Seeking Help Samsung User Dilemma: Upgrade to S24 Ultra, Stick with Pixel 9, or Get a Tablet?

[Shantanu]

Hey Folks,

I'm in a bit of a tech dilemma and could use some advice!

I've been a loyal Samsung user for years and was previously using the Galaxy S21 FE. Unfortunately, the battery is in terrible condition now, which made me think about upgrading to the Ultra series—a dream of mine for some time. However, I recently got a Pixel 9 from work, which I can also use for personal purposes. While it's a great phone, I absolutely hate the Pixel UI and miss the familiarity of Samsung's One UI.

Now I'm torn between a few options:

1. Upgrade to the Galaxy S24 Ultra:
I’ve heard mixed reviews about the S24 Ultra’s camera, especially that it may not be as good as the S23 Ultra. Should I wait for software updates, or is the S24 Ultra still worth it? Alternatively, would the S23 Ultra be a better option, considering its camera performance? My only concern is that with the S25 Ultra around the corner (likely early 2025), the S23 Ultra would already be two generations behind and get fewer major OS updates.


2. Stick with the Pixel 9 and use the S21 FE as a secondary phone:
This would save me money, but the S21 FE’s battery is a mess, and I don't love the Pixel UI.


3. Invest in an iPad or Android tablet instead of a new phone:
I'm considering this option since a tablet could be really useful for productivity, media, and multitasking. If I go this route, I’d keep the Pixel 9 as my main phone for now.



I’d love to hear your thoughts, especially if you’ve used the S24 Ultra or faced a similar dilemma. What would you recommend?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

[Bapun]

I use an S24 Ultra currently. It's a great device. No issues I have faced with it's camera. I am quite satisfied with this phone. I have come from S21 Ultra which I purchased in 2021 so it feels like a huge upgrade in the performance.

My only concern is that with the S25 Ultra around the corner (likely early 2025), the S23 Ultra would already be two generations behind and get fewer major OS updates.

This is a genuine concern IMO. Avoid older generation models as much as you can since brands give preference to newer models and many times intentionally delay the updates for older generation phones for no reason.

2. Stick with the Pixel 9 and use the S21 FE as a secondary phone:
This would save me money, but the S21 FE’s battery is a mess, and I don't love the Pixel UI.

If saving money is priority then you can continue with your current devices because you already have S21 FE. If user experience and satisfaction is your priority over budget then you should choose to upgrade.

3. Invest in an iPad or Android tablet instead of a new phone:
I'm considering this option since a tablet could be really useful for productivity, media, and multitasking. If I go this route, I’d keep the Pixel 9 as my main phone for now.

I won't comment much on this because I used iPad in the past and I hated it. I don't think tablets are for me so I would refrain from speaking on them.

 

[Prithi Deb]

I won't comment much on this because I used iPad in the past and I hated it. I don't think tablets are for me so I would refrain from speaking on them.

I too bought a tablet recently thinking I would do productivity tasks, lots of reading, watch content, etc. But I barely even touch it. I use it like once every two weeks, and that too for the sake of using it. If one has a laptop and a phone, then tablet is useless 90% of the time. It is very uncomfortable holding it and using due to the weight. And if you are planning to use it on a stand, then you might as well use your laptop.