Even in 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro Max remain two of the best premium smartphones you can get. But which one holds up better over time? Let’s pit them against each other in a head-to-head battle across different categories and declare a winner in each.
1. Display – Winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3088 pixels | 1290 x 2796 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness | 1,750 nits peak | 2,000 nits peak |
Both phones offer 120Hz refresh rates, but Samsung wins with a higher resolution and a larger display. The iPhone gets brighter, but for sheer detail, color accuracy, and immersive visuals, the S23 Ultra takes the win.
2. Performance – Winner: iPhone 14 Pro Max
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 6GB |
| OS | Android 14 (One UI) | iOS 18 |
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy is a beast, but Apple’s A16 Bionic still outperforms it in raw speed, efficiency, and longevity. iOS also ensures that the iPhone maintains buttery smooth performance even after years of use. Apple wins this round, largely due to Apple’s superior optimisation.
3. Camera – Winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 200MP | 48MP |
| Telephoto | 10MP (10x periscope) + 10MP (3x zoom) | 12MP (3x zoom) |
| Ultra-wide | 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
The S23 Ultra dominates in versatility, with a 200MP main sensor, 10x optical zoom, and incredible low-light performance. The iPhone still delivers better video quality with ProRAW and ProRes features, but for photography, Samsung wins.
4. Battery Life – Winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Size | 5,000mAh | 4,323mAh |
| Charging Speed | 45W wired | 27W wired |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
The S23 Ultra lasts longer thanks to its larger battery and better power efficiency. It also supports faster charging (both wired and wireless). While the iPhone’s iOS optimization helps, Samsung delivers a more reliable all-day battery.
5. Software & Ecosystem – Winner: iPhone 14 Pro Max
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| OS Support | 4 years of Android updates | 6+ years of iOS updates |
| Ecosystem | Samsung DeX, Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Buds | AirPods, Apple Watch, iCloud, Mac integration |
| UI | One UI 6 | iOS 18 |
Samsung’s One UI is customizable and feature-packed, but Apple’s iOS ecosystem is unmatched in its seamless device integration and longer software support. If you’re deep in the Apple world, the iPhone remains king.
6. Design & Build – Winner: iPhone 14 Pro Max
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 + Armor Aluminum | Ceramic Shield + Stainless Steel |
| Thickness | 8.9mm | 7.9mm |
| Weight | 234g | 240g |
Both phones feel premium, but the iPhone’s stainless steel build is more durable, and its Ceramic Shield is tougher than Samsung’s Gorilla Glass. The Dynamic Island also gives the iPhone an edge in usability. Apple wins.
Final Verdict – Who Wins in 2025?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
| Performance | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
| Camera | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
| Battery | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra |
| Software | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
| Design | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra wins in Display, Camera, and Battery.
- iPhone 14 Pro Max wins in Performance, Software, and Design.
Overall Winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung edges out Apple with its superior display, battery life, and camera technology. However, if you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is still a fantastic choice.
