Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 new
iPhone 13 Pro Max
Starting at
£418.75£1,049.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra starts at £369.24, £49.51 less than the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4352 mAh.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max both offer high-end features but cater to different needs. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a larger battery, more RAM, and a higher megapixel main camera, suited for users who prioritise power, multitasking, and detailed photography. The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a slightly smaller screen, runs on iOS 15, and uses a Lightning connector, fitting those who prefer Apple's ecosystem and a familiar interface. Both have 120 Hz refresh rates and 5G support, making smooth visuals and fast connectivity available on either device.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max price
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and release year. These factors influence how long the phone lasts during use and the software environment you experience.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery, which offers more energy storage compared to the iPhone 13 Pro Max's 4352 mAh. This means the Galaxy S23 Ultra is likely to last longer between charges, which suits users who need extended daily use without frequent recharging.
Operating System
The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses iOS 15, which offers a smooth and integrated Apple experience. Your choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iOS ecosystems.
Battery
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max performance
Performance relates to the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These determine how fast the phone runs apps and how much multitasking it handles smoothly.
Processor
The Galaxy S23 Ultra features the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 built on a 4 nm process, designed for efficient and powerful performance. The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses the Apple A15 Bionic on a 5 nm process, known for delivering strong single-core performance. Which suits you depends on your preference for Android or iOS optimisation.
RAM Capacity
With 12 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S23 Ultra can keep more apps open at once, making it ideal for heavy multitasking or running demanding applications. The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes with 6 GB, which supports smooth everyday use and most apps without issue, fitting users with more typical app needs.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage sizes, giving plenty of space for apps, photos, and files. The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers a wider range from 128GB to 1TB, allowing for a lower entry point in storage capacity, which can suit users with lighter storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max screen
Screen quality influences how content looks and feels. Both devices offer fast refresh rates but differ in size, resolution, and screen type.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 6.8 inch display, slightly larger than the iPhone 13 Pro Max's 6.7 inch screen. This extra space on the Galaxy suits users who want a roomier display for video viewing or multitasking.
Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a resolution of 1440 by 3088 pixels, providing very sharp detail and clarity. The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a resolution of 2778 by 1284 pixels, which is less tall but still delivers a crisp image. The Galaxy's higher pixel count particularly benefits those who view high-resolution content or use the phone for detailed work.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, which typically offers vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses an OLED screen, known for good contrast and colour accuracy. Both screens refresh at 120 Hz, delivering smooth scrolling and animations.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max camera
Audiovisual specs focus on cameras, which affect photo and video quality, especially for front and main shots.
Front Camera
Both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max feature 12 megapixel front cameras. This means similar capabilities for selfies and video calls, suitable for users who want clear front-facing photos.
Main Camera
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 200 megapixel main camera, offering very high detail for photos. The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel main camera, which suits users who prefer the Apple style of photography and image processing. Those who want high-resolution shots for cropping or printing may prefer the Galaxy.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous specs cover physical dimensions, connectivity, SIM options, and network support, all impacting daily convenience and compatibility.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses a USB Type-C connector, common for many modern devices and accessories. The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses a Lightning connector, which fits existing Apple accessories. Your choice depends on your existing gear and charging preferences.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, offering flexible mobile network setups such as using two physical SIMs or combining with an eSIM. The iPhone 13 Pro Max supports Dual Physical SIM only, which suits users who prefer physical SIM cards without eSIM.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S23 Ultra measures 163.4 mm in height, 78.1 mm in width, and 8.9 mm in depth, weighing 234 g. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is slightly smaller at 160.8 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and 7.7 mm thick, weighing 240 g. Those who want a slimmer device may prefer the iPhone, while the Galaxy offers a taller screen at similar width.
Network Support
Both phones support 5G connectivity, allowing for fast mobile internet where available. Both are unlocked, so you can use them with any compatible carrier.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 Ultra or iPhone 13 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £369.24, £49.51 less than the iPhone 13 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4352 mAh)
What our customers say
Customers buying the Galaxy S23 Ultra highlight how it looks and works like new, often praising its pristine condition even when ordered in fair or good states. Many mention smooth and fast performance, excellent cameras especially the high megapixel main sensor, and solid battery life. The device suits users wanting a top-rated Android phone with plenty of features and power. Several customers appreciate the sustainability aspect of buying refurbished and are happy with the phone's appearance and speed.
Buyers of the iPhone 13 Pro Max report excellent condition with sharp cameras and battery life that meets their needs. Many are first-time refurbished phone buyers who found the iPhone to run smoothly and feel like new despite being used. The device appeals to those who value iOS 15 and prefer Apple's design and ecosystem. Some note the battery may last about 12 hours with average use, which fits typical daily use but may require charging by day end.
Both devices suit buyers looking for high-quality refurbished phones with unlocked 5G support and reliable condition. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is for users who want a larger screen, more RAM, and a detailed camera setup, while the iPhone 13 Pro Max fits those who prefer Apple's operating system and a slightly smaller but still spacious display.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 6 GB.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is cheaper refurbished, from £369.24 compared with £418.75 for the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4352 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2028. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the iPhone 13 Pro Max in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
