The Galaxy S23 is the compact flagship from Samsung’s 2023 generation — a genuinely small phone with full flagship internals, which is a combination that has become rare. Three generations on it is one of the cheaper routes to a proper S-series handset.
Its appeal now is straightforward: flagship chip and cameras, a size most phones abandoned, and a monthly figure well below current models. Its limitation is equally clear — the update window is partly consumed, so check how much remains against a 24-month term.
If small matters to you, the S23 is worth comparing against every current alternative.
Brand or model deal overview
| Consideration | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch AMOLED, 120Hz — compact by current standards |
| Size | One of the smallest full flagships still available |
| Cameras | Triple system with a 50MP main sensor and 3x telephoto |
| Build | Aluminium frame with glass, flat display |
| S Pen | Not supported — Ultra models only |
| Storage | 128GB and 256GB tiers, not expandable |
| Update commitment | Partly consumed — confirm the remaining period |
| Availability | Mix of remaining new stock and certified pre-owned |
Older flagship stock varies and pricing moves with promotions. Confirm condition, remaining update life and total contract cost before applying.
Compare by network
Network options
Where an older flagship is still carried, it is often the strongest value in a network’s S-series range. Compare:
- whether the listing is new or certified pre-owned;
- battery health if pre-owned, disclosed in writing;
- the warranty and who honours it;
- storage size — 128GB or 256GB, not expandable;
- remaining software-support period;
- the monthly instalment and the data attached;
- coverage at your usual locations.
The remaining support window is the figure that separates this from a current model. Ask for it before comparing prices.
Compare by budget
Budget options
Cheapest compact flagship. The core argument. Few current phones combine this size with flagship internals, and none of them are cheap.
Compare against the S24. One generation newer with more support life, often for a modest increase. See Samsung S24 contract deals.
Compare against the FE line. A Fan Edition handset is newer with full support life, at similar pricing, though larger and slightly less capable. See Samsung S25 FE contract deals.
Compare against the upper A-series. A current A5x model costs less with full update life but a weaker chip. See Samsung A55 contract deals.
Certified pre-owned. A further saving. Check battery health and warranty carefully.
Current and older alternatives
Alternative models
Samsung S24. The next generation, same compact size, more support remaining. See Samsung S24 contract deals.
Samsung S23 Ultra. Same generation, much larger, with the S Pen and a 200MP camera. See Samsung S23 Ultra contract deals.
Samsung S22. One generation older and cheaper again. See Samsung S22 contract deals.
Samsung S25 FE. Newer, larger, with full support life. See Samsung S25 FE contract deals.
The deciding question is usually size against support life. If a compact phone is what you want, the S23 has few rivals at this price. If size is not the driver, a newer handset will last longer.
What to check before applying
- Remaining software-support period — the key question on a 2023 flagship.
- New or certified pre-owned, and the warranty attached.
- Battery health if pre-owned, in writing.
- Storage capacity — 128GB or 256GB, not expandable.
- Total contract cost — monthly × term, plus upfront.
- How the price compares to an S24 over the full term.
- Data allocation and out-of-bundle rates.
- Early cancellation terms.
- Coverage at your home and work addresses.
Contract applications are subject to the provider’s own checks — identification, proof of address, banking details, RICA registration, and generally a credit and affordability assessment. Approval is not guaranteed.
FAQs
Is the Samsung S23 still worth buying?
At the right price, yes — particularly if you want a compact phone. Flagship chip and cameras in a 6.1-inch body is uncommon. Check the remaining update window against the contract length.
How small is the S23 really?
It is one of the smallest full flagships still sold, noticeably more manageable one-handed than most current phones. If that is what you are after, handle one to confirm.
What is the difference between the S23 and S23 Ultra?
Considerable. The Ultra is much larger, adds the built-in S Pen, a 200MP main camera and extended telephoto reach. The S23 is the compact model without any of those.
Should I get the S23 or a newer mid-range phone?
The S23 has the better chip and cameras; a current A5x or FE model has more remaining support. If you keep phones a long time, the newer handset may serve you better.
Can I expand the storage?
No. Galaxy S flagships do not support microSD cards, so choose your capacity at purchase.
Is a certified pre-owned S23 a good buy?
It can be — check the battery health figure, the warranty period and the returns policy. On a three-year-old flagship the battery is the component most likely to have degraded.
What happens at the end of the contract?
The handset is paid off and becomes yours, but the plan usually continues month-to-month at the same price unless you act. Diarise the end date and move to SIM-only or upgrade.
Is the charger included?
No. Samsung has not shipped chargers with recent flagships. Check the box contents and add a compatible fast charger if you do not own one.
Does the compact size hurt battery life?
Somewhat — a smaller body holds a smaller battery, and the S23 is a genuinely compact flagship. It manages a normal day for most users, but heavy users should expect to charge before evening.
Compare your options: see all Samsung contract deals, or browse contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.