Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26
Starting at
£658.95£999.00 new
iPhone 17
Starting at
£713.34£799.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 17?
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 starts at £658.95, £54.39 less than the iPhone 17. The Galaxy S26 is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Apple A19 on the iPhone 17.
- The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S26 has a bigger battery: 4300 mAh vs 3692 mAh.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 specs
The Galaxy S26 and iPhone 17 share several core features like 5G, 6.3 inch screens, and unlocked use with USB-C charging, making both solid choices for everyday use. The Galaxy S26 offers a larger battery and more RAM, which suits those who want longer battery life and smoother multitasking. The iPhone 17 has a higher screen resolution and a more detailed front camera, catering to buyers who prioritise crisp visuals and sharper selfies.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 price
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, physical design, and operating systems. Differences in battery capacity and operating system will affect how the phones fit your daily usage.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S26 has a 4300 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 17's 3692 mAh. This difference means the Galaxy S26 may offer longer usage between charges, making it suitable if you need extended battery life for heavy daily use.
Operating System
The Galaxy S26 runs Android, while the iPhone 17 uses iOS. Choosing between these depends on your app preferences and ecosystem. Android offers more customisation and flexibility, while iOS provides a tightly integrated experience.
Physical Design
Both phones come with physical SIM plus eSIM options. The Galaxy S26 is slightly slimmer at 7.2 mm depth compared to the iPhone 17's 8 mm, which might make it feel a bit more compact in hand.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 screen
Screen quality includes size, resolution, refresh rate, and screen technology. Both phones have the same size and refresh rate, but their resolution and display types differ, which impacts sharpness and colour presentation.
Resolution and Sharpness
The iPhone 17 has a higher resolution at 2622 x 1206 pixels, making its display sharper and more detailed. This suits users who watch high-definition video or read fine text frequently. The Galaxy S26's resolution is 1080 x 2340 pixels, which still delivers a clear picture but with less pixel density.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S26 uses Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X technology, which can adjust its refresh rate to save power during less demanding tasks. The iPhone 17 features a Super Retina XDR display, known for vibrant colours and high brightness. Your choice depends on whether you prefer adaptive display efficiency or consistently vivid visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 size and design
Miscellaneous features cover connectivity, physical dimensions, and storage options. Both phones offer unlocked use with 5G connectivity and USB-C ports. Slight differences in size, weight, and storage may influence your preference.
Storage Options
Both the Galaxy S26 and iPhone 17 are available in 256GB and 512GB storage variants. These options provide ample space for apps, photos, and files, fitting the needs of most users whether you prefer Android or iOS.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S26 is slimmer at 7.2 mm depth and weighs 167 g, making it a bit lighter and thinner. The iPhone 17 measures 8 mm in depth and weighs 177 g, which may be noticeable if you prefer a phone with a bit more heft or a slightly different feel in the hand.
Connectivity and SIM
Both phones support 5G networks and come unlocked with physical SIM plus eSIM capabilities. They also share USB-C connectors, making charging and data transfer straightforward without needing different cables.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 or iPhone 17: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £658.95, £54.39 less than the iPhone 17
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4300 mAh vs 3692 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 17 if
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (18 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S26 often mention its smooth performance and sharp screen. They appreciate the battery life lasting a full day with moderate use and find the storage sufficient for daily tasks. Many say the phone looks and feels like new, with some noting very minor marks that do not affect use. Users also value the crisp display and responsive touchscreen, making it a reliable choice for work and media.
iPhone 17 buyers frequently highlight the phone's excellent condition and high battery health, often describing it as indistinguishable from new. The clearer, higher resolution screen and detailed front camera are appreciated by those who use their phone for selfies and video calls. Several customers mention the ease of use with iOS and the smooth, premium feel. The storage capacity meets the needs of most users, and the phone runs flawlessly for everyday use.
Overall, the Galaxy S26 suits people who want a larger battery and more RAM for multitasking on Android. The iPhone 17 is ideal for those who prefer iOS with a sharper screen and higher megapixel front camera. Both receive positive feedback for condition and performance in their own right.
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 FAQs
Galaxy S26 vs iPhone 17 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Apple A19 on the iPhone 17. The Galaxy S26 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Galaxy S26 is cheaper refurbished, from £658.95 compared with £713.34 for the iPhone 17.
The Galaxy S26 has a bigger battery: 4300 mAh vs 3692 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 17 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 256GB and 512GB refurbished.
