Compare models

Galaxy S23 Vs iPhone 17 Pro Max

  • 1-year minimum warranty
  • Free delivery on all items
  • Free 30-day returns
Galaxy S23
Starting at

Refurbished price:£217.00

Versus £959.00 new

See options
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:£924.00

Versus £1,199.00 new

See options

Differences at a glance

The Samsung Galaxy S23 (2023) and the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max (2025) represent two distinct approaches to high-end mobile technology, balancing compact portability with expansive capability across different operating systems. While the Galaxy S23 runs on Android, the iPhone 17 Pro Max operates on iOS. These devices differ significantly in physical footprint, display scale, and generational release timing, catering to varied user preferences.

Available Models

Colour

Storage

Scores

Durability

The Samsung Galaxy S23 and Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max offer varying expectations for long-term usability based on their release years and manufacturer support timelines.

  • Software longevity: The iPhone 17 Pro Max benefits from a later release year, providing extended operating system update support compared to the earlier-generation Galaxy S23.
  • Repairability and build: Both models feature durable glass and metal construction with robust water resistance ratings, though parts availability favors newer Apple hardware for long-term servicing.
  • Practical lifespan: Users can expect both devices to maintain daily functionality for years, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max offering a slightly longer window of official security patches.

Year of Release

2023

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

System responsiveness and everyday utility differ between these models based on processor efficiency, RAM allocation, and internal storage configurations.

  • Multitasking and storage: The iPhone 17 Pro Max features high RAM capacity and large baseline storage tiers, handling demanding apps and heavy workflows smoothly, whereas the Galaxy S23 provides reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
  • Battery behavior: The larger physical frame of the iPhone 17 Pro Max houses a high-capacity battery that easily sustains intensive daily use, while the smaller Galaxy S23 requires more frequent recharging during heavy usage periods.
  • System fluidity: Both handsets deliver responsive touch feedback and quick app loading speeds, ensuring a seamless interface experience for standard daily routines.

Screen quality

Display characteristics vary notably in physical size and peak performance parameters, tailoring each device to different viewing preferences.

  • Display technology: Both models utilize vibrant OLED panels with deep blacks and sharp resolutions, though the iPhone 17 Pro Max features a much larger 6.9-inch screen compared to the compact 6.1-inch panel on the Galaxy S23.
  • Outdoor visibility: High peak brightness capabilities on both screens ensure content remains legible under direct sunlight, supported by adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling.
  • Viewing experience: The expansive canvas of the iPhone 17 Pro Max suits media consumption and productivity, while the Galaxy S23 provides a pocket-friendly screen size for single-handed navigation.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

2868x1320

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR

Audiovisual

Photography and media recording capabilities reflect each manufacturer's approach to optics, stabilization, and internal audio processing.

  • Camera systems: The iPhone 17 Pro Max equips a versatile triple-lens array with high-resolution sensors across main, ultra-wide, and telephoto functions, while the Galaxy S23 utilizes a balanced triple-camera setup geared toward sharp everyday snapshots.
  • Low-light and video: Advanced image stabilization and large sensors allow both devices to capture clear details in dim environments and record stable video clips.
  • Audio output: Stereo speaker setups on both models deliver clear sound for calls and media playback, complemented by sensitive multi-microphone arrays for voice recording.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

18 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Physical dimensions and connectivity standards define the practical handling and ecosystem integration of each smartphone.

  • Handling and weight: At 168 grams, the lightweight and compact Galaxy S23 fits easily into small pockets, whereas the heavier 233-gram iPhone 17 Pro Max offers a substantial, wide-format feel in the hand.
  • Connectivity and ports: Both devices support 5G networks and modern Wi-Fi standards, utilizing USB-C physical ports for charging and data transfer.
  • Security features: Biometric authentication relies on facial recognition for the iPhone and an under-display fingerprint sensor for the Galaxy.

Weight

168 g

233 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.9

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

What the community thinks

User feedback highlights the Samsung Galaxy S23 for its lightweight, compact form factor and reliable daily performance, though users note that its smaller battery requires mindful power management. Conversely, owners of the iPhone 17 Pro Max praise its expansive display, strong battery longevity, and advanced camera versatility, while acknowledging that its heavy, large footprint can feel cumbersome during one-handed use. Users prioritizing a pocket-friendly device that is easy to handle with one hand may prefer the Galaxy S23, while users prioritizing maximum screen space, extended battery endurance, and advanced optics will lean toward the iPhone 17 Pro Max. For those seeking a quality-assured refurbished option as a sustainable choice, exploring certified pre-owned marketplaces provides an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing newly manufactured hardware.