Apple launched the iPhone 15 series yesterday and it has since then been the talk on social media. If you are on Twitter (now “X”), you’ve probably seen the hashtag #AppleEvent trending, even liking any post that carries the hashtag will give you a nice transition animation.
But one thing that’s also trending to date is the comparison between the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max. A lot of people believe that aside from the newer iPhones now supporting USB-C charging cables, there is nothing really new about the phone and in fact, the Galaxy S23 ultra still owns the throne.
The fact is, both devices boast cutting-edge technology, stunning designs, and an array of features that cater to the demands of the modern smartphone user. But let’s dive deep into their specifications, highlighting the nuances that set these devices apart.
RELATED: Checkout detailed review of the S23 Ultra here
Specs Comparison: Phone 15 Pro Max vs. Galaxy S23 Ultra
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | Galaxy S23 Ultra | |
| Network | 5G, 4G, 3G, 2G | 5G, 4G, 3G, 2G |
| Dimensions (mm) | 146.6 x 70.6 x 8.3 | 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 |
| Weight (g) | 187 | 234 |
| Build | Glass front, glass back, titanium frame | Glass front, glass back, aluminum frame |
| SIM | Nano-SIM and eSIM | Nano-SIM and eSIM (Intl), Dual eSIM (USA) |
| Display | 6.1 inches, LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, HDR10 | 6.8 inches, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+ |
| Resolution | 1179 x 2556 pixels | 1440 x 3088 pixels |
| CPU | Apple A17 Pro (Hexa-core) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (Octa-core) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (6-core graphics) | Adreno 740 |
| RAM | 8GB (options up to 1TB) | 8GB (options up to 12GB) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Main Camera | 48 MP (wide), 12 MP (telephoto), 12 MP (ultrawide), TOF 3D LiDAR scanner | 200 MP (wide), 10 MP (periscope telephoto), 10 MP (telephoto), 12 MP (ultrawide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP (wide), SL 3D (depth/biometrics sensor) | 12 MP (wide) |
| Loudspeaker | Stereo speakers | Stereo speakers |
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| Battery | Li-Ion 4852 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 5000 mAh, non-removable |
| Charging | Wired (50% in 30 min), Wireless (MagSafe), Wireless (Qi) | Wired (45W, 65% in 30 min), Wireless (15W Fast Wireless Charging 2.0) |
| Operating System | iOS 17 | Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Base Price (Approx.) | About $1200 | About $859 |
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 15 Pro Max: Comparison
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Design and Build Quality
The Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max showcases a refined and minimalist design. Its contoured titanium frame not only enhances rigidity but also keeps the device surprisingly lightweight. The addition of a customizable Action Button and a USB Type-C port signifies Apple’s willingness to embrace innovation.
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra maintains its glass-sandwich design, featuring premium aesthetics. With the inclusion of an S Pen stylus and a range of attractive colors, it stands as one of the best-designed phones of early 2023.
iPhone 15 Pro Max is equipped with a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, which delivers a silky-smooth scrolling experience. Although its display is excellent, it doesn’t introduce radical changes compared to its predecessor.
While the Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a slightly larger 6.8-inch display with dynamic refresh rates and a sharp QHD+ resolution. It also incorporates an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, setting it apart from the iPhone’s Face ID making it the winner here.
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Performance and Software
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is powered by the Apple A17 Pro chipset, and the iPhone 15 Pro promises chart-topping performance and energy efficiency. Coupled with iOS 17, it offers a seamless and secure user experience with long-term software support.
While Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra opts for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip which is customized for enhanced performance. With its multitasking capabilities and S Pen support, the Galaxy S23 Ultra stands as a productivity powerhouse.
But Apple’s A17 Pro chipset wins over the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. According to the ChipBuilder, the A17 Pro is 12% better than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
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Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 15 Pro max camera system includes a 48MP main camera and a 5.0X periscope camera for improved zoom capabilities. Apple’s Photonic Engine and enhanced HDR promise exceptional photography, especially in low light.
Samsung’s flagship boasts a massive 200MP camera and a 10X periscope camera for up to 100X digital zoom. Its camera setup stands out for its sheer specs and versatility.
Both smartphones have one of the 3 best smartphone cameras on the market and can take better photos just after the Google Pixel 7 Pro. But undoubtedly, the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s camera is better than the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s own.
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Audio Quality and Haptics
Both phones feature stereo speakers and offer impressive audio quality. The iPhone’s Taptic Engine and the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s haptic feedback ensure precise and immersive vibrations.
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Battery and Charging
While its battery capacity is similar to its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max leverages its efficient 3nm chipset for improved battery life. It supports 20W wired charging and 15W MagSafe wireless charging. It can last up to 29 hours of video playback, up to 95 hours of audio playback
With a larger 5,000mAh battery, the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers enduring usage. It supports faster 45W wired charging and 15W Fast Wireless Charging 2.0. And it can last up to 2 days and 19 hours on a single charge.
Again, the Galaxy S23 Ultra wins.
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S Pen Support
Well, Apple is not ready to bring pen support to iPhone but for the Samsung Galaxy series, it is really a great feature that iPhone users get jealous of. Kidding though.
The S Pen feature on Galaxy S23 Ultra gives it a little advantage over the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 Ultra Cell Phone, Factory Unlocked Android Smartphone
Price: 1,199.99
13 Similarities: iPhone 15 Pro Max vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
While the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra have their unique features and characteristics, they also share several commonalities, showcasing the high standards of flagship smartphones in 2023.
Here, we explore the key similarities between these two contenders:
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1. 5G Connectivity
Both the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra support a wide range of 5G bands, ensuring ultra-fast data speeds and low latency in areas with 5G coverage. This enables users to harness the power of next-gen connectivity for streaming, gaming, and more.
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2. High-Refresh-Rate Displays
Both devices feature high-refresh-rate displays for smoother scrolling, enhanced gaming, and overall improved user experience. The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers ProMotion technology, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, making interactions with the screen fluid and responsive.
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3. Advanced Camera Systems
The iPhone 15 Pro and Galaxy S23 Ultra are equipped with versatile camera setups. They both include ultra-wide-angle lenses, telephoto lenses, and specialized sensors for depth sensing, catering to users who demand top-notch photography and videography capabilities.
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4. IP68 Rating
Both phones come with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. This means they can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, providing peace of mind in case of accidental splashes or exposure to the elements.
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5. Wireless Charging
Both devices support wireless charging, including Apple’s MagSafe technology for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung’s Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 for the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Wireless charging offers convenience for users who prefer cable-free power top-ups.
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6. Premium Build Materials
The iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra feature premium materials in their construction. The iPhone incorporates Corning-made glass, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra combines Corning-made glass with a titanium frame, resulting in durability and aesthetics.
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7. Stereo Speakers
Both phones come equipped with stereo speakers, ensuring immersive audio experiences for media consumption, gaming, and video calls. These speakers deliver high-quality sound with depth and clarity.
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8. Ultra Wideband (UWB) Support
They also support Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, facilitating precise spatial awareness for a range of applications, including faster file sharing and improved device pairing.
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9. Extensive Software Ecosystems
The iPhone 15 Pro Max leverages the iOS ecosystem, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra runs on Android with Samsung’s One UI. Both ecosystems offer access to a vast library of apps, services, and customization options.
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10. Security Features
Both devices prioritize security with features like Face ID on the iPhone 15 Pro Max and an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor on the Galaxy S23 Ultra. These biometric authentication methods enhance device security.
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11. Fast Charging
They both support fast wired charging, allowing users to quickly replenish their battery levels when time is of the essence. Fast charging is a valuable feature for users constantly on the go.
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12. High-Quality Displays
The iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra boast exceptional display quality with support for HDR, Dolby Vision, and high brightness levels. These displays deliver stunning visuals for multimedia consumption.
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13. Flagship Performance
Both phones are powered by cutting-edge chipsets, ensuring flagship-level performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
These shared features highlight the excellence and innovation in today’s flagship smartphones, offering users a range of options to suit their preferences and needs.
Summary and Final Verdict
Both the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Galaxy S23 Ultra emerge as formidable contenders in the 2023 smartphone market. The iPhone excels in its refinement of essential aspects while maintaining its competitive pricing. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 Ultra combines cutting-edge hardware with versatile features, making it a top Android choice. Ultimately, the choice between these flagship devices boils down to personal preference and ecosystem loyalty.
In the battle of titans, the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra each bring their strengths to the table. Whether you lean towards Apple’s seamless ecosystem or Samsung’s feature-rich Android experience, these devices exemplify the pinnacle of smartphone technology in 2023.
If you are to pick a winner, which of them will you pick?
