I used the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max, and I'm done pretending one is clearly better
Comparing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro Max always feels tricky. These phones target different audiences, making direct comparisons challenging. Still, both rank among the top smartphones available today.
Design and Purpose
Apple updated the exterior design of the iPhone 17 Pro Max but left much of the internal experience unchanged. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra continues its focus on advanced technology and premium craftsmanship. Each brand caters to distinct user priorities — iOS simplicity versus Android flexibility.
Display and Build Quality
The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out with its 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen, delivering remarkable brightness and clarity. Its anti-reflective coating works noticeably better outdoors than what Apple offers on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, making sunlight readability a strong advantage for Samsung.
“I love using phones where the screen feels like I’m touching what’s on the display, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra gives me that experience.”
Performance and Experience
Both phones deliver impressive performance, yet the user experience differs in tone. Android’s customization options contrast sharply with Apple’s closed but polished ecosystem. For some, that choice defines which phone feels truly better suited to them.
Summary
Ultimately, neither phone is strictly superior; each excels in its own way. It’s less about which is best and more about which fits your style of use and expectations.
Author’s summary: After long-term use of both flagships, it's clear that the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max succeed for different reasons, showing there’s no single “better” choice.