⚡ Quick Answer
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra wins for: zoom photography, S Pen productivity, battery endurance, and Android customisation.
iPhone 16 Pro Max wins for: video quality, Apple ecosystem integration, single-core performance, and long-term software updates.
Both are 2024 flagship-tier phones — your operating system preference should be the deciding factor.
Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max is one of the most consequential smartphone decisions you can make — both phones cost well over $1,000 and represent the absolute best each platform has to offer. This guide breaks down every meaningful difference so you can confidently pick the right device.
We cover display quality, camera systems, video performance, battery life, chipset benchmarks, software longevity and real-world value. We also flag an important 2025 update: Apple has since discontinued the iPhone 16 Pro Max from its storefront after launching the iPhone 17 series, meaning deals are now available.
👉 See also: Best Smartphones of 2025 | Android vs iOS: Which Is Right for You?
Quick Verdict
🏆 Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best for: Power Android users, wildlife and sports photographers, S Pen note-takers, travellers who need extreme zoom, and anyone who values all-day battery life.
- ✅ Best-in-class zoom range
- ✅ Built-in S Pen
- ✅ 200 MP main sensor
- ✅ Larger battery / longer endurance
- ✅ Wi-Fi 7 support
- ❌ Heavier and bulkier
- ❌ Higher starting price
🍎 iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best for: iOS loyalists, professional video creators, Final Cut / Logic users, Apple Watch/Mac/iPad owners, and buyers who prioritise long-term OS updates and resale value.
- ✅ Best-in-class video pipeline
- ✅ ProRes & Cinematic mode
- ✅ Fastest single-core CPU
- ✅ 7+ years of iOS updates
- ✅ Deep Apple ecosystem
- ❌ Discontinued in Apple Store (2025)
- ❌ Less zoom versatility
Full Specs Comparison Table
The table below covers every key specification side by side. Scroll horizontally on mobile.
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Released | January 31, 2024 | September 20, 2024 |
| OS | Android 14 / One UI 6.1 (upgradable to Android 15) | iOS 18 (upgradable to iOS 18.x) |
| Display | 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, QHD+ (3088×1440), LTPO 1–120 Hz, ~2600 nits peak | 6.9″ Super Retina XDR OLED, 2868×1320 (460 ppi), ProMotion 1–120 Hz, 2000 nits peak |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy (4 nm) | Apple A18 Pro (custom silicon) |
| RAM | 12 GB LPDDR5X | 8 GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB (UFS 4.0) | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB (NVMe) |
| Rear Cameras | 200 MP main · 12 MP ultra-wide · 10 MP 3× tele · 50 MP 5× periscope | 48 MP main · 48 MP ultra-wide · 12 MP 5× periscope tele · LiDAR |
| Max Optical Zoom | 5× optical / up to 100× Space Zoom | 5× optical / up to 25× digital |
| Front Camera | 12 MP, dual-pixel autofocus | 12 MP TrueDepth with autofocus |
| Max Video Resolution | 8K @ 30fps (main), 4K @ 60fps (all cameras) | 4K @ 120fps (Log), ProRes, Cinematic 4K |
| Battery | ~5,000 mAh | ~4,685 mAh (Apple doesn’t disclose) |
| Wired Charging | 45W fast charge | 27W fast charge (USB-C) |
| Wireless Charging | 15W Qi / Wireless PowerShare (reverse) | 25W MagSafe / 15W Qi2 |
| Biometrics | Under-display ultrasonic fingerprint + face unlock | Face ID (TrueDepth 3D) |
| Build | Titanium frame · Gorilla Glass Armor front · IP68 | Grade 5 Titanium frame · Ceramic Shield front · IP68 |
| S Pen | ✅ Built in | ❌ None |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7 · Bluetooth 5.3 · UWB · NFC · 5G | Wi-Fi 6E · Bluetooth 5.3 · UWB · NFC · 5G |
| Launch Price (USD) | From $1,299 | From $1,199 |
| 2025 Availability | Still sold by Samsung & retailers | Discontinued at Apple Store; available via third parties |
Sources: Samsung official specs, Apple Newsroom, Apple Support, PhoneArena. Minor spec variations may apply by region and firmware version.
