Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy Note9
Starting at
£142.00
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Note9 and iPhone XS Max?
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Note9 starts at £142, £26.09 less than the iPhone XS Max.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 9810, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 on the Galaxy Note9, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The Galaxy Note9 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Note9 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max specs
The Galaxy Note9 and iPhone XS Max both launched in 2018 and suit different needs based on their strengths. The Galaxy Note9 offers a larger battery and more RAM, which supports longer use and smoother multitasking on Android. Its screen is slightly smaller but with higher resolution, ideal if you want crisp visuals on a Super AMOLED display. It has a larger screen with Super Retina OLED and offers more storage options, fitting those who need more space for apps and media. The Note9 supports expandable storage and dual SIMs, useful for managing lots of files or two numbers. Choose the Note9 for Android flexibility and battery life, or the iPhone XS Max for iOS updates and varied storage sizes.
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
Storage
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system support and physical build. These affect how long the device lasts on a charge, how up to date the software remains and how it fits in your hand.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note9 has a 4000 mAh battery, which suits users who need longer battery life between charges. The iPhone XS Max has a 3174 mAh battery, which may be sufficient for those with lighter daily use or who charge more frequently.
Operating System
The Galaxy Note9 runs Android, which often appeals to users wanting customisation and integration with Google services. The iPhone XS Max uses iOS, known for its smooth interface and integration with other Apple devices.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM and storage options. These influence how fast the device runs apps, handles multitasking and stores your files.
Processor Options
The Galaxy Note9 comes with either the Exynos 9810 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 chipset, offering solid performance for most tasks on Android. The iPhone XS Max uses the Apple A12 Bionic chip, which is optimised for iOS and supports demanding apps and games.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy Note9 includes 6 GB of RAM, which helps keep multiple apps active and improves multitasking. The iPhone XS Max has 4 GB of RAM, which works efficiently with iOS to balance performance and power use.
Storage Options
You can find the Galaxy Note9 with 128 GB of storage, suitable for most users needing space for apps and media. The iPhone XS Max offers a wider range of storage options from 64 GB up to 512 GB, fitting those who want more room for large files or extensive app collections.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view videos, photos and apps. Size, resolution and panel type all play a role in the experience.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS Max has a slightly larger 6.5 inch screen, offering more room for watching videos or browsing. The Galaxy Note9 has a 6.4 inch screen, which still provides ample space but may fit more comfortably in some hands.
Resolution Detail
The Galaxy Note9 has a higher resolution of 1440 by 2960 pixels, delivering very sharp and detailed images. The iPhone XS Max has a resolution of 1242 by 2688 pixels, which is still sharp and well suited for everyday viewing.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy Note9 uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone XS Max uses a Super Retina OLED display, which also offers excellent colour accuracy and brightness.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max camera
Audiovisual features focus on cameras, which affect your ability to take selfies and photos with clarity.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy Note9 has an 8 megapixel front camera, ideal for detailed selfies and video calls. The iPhone XS Max has a 7 megapixel front camera, which also captures clear images and supports Face ID functionality.
Main Camera Quality
Both phones have a 12 megapixel main camera, so either device can capture photos with similar resolution. The quality of photos will also depend on software processing and user preferences.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Other differences include physical size, SIM and storage features and how the device fits your lifestyle.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Note9 measures 161.9 mm tall, 76.4 mm wide and 8.8 mm deep, weighing 201 g. The iPhone XS Max is a bit shorter at 157.5 mm, slightly wider at 77.4 mm and thinner at 7.7 mm, with a weight of 208 g. These differences affect how the phone feels in your hand or pocket.
SIM Card Setup
The Galaxy Note9 supports dual physical SIM cards, which is helpful if you want to use two separate phone numbers with physical SIMs. The iPhone XS Max uses a physical SIM plus an eSIM, allowing one physical and one digital SIM line.
Expandable Storage
The Galaxy Note9 includes a microSDXC card slot, so you can increase storage with a memory card. The iPhone XS Max does not have this feature, so you rely on the built-in storage you choose.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy Note9 or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note9 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £142, £26.09 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4000 mAh vs 3174 mAh)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy Note9 often praise its condition and features, saying it looks like new and works well. Many appreciate the good price and reliability for everyday use. Some note issues with battery life and heat after use, which means replacing the battery may be necessary for longer satisfaction. The Note9 suits those who want a large screen, strong battery and Android flexibility.
The iPhone XS Max receives positive feedback for its excellent condition and smooth performance. Buyers highlight the phone's value and appearance, with many finding it perfect for their needs. Some customers mention battery life as a concern after extended use, but overall the phone handles everyday tasks well. The iPhone XS Max suits those looking for a high-quality iOS device with varied storage sizes and a large screen.
Both phones appeal to users who want a reliable refurbished device with good screen quality and camera capabilities. The Note9 is well suited for Android users wanting expandable storage and dual SIM, while the iPhone XS Max is ideal for those invested in the Apple ecosystem and wanting ongoing software updates.
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
Galaxy Note9 vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 9810, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 on the Galaxy Note9, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The Galaxy Note9 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Galaxy Note9 is cheaper refurbished, from £142 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
The Galaxy Note9 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note9 ended in Jul 2022. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Note9 comes in 128GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
