Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max
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Galaxy S10 5G
Starting at
£235.29£1,099.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S10 5G and iPhone XS Max?
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone XS Max starts at £168.09, £67.20 less than the Galaxy S10 5G. The Galaxy S10 5G is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 9820 (8 nm), Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Galaxy S10 5G, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The Galaxy S10 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S10 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max specs
The Galaxy S10 5G and iPhone XS Max differ in several key areas that suit different types of users. The Galaxy S10 5G offers a larger screen and battery, more RAM, and 5G connectivity, making it a solid choice for those who value screen size, multitasking, and faster mobile networks. The Galaxy S10 5G runs Android and the iPhone XS Max runs iOS, so your choice may also depend on which operating system you prefer. Both phones are unlocked and have similar camera megapixels, so photography and carrier freedom are comparable. Size and weight differ slightly, with the Galaxy S10 5G being lighter but taller. Overall, each device suits distinct needs based on performance, software, and hardware features.
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Battery life, software updates, and operating system are important durability factors that affect everyday use. These devices differ notably in battery capacity and software support, which influence how long they run and how current their software remains.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S10 5G has a 4500 mAh battery, which means it can deliver longer usage times between charges for users who rely on their phone throughout a busy day. The iPhone XS Max has a 3174 mAh battery, which suits users with moderate daily use or access to charging opportunities.
Operating System
The Galaxy S10 5G runs on Android, which offers flexibility in app management and customisation. The iPhone XS Max uses iOS, known for its smooth integration with Apple services and a consistent user experience.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max performance
Performance depends on chipset power, RAM, and storage options. These aspects affect how smoothly apps run and how much data or media you can keep on your phone.
Chipset Varieties
The Galaxy S10 5G uses either the Exynos 9820 (8 nm) or Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (7 nm), both strong chipsets for handling everyday tasks and demanding apps. The iPhone XS Max uses the Apple A12 Bionic chipset, which is designed for smooth performance and efficiency within iOS.
RAM Capacity
With 8 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S10 5G is well suited for multitasking and keeping multiple apps active without slowdown. The iPhone XS Max has 4 GB of RAM, which works well within iOS to manage apps efficiently, ideal for users who prefer a more streamlined experience.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S10 5G is stocked with 256GB of storage, which offers ample space for apps, photos, and media. The iPhone XS Max comes in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants, providing more flexibility to choose storage based on your needs, especially if you require a very large capacity.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen size, resolution, and display technology affect how you view content, from videos to reading texts. Both devices offer high-quality screens but differ in size and resolution.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S10 5G has a 6.7 inch screen, offering a larger display area that suits watching videos and multitasking with split screens. The iPhone XS Max has a 6.5 inch screen, which is still spacious but slightly more compact for easier one-handed use.
Screen Resolution
The Galaxy S10 5G has a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels, providing sharp and detailed images especially noticeable in high-definition content. The iPhone XS Max has a resolution of 1242 x 2688 pixels, giving a clear and vibrant display that works well for everyday use.
Display Technology
The Galaxy S10 5G uses a Dynamic AMOLED screen, which is known for vivid colours and deep blacks, enhancing media viewing. The iPhone XS Max uses a Super Retina OLED screen, delivering rich colours and sharp contrast for a quality visual experience.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max camera
Camera quality affects your photos and video calls. Both phones have similar main cameras but differ in front camera megapixels, which can influence selfie and video chat clarity.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S10 5G has a 10 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies and video calls, suitable for users who prioritise self-portraits or video communication. The iPhone XS Max has a 7 megapixel front camera, which still delivers good quality for everyday use.
Main Camera Resolution
Both devices have a 12 megapixel main camera. This means either phone can take photos with similar detail levels, making them both capable for general photography needs.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Other features like network support, dimensions, weight and SIM options may influence convenience and compatibility with your needs.
Network Connectivity
The Galaxy S10 5G supports 5G networks, which can offer faster data speeds where 5G is available, appealing to users wanting the latest in mobile network technology. The iPhone XS Max supports 4G, which is widely available and reliable for most users.
Device Size and Weight
The Galaxy S10 5G is taller at 162.6 mm and lighter at 157 g, which might suit users looking for a large screen with less weight. The iPhone XS Max measures 157.5 mm in height and weighs 208 g, offering a slightly more compact but heavier device.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S10 5G uses a physical SIM card. The iPhone XS Max supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, offering more flexibility if you want to use two phone numbers or plans on one device.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S10 5G is 7.9 mm deep and 77.1 mm wide, while the iPhone XS Max is 7.7 mm deep and 77.4 mm wide. These slight differences contribute to how the phones feel in hand and fit in pockets.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S10 5G or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S10 5G if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4500 mAh vs 3174 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 6.5 inch)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £168.09, £67.20 less than the Galaxy S10 5G
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S10 5G appreciate how the phone feels like new and praise its battery life for lasting all day. Many mention smooth performance and great value for money. Some users have been repeat buyers and find the phone reliable over long use. A few note minor issues like 5G coverage or settings language, but these have not affected overall satisfaction.
Reviews for the iPhone XS Max highlight that the phone looks brand new and offers excellent condition, with some choosing higher storage options for their needs. Customers find the battery life generally good, although one mentioned shorter battery life. There may be minor issues like call volume or Face ID for some users, but many are happy with its performance and recommend it for those who do not need the latest model.
Both devices suit buyers looking for well-maintained refurbished phones. The Galaxy S10 5G is ideal if you want longer battery life and a larger screen with Android. The iPhone XS Max fits users wanting iOS with multiple storage choices and the latest software updates.
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
Galaxy S10 5G vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 9820 (8 nm), Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Galaxy S10 5G, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The Galaxy S10 5G has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone XS Max is cheaper refurbished, from £168.09 compared with £235.29 for the Galaxy S10 5G.
The Galaxy S10 5G has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The Galaxy S10 5G no longer gets updates. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S10 5G comes in 256GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
