Galaxy S24 Vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

Galaxy S24
Galaxy S24
Starting at

Refurbished price:£271.00

Versus £817.67 new

See options
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:£327.00

Versus £1,199.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 (2024) and the iPhone 14 Pro Max (2022) represent two different philosophies in the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S24 is a modern, compact flagship running Android, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is a large-format powerhouse from Apple's previous generation. The primary differences lie in their physical dimensions and the software ecosystems they inhabit. Users choosing between these two will weigh the benefits of a newer, AI-integrated compact device against a physically more substantial media-focused phone.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S24 and iPhone 14 Pro Max offer different long-term prospects based on their release dates and manufacturer support policies.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S24 benefits from a commitment to seven years of security and operating system updates, potentially lasting until 2031. In contrast, the iPhone 14 Pro Max, released in 2022, typically receives around six to seven years of support, meaning its software lifecycle may conclude around 2028.
  • Build Resilience: The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield for structural rigidity, while the Galaxy S24 uses a reinforced aluminium frame and modern glass that prioritises scratch resistance and weight reduction.
  • Repairability: Both manufacturers have improved access to parts, but the Galaxy S24's internal layout is designed for slightly easier battery replacements compared to the more complex internal stacking found in the Pro Max model.

Year of Release

2024

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

These devices handle demanding tasks with ease, though they prioritise different aspects of the user experience.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S24 utilises a more recent processor that excels in executing on-device artificial intelligence tasks and maintaining high speeds during multitasking. The iPhone 14 Pro Max remains notably fluid in daily use and is widely recognised for its consistent performance in mobile gaming.
  • Battery and Efficiency: Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option ensures these high-performance internals have been thoroughly tested for reliability. The iPhone 14 Pro Max houses a larger battery, making it a preferred choice for users needing two days of use, while the Galaxy S24 is efficient but requires more frequent charging.
  • Memory Management: The Galaxy S24 offers high RAM configurations that assist with keeping multiple apps open simultaneously, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max relies on deep software integration to ensure smooth operation.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience differs significantly between these two models in terms of scale and brightness.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S24 features a display that reaches high peak brightness levels, making it easy to read under direct sunlight. The iPhone 14 Pro Max uses a screen that provides accurate colours and deep blacks, ideal for photo editing and HDR content.
  • Fluidity and Interaction: Both screens support a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring that scrolling and animations appear smooth. However, the iPhone 14 Pro Max includes the Dynamic Island for software notifications, while the Galaxy S24 uses a much smaller, less intrusive camera cutout.
  • Size and Comfort: The 6.7-inch screen of the iPhone 14 Pro Max offers an expansive canvas for movies and games, whereas the 6.2-inch Galaxy S24 is much easier to navigate with one hand, appealing to those who find large phones cumbersome.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption are highlights for both devices, though their strengths lie in different areas.

  • Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S24 provides a balanced triple-camera setup with a high-resolution main sensor that excels in colour vibrancy and digital zoom clarity. The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a large primary sensor that captures high levels of detail and provides a natural background blur in portraits.
  • Video and Audio: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is often cited for its stable video recording and microphone quality, making it a staple for content creators. The Galaxy S24 offers advanced AI-driven editing tools that allow users to recompose photos and remove unwanted objects with minimal effort.
  • Speaker Performance: The larger chassis of the iPhone 14 Pro Max allows for a wider soundstage in its stereo speakers, while the Galaxy S24 provides clear, crisp audio that is well-suited for calls and podcasts.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical daily usage is influenced by the physical design and connectivity standards of each phone.

  • Physical Handling: The Galaxy S24 is notably lighter at 167 grams and narrower at 70.6mm, making it comfortable for long periods of use. The iPhone 14 Pro Max weighs 240 grams and measures 77.6mm in width, offering a substantial feel that may cause hand fatigue for some users.
  • Ports and Security: The Galaxy S24 uses a universal USB-C port and an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the glass for secure access. The iPhone 14 Pro Max uses the proprietary Lightning port and relies on FaceID for biometric security, which many users find convenient in various lighting conditions.
  • Connectivity: Both devices support 5G and modern Wi-Fi standards. The Galaxy S24 includes newer Bluetooth standards that offer slightly better range and energy efficiency for wireless accessories.

Weight

167 g

120 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and the iPhone 14 Pro Max cater to distinct user needs based on their design and ecosystem. On community forums, users frequently praise the Galaxy S24 for its comfortable one-handed size and the helpfulness of its integrated AI features for daily tasks. However, some users note that its battery life cannot match the endurance of larger models. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is consistently lauded for its long-lasting battery and the reliability of its video recording, though some find its weight and the older Lightning port to be considerations in a modern context.

Users prioritising a compact, lightweight design with a long software support window will find the Galaxy S24 to be an ideal fit. Conversely, those who value a large screen for media consumption and extended battery life may lean toward the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Selecting these devices as a sustainable choice helps reduce environmental impact while maintaining a quality smartphone experience. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you prefer the portability and modern AI of the Samsung or the cinematic screen and endurance of the iPhone.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons