Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at
£369.24£1,599.00 new
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at
£840.13£1,399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max?
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 Ultra starts at £369.24, £470.89 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is the newer model, released in 2024.
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 A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 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 4685 mAh.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max differ in several key areas that suit different types of users. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a larger battery, more RAM, and a higher resolution screen, making it a good choice for those who prioritise multitasking, detailed display, and longer use between charges. Camera capabilities also vary, with the Galaxy focusing on a very high resolution main sensor, while both share the same front camera resolution. Connectivity options and SIM support differ, which may affect how you use your phone daily.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max price
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and release year. These specs influence how long the devices last on a charge, the software experience, and when they were launched.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery which suits users needing longer battery life for heavy use or extended periods away from charging. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 4685 mAh battery, which offers solid endurance for daily tasks but with a smaller capacity than the Galaxy.
Operating System
The Galaxy S23 Ultra runs Android 13, ideal if you prefer a flexible and customisable operating system. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses iOS 18, offering a smooth, integrated experience within Apple's ecosystem, which might suit those invested in Apple services and apps.
Release Year
The Galaxy S23 Ultra was released in 2023 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 2024. This information can help put each phone in a timeline for their model generation.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options. These affect how smoothly the phone runs apps, manages multitasking, and handles storage needs.
Processor
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm), which suits users who want strong performance on Android. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses the Apple A18 Pro chipset, built for efficiency and speed on iOS. Each chipset is optimised for its platform.
RAM Capacity
With 12 GB RAM, the Galaxy S23 Ultra supports keeping more apps active and multitasking smoothly, beneficial for power users. The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers 8 GB RAM, which efficiently handles everyday apps and multitasking within iOS.
Storage Options
Both phones come in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants. This allows you to pick the storage size that fits your needs, whether for media, apps, or files, without compromise between the two devices.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max screen
Screen quality is essential for viewing comfort and clarity. Both devices offer high refresh rates and large screens, but they differ in resolution, size, and panel type.
Screen Size
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a slightly larger 6.9 inch screen, offering a bit more space for video and browsing. The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a 6.8 inch screen, which remains very spacious for media and multitasking.
Resolution
The Galaxy S23 Ultra delivers a higher resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels, providing more detail and sharpness, which benefits those who prioritise crisp visuals. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a resolution of 1320 x 2868 pixels, still very sharp and suited to everyday use.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, known for vibrant colours and deep contrast. The iPhone 16 Pro Max features an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED screen, balancing colour accuracy and power efficiency. Both offer premium display experiences.
Refresh Rate
Both phones support a 120 Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth animations and scrolling, enhancing gaming and general use on each device.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera
Audiovisual specs focus on front and main cameras. These are key for selfies, video calls, and photography.
Front Camera
Both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max have 12 megapixel front cameras. This resolution suits clear selfies and video chats on both devices without difference in pixel count.
Main Camera
The Galaxy S23 Ultra carries a 200 megapixel main camera, which captures exceptionally detailed photos, ideal for photography enthusiasts. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 48 megapixel main camera, supporting high-quality images with fewer pixels, which is suitable for everyday photography and video.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous specs include physical dimensions, connectivity, and SIM options. These affect how the device handles networks, fits in your hand, and connects to accessories.
SIM Card Support
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Dual Physical SIM plus eSIM, which works well if you need two physical SIM cards alongside digital SIM use. The iPhone 16 Pro Max supports eSIM only, suitable if you prefer managing mobile plans digitally without physical SIM cards.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S23 Ultra uses USB Type-C for charging and data, which is compatible with many accessories.
Size and Weight
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is slightly thinner at 8.3 mm compared to the Galaxy S23 Ultra's 8.9 mm. The iPhone is also lighter, weighing 227 g versus 234 g for the Galaxy. The Galaxy is a little wider at 78.1 mm compared to 77.6 mm on the iPhone. These differences may influence how each device feels in your hand or pocket.
Network Compatibility
Both phones support 5G networks, which ensures fast mobile data speeds where available.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 Ultra if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £369.24, £470.89 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4685 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
- you want a lighter build (227 g vs 234 g)
- you want the newer model (2024)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S23 Ultra report it looks and works like new, often exceeding expectations for refurbished condition. Many highlight the phone's smooth performance, fast Snapdragon processor, and excellent 200MP camera for detailed photos. Battery life is noted as solid, supporting long use, and the screen is praised for having no signs of previous wear. Buyers appreciate the ethical aspect of refurbished devices and enjoy the quality for the price.
For the iPhone 16 Pro Max, customers frequently mention the phone's pristine condition with no scratches and high battery health often close to 100 percent. The touchscreen responsiveness and smooth operation stand out, as does the premium feel of the device. Battery longevity is well regarded, with many noting very low charge cycles. Users find the phone performs perfectly and the display looks great, matching expectations for a premium iPhone.
Both devices suit users looking for premium phones in excellent condition. The Galaxy S23 Ultra appeals to those wanting a detailed camera and larger RAM for multitasking. The iPhone 16 Pro Max fits those who prefer iOS with a slightly larger screen and strong battery health. Customers value both phones as reliable, well-maintained refurbished options.
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 16 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 A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 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 £840.13 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4685 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 16 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB refurbished.
