The Samsung Galaxy S21 and S23 were both standout flagship devices at launch, but in 2026, the real question is which one still offers better value. With prices now significantly lower than their original retail cost, many buyers are comparing these two models as affordable alternatives to newer flagships. In this updated comparison, we break down performance, camera quality, battery life, software support, and overall value to help you decide which model makes more sense today.
Samsung Galaxy S21 vs S23: Which Is Worth Buying in 2026?
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy S21 introduced a new design with a distinctive contour-cut camera housing that seamlessly blends into the frame of the device, a marked departure from previous models, showcasing Samsung's commitment to freshening things up after a few cycles. The Galaxy S23 builds upon this foundation with refined design elements, offering a sleeker and more polished look.
The S21 also features a combination of glass and plastic, with the rear panel made of polycarbonate. This choice was somewhat controversial, as many flagship devices traditionally use more premium or ‘weightier’, materials. The Galaxy S23, however, returns to an all-glass design with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which does give off that more high-end, premium feel.
In terms of size and weight, the Galaxy S23 is slightly more compact and lighter than the S21, which is an advantage as the S21 was a little more awkward to use comfortably with one hand. The S23’s ergonomic improvements are very subtle but noticeable and welcome, with a more refined grip and better balance.
Credits: Forbes
The camera design is probably the most noticeable change between the two phones. While the S21’s chunky camera module was a prominent feature, the S23 integrates it more seamlessly into the back panel, resulting in a cleaner and more uniform look. Additionally, the S23 offers a few new colour options, meaning you’ve got options.
Display Technology
Displays are a crucial part of any phone, arguably the most important! The S21 comes with a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. The Galaxy S23 retains the same screen size and resolution but offers improvements in areas like colour accuracy and brightness, enhancing the overall experience.
A 120Hz refresh rate is supported by both models, providing smooth scrolling and improved gaming performance. However, the S23 introduces an adaptive refresh rate technology that adjusts the refresh rate based on the content being displayed which can do wonders for your battery life.
Credits: IGN
If you’re a stickler for your display quality, you’ll be happy to know that HDR10+ support is present on both devices, ensuring you’ll get those vibrant and lifelike colours. The S23 takes it a step further with enhanced HDR performance, delivering deeper blacks and brighter highlights, which is particularly noticeable when streaming HDR content.
The Galaxy S23 incorporates an upgraded Vision Booster technology, which optimizes the display’s visibility in various lighting conditions, making it easier to use in bright sunlight or dim environments.
Performance and Processing Power
The Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100 (global) or Snapdragon 888 (USA) chipset, both of which offer up a best in class performance. However, the S23 steps up with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor globally, ensuring faster performance and better energy efficiency.
Let’s move onto RAM and storage options, both options serve up a decent offering - The S21 offers 8GB of RAM with 128GB or 256GB of storage options. The S23 matches these storage options but boosts the RAM to 12GB in its higher variant, providing more headroom for multitasking and futureproofing.
Benchmark tests reveal that the Galaxy S23 outperforms the S21 in CPU, GPU, and AI tasks, thanks to the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This translates to smoother performance in demanding applications and better future compatibility with software updates.
In everyday use, the S23 feels more responsive and handles multitasking with greater ease compared to its previous iteration. Apps load faster, and there is a noticeable improvement in gaming performance, making it a more capable device for power users.
Camera Capabilities
Let's get into the fun parts - The Galaxy S21 features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide sensors. The S23 retains a similar configuration but upgrades the main sensor to 50MP, offering improved detail and clarity in photos.
Credits: PCMag UK
Both models feature advanced low-light photography capabilities, but the S23's larger sensor and improved image processing provide better performance in more challenging lighting conditions, producing clearer and more detailed night shots.
The real difference comes in the AI-powered capabilities of the S23, like improved scene recognition and better portrait mode, which uses AI to separate the subject from the background more accurately. These advancements make it easier to capture that perfect shot.
Credits: TechRadar
While the basic camera setup remains similar, the S23’s hardware and software improvements result in noticeably better photo and video quality. The S23 also offers 8K video recording at 30fps, compared to the S21’s 24fps, providing smoother and more detailed video footage.
Battery Life and Charging
There is little difference on paper between the S23 and S21. The Galaxy S21 is equipped with a 4000mAh battery, while the S23 comes with a slightly larger 4200mAh battery. However, the S23’s more efficient processor and adaptive refresh rate technology contribute to a much longer battery life.
Both models support fast charging, but the S23 benefits from improved charging speeds, with support for 45W wired charging compared to the S21’s 25W. Wireless charging capabilities remain similar, with both models supporting 15W wireless charging.
Software and User Experience
The Galaxy S21 launched with Android 11 and Samsung’s One UI 3.1, while the S23 ships with Android 13 and One UI 5.0. As of 2026, the Galaxy S23 continues to receive software and security updates, while the Galaxy S21 is approaching the end of its major update cycle. Buyers looking for longer-term support may prefer the S23.
The S23 introduces several new software features, such as enhanced multitasking capabilities, improved Samsung DeX functionality, and new camera modes. These features enhance productivity and offer a more versatile user experience.
Samsung has committed to providing longer software support for its newer models. The S23 is expected to receive four years of major Android updates and five years of security updates, ensuring it remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Connectivity and Other Features
Both the Galaxy S21 and S23 support 5G connectivity, however, the S23 supports more 5G bands. The S21 supports Wi-Fi 6, while the S23 upgrades to Wi-Fi 6E, which provides a more reliable wireless connectivity, particularly in crowded environments. Both models feature stereo speakers, but the S23 offers improved sound quality and louder audio output.
Price and Value Proposition
At launch, the Galaxy S21 was priced at just over €800 in Ireland, while the Galaxy S23 starts at €999, a little jump in price for a myriad of features added.
While both devices launched at premium price points, in 2026 they are widely available at significantly reduced prices - particularly through refurbished retailers. This makes them attractive alternatives to newer mid-range smartphones.
If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, refurbished phones such as the refurbished Samsung S21 offer an excellent alternative. Refurbished phones provide the benefits of a flagship device at a reduced price, often with a warranty and quality assurance. Wisetek Market offers a range of refurbished Samsung S21 models, ensuring quality and affordability.
2026 Update: Which Model Makes More Sense Today?
In 2026, the Galaxy S23 remains the more future-proof option thanks to its newer processor and longer remaining software support. However, the Galaxy S21 continues to be a strong choice for budget-conscious buyers, especially when purchased refurbished. For everyday tasks, social media, streaming, and photography, the performance gap is noticeable but not dramatic for most users.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the S23 and the S21, it really comes down to personal preference, but the newer model does slightly edge the result. While the S21 still holds its ground as a capable and powerful smartphone, the S23’s advancements make it the better choice for those seeking the latest technology. For those on a budget, considering a refurbished Galaxy S21 from trusted sources like Wisetek Market can provide significant savings without compromising on quality. Whether you choose the S21 or S23, both devices represent Samsung’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the smartphone industry.