll get unbelievably vivid colours regardless of differing levels of brightness. The display can achieve peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, improving the contrast between dark and light aspects of digital content for a more brilliant picture quality, with a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio to make your mobile experience more immersive.
- ****Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- *****Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
Noteworthy Specs:
- 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display**
- Cameras: 50MP wide-angle, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, 12MP selfie (front)
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB
- 8K video resolution
- Battery: 4700mAh (typical)*
- 120Hz refresh rate
- IP68**** Water Resistance rating
- Armour Aluminium*** frame
- *As of February 1, 2023, based on specs and industry benchmarks conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
- **The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster on Galaxy S23 Ultra received a certification from VDE Germany for 100 percent Mobile Colour Volume in the DCI-P3 colour range, which means your images aren’t washed out and you’ll get unbelievably vivid colours regardless of differing levels of brightness. The display can achieve peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, improving the contrast between dark and light aspects of digital content for a more brilliant picture quality, with a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio to make your mobile experience more immersive.
- ***Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ****Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
- *As of February 1, 2023, based on specs and industry benchmarks conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
- **The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster on Galaxy S23 Ultra received a certification from VDE Germany for 100 percent Mobile Colour Volume in the DCI-P3 colour range, which means your images aren’t washed out and you’ll get unbelievably vivid colours regardless of differing levels of brightness. The display can achieve peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, improving the contrast between dark and light aspects of digital content for a more brilliant picture quality, with a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio to make your mobile experience more immersive.
- ***Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ****Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
Samsung Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S23 revolutionises video and photograph with three superb rear cameras comprising a 10MP telephoto camera, a 12MP ultra wide camera and a 50MP wide-angle camera. There's also a 12MP front selfie camera so you can capture social feed-ready photos without the need for any editing. That’s not all, the AI analyses the environment around you, adapting to lighting and angles making sure all your pictures always look their best. Even video recording will be smoother, thanks to Digital Image Stabilisation. Capture content with the 50MP Wide lens for 4x wider dynamic range and 3x Optical Zoom to get you closer to the action without the noise.
Noteworthy Specs:
- 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display**
- Cameras: 50MP wide-angle, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, 12MP selfie (front)
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB
- 8K video resolution
- Battery: 3900mAh (typical)*
- 120Hz refresh rate
- IP68**** Water Resistance rating
- Armour Aluminium*** frame
- *As of February 1, 2023, based on specs and industry benchmarks conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
- **The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster on Galaxy S23 Ultra received a certification from VDE Germany for 100 percent Mobile Colour Volume in the DCI-P3 colour range, which means your images aren’t washed out and you’ll get unbelievably vivid colours regardless of differing levels of brightness. The display can achieve peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, improving the contrast between dark and light aspects of digital content for a more brilliant picture quality, with a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio to make your mobile experience more immersive.
- ***Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ****Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
- *As of February 1, 2023, based on specs and industry benchmarks conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3785mAh for Galaxy S23, 4565mAh for Galaxy S23+ and 4855mAh for Galaxy S23 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
- **The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster on Galaxy S23 Ultra received a certification from VDE Germany for 100 percent Mobile Colour Volume in the DCI-P3 colour range, which means your images aren’t washed out and you’ll get unbelievably vivid colours regardless of differing levels of brightness. The display can achieve peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, improving the contrast between dark and light aspects of digital content for a more brilliant picture quality, with a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio to make your mobile experience more immersive.
- ***Back glass does not include camera glass. Frame does not include volume and side keys or SIM tray.
- ****Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone's user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
Which Samsung S Series has the best camera?
The phenomenal Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is not only the leading camera smartphone in the S series but in fact the whole Galaxy range. With four cutting-edge rear cameras, the Galaxy S23 Ultra gives you all you want from your camera and more.
Boasting a staggering 200MP wide-angle camera, 12MP ultra-wide and two 10MP telephoto cameras on the rear, you'll find a camera lens for every moment. There's also a 12MP dual pixel, front-facing, selfie camera too.
There's a wealth of camera modes to explore from Night mode to Director’s View. When it comes to shooting in low-light conditions, the latest version of Nightography boosts colours and sharpens details even further than before. It can distinguish between different textures in low-lit environments, so after dark photos look as detailed as real life.
