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

Apple redesigned the exterior but seemed to overlook the internal updates. Comparing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with the iPhone 17 Pro Max always feels tricky since they target very different users. It’s not a perfect one-to-one comparison—especially when you consider the iPhone 17 Pro Max against the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL—but it’s still possible to find common ground.

Both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max are among the best smartphones on the market. Whether someone is tired of Apple and wants to explore Android or simply deciding if Apple’s newest model meets their needs, each phone has something appealing to offer.

“I’ve used both for an extended period, and while neither is perfect, there are definite reasons why you’d choose one over the other.”

What Stands Out About the Galaxy S25 Ultra

Using the Galaxy S25 Ultra, a few details immediately stand out. Despite some criticism of Samsung this year, the S25 Ultra remains packed with top-tier features. Its 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen is stunning and arguably outshines what the iPhone 17 Pro Max delivers.

The anti-reflective coating on the Galaxy S25 Ultra performs notably better than Apple’s version, making outdoor visibility clearer and minimizing glare. The tactile feel of the display is outstanding—it almost feels like interacting directly with the content on-screen.

Key Highlights

Premium 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display
Exceptional anti-reflective coating with reduced glare
Responsive touch experience that enhances usability

After spending significant time with both devices, it’s clear that neither phone completely dominates—each offers distinct advantages for different preferences and priorities.

Author’s summary: The Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max each excel uniquely—Samsung in display craftsmanship and outdoor clarity, Apple in its design continuity and ecosystem integration.

Android Police — 2025-11-06