Galaxy S23 vs Oppo Reno 8

Galaxy S23
Galaxy S23
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$504.00

Versus A$1,458.00 new

See options
Oppo Reno 8
Oppo Reno 8
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$246.00

Versus A$1,159.00 new

See options

The Samsung Galaxy S23, released in February 2023, and the Oppo Reno 8, launched in July 2022, are both Android smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S23 focuses on a compact design with advanced processing power and extended software support, the Oppo Reno 8 emphasizes rapid charging capabilities and a larger display. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they differ in their software update policies and hardware configurations, catering to varying user priorities.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support play a significant role.

  • Software Longevity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 was released with Android 13 and is expected to receive four major Android OS upgrades, extending its support until Android 17, along with five years of security updates until at least 2028. The Oppo Reno 8, launched with Android 12, typically receives fewer major OS updates, generally around two to three years, and three to four years of security patches.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S23 features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, offering robust protection against environmental elements. It also incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced screen durability. The Oppo Reno 8 uses Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection but does not carry an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and higher resistance to physical damage may find the Galaxy S23 to offer a longer practical lifespan. The Oppo Reno 8, while durable for everyday use, may see its software support conclude sooner.

Release year

2023

2022

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

  • Processing Power: The Samsung Galaxy S23 is equipped with a processor designed specifically for Galaxy devices, which provides enhanced speed and efficiency for demanding applications and multitasking. This results in smooth operation and responsive handling of various tasks. The Oppo Reno 8 utilizes a different processor that capably handles everyday applications and most games, though some highly demanding titles might require adjusting graphics settings for optimal fluidity.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer 8GB of RAM, ensuring competent multitasking. The Galaxy S23 provides storage options up to 512GB, with 256GB and 512GB variants utilizing faster UFS 4.0 storage technology. The Oppo Reno 8 is available with up to 256GB of internal storage.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 features a 3900 mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient processor and display, generally provides sufficient power for a full day of mixed usage. The Oppo Reno 8 has a larger 4500 mAh battery, often delivering a full day or more of power. A notable difference is the Oppo Reno 8's very fast 80W wired charging, capable of reaching a significant charge in a short period, while the Galaxy S23 supports up to 25W wired charging.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, influencing everything from content consumption to daily navigation.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a sharp 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution. The Oppo Reno 8 comes with a slightly larger 6.4-inch AMOLED display, also providing clear visuals and vivid colors at a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S23 boasts a peak brightness of 1750 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, and an adaptive refresh rate that ranges from 48Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and animations. The Oppo Reno 8 offers a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth visual experience, and a peak brightness of around 800 nits, which is suitable for most indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S23's display is noted for its power efficiency due to a newer OLED panel. Both phones offer a high-quality viewing experience, with the Galaxy S23 excelling in peak brightness and adaptive refresh rate, while the Oppo Reno 8 provides a slightly larger screen for content consumption.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080x2400

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a key consideration for many users, impacting the quality of photos and videos captured.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung Galaxy S23 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. The Oppo Reno 8 also has a triple-camera system, comprising a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 delivers sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors, performing well in various lighting conditions, including low light. Its telephoto lens offers greater zoom flexibility. The Oppo Reno 8's main camera also captures vivid and accurate colors, with good low-light performance.
  • Video and Front Camera: The Galaxy S23 supports video recording up to 8K at 30 frames per second and features a 12MP front camera. The Oppo Reno 8 records video up to 4K at 30 frames per second and includes a higher-resolution 32MP front camera, which is noted for producing detailed selfies.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Samsung Galaxy S23 supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, offering advanced wireless connectivity, and features a USB-C 3.2 port for faster data transfer. The Oppo Reno 8 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, with a USB-C 2.0 port. Both devices offer 5G connectivity.
  • Biometrics and Design: Both smartphones incorporate under-display fingerprint sensors and face recognition for secure unlocking. The Galaxy S23 has dimensions of 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm and weighs 168g, featuring an Armor Aluminum frame. The Oppo Reno 8 is slightly larger and heavier at 160.6 x 73.4 x 7.7 mm and 179g, with a plastic frame and glass back.
  • Handling and Build: The more compact size and lighter weight of the Galaxy S23 may appeal to users preferring a smaller device for one-handed use. The Oppo Reno 8's design, while visually appealing, has been noted by some users as potentially slippery, suggesting a case might enhance grip.

Weight

168 oz

200 oz

Screen size (in)

6.1

6,43

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S23 often praises its powerful performance, excellent camera capabilities, and the promise of long-term software support. Many users appreciate its compact form factor and the vibrant, bright display. Criticisms are less common but sometimes point to the battery life, though it is generally considered sufficient for a full day of use.

The Oppo Reno 8 receives commendation for its exceptionally fast charging, which is a significant convenience for users needing quick power top-ups. Its battery life is also frequently highlighted as a strong point, often lasting a full day or more. Users also generally like its camera performance, particularly in low light. Some common observations include the lack of an official IP rating and a shorter software update commitment compared to some competitors.

Users prioritizing a compact device with top-tier processing power, extensive software longevity, and robust durability features like an IP rating may find the Samsung Galaxy S23 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value rapid charging, a slightly larger display, and strong battery endurance for daily use might lean towards the Oppo Reno 8. Both devices offer compelling features, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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