The 12MP Dual Pixel Auto Focus Front-Facing Camera is precise and fast focusing, for clear, bright, sharp selfies even in low-light conditions. Your videos will be smoother thanks to Adaptive Video Digital Image Stabilisation and Optical Image Stabilisation, keeping annoying camera shakes at bay. And with improved integration with your social apps, you can share your favourite moments with friends and family in an instant.
Discover more about the newest Samsung Galaxy S series and how the models compare, in our 'Introducing Samsung Galaxy S23' guide.
Are the Samsung S series phones water resistant?
All the latest models in the Galaxy S range have an IP68 rating¹⁰. This means they can be in fresh water for up to 30 minutes in 1.5m of water, so there’s no need to panic if it accidentally ends up in the sink or down the toilet! Submersion in up to 1.5m of freshwater for up to 30min (not advised for beach or pool use).
Chlorine and salty seawater aren't covered by the IP68 rating so best avoid jumping into the pool or sea with your phone to avoid damaging it.
*Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone’s user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
Galaxy S Series with IP68 rating:
- S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra
- S22 / S22+ / S22 Ultra
- S21 5G / S21+ 5G / S21 Ultra 5G / S21 Fan Edition
- S20 5G / S20+ 5G / S20 Ultra 5G / S20 Fan Edition
- S10e / S10 / S10+
- S9 / S9+ / S9 Active
- S8 / S8+ / S8 Active
- S7 / S7 edge / S7 Active
*Based on test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use.
*Based on test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use.
What’s the difference between the Galaxy S series and A Series?
The Galaxy S series is Samsung's high-end range of flagship smartphones. You’ll find the latest in technology advancements, sublime design features and epic processing power. If you’re a photographer, vlogger, frequent gamer or use your phone intensively all day you won’t be disappointed with the highly acclaimed Galaxy S series.
By comparison the Galaxy A series is Samsung’s awesome mid-range of smartphones that combine innovative features with top quality software and hardware. The Galaxy A series is Samsung’s top selling range of smartphones - known for its affordability, all round great performance and long lasting battery. The A series is a great option for those looking for an exceptional all-round smartphone at an affordable price, for everyday use.
What’s the difference between the Galaxy S series and Z Series?
Unlike the Galaxy S range, the Galaxy Z series has ultra-thin flexible glass displays that enables them to fold and bend into pocket sized smartphones. There is greater flexibility and multitasking opportunities with the Galaxy Z's multiple screens and Flex Mode options. You can enjoy a split screen with up to 5 apps in pop-up view with the Galaxy Z Flip4 for example. Galaxy Z phones including the Galaxy Z Fold4 are highly futuristic in style - combining the functionality of a tablet and a compact phone in one smart device. When it comes to the cameras, both the Galaxy S and Z series boast 8K video recording, a stunning range of camera modes and a multitude of industry leading phone cameras. However, for many, the Galaxy S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra are considered to have some of the best camera smartphone setups on the market today with revolutionary night cameras and epic Optical Zoom functions.
If you’re looking for:
Flexible Screen options - Galaxy Z series
Cutting Edge Cameras - Galaxy S Series
Fastest Processor - Galaxy S23 models
Long Lasting Battery - Galaxy S Series
Best for Gaming & Multitasking - Galaxy Z Series or Galaxy S23/22 Ultra models
- 1. Compared against Galaxy S22 Series.
- 2. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Rated minimum capacity of Galaxy S23+ is 4,565mAh.
- 3. 45W Travel Adapter sold separately. Charging speeds may vary by device. Actual charging speed may also vary depending on usage, charging conditions, and other factors.
- 4. Submersion in up to 1.5m of freshwater for up to 30min (not advised for beach or pool use).
- 5. Compared against Galaxy S22 Series
- 6. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 4275mAh. Estimated against the usage profile of an average/typical user. Independently assessed by Strategy Analytics between 2022.07.07-07.12 in USA with pre-release versions of SM-F936U under default setting using 5G Sub6 networks (NOT tested under 5G mmWave network). Actual battery life varies by network environment, features and apps used, frequency of calls and messages, number of times charged, and many other factors.
- 10. Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra are rated as IP68. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Ensure the charging port is dry before charging. Please refer to your phone’s user manual for further care instructions and limitations.
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