Apple and Samsung continue to dominate the high-end market in the constantly changing world of smartphones. Two of the most potent flagship phones that will be on the market in 2025 are the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Which is better for you? Both provide state-of-the-art technology, elegant design, and outstanding performance. Let’s examine their salient characteristics and distinctions.
Design and Build
Because to its titanium frame, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is both lighter and more robust than its predecessor. With a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display that provides rich colours and deep blacks, its streamlined, minimalist design stays loyal to Apple’s aesthetic.
On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 Ultra also has a high-end design with Gorilla Glass Victus 3 and aluminium armour. Its slightly larger 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which has an adaptable refresh rate of 1-120 Hz, gives it a smoother scrolling and gaming experience. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which has a larger, more flexible display, won.
Performance
- The A17 Pro chip, which is based on a 3nm technology, powers Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max. It offers excellent CPU and GPU performance, particularly for multitasking and gaming. Additionally, the A17 Pro has enhanced machine learning capabilities and a dedicated AV1 decoder.
- The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, which is specifically tailored for Samsung devices, powers the S24 Ultra. It performs exceptionally well, especially when it comes to AI tasks, gaming, and camera processing. On the other hand, the A17 Pro performs better over time and uses less power. Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max (for improved performance balance and efficiency)
- Camera System
- The Galaxy S24 Ultra has four cameras: two telephoto lenses (3x and 5x zoom), a 200MP primary sensor, and a 12MP ultra-wide. It has one of the greatest cameras on any phone thanks to its AI-enhanced picture processing and Nightography mode.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 5x telephoto periscope lens, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 48MP primary sensor. Professional makers are catered to by Apple’s ProRAW and ProRes features, while its Photonic Engine guarantees excellent colour fidelity. The S24 Ultra outperforms the iPhone in low light and zoom range, but the iPhone is still the best at capturing videos. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra won because of its better zoom and versatility.
- Battery Life and Charging
- With typical use, the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s battery lasts more than a day, demonstrating its exceptional performance. Its charging speeds, which feel antiquated in 2025, are still limited to 27W wired and 15W MagSafe wireless. The S24 Ultra can charge more quickly thanks to Samsung’s 45W fast wired charging and 15W wireless charging, but its actual battery life is a little bit less. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (for quicker charging) was the winner.
- Software and Ecosystem
- With Apple’s smooth environment that seamlessly connects with iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, the iPhone 15 Pro Max runs iOS 17. iOS is renowned for its seamless updates and extended lifespan. The Samsung S24 Ultra incorporates Galaxy AI for increased productivity and runs One UI 6.1, which is based on Android 14. Samsung has matched Apple’s long-term support with a 7-year OS and security update guarantee. Winner: Tie (Samsung for customisation and AI features, Apple for ecosystem)