Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Is Bigger Always Better?

Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra packs some seriously powerful hardware into an equally imposing physical frame. With a spacious 6.8-inch display, state-of-the-art processor, and pro-level camera setup, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is aiming to be the ultimate Android smartphone. But its formidable size may give some prospective buyers pause.

For users with smaller hands or pockets, the Galaxy S23 Ultra could simply be more phone than they can comfortably handle. Let’s take a closer look at how the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s supersized design affects real-world use to help you determine if it’s a handset worth juggling.

One Hand Tied Behind Your Back

First and foremost, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a big phone measuring 6.8 inches diagonally. With a width of 3 inches, it’s on the wide side for easily gripping in one hand. Reaching your thumb across the screen or up to tap notifications means either constant hand shuffling or relying more on two-handed use.

The nearly 8mm thickness and substantial 234 gram weight don’t do any favors for prolonged one-handed use either. You may feel some hand and finger fatigue after a while. The flat sides and prominent corners also don’t contour ergonomically to your palm like curved screens. If you have smaller mitts, you’ll be doing a lot of shimmying and readjusting to get a secure grip.

Pocket Rockets Need Not Apply

Given its generous dimensions, the Galaxy S23 Ultra also strains the storage capacity of many pockets. While the thickness isn’t egregious, the length and width can make slipping it into tighter jeans or dress pants a challenge. Even in roomier khakis or cargo pants, the Galaxy S23 Ultra still makes quite a prominent outline.

If you like to keep your smartphone tucked discreetly away when not in use, the Galaxy S23 Ultra may bust your pockets both literally and figuratively. The pocket bulge can also just feel uncomfortable and look awkward. Smaller users may find sitting down with the phone in a front pocket causes some unwelcome jabbing in tender areas.

Adapting to the Behemoth

If you’re coming from a more reasonably sized phone, expect an adjustment period to get fully acclimated to the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s hulking body. Users switching from compact models like the iPhone 13 Mini or Galaxy S22 really notice the substantial difference. From cramping hands to strained pockets, many need a few weeks before the Galaxy S23 Ultra feels natural.

But there’s hope you can adapt in due time. As your muscle memory adjusts and you learn little handling tweaks, the size becomes less apparent. Popping on a phone grip, case or lanyard can also ease the burden during the transition. Just anticipate an awkward getting-to-know-you phase at first.

Making It Work for Smaller Hands

While the Galaxy S23 Ultra may always have some inherent awkwardness for petite paws, there are ways to improve its handling. First off, enable the one-handed mode in the OS, which shrinks the screen area for easier reach. You can also use third-party apps like One Hand Operation+ to customize side and bottom gestures for navigation without straining your digits.

Protective cases with hand straps, rings or grips provide an anchor point for your fingers and can really enhance one-handed use. Even just slapping a cheap pop socket on the back serves surprisingly well. And of course, propping the Galaxy S23 Ultra into landscape mode makes for comfier viewing and use if you don’t need mobility.

Is Bigger Worth the Trouble?

If you’re on the fence about the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s size, assess your typical phone habits. Do you constantly operate handsets one-handed on the go? Keep it in snug pockets at all times? Use phones for extended gaming or movie sessions? Your answers help indicate if the benefits outweigh the ergonomic challenges.

For those who prioritize compact portability and nimble use, the standard Galaxy S23 or Galaxy S23+ models offer a middle ground. But the Galaxy S23 Ultra remains the spec king, with unique advantages like the integrated S Pen, 100x zoom camera, superior display and longest battery life. Once you adapt, that spacious screen real estate gets addicting too.

While more cumbersome than average for smaller individuals, the Galaxy S23 Ultra delivers an unrivaled experience if you can accommodate its substantial mass. Be realistic about your needs and hand strength to decide if this plus-sized powerhouse finds the right fit in your palm and pocket.