Watch: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra durability test and teardown video shows promising results

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra durability test

PBKreviews’ Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra’s durability test starts with a three-minute long water dip test which the device passes without any observable problems. The device surfaces, which are covered with the latest Gorilla Glass Victus 2, are then subjected to scratches from a bunch of keys and coins, items that cause regular wear and tear on a daily basis. The creator then ups the ante and uses Mohs mineral picks, which scratch the glass surfaces at levels eight and nine. The same is observed with the glass covering the camera lenses. The results obtained by PBKreviews are similar to that of creator JerryRigEverything. 

However, JerryRigEverything goes the extra mile to check the durability of the metal frame that is sandwiched between the front and back glass panels. The paint scraps off when cut intentionally and the metal buttons come off with too much pressure. The display panel was also subjected to a flame held right over the panel for an entire minute which then came out unscathed.

Coming back PBKreviews’ video, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is also subjected to face-first and back-first drop tests from waist height. Both these tests shatter the glass panels covering them but protect the display and the internals well. The drop tests also reveal slightly better protection for the camera modules. The YouTuber compares it to the performance of the Galaxy S22 Ultra whose design failed to protect the camera glass from shattering. The device is then dropped chin first which pops the built-in S Pen out but keeps the device operational. 

PBKreviews has also torn down the Galaxy S23 Ultra and a quick look at the internals reveals some key details. Samsung has included some extra pull tabs this year that make battery replacement easier and the company has gone the extra length to mark out the cables and pull tabs that make repairability easier still.