Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max
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Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 new
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Starting at
£577.65£1,199.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra starts at £369.24, £208.41 less than the iPhone 15 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 A17 Pro (3 nm) on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4441 mAh.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max both offer premium features from 2023 but suit different needs. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a larger 6.8 inch screen with a higher resolution and a bigger 5000 mAh battery, ideal for users wanting more display area and longer battery capacity. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a slightly smaller 6.7 inch screen and runs iOS with an Apple A17 Pro chip on a 3 nm process, appealing to those who prefer Apple's ecosystem and efficient performance. The Galaxy S23 Ultra also includes more RAM at 12 GB and a very high resolution 200 megapixel main camera, benefiting multitasking and photography enthusiasts. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is lighter and thinner, which may suit buyers looking for a more compact and sleek device.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max price
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Battery life, operating system, and physical size are key durability factors here. Both phones are designed to last through a typical day but differ in battery capacity and system experience.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery, which offers a larger capacity for longer usage between charges. This suits users who often use their phone for extended periods without access to charging. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 4441 mAh battery, which is smaller but balanced for its design and iOS optimisation.
Operating System
The Galaxy S23 Ultra runs Android 13, providing a flexible and customisable user experience with access to a wide range of apps and services. The iPhone 15 Pro Max uses iOS, known for its smooth integration with Apple's ecosystem and consistent updates.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max performance
Performance depends on chipset and memory. Both devices offer high-end power but with different hardware choices to suit varied preferences.
Processor Technology
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 built on a 4 nm process. This chipset supports powerful multitasking and gaming. The iPhone 15 Pro Max uses the Apple A17 Pro on a 3 nm process, which emphasises power efficiency and smooth performance within iOS.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra includes 12 GB of RAM, which helps keep many apps open at once and supports heavy multitasking. The iPhone 15 Pro Max comes with 8 GB of RAM, which is sufficient to keep everyday apps running smoothly within iOS.
Storage Options
Both models are available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage sizes, giving you plenty of room for apps, media, and files regardless of which you choose.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max screen
Screen size, resolution, and technology affect how you view content and interact with the device. Both phones support a 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth motion.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 6.8 inch screen with 1440 x 3088 resolution, offering a larger and higher resolution display for watching videos and browsing. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a slightly smaller 6.7 inch screen with 1290 x 2796 resolution, which still provides sharp visuals in a more compact size.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, which is known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone 15 Pro Max features an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display, which balances brightness and power efficiency effectively.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max camera
Camera quality and front-facing features are important for photos, video calls, and selfies. Each device offers distinct capabilities here.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 200 megapixel main camera, designed for capturing very detailed photos, which is ideal for photography enthusiasts or users who want high-resolution images. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 48 megapixel main camera, which still supports high-quality photos with a focus on colour accuracy and consistency.
Front Camera
Both phones feature a 12 megapixel front camera, suitable for clear selfies and sharp video calls.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max size and design
Physical dimensions, connectivity, and SIM options affect daily use and portability. These details can influence comfort and convenience.
Size 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. It is larger and slightly heavier, which suits users who prefer a bigger device. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is more compact at 159.9 mm tall, 76.7 mm wide, and 8.3 mm deep, weighing 221 g, making it easier to hold and pocket.
SIM Card Setup
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility for users who want two physical SIM cards alongside eSIM. The iPhone 15 Pro Max supports one Physical SIM and eSIM, which fits users with simpler SIM needs.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices are unlocked and compatible with 5G networks, ensuring broad carrier support and fast mobile data. Both use USB Type-C connectors for charging and data transfer.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £369.24, £208.41 less than the iPhone 15 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4441 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 15 Pro Max if
- you want a lighter build (221 g vs 234 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S23 Ultra often praise its condition, with many saying it looks and works like new. They highlight the large screen, smooth performance thanks to the Snapdragon processor, and excellent camera, especially the 200 megapixel main sensor. The battery life and overall build quality receive positive mentions. Some mention minor scratches but say these are hardly noticeable with a cover. Buyers also appreciate the availability of multiple storage sizes and the phone's large RAM, which helps with multitasking and gaming.
iPhone 15 Pro Max customers report that the devices look nearly new with clear screens and minimal signs of wear. Battery health is generally good, with many noting it lasts well through the day. The camera quality and sleek design are often highlighted, along with the smooth iOS experience. Some mention the phone feeling warm during heavy use at first but cooling down quickly. Users appreciate the balance of size, weight, and power efficiency. Storage options meet a variety of needs, and the phone's build quality receives consistent praise.
Both phones suit buyers who want premium refurbished devices in excellent condition. The Galaxy S23 Ultra appeals to those wanting a larger screen, more RAM, and a very high resolution camera. The iPhone 15 Pro Max fits users who prefer a slightly smaller, lighter phone with iOS and efficient performance.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 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 A17 Pro (3 nm) on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is cheaper refurbished, from £369.24 compared with £577.65 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4441 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2028. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB refurbished.








