When it comes to flagship smartphones, two giants dominate the market: iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 ultra. Both devices boast incredible features, but which one truly stands out in 2024? In this post, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of the iPhone vs Samsung Galaxy to help you decide which device is right for you.
iPhone vs Samsung Galaxy S24 : Specs
Feature | iPhone 16 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S24 ulra |
---|---|---|
Display Size | 6.7 inches (OLED) | 6.8 inches (Dynamic AMOLED) |
Battery Life | Up to 29 hours of video playback | Up to 26 hours of video playback |
Camera | Triple camera (48MP main) | Triple camera (50MP main) |
Processor | A17 Pro Chip | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
OS | iOS 17 | Android 14 (One UI 6) |
5G Support | Yes | Yes |
Price | Starting at $1,099 | Starting at $899 |
Notes:
- Display: Both phones offer large, high-resolution screens, but Samsung has a slightly larger display.
- Battery: iPhone tends to have a longer video playback time, though both devices perform excellently in daily use.
- Camera: The iPhone and Samsung both offer high-quality triple-camera setups, but the iPhone has a slightly higher resolution main sensor.
- Performance: Both have cutting-edge processors, but Apple’s A17 Pro chip generally offers a more powerful experience in some apps and games.
Here is a detailed discussion of all the features iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra below.
1. Design & Build Quality
Apple’s iPhone series has always been known for its sleek, premium design, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max continues this tradition. The device has a polished glass back and aluminum frame, giving it a smooth feel that’s both modern and elegant. It is available in multiple color options, with a focus on subtle sophistication.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra embraces a futuristic approach with a glass back, curved edges, and a thinner profile, offering a more comfortable grip. Samsung’s attention to detail makes the device feel just as premium as the iPhone, but its design leans more toward a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
2. Display: Super Retina XDR vs Dynamic AMOLED

Both phones offer stunning displays that will leave you in awe. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is equipped with a Super Retina XDR display, which offers true-to-life colors, exceptional brightness, and excellent outdoor visibility. The high refresh rate and HDR support make it a fantastic device for media consumption.
Samsung, known for its display technology, equips the Galaxy S24 Ultra with a Dynamic AMOLED display. This screen offers deep blacks, rich colors, and a buttery smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for watching movies, gaming, or general use.
If display quality is crucial to you, Samsung’s display might edge out the iPhone in certain aspects, but the iPhone still delivers fantastic quality overall.
3. Performance: Apple A16 vs Exynos/Qualcomm Snapdragon
In terms of raw performance, both devices pack a punch, but with different approaches.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses the Apple A16 Bionic chip, which is known for its speed, power efficiency, and unmatched performance, especially for apps and games. It runs on Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem, ensuring a seamless experience.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is powered by the Exynos 2400 in some regions and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in others. While these chips are fast, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 might provide a more balanced performance, especially for those who need gaming capabilities. The difference here primarily depends on your region and which chip your device is using, but both phones perform well.
4. Camera Quality: ProRAW vs Advanced Zoom
In terms of camera, both phones are equipped with impressive technology.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a triple-camera system, offering a 48MP main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto lens for 3x optical zoom. Apple’s ProRAW mode provides excellent detail and post-processing flexibility for professional photographers or enthusiasts. The Night Mode and Deep Fusion technologies ensure clear and bright photos, even in low-light situations.
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra brings a 50MP primary sensor, along with ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. The 10x optical zoom stands out for those who need a higher zoom level, something that iPhones don’t offer. With the added Space Zoom technology, you can capture distant subjects with incredible clarity. Samsung also offers robust low-light performance, making the S24 a versatile option for photographers.
5. Battery Life: Power and Efficiency
Battery life is always a critical factor when deciding between two smartphones.
The 16 Pro Max comes with a 4,400 mAh battery, and thanks to Apple’s efficient hardware and software optimization, it can easily last an entire day, even with heavy use. The iPhone supports MagSafe wireless charging and fast charging to get you back up and running quickly.
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra features a 4,800 mAh battery, and while it’s slightly larger, the battery life is comparable, thanks to the energy-efficient Snapdragon/Exynos processors.
Samsung supports wireless charging and reverse charging, making it a practical choice for those with other devices to charge on the go.
6. Software and Ecosystem
One of the key factors in the iPhone’s success is its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you’re already using Apple devices, like the Apple Watch, iPad, or MacBook, the iPhone 16 Pro Max will work effortlessly with them. iOS updates are fast and reliable, and the App Store offers a wide variety of high-quality apps.

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 runs Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI overlay. One UI has improved significantly over the years, offering a clean and feature-rich experience. Samsung also provides features like Samsung DeX for desktop-like experiences and integration with Google services, making it perfect for users who enjoy customizing their devices.
7. Price and Availability
Price is always a deciding factor, and in this case, the iPhone 16 Pro Max typically comes with a higher price tag, especially in regions with high import taxes.
Samsung offers competitive pricing and is often seen as the more affordable flagship, with more frequent promotional offers and discounts.
Also, check out our article on Best iPhone 16 Pro Max Case in 2024: Protect Your Phone in Style
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 are exceptional devices, offering powerful performance, stunning displays, and impressive cameras. Your choice between the two will depend on what you value most:
- Choose Apple if you want a seamless, premium experience, are already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, and prioritize camera and video quality.
- Choose the Samsung if you want a higher zoom camera, prefer Android, and want a larger battery with faster charging.
Ultimately, both phones offer excellent features and performance, so it comes down to your personal preferences and ecosystem loyalty.