The Samsung Galaxy S23 (2023) captures RAW images in DNG format via Expert RAW and has no mechanical shutter — the image counter in each DNG file records total electronic captures. Install Expert RAW, shoot a DNG, and drop it here to read it instantly.
Check Image Counter →The Samsung Galaxy S23 is the compact base model of Samsung’s 2023 flagship lineup, powered exclusively by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy — unlike previous Galaxy S series that used Exynos in some regions, the S23 ships with Snapdragon globally. Its triple-camera system consists of a 50 MP ISOCELL GN9 main sensor (f/1.8, OIS), a 12 MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 120°), and a 10 MP 3× telephoto (f/2.4).
The 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display supports up to 120 Hz adaptive refresh and 1750 nits peak brightness. RAW DNG capture is available through Samsung’s Expert RAW app (Galaxy Store) or through the native Camera app’s Pro mode. There is no mechanical focal-plane shutter — all capture is electronic.
| Model | Release | Main Sensor | Telephoto | RAW Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S23 | 2023 | 50 MP GN9 (f/1.8) | 10 MP 3× (f/2.4) | DNG (Expert RAW) |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | 2023 | 200 MP HP2 (f/1.7) | 10 MP 3× + 10 MP 10× | DNG (Expert RAW) |
| Galaxy S24 | 2024 | 50 MP GNK (f/1.8) | 10 MP 3× (f/2.4) | DNG (Expert RAW) |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra | 2022 | 108 MP HP1 (f/1.8) | 10 MP 3× + 10 MP 10× | DNG (Expert RAW) |
| Spec | Galaxy S23 | Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Frame | Armor Aluminum | Armor Aluminum (premium) |
| S Pen | No | Yes (built-in) |
| Main sensor | 50 MP GN9 (f/1.8) | 200 MP HP2 (f/1.7) |
| Max telephoto | 3× optical (10 MP) | 10× optical periscope (10 MP) |
| Expert RAW / DNG | Yes | Yes |
| What to Check | How |
|---|---|
| Battery health | Settings → Battery and device care → Battery; cycle count visible via Samsung Members app or Device diagnostics. Aim for above 80% capacity. |
| Display | Inspect the 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X for burn-in (check a grey or light background) or dead pixels. Test at maximum brightness outdoors. |
| Camera glass | Check all three camera lenses for scratches; test the 3× telephoto for focus sharpness and the ultrawide for distortion at edges. |
| Haptics & speakers | Test the haptic motor (should feel crisp, not hollow) and dual speaker system for audio balance. |
| Image counter | Request an Expert RAW DNG from the seller and verify the counter via shuttercount.app — high counts (>30,000) indicate heavy photographic use. |
No. All Galaxy S smartphones use CMOS electronic readout. There is no focal-plane shutter and no rated mechanical lifespan. The image counter in Expert RAW DNG files reflects total electronic captures.
Samsung responded to widespread criticism of Exynos performance and thermals in the S21 and S22 series by switching the S23 lineup to Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 globally. This was widely praised as a significant improvement in performance, efficiency, and thermal management. The S24 followed the same approach, using Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (with Exynos 2400 available in select markets).
No. The image counter is stored in persistent hardware memory and cannot be cleared by a factory reset, firmware flash, or any user action.
Both are capable RAW photography phones. The S24 offers a slightly newer ISP with improved computational photography features and better long-term software support. The S23 is often available at significantly lower used-market prices for the same core camera hardware (50 MP main, 3× telephoto, Expert RAW DNG output). For RAW shooters on a budget, the S23 is an excellent choice.