Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max
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Galaxy J5 (2017)
Starting at
£60.00
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2017) and iPhone XS Max?
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) starts at £60, £108.09 less than the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone XS Max is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 5.2 inch.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max specs
The Galaxy J5 (2017) and iPhone XS Max offer different experiences suited to different needs. It includes a microSDXC card slot for extra storage and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack with micro USB charging. It offers more storage options and uses a Lightning connector. Choose the Galaxy J5 for straightforward everyday use with expandable storage and headphone jack, or the iPhone XS Max for a larger display, more built-in storage, and ongoing software updates.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- GoldSold out
Storage
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates, operating system, and design features that affect how the devices stay current and handle daily use.
Software Updates
This suits buyers who prioritise up-to-date software or who prefer a stable version for everyday tasks.
Operating Systems
The Galaxy J5 runs Android, which offers flexibility and customisation for users familiar with that environment. The iPhone XS Max uses iOS, known for its integration with Apple services and consistent performance. Your choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iOS as the platform.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, from size to resolution and display technology.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS Max has a larger 6.5 inch screen, providing more room to watch videos, browse, and use apps comfortably. The Galaxy J5 offers a smaller 5.2 inch screen, which makes it easier to hold and use with one hand. Choose the iPhone XS Max if you want a more immersive display or the Galaxy J5 for compact usability.
Resolution and Display
The iPhone XS Max delivers a higher resolution of 1242 x 2688 pixels with Super Retina OLED technology, which offers sharp images and rich colours. The Galaxy J5 has a 720 x 1280 resolution with Super AMOLED, which still provides vibrant colours but at a lower detail level. The higher resolution suits users who prioritise image clarity and detail.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max camera
Audiovisual features include cameras and front-facing camera capabilities that affect photo quality and video calls.
Front Camera
The Galaxy J5 has a 13 megapixel front camera, offering higher resolution selfies and video calls. The iPhone XS Max has a 7 megapixel front camera, which may capture less detail but benefits from iOS image processing. The Galaxy J5 suits selfie enthusiasts looking for more megapixels.
Main Camera
The Galaxy J5 features a 13 megapixel main camera, slightly higher in megapixels than the iPhone XS Max's 12 megapixel camera. This can help capture more detail in photos, although image quality also depends on other factors beyond megapixels.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Miscellaneous features cover connectivity, physical dimensions, storage, and network compatibility that impact everyday use.
Storage Options
The iPhone XS Max comes in several storage sizes: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB, providing plenty of space for apps, media, and files. The Galaxy J5 is stocked with 16GB storage but supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to expand storage with a memory card. This suits users who want flexibility in managing storage.
Connector and Headphone Jack
The Galaxy J5 uses micro USB and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing direct connection to standard wired headphones without adapters. The iPhone XS Max uses a Lightning connector and does not have a 3.5mm jack, which may require wireless or Lightning headphones.
SIM and Network
Both phones support 4G and are unlocked for use on any carrier. The Galaxy J5 uses a physical SIM card, while the iPhone XS Max supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, offering more flexibility for multiple lines or travel.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy J5 measures 146.2 mm tall, 71.3 mm wide, and 8 mm deep, weighing 160 g. The iPhone XS Max is 157.5 mm tall, 77.4 mm wide, and 7.7 mm deep, weighing 208 g. The Galaxy J5's smaller and lighter size suits those wanting easier one-handed use and portability.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy J5 (2017) or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy J5 (2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £60, £108.09 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3174 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 5.2 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy J5 (2017) appreciate its simple operation and good condition. Many mention it working well for basic use and as a first phone for children. Users value the price saving compared to new devices and the clear, easy-to-use design. Some note the SIM slot size and storage capacity as points to consider. Overall, customers find it a reliable choice for everyday tasks and straightforward smartphone needs.
Those who chose the iPhone XS Max highlight its excellent condition and quality feel, with many saying it looks like new. The larger screen and clear display are appreciated along with the good battery life reported by some. A few users mention minor issues such as call volume or battery wear, but most are happy with the performance and iOS experience. The device suits those wanting a premium smartphone with more storage options and ongoing software updates.
The Galaxy J5 is a good fit for buyers seeking a compact, straightforward Android phone with expandable storage and a headphone jack, ideal for everyday use or as a first device. The iPhone XS Max suits those who want a larger screen, higher storage capacities, and the benefits of iOS updates, making it suitable for users who prioritise display size and software longevity.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB. The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £60 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2017) ended in Mar 2019. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) comes in 16GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
