Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26
Starting at
£658.95£999.00 new
iPhone 16 Plus
Starting at
£588.00£799.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Plus?
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone 16 Plus starts at £588, £70.95 less than the Galaxy S26. The Galaxy S26 is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus.
- The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The iPhone 16 Plus has a bigger battery: 4674 mAh vs 4300 mAh.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus specs
The Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Plus differ in screen size, refresh rate, RAM, and battery capacity, among other features. The Galaxy S26 offers a smaller but faster 120 Hz display and more RAM, which suits users who prioritise smooth scrolling and multitasking. The iPhone 16 Plus has a larger screen with higher resolution and a bigger battery, fitting those who prefer more screen space for media and longer battery life.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus price
Colour
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus battery life and software updates
Battery capacity, software support, and operating system are key to how long a phone stays reliable and current.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S26 has a 4300 mAh battery, which suits everyday use with moderate to heavy tasks. The iPhone 16 Plus offers a larger 4674 mAh battery, which helps if you want longer usage between charges, especially on a bigger screen.
Operating System And Updates
The Galaxy S26 runs Android and the iPhone 16 Plus uses iOS 18.
SIM Card Options
Both phones provide a physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility for managing personal and work numbers or travelling internationally.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus screen
Screen experience varies notably between these two phones in size, resolution, and refresh rate. Your choice depends on whether you value a larger display or smoother motion.
Screen Size And Resolution
The iPhone 16 Plus has a larger 6.7 inch screen with a resolution of 1290 x 2796, which means more room and sharper detail for watching videos or browsing. The Galaxy S26's 6.3 inch screen offers a slightly lower resolution of 1080 x 2340, fitting comfortably in one hand.
Refresh Rate
The Galaxy S26 features a 120 Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother animations and scrolling. This is useful if you often play games or scroll quickly through apps. The iPhone 16 Plus has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which suits everyday use and video viewing without extra motion smoothness.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S26 uses a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X screen, which balances vivid colours and power efficiency. The iPhone 16 Plus has a Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for bright colours and sharp contrast, ideal if you prefer more vivid visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus size and design
Other practical differences are in size, weight, ports, and storage options. These affect portability, connectivity, and how much you can store on the device.
Physical Size And Weight
The Galaxy S26 is more compact at 149.6 mm tall, 71.7 mm wide, and lighter at 167 g, making it easier to use with one hand or fit in a pocket. The iPhone 16 Plus is taller at 160.9 mm, wider at 77.8 mm, and heavier at 199 g, which may suit users who want a larger device and do not mind the extra size.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S26 is stocked in 256GB and 512GB variants, offering ample room for apps, photos, and videos. The iPhone 16 Plus adds a 128GB option alongside 256GB and 512GB, which can fit users looking for a lower priced entry point.
Connector Type
Both phones use USB-C connectors.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 or iPhone 16 Plus: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a smoother screen (120 Hz vs 60 Hz)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 16 Plus if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £588, £70.95 less than the Galaxy S26
- you want a bigger battery (4674 mAh vs 4300 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 6.3 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S26 often praise its condition as looking like new and its smooth performance. Many appreciate the sharp, bright screen and battery life that lasts a full day with moderate use. Users mention the phone feels solid and premium, with plenty of storage and responsive speed. Some have received phones in excellent condition with minimal marks, while others note a small blemish near the charging port. Overall, Galaxy S26 buyers find it reliable for work emails, video calls, and everyday tasks.
Reviews for the iPhone 16 Plus highlight the phone's like-new appearance and excellent condition, with several customers noting the battery health and charge cycles are impressive. The larger screen and design appeal to users, and many report satisfaction with the quality and performance. Some users experienced initial software update difficulties that required a reset but resolved without ongoing issues. A few customers mention minor glitches or dislike certain features, but most find it a solid device for everyday use.
Both phones attract buyers who want a premium feel and reliable performance. The Galaxy S26 suits those who value a compact design with a smooth display and ample storage, while the iPhone 16 Plus appeals to users preferring a larger screen and multiple storage options.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus FAQs
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus. The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The iPhone 16 Plus is cheaper refurbished, from £588 compared with £658.95 for the Galaxy S26.
The iPhone 16 Plus has a bigger battery: 4674 mAh vs 4300 mAh.
The Galaxy S26 has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Galaxy S26 gets updates until Mar 2033. The iPhone 16 Plus is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 16 Plus in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
