Galaxy S23 FE Vs iPhone 12 Pro Max

Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at

Refurbished price:£173.00

Versus £605.75 new

See options
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 12 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:£238.00

Versus £979.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in late 2023, and the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, launched in late 2020, represent two different eras of smartphone technology. While the Galaxy S23 FE is a more recent entry designed to offer modern features in a streamlined package, the iPhone 12 Pro Max remains a substantial device known for its large footprint and robust build. These devices operate on Android and iOS respectively, offering distinct ecosystems for users with different software preferences.

Scores

Durability

The three-year gap between these releases significantly impacts their long-term software outlook and expected functional lifespan.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S23 FE, being a 2023 model, is expected to receive operating system updates and security patches well into the late 2020s, providing a longer functional life for users who want the latest software features.
  • Update Cycle: The iPhone 12 Pro Max has already been in circulation for several years, meaning its remaining window for major iOS updates is naturally shorter than its younger counterpart.
  • Build Resilience: While the iPhone features a stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield, the Galaxy utilizes modern glass and aluminum, both offering solid resistance to daily wear and tear.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Despite the age difference, both phones handle daily tasks with ease, though they prioritize different aspects of the user experience and system efficiency.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 FE benefits from more recent internal hardware that manages multitasking and demanding applications with high efficiency, ensuring a smooth experience during heavy use.
  • Battery Management: Users will find that the Galaxy's battery is designed for modern efficiency, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max relies on a large physical battery capacity to provide a full day of use.
  • Storage and Memory: Both devices offer ample storage for photos and apps, but the Galaxy's higher memory count allows for more background applications to remain active without needing to reload.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience differs primarily in terms of physical size and the smoothness of motion on the display during navigation.

  • Motion Smoothness: The Galaxy S23 FE features a high refresh rate display, which makes scrolling through social media feeds and navigating menus feel significantly more fluid compared to the standard refresh rate on the iPhone.
  • Display Technology: Both use advanced panels that provide deep blacks and high contrast, but the iPhone 12 Pro Max offers a much larger 6.7-inch screen, making it a preferred choice for those who frequently watch videos.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy's screen is engineered for high peak brightness, which helps maintain clarity when using the device under direct sunlight.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1284 x 2778

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and video remain core strengths for both, though the approach to image processing and zoom capabilities varies between the two brands.

  • Zoom and Detail: The Galaxy S23 FE includes a dedicated telephoto lens with significant optical zoom, allowing users to capture clear photos of distant subjects without losing detail.
  • Video Consistency: The iPhone 12 Pro Max is frequently noted for its stable and consistent video recording, producing natural-looking footage that is well-suited for social media creators.
  • Low-Light Performance: Both devices utilize sophisticated sensors to pull in light during evening shots, though the iPhone's larger sensor size helps it capture detailed images in dim environments with minimal grain.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical daily usage is influenced by the physical ports, weight, and the methods used to secure the device and its data.

  • Charging and Connectivity: The Galaxy S23 FE uses the widely adopted USB-C standard, making it compatible with most modern laptop chargers, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max uses the Lightning port.
  • Security Features: Users can choose between the Galaxy's in-display fingerprint sensor for quick access or the iPhone's facial recognition system, which provides a hands-free way to unlock the device.
  • Handling and Weight: The iPhone 12 Pro Max is a heavier device at 228 grams with flat edges, whereas the Galaxy S23 FE is lighter at 209 grams and more compact, fitting more easily into pockets.

Weight

209 g

226 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Choosing between the Galaxy S23 FE and the iPhone 12 Pro Max often comes down to a preference for modern features versus a larger, classic design. User discussions on community forums often highlight the Galaxy S23 FE for its smooth 120Hz screen and the fact that it will receive software updates for many years to come. Conversely, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is praised for its premium build quality and the reliability of the iOS ecosystem, even as it enters its later years of service. Some users have noted that the iPhone's size can be cumbersome, while others find the Galaxy's battery life to be just enough for a standard day but not exceptional.

Users who prioritize having the latest software and a screen that feels fluid will likely find the Galaxy S23 FE to be the better fit for their needs. Those who prefer a massive display for media consumption and a heavy, substantial feel in the hand may lean toward the iPhone 12 Pro Max. For those looking to make a sustainable choice, opting for a quality-assured refurbished option allows you to access these high-end features while reducing electronic waste. Ultimately, both devices remain capable tools, and choosing an eco-friendly alternative ensures that these powerful electronics continue to serve a purpose for years to come.

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