Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max
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Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Starting at
£268.86£1,800.00 new
iPhone 12 Pro Max
Starting at
£332.70£1,079.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and iPhone 12 Pro Max?
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G starts at £268.86, £63.84 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, Apple A14 Bionic on the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
- The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB.
- The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G suits those who value a larger battery and more RAM for multitasking, along with a very high-resolution main camera and a larger screen. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is a strong option for users who prefer iOS, a slightly more compact design, and a screen with a high-quality OLED panel. Both come in the same range of storage options, so your choice depends more on your preferences for system, camera detail, and screen size.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max price
Colour
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software support are important for durability.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a 5000 mAh battery, which means it generally provides longer usage between charges. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 3687 mAh battery, which suits users comfortable with daily charging cycles or lighter usage. If you need longer screen-on time without charging, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G fits that need.
Operating System
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G runs Android, offering flexibility in apps and customisation. The iPhone 12 Pro Max runs iOS, known for its integration with other Apple devices and a controlled app environment. Your choice here depends on your preference for system design and app ecosystem.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max performance
Performance involves the chipset and memory, which affect speed and multitasking. Both phones come in several storage sizes to fit different needs.
Chipset and RAM
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is equipped with either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset and has 12 GB of RAM. This means it can keep more apps active and handle demanding tasks smoothly. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses the Apple A14 Bionic chipset and has 6 GB of RAM, which supports efficient performance for everyday use and many apps running at once. If you regularly use heavy apps or multitask extensively, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G's higher RAM may benefit you.
Storage Options
Both phones offer 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage variants. This allows you to choose how much space you need for apps, media, and files without compromise.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max screen
Screen size and resolution influence how much you see and how sharp images appear. Both use advanced display technologies suited for vibrant colours and high contrast.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a 6.8 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3200, offering a slightly larger and sharper display. This suits users who watch videos or work on their phone extensively. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 6.7 inch screen with 1284 x 2778 resolution, providing a slightly smaller but still spacious and detailed view, ideal for those preferring a more compact device with excellent image quality.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, which supports smooth motion and vibrant colours. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, known for accurate colours and deep blacks. Your preference for Android or iOS may guide your choice, as both displays deliver high-quality visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max camera
Camera specifications vary, affecting photo and video detail. Front and main camera megapixels indicate image resolution potential.
Main Camera Detail
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a 108 megapixel main camera, ideal for capturing fine detail and large prints. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel main camera, which suits users who prioritise consistent image processing and colour rendering. If you want very high resolution photos, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is suitable.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers a 40 megapixel front camera for high-detail selfies and video calls. The iPhone 12 Pro Max's front camera is 12 megapixels, good for everyday use and typical video chats. For users focused on selfie clarity, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G's higher megapixel front camera stands out.
Camera Setup
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a quadruple camera system, providing more lens options for varied photography. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a triple camera setup, balancing versatility with simplicity. Choose based on whether you want more photography features or a straightforward camera experience.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max size and design
Other features affect daily convenience and compatibility, including connectors, size, weight, and SIM options.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G uses a USB-C connector, which is common for many devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 Pro Max uses a Lightning connector, which is specific to Apple devices. Your existing accessories and chargers may influence which connector suits you better.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G measures 165.1 mm in height, 75.6 mm in width, and 8.9 mm in depth. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is slightly taller at 160.8 mm, wider at 78.1 mm, and 7.4 mm deep. Both weigh nearly the same, with the Galaxy at 227 g and the iPhone at 226 g. These small differences may affect how the phones feel in your hand or pocket.
SIM Options
Both phones support a physical SIM plus an eSIM, offering flexibility for multiple numbers or plans without needing to swap SIM cards.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G or iPhone 12 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £268.86, £63.84 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 3687 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 12 Pro Max if
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Feb 2026)
What our customers say
Customers who use the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G often comment on its like-new condition and fast, reliable performance. Many highlight the device's excellent screen and battery life, appreciating the phone's smooth operation and large display. Some mention minor cosmetic marks but still find the device very satisfactory for the price. The high-resolution camera and extensive RAM support more demanding use, and users value the device's quality and condition when refurbished.
Users of the iPhone 12 Pro Max report satisfaction with the phone's battery lasting all day and a screen that looks pristine. Several customers note the device's elegant appearance and reliable performance, with some appreciating the storage options for their needs. While a few mention minor scratches or cosmetic marks, most find the phone works perfectly and looks like new. The iPhone's user experience appeals to those familiar with iOS and who enjoy its ecosystem.
Both devices suit customers seeking premium refurbished phones with strong performance and good condition. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G appeals to those wanting a larger screen, more camera resolution, and higher RAM, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max fits those who prefer iOS and a slightly more compact but still large display.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 12 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2100 (5 nm), Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, Apple A14 Bionic on the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is cheaper refurbished, from £268.86 compared with £332.70 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 3687 mAh.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a higher-resolution main camera: 108 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G ended in Feb 2026. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB refurbished.
