iPhone 12 Pro Max vs Galaxy S21 Ultra: What’s the Difference?
If you're choosing between the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the Galaxy S21 Ultra, you’re comparing two heavyweight flagships that dominated their release years. Both phones are still excellent choices today — powerful, premium, and packed with top-tier features. But which one is right for you?
This side-by-side comparison breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
If you're leaning toward an upgrade, you’ll find both models available in our refurbished phone collection at great prices.
Design & Build Quality
iPhone 12 Pro Max: Apple’s familiar premium stainless-steel frame and flat-edge design make the 12 Pro Max feel solid and stylish. It’s large, boxy, and unmistakably “Pro Max.”
Galaxy S21 Ultra: Samsung went for a curved-edge Dynamic AMOLED display and a lighter-feeling body with a striking camera bump design. It’s sleek, smooth and more ergonomic compared to Apple’s sharper edges.
Winner for design: Galaxy S21 Ultra — for comfort and modern styling. Apple fans may still prefer the iconic squared look.
Display
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz refresh rate
- Galaxy S21 Ultra: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate
If smoothness matters — especially for scrolling, gaming or animations — the S21 Ultra’s 120Hz adaptive refresh rate is a major advantage.
Winner for display: Galaxy S21 Ultra
Camera Comparison
iPhone 12 Pro Max
- 12MP triple-camera system + LiDAR sensor
- Dolby Vision HDR video recording
- Natural colour science with reliable consistency
Galaxy S21 Ultra
- 108MP main sensor
- 10x optical zoom + 100x Space Zoom
- Sharper long-range photography
The iPhone excels in cinematic video and accurate colours. The Galaxy leads in zoom, sharpness and flexibility.
Winner for photos: Galaxy S21 Ultra
Winner for video: iPhone 12 Pro Max
Performance
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: A14 Bionic chip
- Galaxy S21 Ultra: Exynos 2100 (UK) / Snapdragon 888 (US)
Apple’s A14 Bionic still outperforms most competing chips in raw speed and efficiency. The Galaxy S21 Ultra is no slouch, but the iPhone is smoother for gaming and long-term performance.
Winner for performance: iPhone 12 Pro Max
Battery Life
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Up to 20 hours of video playback
- Galaxy S21 Ultra: 5,000 mAh battery with 120Hz optimisation
The Galaxy S21 Ultra typically lasts longer in mixed use thanks to a larger battery and adaptive refresh rate control.
Winner for battery life: Galaxy S21 Ultra
Software Experience
iPhone 12 Pro Max: Runs iOS — simple, smooth, secure and consistent. Long-term updates are guaranteed.
Galaxy S21 Ultra: Runs Android with Samsung’s One UI. Highly customisable with excellent multitasking features.
Choosing between iOS and Android often comes down to personal preference:
- iOS — best for simplicity and stability
- Android — best for customisation and flexibility
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the iPhone 12 Pro Max if you want:
- the best video recording experience
- a smoother long-term software journey
- premium build quality with flat-edge design
Choose the Galaxy S21 Ultra if you want:
- a stunning 120Hz display
- incredible zoom and camera versatility
- better battery endurance
Both phones remain brilliant options today — and whether you prefer Apple or Samsung, you’ll find excellent refurbished deals in our shop.
