Galaxy S23 vs Motorola Edge 30 Neo

Galaxy S23
Galaxy S23
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$504.00

Versus A$1,458.00 new

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Motorola Edge 30 Neo
Motorola Edge 30 Neo
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$306.00

Versus A$414.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 (2023) and the Motorola Edge 30 Neo (2022) are both Android smartphones, yet they cater to different user expectations through their distinct hardware and software approaches. While the Galaxy S23 offers a compact flagship experience with advanced processing power and an extensive camera system, the Motorola Edge 30 Neo focuses on a lightweight design and a vibrant display for everyday use. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they differ significantly in their long-term software support and overall performance capabilities.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release age, software support, and physical durability features. These aspects determine how long a device remains functional and secure for daily use.

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The Samsung Galaxy S23, released in February 2023, benefits from Samsung's commitment to providing four major Android operating system updates and five years of security updates, extending its support until approximately 2028. This means it will receive updates up to Android 17. In contrast, the Motorola Edge 30 Neo, launched in September 2022, was promised two major OS updates and three years of security updates. Its official software support concluded in September 2025, meaning it no longer receives regular security patches or OS upgrades.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S23 features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating it can withstand immersion in water. It also incorporates durable glass protection on its display. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo has an IP52 rating, offering protection against dust and light splashes of water.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and robust physical protection will find the Galaxy S23 offers a longer practical lifespan. For those who typically upgrade their devices more frequently or have less stringent security update requirements, the Edge 30 Neo's lifespan might align with their usage patterns.

Release year

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, with the internal components dictating how smoothly applications run, how quickly tasks are completed, and the overall responsiveness of the device.

  • Processing Power: The Samsung Galaxy S23 is equipped with a high-performance processor specifically optimized for Samsung devices, enabling it to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphics-intensive gaming with exceptional speed and efficiency. Users report smooth performance without significant lag or hiccups, even after extended use. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo utilizes a mid-range processor, which provides adequate performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and light gaming. However, it may exhibit slower app loading times and less fluid performance compared to devices with more powerful chipsets.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 has a 3900 mAh battery, which users generally find sufficient for a full day of moderate use, thanks in part to its efficient processor. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo features a slightly larger 4020 mAh battery. While it also typically lasts a full day, heavy users might find themselves needing to recharge before the day ends.
  • System Responsiveness and Multitasking: The Galaxy S23 offers 8GB of RAM, contributing to its ability to manage multiple applications simultaneously without slowdowns, providing a highly responsive user experience. The Edge 30 Neo is available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, which is generally sufficient for typical multitasking, though it may not match the seamless transitions and background app retention of the Galaxy S23.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for user interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo comes with a 6.28-inch pOLED display, which also delivers rich colors and strong contrast. Both offer a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 for S23, 2400 x 1080 for Edge 30 Neo), providing clear and sharp visuals for daily content consumption.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy S23 boasts a significantly higher peak brightness of 1750 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo has a peak brightness of approximately 470 cd/m², which is adequate for most indoor and moderately lit outdoor environments but may struggle more under direct sunlight.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both smartphones feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and a more responsive feel during interactions and gaming. The Galaxy S23's adaptive refresh rate can adjust to conserve battery life.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

P-OLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and these devices offer different photographic experiences.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. This configuration allows for detailed photos, effective optical zoom, and expansive wide-angle shots. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo has a dual-camera system, comprising a 64MP main sensor with OIS and a 13MP ultrawide lens that also functions for macro photography.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 is praised for producing pleasing, vibrant photos with clean detail in various lighting conditions, including strong low-light performance and impressive night mode capabilities. Its zoom capabilities are also noted for quality. The Edge 30 Neo's cameras perform well in good lighting, capturing decent detail and color. However, its low-light performance is generally considered average and may struggle in challenging conditions.
  • Video Recording and Audio: The Galaxy S23 is capable of recording video at resolutions up to 8K, offering high-detail footage. It also provides good video stabilization. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo's video recording is limited to 1080p resolution, which is suitable for casual use but lacks the detail of higher-resolution options. Both devices offer stereo speakers for media consumption, with the Edge 30 Neo featuring Dolby Atmos enhancement.

Main camera

50 megapixels

64 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily convenience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S23 features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, along with a USB-C 3.2 port. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo includes dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1, with a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security and Sensors: Both smartphones incorporate an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The Galaxy S23 also offers face recognition. Both devices include standard sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and compasses.
  • Design, Weight, and Handling: The Galaxy S23 has dimensions of 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm and weighs 168g, offering a compact and comfortable feel in hand. The Motorola Edge 30 Neo is slightly larger at 152.9 x 71.2 x 7.8 mm but lighter at 155g, contributing to its sleek and portable design. The Edge 30 Neo is also notable for its range of Pantone-approved color options.

Weight

168 oz

155 oz

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.28

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S23 and Motorola Edge 30 Neo present distinct propositions for smartphone users. The Galaxy S23 is frequently praised by users for its powerful performance, capable camera system, and bright, vibrant display. Users appreciate its compact size for comfortable handling and its robust software support policy, which ensures long-term usability and security. Some common observations include its charging speed being slower than its larger siblings and its color processing sometimes leading to slightly oversaturated images compared to more natural tones.

The Motorola Edge 30 Neo is often noted for its attractive, lightweight design and its bright, smooth 120Hz pOLED display. Its fast wired charging is also a positive point for users. However, frequent criticisms revolve around its mid-range performance, which can feel less responsive for demanding tasks, and its camera's limitations, particularly in low-light conditions and video recording quality. A significant concern for potential users is its limited software update policy, with official support having concluded in late 2025.

Users prioritizing a compact device with top-tier performance, a versatile camera, and extensive software longevity will find the Samsung Galaxy S23 well-suited to their needs. It is an ideal choice for those who intend to keep their device for several years and require consistent updates and security. Conversely, users who value a lightweight, stylish design, a vibrant display for media consumption, and faster charging, and who are comfortable with a shorter software support window, may lean toward the Motorola Edge 30 Neo. For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new, aligning with sustainable consumption practices.

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