iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra are two flagship devices that cater to different segments of the smartphone market. Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max, with its A19 Bionic chip and advanced ProMotion display, targets users who prioritize cutting-edge technology and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra appeals to consumers who value high-resolution photography and battery longevity, featuring a 200MP camera and a robust 5000 mAh battery. Both devices are rated highly by users, achieving a 4.9 out of 5.0, indicating strong satisfaction across the board. The iPhone provides more RAM options at 12GB, while the Galaxy offers both 8GB and 12GB variants. In terms of storage, Apple pushes the boundaries with up to 2TB, whereas Samsung offers up to 1TB. These differences highlight their respective strategies in catering to power users and photographers alike.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
4.9
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
4.9
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Processor: A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Display: 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
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 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.9 | ★4.9 |
| Processor | A19 Bionic (3nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display | 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz) | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 34h video playback | 5000 mAh |
| Weight | 7.76 oz (220g) - Titanium frame | 8.25 oz (234g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | Android 13 (Upgradable) |
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| Cons |
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iPhone 17 Pro Max
✓ 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 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?
The iPhone 17 Pro Max takes the lead with its superior ProMotion display (1-120Hz) and more substantial storage options (up to 2TB). However, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra compensates with a larger battery (5000 mAh) and a higher-resolution camera (200MP).
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Pro Max if... - You prefer a larger storage capacity (up to 2TB). - You value a seamless iOS experience and under-display Face ID. - You want a lighter phone (7.76 oz vs 8.25 oz). Choose Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra if... - You need a more advanced camera system (200MP with 10x optical zoom). - You prioritize longer battery life with a 5000 mAh capacity. - You prefer a device with Android flexibility. They're equally matched on... - Overall user ratings (4.9/5.0) indicating high customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
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 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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