Display & Design
Both phones feature large, premium OLED displays with adaptive 120 Hz refresh rates — but they take different approaches to size, shape and brightness.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Display
The S24 Ultra’s 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel is flat — a deliberate choice for S Pen precision. With peak brightness around 2,600 nits, it’s exceptionally legible in bright sunlight. The LTPO technology drops the refresh rate all the way to 1 Hz when displaying static content, conserving battery during always-on display use. Gorilla Glass Armor reduces reflections by up to 75% compared to standard Gorilla Glass.
iPhone 16 Pro Max Display
Apple’s 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED is the largest display ever on an iPhone. At 460 ppi it’s pixel-perfect, and Apple’s colour calibration produces exceptionally accurate, natural tones — particularly important for photographers and video editors colour-grading on the device. ProMotion similarly scales from 1 Hz to 120 Hz. The Ceramic Shield front glass is Apple’s proprietary durability enhancement.
Design note: The S24 Ultra is notably heavier (~232g vs ~227g) due to the S Pen silo, larger battery and titanium-reinforced chassis. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is fractionally lighter but slightly taller. Both are large-format phones requiring large-hand comfort or a case grip.
👉 Related: Our picks for the best large-screen phones in 2025
Camera System Compared
Camera quality is the most discussed spec in flagship phones — and the clearest area where these two phones diverge in philosophy.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Camera
The S24 Ultra runs a quad-camera system built around versatility and resolution. The 200 MP main sensor captures extraordinary detail — at full resolution, you can crop into images and still have publishable quality. The real differentiator, however, is the two telephoto lenses: a 10 MP 3× and a 50 MP 5× periscope, bridging the gap between focal lengths and enabling up to 100× Space Zoom. This is unmatched in any competing flagship.
Samsung’s AI-powered processing in One UI enhances detail and reduces noise, though some reviewers note that colours can be slightly processed compared to real-world scenes. The Generative Edit feature allows object removal and AI-powered photo refinement directly on-device.
iPhone 16 Pro Max Camera
Apple’s approach centres on computational photography. The 48 MP Fusion main camera (with a larger sensor than its predecessors) produces remarkable colour accuracy and dynamic range. A new 48 MP ultra-wide doubles the resolution of the previous generation and also focuses macro. The periscope 12 MP 5× telephoto is improved but limited to one zoom increment.
Where Apple excels is in colour science and consistency: images look natural right out of the camera, files are well-suited to editing, and the Apple Photographic Styles system gives sophisticated control over rendering without the over-sharpened look common to Android processing.
LiDAR on the Pro Max enables faster autofocus in low light and powers Portrait Mode depth effects at any focal length.
Camera Verdict
📷 Zoom & resolution: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra wins outright.
🎨 Colour accuracy & natural rendering: iPhone 16 Pro Max wins.
🌙 Low light stills: Both are exceptional — effectively tied.
🏆 Overall for photography: Depends on your priority. Zoom-heavy shooters (wildlife, sports, travel) should choose the S24 Ultra. Colour-critical shooters choose the iPhone.
👉 Related: Best Camera Phones of 2025 | Best Phones for Photography
Video Performance
If video is your primary use case, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the stronger choice for most professional workflows.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max records in Apple ProRes — a broadcast-quality codec used in professional film production — and supports Log video for maximum dynamic range in post-production. Cinematic mode applies real-time bokeh with refocusing. Stabilisation is class-leading. Apple’s video pipeline is deeply integrated with Final Cut Pro, iMovie and third-party apps like LumaFusion, creating an end-to-end mobile production workflow.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra records in 8K at 30fps from the main sensor — higher raw resolution than the iPhone — and benefits from flexible zoom during recording. However, 8K footage requires significant storage and processing power to edit, and the colour pipeline requires more post-processing work to achieve a polished final look.
For content creators, social video shooters and anyone who edits on a phone, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the easier, more professional choice. For those who want maximum zoom in video or record in 8K for future-proofing, the S24 Ultra has the edge in raw output.
👉 Related: Best Phones for Video Recording in 2025
Chipset & Performance
Both chips are world-class and will handle every task a mobile user will throw at them — including console-quality gaming, 4K video editing and complex AI on-device processing. The differences are architectural rather than practical.
The Apple A18 Pro leads in single-core CPU performance across standard benchmarks and is extremely efficient — generating less heat under sustained load and providing excellent thermal management during ProRes recording. Apple’s tight hardware-software integration means the chip performs consistently close to its peak rating.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy (Samsung’s custom-tuned variant of Qualcomm’s 2024 flagship chip) excels in multi-core CPU throughput and GPU performance, particularly in Android gaming. Its 12 GB of RAM — versus Apple’s 8 GB — gives Android’s multitasking model more headroom, though iOS’s efficient memory management largely neutralises this difference in practice.
Both chipsets feature dedicated NPUs (Neural Processing Units) for on-device AI: Samsung’s Galaxy AI uses these for live translation, circle to search, and generative editing; Apple Intelligence powers Writing Tools, image creation, and smart notifications.
Battery Life & Charging
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Battery
The S24 Ultra’s ~5,000 mAh battery is one of the largest in its class. In real-world testing it regularly delivers over 10 hours of screen-on time during mixed use. It supports 45W wired fast charging (0–100% in about 65 minutes), 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging to top up Galaxy Buds or a watch. The LTPO display’s 1 Hz floor significantly extends standby life.
iPhone 16 Pro Max Battery
Apple’s battery is slightly smaller in capacity but the A18 Pro’s efficiency closes the gap considerably. The iPhone 16 Pro Max consistently achieves excellent all-day battery life. MagSafe at 25W (with the right charger) is among the fastest wireless charging Apple has shipped. Wired USB-C fast charging reaches about 27W. Apple has also improved the battery health management system to maintain 80% capacity over 1,000 charge cycles.
Battery verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra typically lasts longer under heavy or intensive use. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is the better option if MagSafe ecosystem accessories matter to you.
Software & Long-Term Support
Software longevity is now a major purchase consideration — especially as flagship phone hardware outlasts most users’ desire to upgrade.
Samsung has committed to 7 major Android OS updates for the Galaxy S24 series (matching Apple), plus 7 years of security patches — a significant improvement over its historical policy. One UI is feature-rich and highly customisable. Galaxy AI features include real-time translation, circle to search, generative editing and note summarisation (with S Pen integration).
Apple historically leads in software support duration and consistency. The iPhone 16 Pro Max launched with iOS 18 and will realistically receive iOS updates through 2031 or beyond, based on Apple’s track record. Apple Intelligence continues to expand, and the depth of ecosystem integration — Handoff, AirDrop, Continuity Camera, Universal Control — is unmatched on Android.
👉 Related: Android vs iOS: Which Ecosystem Is Right for You?
Price & Value in 2025
As of 2025, the pricing landscape has shifted significantly for the iPhone 16 Pro Max. After Apple launched the iPhone 17 series and officially discontinued the 16 Pro Max from its store, third-party retailers began offering meaningful discounts — making the iPhone 16 Pro Max a potential bargain for iOS users who don’t need the very latest.
| Storage | S24 Ultra (Launch / ~Now) | iPhone 16 Pro Max (Launch / ~Now) |
|---|---|---|
| 128 / 256 GB | $1,299 / ~$1,099–$1,199 | $1,199 / ~$899–$999 |
| 512 GB | $1,419 / ~$1,199 | $1,399 / ~$1,099 |
| 1 TB | $1,659 / ~$1,399 | $1,599 / ~$1,299 |
Prices are approximate and vary by retailer and region. Check current listings for accurate pricing.
Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra if you…
- Photograph wildlife, sports or events and need a wide zoom range (5× optical with a secondary 3× lens)
- Use a stylus for note-taking, sketching or document signing — the S Pen is unique at this price point
- Prefer Android’s open ecosystem, sideloading and customisation freedom
- Want maximum screen-on time and a physically larger battery
- Need Wi-Fi 7 for future-proof wireless speeds
- Are upgrading from a Galaxy device and want ecosystem continuity
Choose the iPhone 16 Pro Max if you…
- Already use Apple products — Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods — and want seamless integration
- Create professional video and want ProRes, Log video, and Cinematic mode
- Prefer a curated app ecosystem with consistently higher-quality mobile apps
- Value consistent, guaranteed long-term software updates and security patches
- Want MagSafe accessories and the broader MagSafe ecosystem
- Are looking for a discounted 2024 flagship now that it’s been succeeded
👉 See our complete: Smartphone Buying Guide for 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better camera zoom — Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has significantly better zoom. It features two dedicated telephoto lenses — a 3× and a 5× periscope — plus a 200 MP main sensor that enables high-resolution digital cropping. Combined, this gives up to 100× Space Zoom. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has one 5× periscope telephoto and maxes out at around 25× digital zoom. For any serious zoom photography, the S24 Ultra wins by a clear margin.
Which is better for video — Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max?
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is the better video phone for most professional and semi-professional use cases. It supports Apple ProRes, Log video, Cinematic mode, and integrates deeply with video editing apps on iOS and Mac. The S24 Ultra records in 8K (higher raw resolution) and offers flexible zoom during video, making it better for specific zoom-heavy scenarios — but the iPhone’s overall colour pipeline and edit-ready output quality is superior.
Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have better battery life than the iPhone 16 Pro Max?
Generally, yes. The S24 Ultra’s approximately 5,000 mAh battery typically results in longer screen-on time during intensive tasks like gaming, navigation and video recording. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is highly efficient and delivers strong all-day battery life, but under heavy use the Samsung typically lasts longer.
Is the iPhone 16 Pro Max discontinued?
Yes, as of 2025. Apple discontinued the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max from its official storefronts following the launch of the iPhone 17 series. Stock is still available through authorised resellers and third-party retailers, often at reduced prices. The phone continues to receive iOS updates normally despite its discontinuation.
Which is better overall — Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max?
There is no single “better” phone — it depends entirely on your ecosystem and priorities. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is better for Android users who want zoom versatility, S Pen productivity and a larger battery. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is better for iOS users who want video quality, Apple ecosystem integration and long-term software support. Both are exceptional 2024 flagship phones that outperform almost every other device on the market.
Should I buy the S24 Ultra or wait for the S25 Ultra?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra launched in early 2025 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a redesigned form factor and improved AI features. If you’re buying new in 2025, the S25 Ultra is worth the additional cost for the latest chip and longer support runway. However, the S24 Ultra at a reduced price remains a compelling alternative. See our Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review for a full breakdown.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are two of the best smartphones ever made — and in 2025, both represent outstanding value, especially as the iPhone 16 Pro Max can now be found at a discount. The real decision is about ecosystem, workflow and what you shoot.
If you’re an Android user who needs a Swiss-army-knife camera with unrivalled zoom, an S Pen and all-day battery life — the S24 Ultra is your phone. If you’re an iPhone user who shoots video seriously, lives in the Apple ecosystem and values a polished, consistent software experience — the iPhone 16 Pro Max remains one of the best phones available, even into 2025.
👉 See all our top phone recommendations for 2025 →
This article was researched using manufacturer specifications from Samsung and Apple, independent reviews from PhoneArena and The Guardian, and retail pricing data as of May 2025. Ilastia does not receive payment to favour any brand. Read our editorial policy.
