A feature image about Samsung S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Samsung S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

Written by: Emma Morris

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Samsung S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

 

Released just four months apart, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stand neck and neck in the top-tier smartphone arena.


The question is: Which one takes the lead?


Despite numerous comparisons, a consensus is yet to be made - until now.

 

Join us as we guide you through the performance, design, and unique display of each product, helping you distinguish between these two tech giants.


Or, don't wait any longer and explore our refurbished iPhones and refurbished Samsung devices today. Options are aplenty when you shop at UR.co.uk.

Key Takeaways:


  • Durability: If you want a device that's durable, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the one for you.

  • Size and Quality: Don't sacrifice one for the other with the S23 Ultra.

  • Performance: Both are nearly the same when it comes to running everyday tasks, but have you considered the price point?

Basic Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max Specs

Below, you'll find the basic specs of each device so you can get an idea of what we'll be explaining in this article.

Specification iPhone Pro Max Samsung S23 Ultra
Size 77.6 mm x 160.7 mm at 240g 7.81 mm x 163.4 mm at 233g
Display 6.7” Super Retina XDR (2796 x 1290) 460 ppi 6.8” Dynamic AMOLED 2X (1440 x 3088) 500 ppi
Capacities 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Chip A16 Bionic Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Cameras 48MP main (ƒ/1.78), 12MP ultra wide (ƒ/2.2), 12MP 2x Telephoto (ƒ/1.78), 12MP front camera (ƒ/1.9) 12MP ultra wide (ƒ/2.2), 200MP wide (ƒ/1.7), 10MP telephoto (ƒ/2.4), 12MP front camera (ƒ/4.9)

Note: If the device has gone through an extensive 90-point phone check, these specs remain true regardless of whether the device is refurbished or not.


So, from reverse wireless charging to video quality, expect all the same features on our refurbished Galaxy S23 Ultra, refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max 128GB and other storage models.

The Fight of Best Design

Regardless of your choice, you will end up with a large device.


The Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, measuring 77.6 mm x 160.7 mm, is only slightly smaller than the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which measures 78.1 mm x 163.4 mm.


Some might find the Galaxy S23 Ultra's extra width makes it more challenging to hold, but given the size of most Android devices these days, this is a minor issue.


However, there are substantial differences in how these two phones were built.


The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a completely flat display, appealing to those frustrated by the curved screens on most of Samsung's phone.


But, in a comparison of casings, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out with its aluminium frame and Corning Gorilla Glass screen protection: a feature proven to be most durable in various drop tests.


Plus, the device also comes in a great range of colours, like Sky Blue, Lavender and more.


Although the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max puts up a good fight, the S23 Ultra is the winner in this regard.

Display Size and Quality

Girl on phone.

When it comes to image quality, the devil is in the detail.


The iPhone 14 Pro Mac performs better in direct sunlight, reaching a screen brightness of 1,760 nits - a slight improvement over the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's test performance of 1,274 nits.


But the S23 Ultra arguably has a better overall display.


With its Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display at a resolution rate of 2796 x 1290 at 460 ppi, you're provided with slightly better on-screen clarity and sharpness when jumping between apps or watching your favourite video.


Plus, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's display is an extra inch larger than the iPhone 14 Pro Max at 6.8", making it perfect for individuals who prefer more screen real estate for scrolling with their S Pen.


On the grand scale of things, these factors could be perceived as minor, but when you've got two top-tier phones next to each other, they can make a significant difference in your choice of device.


So, although both offer exceptional features, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the one to choose if you're looking for a larger display with great quality.


Why not explore more about this device in our refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra deals now?

Battle of Performance

Man listening to music

This is where it gets interesting.


Samsung has taken a significant step forward with implementing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the European Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.


Previously only available in US versions, the Snapdragon processor has historically beaten the Exynos chip once found in the UK S22 variety, arguably offering better general performance when completing everyday tasks.


Plus, the S23 Ultra's processing power also comes with an improved GPU, making it almost as good as the iPhone 14 Pro Max when performing high-demanding games without overheating.


All this makes the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra nearly at the same level as the Apple iPhone 14 Pro, which itself has also gained an upgrade in CPU performance and GPU, improving its ability to undertake heavy tasking like graphic intense gaming.


The issues comes in when you factor in the price. Generally, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max is significantly cheaper than the Galaxy S23 Ultra. So, if you want more bang for your buck, the Apple iPhone variety takes the winning spot.


Plus, you can expect at least 80% battery health with a refurbished device, allowing great battery life for years to come, regardless of whether it's a Galaxy phone or an Apple iPhone.

Final Thoughts

We'll be the first to admit it's a close call deciding on the winner of this match.


For those wanting the best of the best, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra takes the win by a margin.


But, if you prefer a more affordable device with top-of-the-range features, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is the one for you.


Either way, you'll receive a great quality device with excellent battery capacity when you buy refurbished, so why not look at our range today?


Have fun shopping!

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Emma Morris


Emma crafts insightful and informative articles about refurbished phones for ur.co.uk. Her expertise guides readers in making the smartest choices for their tech needs.