I used the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max, and I'm done pretending one is clearly better

Comparing Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max

It's always challenging to compare the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with the iPhone 17 Pro Max as they target different users. These phones serve distinct audiences, making it less a direct comparison.

Although the iPhone 17 Pro Max is sometimes compared with the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL due to their similar user bases, the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max remain among the top smartphones available today.

Design and Display

The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out with a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen, which surpasses the display quality of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Samsung's anti-reflective coating performs better in outdoor conditions, significantly reducing glare.

Users who enjoy a tactile display experience often prefer the Samsung, as the screen’s responsiveness creates a sensation of directly touching content on the display.

Choosing Between the Two

Whether you're considering switching from Apple to Android or curious about Apple's newest model, both devices offer features that appeal to diverse preferences. Neither phone is flawless, but each has clear strengths that might influence your choice.

“I’ve had my complaints about Samsung this year, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra does include many best-in-class features.”
“The anti-reflective coating on the Galaxy S25 Ultra is superior to that on Apple’s flagship, and it makes a noticeable difference outdoors — glare isn’t an issue on the Samsung device.”

Ultimately, the decision comes down to the features that matter most to the individual user.

Author's summary: Both the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max excel in different areas, with Samsung offering a superior display experience and Apple appealing to its dedicated user base, making the choice highly personal.

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Android Police Android Police — 2025-11-06