Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20 FE
Starting at
£159.05£779.00 new
iPhone 12 Pro Max
Starting at
£332.70£1,079.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S20 FE and iPhone 12 Pro Max?
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the battery, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE starts at £159.05, £173.65 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
Software updates
- The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
- The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.7 inch vs 6.5 inch.
- Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S20 FE, Super Retina XDR OLED on the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S20 FE and iPhone 12 Pro Max differ in several key areas that suit different types of users. The Galaxy S20 FE offers a larger battery and a microSDXC slot for expandable storage, ideal for those who value longer battery capacity and extra space. The iPhone has a slightly bigger and higher-resolution screen with a different OLED technology, suited to users who prioritise screen detail and size. Camera setups are similar, but the Galaxy S20 FE's front camera has a higher megapixel count, which may appeal to selfie enthusiasts. Overall, the Galaxy S20 FE fits those who prefer Android and flexibility, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max suits those who want iOS and 5G connectivity.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max price
Colour
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Battery capacity, software updates, and operating system shape how long and smoothly your phone works over time. These two phones have differences that affect daily use and longevity.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S20 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, which means it holds more charge compared to the iPhone 12 Pro Max's 3687 mAh. This can suit users who want longer time between charges, especially if you use your phone heavily throughout the day.
Operating System
Galaxy S20 FE runs Android, offering more customisation options and app choices suited to users who prefer Google's ecosystem. The iPhone 12 Pro Max runs iOS, which is known for smooth integration with other Apple products and regular updates.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max screen
Screen size, resolution, and type determine how good your viewing experience is for video, games, and browsing. Each phone offers a distinct take on display quality.
Screen Size
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 6.7 inch screen, slightly larger than the Galaxy S20 FE's 6.5 inch. This extra space is useful if you prefer bigger displays for watching videos or multitasking.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1284 x 2778, the iPhone 12 Pro Max offers more pixels than the Galaxy S20 FE's 1080 x 2400. This means sharper images and finer detail, which benefits users who look closely at photos or read small text.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S20 FE uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for deep blacks and vibrant colours that suit media consumption. The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which provides high contrast and brightness, ideal for viewing in different lighting conditions.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max camera
Camera capabilities and front-facing cameras impact how well your phone captures photos and video calls. Both phones have triple main cameras but differ on the front camera.
Front Camera Megapixels
The Galaxy S20 FE has a 32 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies compared to the iPhone 12 Pro Max's 12 megapixels. This feature suits users who take frequent selfies or participate in video calls.
Main Camera Setup
Both phones have triple main cameras with 12 megapixel sensors. This means they offer versatile photography options suitable for a range of situations, from wide shots to portraits.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max size and design
Other features like network compatibility, storage options, physical size, and connectors affect everyday usability and convenience.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 12 Pro Max supports 5G networks, offering faster mobile internet where available. The Galaxy S20 FE works on 4G networks, which suit users who do not require 5G speeds or are in areas where 5G is not accessible.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is available with up to 512GB of storage, suitable for users who need to store large amounts of apps, photos, and videos. The Galaxy S20 FE offers up to 256GB but also includes a microSDXC slot, letting you expand storage with a card, which adds flexibility.
SIM and Connectivity
The Galaxy S20 FE uses a physical SIM card, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, which can be convenient for managing multiple numbers or travel.
Connector Type
Galaxy S20 FE uses a USB-C connector, common for many devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses a Lightning connector, which fits Apple accessories and chargers.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is larger and heavier at 160.8 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and 226 g, compared to the Galaxy S20 FE's 159.8 mm height, 74.5 mm width, and 190 g. This difference may affect comfort and pocket fit depending on your preference for phone size.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S20 FE or iPhone 12 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S20 FE if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £159.05, £173.65 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max
- you want a bigger battery (4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (32 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 12 Pro Max if
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 6.5 inch)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Nov 2025)
- you want 5G
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S20 FE looks like new and is generally in excellent condition. Many find it easy to set up and appreciate its value for money. However, some mention battery life concerns, with reports of the battery lasting only half a day or devices shutting off unexpectedly. The screen and overall phone quality meet expectations for most, making it a solid choice for users who want a large, vibrant display and a high-resolution front camera.
For the iPhone 12 Pro Max, customers praise the battery lasting all day and the device's like-new condition. The screen quality and storage options satisfy users who need more space and a sharp, large display. Minor cosmetic marks are usually minimal and can be covered with a case. Some users appreciate the ongoing software support and 5G connectivity. There are occasional reports of issues such as wrong colour or unresponsive screens, but most customers are very happy with the purchase.
Overall, the Galaxy S20 FE suits users who want Android flexibility, a larger battery, and expandable storage. The iPhone 12 Pro Max fits those who prefer iOS updates, 5G, and a larger, higher-resolution screen with extra storage choices.
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S20 FE vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the battery, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.7 inch vs 6.5 inch.
The Galaxy S20 FE is cheaper refurbished, from £159.05 compared with £332.70 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S20 FE has a bigger battery: 4500 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S20 FE ended in Nov 2025. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 FE comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
