iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Galaxy S24 Ultra. Which has the better camera — and which is the better buy today?
Two of the best phones of their generation, now often sold refurbished or at big discounts. We compare cameras, battery, size, weight and software support to help you choose.
Design a case for yours ↗- Zoom: the S24 Ultra wins, with 3x and 5x telephoto cameras.
- Video: the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the favourite for consistent, natural video.
- Size and weight: the iPhone is smaller and lighter (6.7", 221 g vs 6.8", 232 g).
- Extras: the S24 Ultra has a built-in S Pen and 7 years of OS updates from launch.
- Both need a case made for the exact model — they are very different shapes.
Specs side by side
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | Galaxy S24 Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Released | September 2023 | January 2024 |
| Display | 6.7", 120 Hz | 6.8", 120 Hz, anti-reflective |
| Chip | A17 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| Main camera | 48 MP | 200 MP |
| Ultra-wide | 12 MP | 12 MP |
| Telephoto | 12 MP 5x | 10 MP 3x + 50 MP 5x |
| Battery / charging | Up to 29 h video playback (Apple) | 5,000 mAh, 45 W |
| Weight | 221 g | 232 g |
| Frame | Titanium | Titanium |
| Stylus | — | Built-in S Pen |
| US launch price | $1,199 | $1,299.99 |
Which has the better camera?
It depends on what you shoot.
- Zoom and detail: the S24 Ultra has two telephoto cameras (3x and 5x) and a 200 MP main sensor, so it is more flexible for distant subjects, concerts and travel.
- Video: the iPhone 15 Pro Max records very consistent, natural-looking video and supports pro formats like ProRes and Log.
- Portraits and everyday photos: both are excellent. The iPhone tends to look more natural, the Samsung brighter and more vivid.
Battery life and charging
Both last a full day for most people. The S24 Ultra charges faster with a 45 W charger. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has USB-C and supports MagSafe magnetic charging and accessories.
Size, weight and feel
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is a little smaller and lighter, with rounded edges. The S24 Ultra is squarer, heavier and hides the S Pen inside. If you have small hands, the iPhone is easier to hold. If you like writing or drawing on your phone, only the Samsung has a stylus.
Which one should you buy in 2026?
Both phones are now older models, so the best deal usually decides. Samsung promised 7 years of OS updates for the S24 Ultra, and Apple typically supports iPhones for many years too. Choose the S24 Ultra for zoom and the S Pen, the iPhone 15 Pro Max for video and the Apple ecosystem.
Newer options: read our Galaxy S25 Ultra review or compare the iPhone 16 series.
Custom cases printed for the exact iPhone 15 Pro Max or Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, iPhone 15 Pro Max or S24 Ultra?
Neither is better at everything. The S24 Ultra is better for zoom and has an S Pen, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max is better for video and is lighter.
Which has the better camera?
For zoom, the Galaxy S24 Ultra. For video and natural colours, the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Which is bigger?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra: 6.8 inches and 232 g, compared with 6.7 inches and 221 g for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Do you make cases for both?
Yes. We print custom cases for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Galaxy S24 Ultra, each made for the exact model.
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