- The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers brighter display better for outdoors, while S23 Ultra has sharper resolution and slightly larger size.
- Both are top-notch in terms of performance, the iPhone 15 Pro Max might edge out in benchmarks, but S23 Ultra offers more RAM and customization.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max excels in low light with larger pixels, S23 Ultra offers longer zoom and more creative control.
The annual battle for smartphone supremacy is upon us, with tech giants Apple and Samsung throwing their latest flagships into the ring: the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Both phones boast top-of-the-line specs, innovative features, and premium designs, but which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into the key areas of combat:
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Specs
Below, we have compared the specs of the iPhone 15 Pro Max with the Galaxy S23 Ultra:
|
Feature |
iPhone 15 Pro Max |
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|
Display |
6.7" LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1000 nits (typ), 2000 nits (HBM) |
6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1200 nits (HBM), 1750 nits (peak) |
|
Processor |
Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) |
Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
|
RAM |
8GB |
8/12GB |
|
Storage |
256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM |
|
Camera |
Rear – Triple: 48 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), 1/1.28", 1.22µm, dual pixel PDAF, sensor-shift OIS; 12 MP, f/2.8, 120mm (periscope telephoto), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, dual pixel PDAF, 3D sensor‑shift OIS, 5x optical zoom; 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF; TOF 3D LiDAR scanner (depth) Front – 12 MP, f/1.9, 23mm (wide), 1/3.6", PDAF, OIS |
Rear – Quad: 200 MP, f/1.7, 24mm (wide), 1/1.3", 0.6µm, multi-directional PDAF, Laser AF, OIS; 10 MP, f/4.9, 230mm (periscope telephoto), 1/3.52", 1.12µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS, 10x optical zoom; 10 MP, f/2.4, 70mm (telephoto), 1/3.52", 1.12µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom; 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, Super Steady video Front – 12 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), Dual Pixel PDAF |
|
Battery |
4441mAh |
5000mAh |
|
Operating System |
iOS 17, up to iOS 17.3.1 |
Android 13, up to Android 14, One UI 6 |
|
S Pen Support |
No |
Yes |
|
Starting Price |
$1099 |
$1049 |
How Does the iPhone 15 Pro Max Display Compare to the Galaxy S23 Display?
While the S23 Ultra boasts a slightly larger size and sharper resolution, the iPhone counters with a significantly brighter display, potentially offering better outdoor visibility. Both phones provide the same smooth 120Hz refresh rate and utilize advanced LTPO panels for efficiency. The iPhone throws in Dolby Vision HDR for richer colors and True Tone for adaptive temperature, while the S23 Ultra sticks with HDR10+.
Ultimately, the "better" display depends on your priorities. If sharpness is your game, choose the S23 Ultra. For superior brightness and outdoor use, the iPhone shines. Do you value vibrant colors and adaptive temperature? Go iPhone. Need HDR compatibility? Both handle it, though they use different formats. Remember, personal preference and intended use should guide your final decision. Try experiencing both displays firsthand if possible for the most informed choice!
Does the iPhone 15 Pro Max Perform Better than the Galaxy S23 Ultra?
Both phones offer top-notch performance that will satisfy even the most demanding users. The iPhone 15 Pro Max might hold a slight edge in benchmark scores thanks to its A17 Pro Bionic chip, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra benefits from slightly more RAM.
Ultimately, the "better" performance depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw benchmark numbers, the iPhone might be your choice. But if you value customization and openness, the Galaxy could be a better fit. Consider your everyday usage patterns and preferred operating system when making your decision.
iPhone 15 Pro Max Camera vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra Camera
Both iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra have large sensors (1/1.28" and 1/1.3"), but the iPhone has bigger individual pixels (1.22µm vs. 0.6µm) which could lead to better low-light performance. Both have wide apertures (f/1.8 and f/1.7) for good low-light performance. iPhone has sensor-shift OIS (stabilizes the sensor) while Samsung has multi-directional PDAF (faster autofocus). Samsung offers more versatility with longer zoom capability, but the iPhone's single lens might be sharper at its zoom level.
iPhone has a wider field of view (23mm vs. 26mm), potentially better for group selfies. Samsung has a slightly larger aperture (f/2.2 vs. f/1.9), potentially better for low-light.
Overall, both phones have excellent cameras, with each offering unique strengths and weaknesses. The best choice for you depends on your priorities. If you prioritize low-light performance and natural-looking colors, the iPhone might be a better choice. If you need a longer zoom range and more creative control, the Samsung might be a better fit.
Other Features
- The iPhone boasts unique features like Face ID, the dynamic Island notch cutout, and a new Action key for quick actions.
- The S23 Ultra fires back with faster charging, reverse wireless charging, and the versatile Dex desktop experience.
Price
Both phones come with hefty price tags, with the S23 Ultra edging slightly cheaper depending on storage options. However, you can buy both phones at a relatively low price from Phone Daddy if you choose pre-owned devices. We have used iPhone 15 Pro Max and used Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra at affordable prices. So, check out our collection and find the device that suits you best.
The Verdict
Deciding the winner ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, stellar camera performance, and a brighter display, the iPhone 15 Pro Max might be your champion. But if you crave S Pen support, longer battery life, faster charging, and a more affordable price, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra could be your ideal match.
Remember, the "best" phone is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. So, carefully weigh the pros and cons before choosing your champion in this Clash of the Titans!
