Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S25 FE
Starting at
£364.55£645.24 new
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at
£840.13£1,399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S25 FE and iPhone 16 Pro Max?
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy S25 FE starts at £364.55, £475.58 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Galaxy S25 FE is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Exynos 2400 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S25 FE, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- The Galaxy S25 FE has a bigger battery: 4900 mAh vs 4685 mAh.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.9 inch vs 6.7 inch.
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S25 FE and iPhone 16 Pro Max differ in several key areas that suit different users. The Galaxy S25 FE offers a slightly larger battery capacity and runs Android, making it suitable for those who prefer Android's flexibility and dual physical SIM support. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a larger and higher resolution display with an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED screen, ideal for users who prioritise screen quality and a premium iOS experience. Both phones have 8 GB RAM but different chipsets and storage options, with the iPhone providing up to 1TB of storage. The Galaxy S25 FE is lighter, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max uses an eSIM and supports USB-C with faster data transfer. Your choice depends on your preferred operating system, screen needs, and how you use SIM cards.
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max price
Colour
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, operating system, and physical design. The Galaxy S25 FE and iPhone 16 Pro Max differ in battery capacity and software platform, which affects daily use and app ecosystems.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S25 FE has a 4900 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max's 4685 mAh. This could translate to longer battery life on the Galaxy for users who prioritise screen-on time or heavy usage. The iPhone's battery remains sizeable but is slightly smaller in capacity.
Operating System
The Galaxy S25 FE runs Android, offering flexibility in app choices and customisation. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses iOS 18, known for its smooth integration with Apple services and a consistent user experience. Your preference for Android or iOS will strongly influence which device suits you best.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max performance
Performance involves the chipset, RAM, and storage options available. Both phones have 8 GB of RAM, supporting smooth multitasking, but their chipsets and storage capacities differ.
Chipset and Speed
The Galaxy S25 FE is powered by the Exynos 2400 built on a 4 nm process, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max uses the Apple A18 Pro chipset. Both chipsets are designed for high performance, but the choice may come down to your preference for Android or iOS optimisation.
Storage Options
Galaxy S25 FE offers storage in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, which suits most everyday needs and media storage. The iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at 256GB and goes up to 1TB, making it a good fit for users needing extensive storage for large apps, photos, or professional files.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max screen
Screen quality considers resolution, size, and panel type. The two devices offer different viewing experiences suited to various priorities such as media consumption or detailed work.
Screen Size
The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 6.9 inch screen, providing more space for videos, gaming, and multitasking compared to the Galaxy S25 FE's 6.7 inch display. If you prefer a larger display for immersive use, the iPhone might be more suitable.
Resolution and Display Type
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a higher resolution at 1320 x 2868 pixels and uses an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED screen. This means sharper images and potentially better battery efficiency with adaptive refresh rates. The Galaxy S25 FE offers a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen at 1080 x 2340 pixels, which still delivers vibrant colours and smooth visuals, suitable for everyday multimedia and general use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous features include connectivity, SIM options, weight, and network support. These affect how you use the phone daily, especially for travel and compatibility.
SIM Card and Network
The Galaxy S25 FE supports dual physical SIM cards, which is helpful if you need two separate phone numbers or travel frequently with multiple SIMs. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses eSIM technology, allowing you to activate plans digitally without a physical card, which may appeal if you prefer a streamlined SIM setup.
Connector Type
This could be important if you regularly transfer large files between your phone and computer.
Weight
The Galaxy S25 FE weighs 190 g, making it lighter and potentially more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The iPhone 16 Pro Max weighs 227 g, reflecting its larger screen and build, which may feel more substantial in hand.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S25 FE or iPhone 16 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S25 FE if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £364.55, £475.58 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max
- you want a bigger battery (4900 mAh vs 4685 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.7 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who have used the Galaxy S25 FE appreciate its premium condition and reliable battery life after it adjusts to usage. Many mention the phone feels like new and works well for everyday use, with a smooth setup and good photo quality. Some report minor issues with colour variants received but overall praise the phone's performance and condition. The battery capacity supports longer use, and the device suits those wanting a high-end Android phone with dual SIM support and a lighter build.
Users of the iPhone 16 Pro Max highlight its premium feel and excellent screen responsiveness. Most report the phone looks like new with little to no wear, and battery health often remains near full capacity even after some use. The large, high-resolution display is noted for its quality, and the device handles everyday tasks smoothly. The eSIM setup and USB-C 3 connector are appreciated by users who value convenience and fast data transfers. The weight and size give a substantial feel, suitable for those prioritising a larger screen and iOS experience.
Both phones attract users who want a reliable refurbished device with strong condition and battery health. The Galaxy S25 FE suits Android users looking for a lighter phone with physical dual SIMs, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is well-suited to those who prefer iOS, a larger screen, and higher storage options.
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S25 FE vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Exynos 2400 (4 nm) on the Galaxy S25 FE, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Galaxy S25 FE has a bigger battery: 4900 mAh vs 4685 mAh.
The Galaxy S25 FE is cheaper refurbished, from £364.55 compared with £840.13 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The Galaxy S25 FE has a bigger battery: 4900 mAh vs 4685 mAh.
The Galaxy S25 FE has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Galaxy S25 FE gets updates until Sep 2032. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S25 FE comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
