Comparing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to the iPhone 17 Pro Max is always a bit awkward. These are two distinct devices targeting different audiences, so it’s not a true like-for-like matchup. Unlike when you compare the iPhone 17 Pro Max to the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, here the gap in approach and design philosophy is much wider.
Still, both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro Max stand out as some of the best smartphones available today. Whether you’re losing patience with Apple and want to try Android, or just exploring Apple’s latest release, each phone has plenty to offer.
I’ve spent considerable time using both phones. While neither is flawless, each has strong advantages that make it appealing, depending on what you prioritize in a device.
“Whenever I use the Galaxy S25 Ultra, a few things jump out at me.”
Despite some of my past complaints about Samsung, the Galaxy S25 Ultra impresses with its top-tier features. The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display is vivid and sharper than what I’ve seen on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Its advanced anti-reflective coating significantly reduces glare, especially in outdoor settings, giving it a noticeable edge over Apple’s offering.
Using the Galaxy S25 Ultra feels immersive, almost as if my fingers are directly interacting with the on-screen content, enhancing the sense of realism in everyday use.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display technology and visibility under bright light give it a subtle but meaningful advantage over the iPhone 17 Pro Max.