The Galaxy S23 Ultra was the generation that introduced Samsung’s 200-megapixel main camera, and it carries the same built-in S Pen as later Ultras. Two generations on, it is usually the cheapest way onto the Ultra line.
The visible difference from newer Ultras is the display: the S23 Ultra has curved edges, where the S24 Ultra moved to a flat screen and a titanium frame. Whether you prefer curved or flat is genuinely a matter of taste — some people find curved edges elegant, others find they cause accidental touches, particularly when writing with the S Pen.
If you want the S Pen at the lowest monthly cost, this is where to look.
Brand or model deal overview
| Consideration | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz, curved edges |
| S Pen | Built into the handset |
| Cameras | 200MP main — introduced on this generation — plus telephoto lenses with 10x optical |
| Build | Aluminium frame (titanium arrived with the S24 Ultra) |
| Charging | USB-C |
| Storage | 256GB up to 1TB, not expandable |
| Availability | Limited new stock; increasingly certified pre-owned |
| Software support | Still within Samsung’s update commitment — confirm the remaining period |
Older flagship stock and pricing vary. Confirm handset condition, remaining software support and total contract cost before applying.
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Network options
Two generations back, availability thins and shifts toward pre-owned. Where listed, compare:
- whether the handset is new or certified pre-owned;
- battery health if pre-owned, disclosed in writing;
- the warranty and who honours it;
- storage size;
- the monthly instalment and contract term;
- the data allocation bundled;
- remaining software-support period;
- coverage at your usual locations.
One point worth noting: the S23 Ultra’s 10x optical telephoto gives it longer reach than the S24 Ultra’s 5x, even though it is the older phone. If long-range zoom matters, that is a real reason to prefer it.
Compare by budget
Budget options
Cheapest route to an S Pen flagship. The main argument. Same built-in stylus as newer Ultras at a considerably lower monthly cost.
Longest optical zoom in the Ultra line. The 10x telephoto outreaches newer Ultras.
Certified pre-owned. A further saving. Check battery health and warranty carefully on a handset of this age.
Compare against the S24 Ultra. Flat display, titanium frame, newer chip — but 5x rather than 10x zoom. See Samsung S24 Ultra contract deals.
Compare against a current mid-range. At a similar monthly cost you could have a newer A-series handset with full support life, but a much weaker camera system.
Total cost. Monthly × term plus upfront, weighed against remaining support life.
Current and older alternatives
Alternative models
Samsung S24 Ultra. Flat display, titanium, newer chip, 5x zoom. See Samsung S24 Ultra contract deals.
Samsung S25 Ultra. The current flagship. See Samsung S25 Ultra contract deals.
Samsung S24. The compact standard model, much cheaper, no S Pen. See Samsung S24 contract deals.
Samsung A56. Mid-range, at a fraction of the monthly cost. See Samsung A56 contract deals.
iPhone Pro Max models. Cross-platform comparison. See iPhone 15 Pro Max contract deals.
The trade is straightforward: an older flagship with better zoom and a curved screen, against a newer one with a nicer frame and more remaining support.
What to check before applying
- Remaining software-support period — the key question on a two-generation-old flagship.
- New or certified pre-owned, and the warranty attached.
- Battery health if pre-owned, in writing.
- Storage capacity — not expandable.
- Whether you prefer a curved display — handle one if you can.
- Total contract cost — monthly × term, plus upfront.
- Early cancellation terms.
- Insurance at this handset value.
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 Ultra still worth buying?
It can be, if the monthly saving against newer Ultras is meaningful. It has the same S Pen, a 200MP camera and longer optical zoom than the S24 Ultra. Check how much software support remains before committing to 24 months.
Does the S23 Ultra have a better camera than the S24 Ultra?
Not overall, but it has longer optical reach — 10x against the S24 Ultra’s 5x. Newer models generally process images better. Which matters more depends on whether you shoot at distance.
Does the S23 Ultra come with the S Pen?
Yes, built into the handset, as on all Ultra models.
What is the difference between the S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra?
The S24 Ultra has a flat display, a titanium frame and a newer chip; the S23 Ultra has curved edges, an aluminium frame and longer 10x optical zoom.
Is a curved display a problem?
It depends on preference. Some people find curved edges cause accidental touches, particularly when writing with the S Pen. Others prefer the look. Handle one before deciding.
How much longer will it receive updates?
It remains within Samsung’s extended update commitment, but with less time remaining than newer models. Confirm the current end date on Samsung’s support pages before signing a 24-month contract.
Is the S Pen replaceable if I lose it?
Yes — replacement styluses are sold separately and are inexpensive relative to the handset. Losing one is annoying rather than serious, and the phone functions normally without it.
What happens at the end of the contract?
The handset is paid off and becomes yours, but the plan usually rolls on month-to-month at the same price unless you act. Diarise the date.
Compare your options: see all Samsung contract deals, or browse contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.