Galaxy S24+ Vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

Galaxy S24+
Galaxy S24+
Starting at

Refurbished price:£337.00

Versus £997.95 new

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

Refurbished price:£325.00

Versus £1,199.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus (2024) and the iPhone 14 Pro Max (2022) are large-format flagship smartphones that cater to users seeking expansive displays and high-end capabilities. While the Galaxy S24 Plus is a more recent entry into the market, bringing with it the latest advancements in mobile intelligence and a commitment to long-term software support, the iPhone 14 Pro Max remains a formidable device known for its robust construction and seamless integration within its ecosystem. The primary distinction between these two lies in their release timing and the fundamental differences between the Android and iOS operating systems, which dictate the user interface and app experience.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max offer different perspectives on software longevity and physical resilience, which are crucial for users planning to keep their devices for several years.

  • Software Support Timeline: The Galaxy S24 Plus is notable for its manufacturer's commitment to seven years of security and operating system updates, which ensures the device remains functional and secure until 2031.
  • Practical Lifespan: The iPhone 14 Pro Max, despite being released in 2022, is expected to receive updates for at least six or seven years from its launch, meaning it will likely remain a modern and supported device until 2028 or 2029.
  • Repairability and Maintenance: Both smartphones feature high-quality glass and metal builds, but the Galaxy S24 Plus has been designed with improved internal access for repairs, while the iPhone benefits from a vast global network of professional repair services.

Year of Release

2024

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

These devices are engineered to handle demanding tasks with ease, though they approach processing power and memory management with different technical philosophies. Both devices offer multiple storage tiers to suit different user needs, from standard capacities to larger options for extensive media libraries.

  • System Responsiveness and Multitasking: The Galaxy S24 Plus is equipped with a significant amount of memory, allowing users to keep dozens of apps open simultaneously without experiencing slowdowns or forced restarts of background tasks.
  • Efficiency and Gaming: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is widely recognised for its ability to maintain high performance during intensive gaming sessions or high-resolution video editing, managing heat effectively to prevent performance throttling.
  • Battery Behaviour: Both smartphones are designed to comfortably last through a full day of heavy use, including navigation and streaming, though the Galaxy offers slightly faster wired charging speeds for those who need a quick top-up.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both phones feature expansive 6.7-inch OLED displays that provide an immersive viewing experience with deep blacks and vibrant colours. The high resolution ensures that text is crisp and images are detailed for reading and media consumption.

  • Outdoor Visibility and Brightness: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a display that reaches exceptionally high peak brightness levels, ensuring that text remains legible and colours remain vivid even when used under direct, harsh sunlight.
  • Display Interaction and Smoothness: The iPhone 14 Pro Max utilises an adaptive refresh rate that adjusts based on the content, making scrolling through social media feeds feel exceptionally fluid while saving power when viewing static images.
  • Visual Design and Interface: While the Galaxy uses a small, unobtrusive circular cutout for the front camera, the iPhone features the Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped area that transforms into a functional hub for notifications and background activities.

Resolution

1440 x 3120

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption are central to the flagship experience, with both devices offering a versatile triple-lens camera system. Both smartphones excel in low-light conditions, using advanced software processing to capture clear photos even in dim environments, while advanced microphone arrays ensure clear voice capture for calls.

  • Image Detail and Zoom: The Galaxy S24 Plus produces sharp, vibrant images with a focus on high-resolution main sensor performance and effective digital zoom that allows for clear shots of distant subjects.
  • Video Production and Stability: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is often the preferred choice for mobile videographers due to its natural colour reproduction, advanced stabilisation features, and professional-grade video recording modes.
  • Audio Experience and Media: Both devices provide clear, loud stereo sound through their built-in speakers, though the iPhone is frequently noted for having a slightly fuller sound profile with more noticeable bass during movie playback.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, the physical handling, connectivity, and security features of these devices play a significant role in daily user satisfaction. Both models feature high-grade glass and water resistance, while supporting 5G and high-speed Wi-Fi for reliable connectivity on the go.

  • Physical Build and Weight: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is constructed with a stainless steel frame, giving it a substantial feel, though it is significantly heavier than the aluminium-framed Galaxy S24 Plus, which may impact comfort during long periods of use.
  • Charging Standards and Connectivity: The Galaxy S24 Plus utilises the universal USB-C standard for charging and data transfer, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max relies on the proprietary Lightning port, which may require different cables for those moving from other modern electronics.
  • Biometric Security: Users can choose between the Galaxy’s ultrasonic under-screen fingerprint sensor, which works even with damp fingers, or the iPhone’s facial recognition system, which offers secure and rapid access in most lighting conditions.

Weight

197 g

120 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

Feedback from user communities and forums like Reddit highlights that the Galaxy S24 Plus is highly praised for its lightweight design and the peace of mind provided by its long-term software update promise. Conversely, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is frequently lauded for its exceptional battery consistency and the reliability of its camera system for social media content. Some users have noted that the iPhone's weight can be a drawback for one-handed use, while others mention that the Galaxy's customisable software interface can take some time to master for those new to the platform.

Users who prioritise having the most recent hardware and the longest possible software support window will likely find the Galaxy S24 Plus better suited to their needs. Those who are already integrated into a specific ecosystem or who require the most consistent video performance for professional or creative work may lean toward the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either of these models is an eco-friendly alternative that reduces environmental impact while providing a high-end smartphone experience. Ultimately, both devices represent the pinnacle of mobile technology from their respective years, offering reliable performance for professionals, students, and travellers alike. Opting for a sustainable choice allows users to access premium technology while supporting circular consumption.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons