The Galaxy S23 Ultra is two generations old now, which on MTN usually makes it the cheapest way onto the Ultra line. It carries the same built-in S Pen as newer Ultras and introduced Samsung’s 200-megapixel main camera.
It also has something the newer Ultras gave up: 10x optical zoom. The S24 and S25 Ultra both moved to 5x. If long-range photography is why you want an Ultra, the older model actually reaches further.
The trade is the curved display and a shorter remaining update window.
Compare options
| What to compare | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| S Pen | Built into the handset — the Ultra’s defining feature |
| Monthly instalment | High on an Ultra; the 24-month total is what counts |
| Which plan tier | Determines the data and the advertised price |
| Data allocation | Check the anytime portion, not the headline figure |
| Storage size | 256GB entry point, and not expandable |
| Trade-in value | Substantial on recent Samsung flagships |
| Insurance | The outstanding balance is large if the handset is lost |
| Handset condition | New or certified pre-owned |
Pricing, bundles and stock change regularly. Confirm the current deal and the total contract cost with MTN before applying.
Compare by network, brand or budget
Against other networks. See Samsung S23 Ultra Telkom contract deals and Samsung S23 Ultra Vodacom contract deals.
Against newer Ultras on MTN. The S24 Ultra adds a flat display and titanium; the S25 Ultra refines further. See Samsung S24 Ultra MTN contract deals and Samsung S25 Ultra MTN contract deals.
Against a standard S-series. Much cheaper without the S Pen or extended zoom. See Samsung S24 MTN contract deals.
Best-fit use cases
Use-case considerations
You use the S Pen. Built into the handset, and the reason to choose an Ultra at all.
You photograph at distance. The 10x optical reach exceeds both newer Ultras — a genuine and often overlooked advantage.
You want the cheapest Ultra on MTN. Two generations back usually means the lowest instalment in the line.
You dislike curved displays. This is the last curved Ultra; the S24 Ultra moved to flat. Some find curved edges cause stray inputs when writing with the S Pen.
You need the longest support window. A newer Ultra will outlast this one.
You will not use the S Pen. Then a standard S-series or A-series handset saves considerably.
Related parent and child options
Related child pages
- MTN deals — MTN’s full contract range.
- MTN Samsung deals — every Samsung MTN lists.
- Samsung S23 Ultra contract deals — the model across all networks.
- Samsung S24 Ultra MTN contract deals — the next generation on the same network.
- Samsung S24 MTN contract deals — the compact standard model.
What to check before applying
- Total contract cost — monthly instalment × 24, plus any upfront amount.
- The data allocation, and how much of it is anytime data.
- Storage capacity on the specific listing.
- Data allocation, and what happens when it runs out — out-of-bundle rates or a hard stop.
- Handset condition — new or certified pre-owned — and the warranty.
- Early cancellation terms, including the outstanding handset balance.
- What the plan reverts to at the end of the term.
- Insurance, since the outstanding balance stays payable if the handset is lost or stolen.
- MTN coverage at your home and work addresses.
MTN contract applications are subject to MTN’s own checks — identification, proof of address, banking details, RICA registration, and generally a credit and affordability assessment. Requirements can change. Approval is not guaranteed.
FAQs
Does the S23 Ultra have better zoom than newer Ultras?
It has longer optical reach — 10x against the 5x on the S24 and S25 Ultra. Newer models process images better overall, but for distant subjects the older reach can be the advantage.
Is the curved display a problem with the S Pen?
Some users find curved edges cause stray inputs when writing near the sides. Samsung moved to a flat display on the S24 Ultra partly for that reason. Handle one if you write a lot.
Is the S Pen replaceable if lost?
Yes. Replacement styluses are sold separately and are inexpensive relative to the handset, and the phone works normally without one.
Can I expand the storage?
No. Galaxy S flagships do not support microSD cards, so choose your tier at purchase.
What happens at the end of the contract?
The handset is paid off and becomes yours, but the plan commonly continues month-to-month at the same price unless you act. Diarise the end date and either move to SIM-only or upgrade — continuing means paying a handset-inclusive rate for service alone.
Can I keep my number if I switch to MTN?
Number portability applies between South African providers, so you can bring your existing number. Confirm the porting process and timing before switching, and do not cancel your old plan until the port has completed.
Compare your options: browse the full MTN range, or see contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.