Why the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best phone on the market in May 2025. $600 vs $1300!

Is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Still a Great Phone in 2025? Point to note: It costs only around $600, while the newer models cost $1299

Let’s put it this way: the Galaxy S23 Ultra isn’t just surviving in 2025 — it’s thriving. Even two years after launch, it’s still one of the most powerful and capable Android phones around. Sure, it’s not the latest shiny toy anymore, but unless you need the absolute newest features (and are willing to pay a premium), it’s still a beast.

💨 Performance: Still Fast, Still Flagship
The S23 Ultra runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which was overkill fast when it came out, and still handles everything in 2025 like a champ. Whether you’re gaming, editing 4K video, juggling 12 apps, or using DeX mode (turning your phone into a mini desktop), this phone doesn’t flinch.

You might notice a tiny speed edge in newer phones (S24 Ultra or S25 Ultra), but in real life, you’re not going to care. Unless you’re benchmarking for fun, the performance difference is negligible.

📷 Camera System: Still an Elite Shooter
Here’s where the S23 Ultra continues to shine:

200MP main camera delivers absurd detail. Even in 2025, most phones haven’t caught up to this level of sharpness and versatility.

10x optical zoom is still basically unmatched — if you like shooting from a distance (concerts, wildlife, candid shots), this is your phone.

Night mode is great, color science is natural, and video recording is ultra-stable.

If you care about photography, this phone still holds its own against even 2025 flagships.

🔋 Battery Life: Still Strong
With a 5,000 mAh battery, the S23 Ultra is built for endurance. You’ll typically get:

A full day of mixed use with no problem

Up to 1.5 days with light-to-moderate use

If the battery’s had two years of use, it might not be as fresh, but you can easily replace it if needed — and that’ll breathe new life into the device.

🖊️ S Pen: Underrated and Still Unique
Samsung’s S Pen is still a rare feature in 2025 — and super handy if you like:

Taking handwritten notes

Sketching or annotating

Remote controlling the camera or slides

It makes the S23 Ultra feel more like a productivity tool than just a phone — and no major iPhone or Pixel has anything like it yet.

🛡️ Software Support: Still Going Strong
Samsung promised:

4 years of Android OS updates

5 years of security patches

Since the S23 Ultra launched in early 2023, that means you’re covered with:

Android version updates until early 2027

Security updates until early 2028

So you’re not stuck with outdated software or unpatched vulnerabilities — a big win for Android.

📉 Price in 2025: Great Bang for Your Buck
Here’s the kicker: the S23 Ultra now often sells for hundreds less than new flagships, especially if you buy it refurbished or during a sale.

You’re getting:

Flagship-grade performance

Best-in-class camera and zoom

Stylus features no one else offers

Premium build (metal + glass, IP68 waterproofing)

…for way less than a new S24 Ultra or iPhone 17 Pro Max.

🚫 When NOT to Buy It
Let’s be honest, there are a few situations where it might not be the best fit:

You want the newest AI features, like generative wallpapers, voice-based photo editing, or live translation baked into everything — newer models may do these better.

You plan to use the phone for 4+ more years — it’ll still get updates through 2027/2028, but after that, you’re on your own.

You’re super picky about battery longevity — if it’s been used heavily for two years and not replaced, you might need a battery swap soon.

✅ Bottom Line: Is It Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Absolutely — if you want a powerful, reliable flagship phone without the flagship price.
It’s like buying a luxury car that’s two years old: you’re getting 90% of the latest features for 60% of the price. For most people, that’s a win.

Also read: https://thephoneyguy.com/samsung-galaxy-s23-ultra-is-this-flagship-still-worth-it-in-2025/