Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra represent the latest in flagship smartphone technology, offering high-powered performance, impressive displays, and advanced camera systems. While both devices cater to users seeking top-tier mobile experiences, they differ in areas like camera versatility, battery life, and unique features, catering to distinct user preferences. For those comparing these models, understanding each device’s unique strengths can be crucial in selecting the one that best suits their needs.
| Feature | iPhone 16 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Display | 6.9-inch OLED, 1320 x 2868 px, 120Hz, 2000 nits | 6.8-inch OLED, 1440 x 3120 px, 120Hz, 2600 nits |
| Processor | A18 Pro Bionic | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB; 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 16GB; 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Main Camera | 48MP (main), 48MP (ultra-wide), 12MP (5x telephoto) | 200MP (main), 12MP (ultra-wide), 50MP (5x telephoto), 10MP (3x telephoto) |
| Zoom & Telephoto | 5x optical zoom (telephoto) | 3x and 10x optical zooms; up to 100x digital |
| Front Camera | 12MP, f/1.9 | 12MP, f/2.2 |
| Battery | Estimated 29 hours video playback | 5000 mAh; estimated 36 hours |
| Charging | USB-C, up to 27W wired | USB-C, up to 45W wired |
| OS | iOS 18 | Android 14 |
| Materials | Titanium frame, Ceramic Shield front | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 3 |
| Special Features | Action Button, Face ID, ProRes, Spatial Video | S Pen, advanced zoom, 8K video recording |
| Dimensions & Weight | 163 x 77.6 x 8.3 mm; 227g | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm; 232g |
| Launch Price | $1,199 | $1,299 |
How Big is the S24 Ultra Compared to the 16 Pro Max?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are similar in size, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra is slightly shorter and wider. Here’s a breakdown:
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 163 x 77.6 x 8.3 mm, weighing 227 grams
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm, weighing 232 grams
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is marginally thicker and heavier, with a slightly wider profile, which may feel different in hand. Both devices have nearly identical screen sizes, with the iPhone at 6.9 inches and the Galaxy at 6.8 inches.
Should you buy and iPhone 16 Pro Max or Galaxy S24 Ultra?
Choosing between the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra depends on your specific needs and ecosystem preferences:
Camera & Photography: The Galaxy S24 Ultra, with its 200MP main camera and advanced zoom, is ideal for detailed photography and diverse shots. The iPhone 16 Pro Max shines in video quality, with ProRes and advanced stabilization features.
Software & Ecosystem: iOS on the iPhone provides a streamlined, secure experience, especially if you’re already using Apple products. Android on the Galaxy offers flexibility and customization, plus Samsung’s DeX mode for productivity.
Battery & Charging: Samsung offers a larger battery and faster charging (45W vs. 27W), ideal for heavy users.
Ultimately, go with the iPhone if you value video quality and the Apple ecosystem, or the Galaxy for camera variety, customization, and battery performance.
