Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26
Starting at
£658.95£999.00 new
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at
£840.13£1,399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Pro Max?
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 starts at £658.95, £181.18 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. 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 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 4685 mAh vs 4300 mAh.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max specs
The Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer different strengths suited to different users. The Galaxy S26 has a smaller screen and more RAM, making it well suited for users who want a compact device that performs well with multitasking. The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a larger, higher resolution screen and a bigger battery, which suits those who prefer a bigger display for media and longer battery life. Storage options also differ, with the iPhone offering up to 1TB. Your choice depends on your preferences for screen size, operating system, storage, and battery capacity.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max price
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software support, and operating system, all important for everyday reliability and updates.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 4685 mAh battery, which is larger than the Galaxy S26's 4300 mAh. This means the iPhone may offer longer usage between charges, which suits users who prioritise extended battery life. The Galaxy S26's battery is still ample for a full day of typical use.
Operating System
The Galaxy S26 runs Android, offering a different user experience and app ecosystem compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which runs iOS 18. Your choice depends on which operating system you prefer and are familiar with.
Software Updates
This means you will have ongoing software support regardless of your choice.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max screen
Screen quality is key for viewing comfort and media enjoyment. The Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Pro Max share a 120 Hz refresh rate but differ in size, resolution, and display technology.
Screen Size
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a larger 6.9 inch screen compared to the Galaxy S26's 6.3 inch. A bigger screen provides more room for watching videos and browsing, ideal if you want a more immersive experience.
Resolution
The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a higher resolution at 1320 x 2868 pixels, which can deliver sharper images and finer detail, especially useful for high-definition content. The Galaxy S26's 1080 x 2340 resolution is still clear and suitable for everyday use.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S26 uses a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X screen, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max features an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED panel. Both provide vibrant colours and good contrast, with subtle differences in display technology that may appeal to different preferences.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera
Camera and front camera specifications are important for photography and video calls. Both phones offer triple rear cameras and 12 megapixel front cameras.
Camera Setup
Both the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Pro Max have triple rear cameras, giving flexibility for different types of photos. The front cameras are both 12 megapixels, suitable for clear selfies and video calls.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max size and design
Other features include physical dimensions, connectivity, and storage options that affect daily usage and convenience.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S26 comes in 256GB and 512GB storage options, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max adds a 1TB option. The larger storage on the iPhone suits users who keep many apps, photos, and videos.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy S26 is smaller and lighter, measuring 149.6 mm in height, 71.7 mm in width, and weighing 167 g. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is taller and wider at 163 mm by 77.6 mm and heavier at 227 g. The Galaxy S26 suits those wanting a more compact and lighter device.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S26 supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, offering flexibility for users who want a traditional SIM card alongside eSIM. The iPhone 16 Pro Max supports eSIM only, which may suit those comfortable with digital SIM management.
Connectivity and Ports
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks.
Device Thickness
The Galaxy S26 is slimmer at 7.2 mm compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max at 8.3 mm. This may affect how the phone feels in hand or fits in pockets.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 or iPhone 16 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £658.95, £181.18 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
- you want a bigger battery (4685 mAh vs 4300 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.3 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S26 often mention the phone feels like new and performs smoothly, especially for work tasks like emails and video calls. They appreciate the sharp, bright screen and ample storage space for photos and apps. Some note the battery lasts a full day with moderate use, and the phone has a solid, premium feel despite occasional minor marks. Overall, users find the Galaxy S26 reliable and responsive for everyday and professional use.
iPhone 16 Pro Max customers highlight the phone's excellent condition, often describing it as almost brand new with very high battery health close to 100 percent. They praise the smooth and responsive touchscreen and premium look and feel. Many are happy with the large storage options and the high-quality display. Some report initial SIM card issues that resolved quickly.
Both the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 16 Pro Max suit buyers looking for premium refurbished phones that work like new. The Galaxy S26 appeals to those who prefer a lighter, smaller device with Android, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max fits users who want a larger screen and iOS with high storage capacity.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max FAQs
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Galaxy S26 is cheaper refurbished, from £658.95 compared with £840.13 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 4685 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 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
