Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max
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Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G
Starting at
£299.00
iPhone 12 Pro Max
Starting at
£332.70£1,079.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G and iPhone 12 Pro Max?
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G starts at £299, £33.70 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB.
- The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
- The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a bigger screen: 6.9 inch vs 6.7 inch.
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G and iPhone 12 Pro Max were both released in 2020 and offer strong features for different needs. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G suits users who want a larger, higher resolution screen with more RAM and a much bigger main camera sensor for detailed photos. It also has a larger battery and supports expandable storage via microSDXC, which is useful for storing lots of media. It has a slightly smaller screen and battery but a higher front camera resolution. Both phones support 5G and come unlocked, but the Note20 Ultra uses USB-C while the iPhone uses Lightning for charging.
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max price
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Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and operating system. These factors influence how long a device lasts in daily use and how current its software remains.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 12 Pro Max's 3687 mAh. This means the Note20 Ultra may offer longer usage between charges, making it suitable for users who spend more time away from charging points.
Operating System
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G runs on Android, giving access to a wide range of customisation options and apps. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses iOS, offering a different user experience that integrates closely with other Apple products.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with the device. Differences in size, resolution, and screen type can influence clarity, colour, and comfort.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a larger 6.9 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels. This provides more screen space and sharper detail, which suits users who watch videos or multitask on their phone. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 6.7 inch screen at 1284 x 2778 pixels, offering a slightly smaller but still large display that is comfortable to hold.
Screen Type
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, which is known for vibrant colours and high brightness. The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which delivers excellent colour accuracy and contrast. Both screens provide rich visuals but the Note20 Ultra's larger size and higher resolution may appeal to those wanting a more immersive display.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max camera
Camera capabilities and front-facing sensor resolution influence photo quality and video calls. These differences matter for photography enthusiasts and those who often use video chat.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a 108 megapixel main camera, capturing highly detailed photos which benefit users who want sharp images or who often crop photos. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel main camera, still capable of quality photos but with fewer pixels.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel front camera, which offers higher resolution for selfies and video calls. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a 10 megapixel front camera, which is slightly lower but still suitable for clear video chats and selfies.
Camera Setup
Both phones have triple rear cameras, allowing for versatile shooting options such as wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. This suits users who want creative flexibility with their photography.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max size and design
Other practical features include network support, storage options, connectors and dimensions, which affect compatibility and daily convenience.
Storage Options
Both devices come in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage sizes. Additionally, the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage, which is ideal if you want to add more space for media or files.
Connector Type
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G uses a USB-C connector for charging and data transfer, compatible with many modern accessories. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses Apple's Lightning connector, which works with Apple-specific cables and accessories.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G measures 164.8 mm in height, 77.2 mm in width, and 8.1 mm in depth, weighing 208 g. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is slightly taller at 160.8 mm, wider at 78.1 mm, and deeper at 7.4 mm, weighing 226 g. The Note20 Ultra's size and weight may feel larger but it offers more screen space.
Carrier and SIM Support
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks. Each supports a physical SIM plus eSIM, offering flexible options for mobile connectivity.
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Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G or iPhone 12 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £299, £33.70 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 12 Pro Max if
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 10 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Sep 2025)
What our customers say
Customers who have chosen the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G often praise its large screen and memory options, appreciating the device's condition and performance. Many users find the phone delivers a great experience and recommend it, though some mention battery life as a concern. The phone's size and display make it popular for media use, and several customers express satisfaction with the overall quality and speed.
The iPhone 12 Pro Max receives frequent compliments on its condition, with many customers noting the device looks like new and works perfectly. Battery life is commonly mentioned as lasting all day, which suits users needing reliable daily performance. The phone appeals to those who value the iOS experience and premium design. Some customers mention minor cosmetic issues but remain happy with the phone's look and function.
Both phones appeal to users who want a quality refurbished device. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G fits those who prioritise screen size, camera detail, and expandable storage. The iPhone 12 Pro Max suits those who prefer iOS, regular software updates, and a balance of performance and design.
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £299 compared with £332.70 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
The Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G has a higher-resolution main camera: 108 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G ended in Sep 2025. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB refurbished.
