iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
In the competitive landscape of premium smartphones, the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stand out as formidable contenders, each bringing distinct strengths to the table. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its expansive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display and A18 Pro processor, is targeted at users seeking a seamless integration with the iOS ecosystem and pro-level features like 4K 120fps Dolby Vision video recording. Its impressive 33-hour video playback battery life makes it a powerhouse for media consumption and productivity. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra appeals to photography aficionados and power users with its groundbreaking 200MP main camera and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor tailored for Galaxy. It offers flexible options with RAM configurations up to 12GB, a slightly smaller 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, and a robust 5000 mAh battery, ensuring longevity and efficiency. Both devices cater to different user needs and preferences. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is ideal for users who crave a large, immersive display and deep integration with Apple services, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra provides cutting-edge photography capabilities and the versatility of the Android ecosystem. Each phone's design and feature set reflect its brand's core strengths, with Apple focusing on display and battery life, and Samsung pushing the boundaries of mobile photography and customization.
iPhone 16 Pro Max
4.9
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
4.9
iPhone 16 Pro Max

Processor: A18 Pro
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display: 6.9" Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz)
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 8GB / 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display: 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

iPhone 16 Pro Max

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Criterion | iPhone 16 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.9 | ★4.9 |
| Processor | A18 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display | 6.9" Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz) | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 33h video playback | 5000 mAh |
| Weight | 7.99 oz (227g) | 8.25 oz (234g) |
| OS | iOS 18 | Android 13 (Upgradable) |
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iPhone 16 Pro Max
✓ Pros:
- • Massive 6.9-inch display with slim bezels
- • Best-in-class battery life
- • 4K 120fps Dolby Vision video recording
✗ Cons:
- • Large size can be unwieldy for some
- • Expensive starting price

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
✓ Pros:
- • Incredible 10x optical zoom lens
- • Huge leap in battery efficiency
- • 200MP main camera offers great detail
✗ Cons:
- • Curved screen edges (harder for screen protectors)
- • Bulky and sharp corners
Which one is better?
Both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra achieve high performance in their own rights, but the iPhone edges out with its exceptional battery life (33h video playback) and display size (6.9 inches). However, the Galaxy S23 Ultra excels in camera capabilities with its 200MP sensor and optical zoom, making it a strong choice for photography enthusiasts.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 16 Pro Max if... - You prioritize a larger display (6.9 inches) for media and productivity. - You need the best battery life for video playback (up to 33 hours). - You prefer integration with the iOS ecosystem and smooth user experience. Choose Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if... - You are a photography enthusiast who values the 200MP camera and 10x optical zoom. - You want a device with customizable RAM options (up to 12GB). - You prefer the flexibility and customization of the Android platform. They're equally matched on... - Display refresh rate, both offering smooth 120Hz experiences. - Storage options, with both providing choices up to 1TB.
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 16 Pro Max excels if you value massive 6.9-inch display with slim bezels. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is better if you prioritize incredible 10x optical zoom lens. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+ Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+ Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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