Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max
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Galaxy J5 (2016)
Starting at
£62.00
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2016) and iPhone XS Max?
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2016) starts at £62, £106.09 less than the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone XS Max is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8916 on the Galaxy J5 (2016), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 3100 mAh.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max specs
The Galaxy J5 (2016) and the iPhone XS Max offer different experiences for different needs. The Galaxy J5 (2016) suits those looking for a simpler Android phone with a compact screen and 16GB storage, suitable for everyday tasks. The iPhone XS Max is designed for users who want a larger, higher resolution screen, more memory, and greater storage options with iOS. The choice depends on whether you prefer a smaller, unlocked Android device with expandable storage or a larger iOS device with more storage and current software compatibility.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
- WhiteSold out
- GoldSold out
Storage
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates, operating system, and basic build features. The two phones differ in software compatibility and operating systems, which affects how long they receive updates and the user environment.
Software Updates
This suits users who prefer a phone that stays updated longer versus those satisfied with a stable, simpler Android experience.
Operating System Choice
The Galaxy J5 (2016) runs Android, offering a familiar and flexible system for many users. The iPhone XS Max runs iOS, providing a different interface and app ecosystem. Your preference between Android and iOS will guide which phone works better for you.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality impacts viewing experience, with differences in size, resolution, and display technology affecting how you watch videos, browse, or work on the phone.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS Max has a 6.5 inch screen, offering more space for videos, games, and multitasking. The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a 5.2 inch screen, which makes it easier to use one-handed and carry in smaller pockets. Choose based on how much screen you want versus portability.
Screen Resolution
The iPhone XS Max's screen resolution is 1242 x 2688 pixels, providing sharper and more detailed images, ideal for watching high-quality videos or viewing photos. The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, which suits everyday use and basic media viewing.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy J5 (2016) uses Super AMOLED technology, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks, enhancing visual enjoyment in bright conditions. The iPhone XS Max features a Super Retina OLED screen, which also offers excellent colour accuracy and contrast, making both screens good choices depending on your preference.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max camera
Cameras are important for capturing photos and video calls. Both phones offer front and main cameras with different megapixel counts affecting image detail.
Front Camera
The iPhone XS Max has a 7 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail in selfies and video calls. The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a 5 megapixel front camera, which works well for basic selfie and video chat needs.
Main Camera
The Galaxy J5 (2016) features a 13 megapixel main camera that captures detailed photos suitable for everyday photography. The iPhone XS Max has a 12 megapixel main camera, which balances photo quality with processing features of iOS.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Other features include storage, network compatibility, physical dimensions, and SIM options, which affect how you use the phone daily and physically carry it.
Storage Options
The iPhone XS Max comes with multiple storage options: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB, allowing you to choose plenty of space for apps, photos, and media. The Galaxy J5 (2016) offers 16GB of internal storage but supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage, ideal if you want to add memory later.
SIM and Network
Both devices support 4G and come unlocked for use with any UK carrier. The Galaxy J5 (2016) uses a physical SIM card only, while the iPhone XS Max supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, giving more flexibility if you want two numbers or plans.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy J5 (2016) measures 145.8 mm tall, 72.3 mm wide, and 8.1 mm deep, weighing 159 g, making it lighter and more compact. The iPhone XS Max is larger at 15.75 cm tall, 7.74 cm wide, and 0.77 cm deep, weighing 208 g, giving a bigger feel and larger screen but less portability.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy J5 (2016) or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy J5 (2016) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £62, £106.09 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want a lighter build (158 g vs 208 g)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3174 mAh vs 3100 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 5.2 inch)
What our customers say
Customers generally find the Galaxy J5 (2016) a good phone for its price and everyday use. Many say it looks like new and works well despite being slower, which is expected for its simpler design. Some mention the battery drains quickly or the phone hangs as it ages, but overall users appreciate it as a fair value device that suits basic needs.
The iPhone XS Max receives praise for its excellent condition and quality. Customers highlight the phone's clear screen and good battery life at the time of purchase. Some note minor issues like low call volume or battery wear over time, but most are satisfied with its performance, reliability, and value as a refurbished device. The setup process can take some time, but the phone generally meets expectations for a larger, more capable smartphone.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) suits those wanting a reliable, simpler Android phone for daily use with basic features. The iPhone XS Max appeals to users who want a larger screen, more storage, and ongoing software support with iOS.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8916 on the Galaxy J5 (2016), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) is cheaper refurbished, from £62 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 3100 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2016) ended in Aug 2019. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2016) comes in 16GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
