S23 Ultra Vs S10 Plus Is The Upgrade Really Worth It In 2024

For users still relying on the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus in 2024, the question isn’t just about desire—it’s about necessity. The S10 Plus was a flagship powerhouse in its time, but nearly five years later, technology has advanced dramatically. The Galaxy S23 Ultra represents the current pinnacle of Samsung’s Android innovation. But does that mean every S10 Plus owner should rush to upgrade? The answer depends on usage patterns, expectations, and how much future-proofing matters.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap

The gap between the S10 Plus and the S23 Ultra in raw performance is substantial. The S10 Plus launched with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9820 in some regions), while the S23 Ultra features the custom-tuned Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy. This isn't just an incremental improvement—it's a full generational leap in CPU efficiency, GPU rendering power, and AI processing.

Benchmarks tell the story clearly: the S23 Ultra scores over 1.8 million on AnTuTu v10, compared to the S10 Plus’s peak of around 450,000. That’s nearly four times the processing power. Real-world benefits include faster app launches, smoother multitasking, near-instant photo processing, and better thermal management under load.

Tip: If you frequently use demanding apps like video editors, 3D games, or AR tools, the S23 Ultra’s performance will feel transformative.

Camera Capabilities: Night and Day Difference

The camera system is where the S23 Ultra pulls far ahead. The S10 Plus featured a solid triple rear setup: 12MP main, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultra-wide. While capable in daylight, low-light performance and zoom were limited.

In contrast, the S23 Ultra boasts a 200MP main sensor with pixel binning, dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom), and advanced AI-powered computational photography. It supports 100x Space Zoom (with improved clarity), 8K video recording at 30fps, and superior HDR processing.

Low-light shots on the S23 Ultra retain detail and color accuracy where the S10 Plus produces grainy, washed-out results. Portrait mode is more natural, and the AI-enhanced nightography makes handheld astrophotography possible.

“Modern smartphone cameras aren’t just about megapixels—they’re about intelligent processing. The S23 Ultra’s neural network analyzes scenes in real time, adjusting exposure, focus, and color far beyond what was possible in 2019.” — David Lin, Mobile Imaging Specialist

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Meets Longevity

The S10 Plus came with a 4,100mAh battery, which was respectable at launch but struggles today with modern app demands. In contrast, the S23 Ultra packs a 5,000mAh cell, optimized with more efficient chip architecture and adaptive refresh rate technology (1–120Hz).

Real-world testing shows the S23 Ultra lasting up to 12–14 hours of screen-on time, compared to 6–8 hours on the aging S10 Plus—especially if the older device has undergone multiple charge cycles.

Charging speeds have also improved. The S23 Ultra supports 45W wired fast charging (though sold without a charger), reaching 65% in 30 minutes. The S10 Plus maxes out at 15W, taking over an hour to reach full charge.

Feature	S10 Plus (2019)	S23 Ultra (2023)
Battery Capacity	4,100 mAh	5,000 mAh
Fast Charging	15W	45W
Wireless Charging	15W	15W
Reverse Wireless	Yes	Yes
Estimated Daily Use	6–8 hrs SOT	10–14 hrs SOT

Software Support and Future-Proofing

This is perhaps the most critical factor in 2024. The S10 Plus received four major Android OS updates (up to Android 13) and four years of security patches, ending in early 2023. As of now, it no longer receives official updates, leaving it vulnerable to new exploits and incompatible with future app requirements.

The S23 Ultra, however, is guaranteed seven years of OS and security updates—meaning it will receive Android upgrades through 2030. For users who keep phones for three years or more, this longevity is invaluable.

Additionally, newer features like Google Assistant voice recognition improvements, AI transcription, enhanced privacy controls, and secure folder integrations are either absent or poorly optimized on older devices.

Tip: Check your current device’s update status in Settings > Software Update. If “no update available” persists despite connectivity, your model is likely end-of-life.

Mini Case Study: From S10 Plus to S23 Ultra

Consider Maria, a freelance photographer who relied on her S10 Plus for client previews and social media posting. By late 2023, she noticed delays in exporting edited photos, sluggish gallery navigation, and inconsistent autofocus when shooting in mixed lighting. After upgrading to the S23 Ultra, her workflow transformed: RAW image processing became instant, 8K video clips loaded smoothly in editing apps, and the 10x periscope lens allowed her to capture distant subjects without carrying extra gear.

“It wasn’t just about better photos,” she said. “The entire experience felt responsive again. I didn’t realize how much mental friction the old phone added until it was gone.”

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Practical Checklist

Before making the jump, consider these factors:

• Are you experiencing slowdowns? Frequent app crashes, lag during multitasking, or long boot times indicate hardware fatigue.
• Do you need better photos? If you regularly shoot in low light or rely on zoom, the S23 Ultra’s camera is a game-changer.
• Is security a concern? Without regular patches, older phones are more vulnerable to phishing and malware.
• How long do you plan to keep the phone? If you want a device that will last into 2027+, the S23 Ultra offers unmatched longevity.
• Can you afford the cost? The S23 Ultra starts at $1,199, though trade-ins can reduce this significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my S10 Plus stop working if it doesn’t get updates?

No, it will continue functioning, but it becomes increasingly risky to use for banking, shopping, or sensitive tasks due to unpatched security flaws. App compatibility may also degrade over time.

Can the S23 Ultra replace a tablet or camera?

In many cases, yes. With its large 6.8-inch display, S Pen support, and pro-grade camera, it serves as a lightweight productivity tool and capable imaging device—ideal for travelers or creatives who prefer minimal gear.

Is the price difference justified?

Compared to the S10 Plus’s original $949 price, the S23 Ultra is more expensive. However, when factoring in performance, camera quality, software support, and build durability (titanium frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2), the premium reflects tangible advancements.

Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?

For casual users who primarily browse, message, and stream, the S10 Plus may still suffice—but only if battery health is good and performance issues are minimal. However, for professionals, photographers, or anyone who values speed, reliability, and long-term usability, the S23 Ultra is not just an upgrade—it’s a necessary evolution.

The technological distance between 2019 and 2024 is vast. What once felt futuristic in the S10 Plus—like facial recognition or wireless sharing—is now baseline. The S23 Ultra builds on that foundation with AI-driven intelligence, desktop-like multitasking, and camera systems that rival standalone devices.

If you’ve held onto your S10 Plus out of loyalty or frugality, ask yourself: is the savings worth the daily compromises? In 2024, the answer for most users is no.

💬 Have you made the switch from S10 Plus to S23 Ultra? Share your experience, tips, or regrets in the comments below—your insights could help others decide their next move.