Monday, July 14, 2025

Looking at a new larger phone.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 has a 6.1-inch display, so a "larger" display would typically mean 6.5 inches or more, ideal for streaming, gaming, or multitasking. Based on your needs and the latest options, here are some top recommendations for large-display smartphones to replace your S23, focusing on performance, display quality, and user experience. ### Key Considerations - **Display Size**: You’ll want a phone with a screen size of 6.5 inches or larger for a noticeable upgrade. - **Use Case**: Larger screens are great for media consumption, productivity, or if you prefer two-handed typing.[](https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile-phone-buying-guide/what-screen-size/)[](https://www.samsung.com/au/mobile/buying-guide/what-screen-size/) - **Brand Preference**: Since you’re coming from a Samsung Galaxy S23, you might prefer Samsung’s ecosystem, but other brands like Google and OnePlus offer compelling alternatives. - **Budget**: Options range from premium flagships to more affordable models. ### Top Recommendations 1. **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (6.9-inch display)** - **Why Choose It**: The Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a massive 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 2,600 nits peak brightness, and anti-reflective coating for excellent visibility. It’s a direct upgrade from the S23, with a premium titanium frame, a 200MP main camera, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor for top-tier performance. The included S Pen is great for productivity, though it lacks Bluetooth support compared to older models.[](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-android-phone/)[](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-samsung-galaxy-phone/) - **Pros**: - Stunning display quality with vibrant colors and high contrast. - Long battery life (5,000mAh) and fast charging (45W wired). - Seven years of Android updates. - Advanced Galaxy AI features (e.g., real-time call transcription, note summarization). - **Cons**: - Expensive at $1,300, though trade-in deals can lower the cost. - Large size may feel unwieldy for some users. - **Best For**: Those who want the best Samsung has to offer for media, gaming, and productivity. 2. **Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 (7.6-inch main display, 6.2-inch cover display)** - **Why Choose It**: For the largest screen, the Galaxy Z Fold6’s 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display (when unfolded) is unmatched, perfect for immersive streaming, gaming, or multitasking. The 6.2-inch cover display works for quick tasks. It’s a foldable, offering versatility for users who want a tablet-like experience.[](https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile-phone-buying-guide/what-screen-size/)[](https://www.samsung.com/au/mobile/buying-guide/what-screen-size/) - **Pros**: - Largest screen available on a Samsung phone, ideal for multitasking. - High-quality display with 120Hz refresh rate and 2,600 nits brightness. - Flex Mode for unique use cases like hands-free video calls. - **Cons**: - Very expensive (starting around $1,900). - Bulkier and heavier than traditional phones. - Battery life (4,400mAh) is decent but not as strong as the S25 Ultra. - **Best For**: Users who want a large, innovative display and don’t mind the premium price or foldable design. 3. **Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus (6.7-inch display)** - **Why Choose It**: A middle ground between the S23 and Ultra, the S25 Plus has a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It offers similar performance to the S25 Ultra (Snapdragon 8 Elite, Galaxy AI) but at a lower price point (~$1,000). It’s a great balance of size, power, and cost.[](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-android-phone/)[](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-samsung-galaxy-phone/) - **Pros**: - Large, vibrant display with excellent brightness. - Strong battery life (4,900mAh) and 45W fast charging. - More affordable than the Ultra while retaining flagship features. - **Cons**: - No S Pen support. - Camera system (50MP main) is less advanced than the Ultra’s 200MP setup. - **Best For**: Those who want a larger Samsung phone without the Ultra’s cost or bulk. 4. **Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (6.8-inch display)** - **Why Choose It**: If you’re open to switching brands, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 3,000 nits brightness. Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chip, it excels in photography with AI-enhanced features like Audio Magic Eraser and Add Me. It’s a strong alternative with a cleaner Android experience.[](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-android-phone/) - **Pros**: - Superior camera performance, especially for photos. - Bright, sharp display with excellent color accuracy. - Seven years of software updates and a bloatware-free interface. - **Cons**: - Tensor G4 is less powerful than Snapdragon 8 Elite for gaming. - No stylus support. - Slightly less durable than Samsung’s titanium-framed models. - **Best For**: Users who prioritize photography and a stock Android experience. 5. **OnePlus 13 (6.82-inch display)** - **Why Choose It**: The OnePlus 13 features a 6.82-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness (claimed). It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, offering excellent performance and faster 100W charging than Samsung or Google. It’s a cost-effective alternative, starting around $900.[](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-samsung-galaxy-phone/) - **Pros**: - Large, bright display with high PPI (~510) for sharp visuals. - Fast charging and solid battery life (6,000mAh). - Competitive price for flagship specs. - **Cons**: - Camera system isn’t as refined as Samsung or Google’s. - Software support (4-5 years) is shorter than Samsung or Google’s seven years. - **Best For**: Budget-conscious users who want a large, high-quality display and fast performance. ### Additional Options - **Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (6.8-inch display)**: If you want a slightly older model to save money, the S24 Ultra offers a 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, similar performance to the S25 series, and a 200MP camera. It’s often discounted compared to the S25 Ultra.[](https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile-phone-buying-guide/galaxy-s24-vs-s23/) - **Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (6.4-inch display)**: A more affordable option with a 6.4-inch AMOLED display. It’s slightly larger than the S23 but not as premium as the S25 series, with a less powerful Exynos chip and older Gorilla Glass 5.[](https://www.bestproducts.com/tech/electronics/g158/best-samsung-phones-and-smartphones/)[](https://www.pcmag.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s23-vs-s23-fe-whats-the-difference) ### Recommendations Based on Needs - **For Samsung Loyalists**: The **Galaxy S25 Ultra** is the best upgrade for a premium, large-screen experience with all the bells and whistles (S Pen, top-tier camera, long battery life). If budget is a concern, the **S25 Plus** is a great middle ground. - **For Maximum Screen Size**: The **Galaxy Z Fold6** offers the largest display (7.6 inches) for multitasking and media, though it’s pricier and bulkier. - **For Non-Samsung Options**: The **Pixel 9 Pro XL** is ideal for photography enthusiasts, while the **OnePlus 13** offers great value and performance. - **For Budget-Friendly**: The **Galaxy S23 FE** or a discounted **S24 Ultra** provides a larger screen without breaking the bank. ### Notes - **Trade-In Deals**: Samsung often offers excellent trade-in values for older Galaxy devices like the S23, which can significantly reduce the cost of the S25 series or Z Fold6. Check Samsung’s website for current offers.[](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-android-phone/) - **Display Quality**: All recommended phones feature AMOLED or OLED displays with at least 120Hz refresh rates, ensuring smooth visuals and vibrant colors comparable to or better than the S23’s 6.1-inch AMOLED.[](https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile-phone-buying-guide/best-phone-display/) - **Battery Life**: Larger phones like the S25 Ultra, S25 Plus, and OnePlus 13 have bigger batteries (4,900–6,000mAh) than the S23’s 3,900mAh, offering longer usage for media-heavy tasks.[](https://www.tomsguide.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s23-vs-galaxy-s23-ultra)[](https://www.androidpolice.com/samsung-galaxy-s23-vs-galaxy-s23-plus/) If you have specific preferences (e.g., budget, camera needs, or stylus support), let me know, and I can refine the recommendations further! Would you like me to check for current pricing or deals on any of these models?

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