The Galaxy S23 Ultra is two generations old, which on Telkom usually makes it the cheapest route 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 keeps something the newer Ultras gave up: 10x optical zoom. The S24 and S25 Ultra both moved to 5x, so for distance photography the older model actually reaches further.
Coverage first, as on any Telkom contract — then weigh the curved display against the flat ones that followed.
Compare options
| What to compare | Why it matters on Telkom |
|---|---|
| Coverage at your address | The first check on any Telkom mobile contract |
| S Pen | Built into the handset — the Ultra’s defining feature |
| Data allocation | Where Telkom typically competes hardest |
| Monthly instalment | High on an Ultra; the 24-month total is what counts |
| Storage size | 256GB entry point, and not expandable |
| Online vs in-store offer | Some Telkom deals are online-exclusive |
| Trade-in value | Substantial on recent Samsung flagships |
| Insurance | The outstanding balance is large if the handset is lost |
Pricing, bundles and stock change regularly. Confirm the current deal and the total contract cost with Telkom before applying.
Compare by network, brand or budget
Against other networks. See Samsung S23 Ultra MTN contract deals and Samsung S23 Ultra Vodacom contract deals.
Against newer Ultras on Telkom. See Samsung S24 Ultra Telkom contract deals and Samsung S25 Ultra Telkom contract deals.
Against a standard S-series. Much cheaper without the S Pen or extended zoom. See Samsung S25 Telkom 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.
You want the cheapest Ultra on Telkom. Two generations back usually means the lowest instalment.
You dislike curved displays. This is the last curved Ultra; the S24 Ultra moved to flat, which most users find easier for S Pen writing.
You need the longest support window. A newer Ultra will outlast this one.
You will not use the S Pen. A standard S-series handset saves considerably each month.
Related parent and child options
Related child pages
- Telkom deals — Telkom’s full contract range.
- Samsung S23 Ultra contract deals — the model across all networks.
- Samsung S24 Ultra Telkom contract deals — the next generation on the same network.
- Samsung S25 Telkom contract deals — the compact standard model.
- Samsung contract deals — the full range.
What to check before applying
- Total contract cost — monthly instalment × 24, plus any upfront amount.
- Coverage at your exact addresses, then the anytime data allocation.
- 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.
- Telkom coverage at your home and work addresses.
Telkom contract applications are subject to Telkom’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.
Is the S Pen replaceable if lost?
Yes. Replacement styluses are sold separately and are inexpensive relative to the handset.
Can I expand the storage?
No. Galaxy S flagships do not support microSD cards, so choose your tier at purchase.
How good is Telkom coverage?
It varies by area. Use Telkom’s coverage map for your specific addresses before committing.
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 Telkom?
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.
Can I get it online from Telkom?
Telkom sells much of its range online, sometimes with online-exclusive pricing. On a pre-owned flagship, confirm the condition grading and returns window before ordering without seeing it.
Compare your options: browse the full Telkom range, or see contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.