Galaxy S25+ Vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

Galaxy S25+
Galaxy S25+
Starting at

Refurbished price:£575.00

Versus £958.39 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 S25 Plus, released in early 2025, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max, launched in late 2022, represent two different eras of flagship smartphones. While the Galaxy S25 Plus benefits from being a much newer release with the latest hardware advancements, the iPhone 14 Pro Max remains a powerful contender in the iOS ecosystem. The primary differences lie in their operating systems—Android versus iOS—and the transition from the older Lightning connector on the iPhone to the universal USB-C standard found on the Samsung.

Choosing between these two devices involves weighing the benefits of a more recent release against the established reliability of a previous-generation flagship. Both phones offer large displays and high-end features, but they cater to different user preferences regarding software and physical design.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S25 Plus enters the market with a significant advantage in terms of long-term software support and modern hardware longevity compared to the older iPhone.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to receive official updates until 2032, as Samsung now provides seven years of security and operating system updates, making it a better fit for users planning to keep their device for many years.
  • Build and Repair: Both phones feature robust glass and metal constructions, but the Galaxy S25 Plus uses newer glass technology designed for better drop resistance, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max is known for its heavy stainless steel frame which offers high structural rigidity.
  • Maintenance: Both manufacturers have improved access to genuine parts, though the newer Samsung model may have more readily available components in the coming years as the iPhone 14 Pro Max moves further into its lifecycle.

Year of Release

2025

2022

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Despite the three-year age gap, both devices handle demanding tasks with ease, though the Galaxy S25 Plus benefits from more modern internal architecture and efficiency.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S25 Plus offers a highly fluid experience when multitasking or running intensive applications, thanks to its more recent processor which manages heat more effectively during long sessions compared to older hardware.
  • Battery Endurance: Users can expect a full day of heavy use from both devices, but the Galaxy S25 Plus features faster charging capabilities, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max is praised for its efficient power management during standby periods.
  • Storage and Memory: Both models offer ample storage options for photos and videos, but the Galaxy S25 Plus includes more memory to assist with complex background tasks and modern AI-driven features that require higher system resources.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones feature large 6.7-inch displays that offer excellent clarity, but they use different technologies to achieve their visual results and brightness levels.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S25 Plus uses a vibrant AMOLED panel that reaches higher peak brightness levels, making it easier to read under direct sunlight compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which remains clear but less intense in bright outdoor settings.
  • Visual Smoothness: Both devices support adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, ensuring that scrolling through social media or playing games feels incredibly smooth and responsive to touch inputs.
  • Design Integration: The iPhone 14 Pro Max features the Dynamic Island, which integrates the front camera into the software interface for notifications, while the Galaxy S25 Plus uses a small, unobtrusive circular cutout for a more traditional full-screen viewing experience.

Resolution

1440x3120

1290 x 2796

Audiovisual

Photography and video remain core strengths for both devices, with each brand offering a distinct approach to image processing and sensor technology.

  • Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S25 Plus provides a versatile triple-lens setup that excels in capturing detailed landscapes and zoomed-in subjects with high clarity, benefiting from newer sensor technology for low-light environments.
  • Video Production: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is often preferred by mobile videographers for its consistent exposure and natural colour reproduction, alongside its highly effective electronic stabilisation that keeps footage steady.
  • Audio Experience: Both phones deliver clear, loud stereo sound through their built-in speakers, though the iPhone 14 Pro Max is noted for having a slightly fuller sound profile for media consumption, while the Galaxy S25 Plus offers excellent microphone clarity for calls.

Miscellaneous

Practical daily usage is influenced by the physical design, connectivity standards, and biometric security features of each handset.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S25 Plus uses the modern USB-C standard for charging and data transfer, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max relies on the older Lightning port, which may require different cables for those moving from newer electronics.
  • Biometric Security: Samsung employs an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor hidden beneath the glass for quick unlocking, while Apple uses FaceID, which many users find convenient for hands-free authentication in various lighting conditions.
  • Weight and Handling: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is notably heavier due to its stainless steel build, which provides a substantial feel but may lead to hand fatigue during extended use compared to the lighter aluminum frame of the Galaxy S25 Plus.

Weight

190 g

120 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback from various tech communities highlights that the Galaxy S25 Plus is praised for its modern design, exceptional screen brightness, and the peace of mind provided by its long-term update policy. Conversely, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is frequently lauded for its reliable battery life and the seamless integration of the Dynamic Island into daily notifications. Some users have noted that the iPhone's weight can be a drawback for one-handed use, while others appreciate the solid, high-quality feel it provides.

Users who prioritise having the latest hardware, a lighter device, and the longest possible software support will likely find the Galaxy S25 Plus to be the more suitable choice. Those who are already invested in the iOS ecosystem or who prioritise video recording quality and FaceID may prefer the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either of these models is an excellent way to access high-end technology while making a sustainable choice for the environment. Both devices remain highly capable tools for professionals and casual users alike in 2026, offering distinct paths toward a premium mobile experience.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons