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2025 comparison
Updated Dec 14, 2025Content refreshed automatically when specs change.

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23: which is the right fit? We cover performance, value, and use cases to make the call easier.

Weight: 220g vs 168gStorage: Up to 2TB vs 256GBBattery: 34h video vs smaller capacity

iPhone 17 Pro Max

4.9

Samsung Galaxy S23

4.7

Comparison: iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23

iPhone 17 Pro Max

iPhone 17 Pro Max

4.9
Samsung Galaxy S23

Samsung Galaxy S23

4.7
iPhone 17 Pro Max

iPhone 17 Pro Max

Rating:
4.9
Processor:A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM:12GB
Storage:256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Display:6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
Battery:Up to 34h video playback
Weight:7.76 oz (220g) - Titanium frame
OS:iOS 19

✓ Pros:

  • Face ID is now invisible under the display (Under-display)
  • Triple 48MP cameras allow insane detail
  • Battery life is basically 2 days

✗ Cons:

  • Extremely expensive starting price
  • Camera bump is quite large
Samsung Galaxy S23

Samsung Galaxy S23

Rating:
4.7
Processor:Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM:8GB
Storage:128GB / 256GB
Display:6.1" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz)
Battery:3900 mAh
Weight:5.93 oz (168g)
OS:Android 13 (Upgradable)

✓ Pros:

  • Excellent battery life for a small phone
  • Clean, minimalist design
  • Consistent camera performance

✗ Cons:

  • Slow 25W charging
  • Banana blur issue on some close-up photos

Which one is better?

The iPhone 17 Pro Max wins on storage options (up to 2TB vs 256GB) and battery life (34h vs smaller capacity), while the Samsung Galaxy S23 offers a more compact and lighter form factor at a more affordable price point.

Who should buy each?

**Choose iPhone 17 Pro Max if:** - You want Face ID is now invisible under the display (Under-display), Triple 48MP cameras allow insane detail - Rating: 4.9★ (15500 reviews) **Choose Samsung Galaxy S23 if:** - You prefer Excellent battery life for a small phone, Clean, minimalist design - Rating: 4.7★ (6500 reviews)

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 17 Pro Max excels if you value face id is now invisible under the display (under-display). Samsung Galaxy S23 is better if you prioritize excellent battery life for a small phone. 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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