Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Starting at
£268.86£1,316.00 new
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Starting at
£467.05£1,279.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and iPhone 14 Pro Max?
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G starts at £268.86, £198.19 less than the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is the newer model, released in 2022.
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 A16 Bionic (4 nm) on the iPhone 14 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 4323 mAh.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G and iPhone 14 Pro Max differ in ways that suit different types of users. The Galaxy offers a larger 6.8 inch screen with higher resolution and more RAM, which helps keep many apps open and provides a roomier display for video and multitasking. Its cameras have higher megapixels, capturing more detail in photos and selfies. Meanwhile, the iPhone 14 Pro Max has a slightly smaller 6.7 inch screen with a different OLED technology and supports storage up to 1TB for users needing more space. The Galaxy has a larger battery capacity and weighs more, while the iPhone is lighter and a bit slimmer. Your choice depends on your priorities for screen size, camera detail, storage, and operating system preference.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max price
Colour
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Battery capacity, operating system, and physical size all affect daily use and comfort.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a 5000 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 14 Pro Max's 4323 mAh. A higher capacity battery can mean longer usage between charges, which is useful if you spend a lot of time away from power sources.
Operating System
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G runs on Android, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max uses iOS. Your choice here depends on which system you prefer for apps, interface, and integration with other devices.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy is larger and heavier, measuring 165.1 mm in height, 75.6 mm in width, and weighing 227 g. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is slightly smaller and lighter at 160.7 mm tall, 77.6 mm wide, and 150 g. The iPhone's slimmer 7.9 mm depth versus the Galaxy's 8.9 mm may feel more comfortable for some users.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max performance
Performance depends on chipset power, memory, and storage options. These affect speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on the device.
Chipset Technology
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G uses either the Exynos 2100 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset, both built on a 5 nm process. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has the Apple A16 Bionic chipset, made on a 4 nm process. Each chipset is designed to handle demanding apps and tasks smoothly within its platform.
RAM Capacity
With 12 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G can keep a larger number of apps open and active, which benefits heavy multitasking. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has 6 GB of RAM, which supports smooth everyday use and efficient app performance within iOS.
Storage Options
Both phones offer storage choices of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, with the iPhone 14 Pro Max also available in 1TB. This higher storage option suits users who store large files, videos, or extensive photo libraries directly on their device.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max screen
Screen size, resolution, refresh rate, and technology determine how sharp and smooth visuals appear. Both devices offer high refresh rates, but their screen sizes and detail levels differ.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a 6.8 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, providing a slightly larger and sharper display ideal for watching videos and browsing. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has a 6.7 inch screen with a resolution of 1290 x 2796 pixels, offering a slightly smaller but still very detailed display.
Screen Technology and Refresh Rate
Both phones feature a 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The Galaxy uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, known for vivid colours and deep blacks, while the iPhone uses LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, which balances brightness and power efficiency. Your choice depends on which screen qualities you prefer.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max camera
Camera quality impacts photo and video detail. Front camera megapixels affect selfie resolution, while main camera megapixels influence overall photo clarity.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a 40 megapixel front camera, which captures selfies with more detail, suitable if high-resolution self-portraits are a priority. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel front camera, delivering sharp selfies consistent with its imaging standards.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy's main camera is 108 megapixels, allowing for highly detailed photos and large prints. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has a 48 megapixel main camera, which balances resolution with advanced image processing for clear and vibrant shots.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max size and design
Other practical features include the type of connector, card slots, SIM options, and physical dimensions affecting handling and compatibility.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G uses a USB-C connector, common on many Android devices and accessories. The iPhone 14 Pro Max uses Apple's Lightning connector, which fits existing Apple accessories and chargers.
SIM Card Options
Both phones support a physical SIM plus eSIM, allowing flexible mobile network arrangements such as keeping separate numbers or plans on one device.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy is heavier at 227 g and thicker at 8.9 mm depth, which may suit users who prefer a substantial feel. The iPhone is lighter at 150 g and slimmer at 7.9 mm, appealing to those who want a more compact device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G or iPhone 14 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £268.86, £198.19 less than the iPhone 14 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4323 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 14 Pro Max if
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Feb 2026)
- you want the newer model (2022)
What our customers say
Customers buying the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G often mention the phone looks almost new, with many praising its condition even in lower grades. The large screen, fast performance, and reliable battery life are commonly appreciated. Some users note minor cosmetic marks as expected in refurbished devices. The phone's size and weight are noted but accepted for its features. Overall, buyers highlight the Galaxy S21 Ultra as a fast and dependable device for those who want high specs without full new prices.
Buyers of the iPhone 14 Pro Max report receiving phones in excellent condition, often with full battery health. The device's smooth performance and good battery life are frequent positives. Some customers mention very minor scratches consistent with the chosen condition grade. The phone's design and operating system appeal to those who prefer Apple products. The larger storage options and the balance of size and weight suit users seeking premium features in a lighter device.
Both phones attract buyers who want high-end refurbished devices with strong performance and display quality. The Galaxy suits users valuing a larger screen and more RAM, while the iPhone meets needs for a lighter device with iOS and larger storage options.
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G vs iPhone 14 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 A16 Bionic (4 nm) on the iPhone 14 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 £467.05 for the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4323 mAh.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has a higher-resolution main camera: 108 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G ended in Feb 2026. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
