Galaxy S25+ Vs iPhone 14 Pro Max

Galaxy S25+
Galaxy S25+
Starting at

Refurbished price:624.00

Versus €1,401.57 new

See options
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:446.00

Versus €1,489.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, released in early 2025, and the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, launched in late 2022, represent two distinct approaches to high-end smartphone design and functionality. While both devices offer premium experiences, they differ significantly in their operating systems, hardware generations, and specific feature sets. The Galaxy S25 Plus operates on Android, offering extensive customization, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max runs on iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem and streamlined user experience.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience. The Galaxy S25 Plus, being a newer device, benefits from a more extended support window compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus was announced in January 2025 and released in February 2025, making it a more recent model. The iPhone 14 Pro Max was unveiled in September 2022 and became available shortly after.
  • OS Support Duration: Samsung has committed to providing 7 years of operating system and security updates for the Galaxy S25 series, extending support until approximately 2032. Apple typically offers 5 to 7 years of major iOS updates for its iPhones, meaning the iPhone 14 Pro Max is expected to receive software support until around 2029 or 2030.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S25 Plus features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, complemented by an Armor Aluminum frame. The iPhone 14 Pro Max utilizes Ceramic Shield on the front, a textured matte glass back, and a stainless steel frame. Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against submersion.

Year of Release

2025

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in modern smartphones is determined by the efficiency of their internal components, impacting everything from app responsiveness to battery endurance. The newer Galaxy S25 Plus incorporates a more recent generation of processing technology.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S25 Plus is equipped with a current-generation processor, designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a powerful chip that delivers robust performance for a wide range of tasks, including gaming and video editing.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S25 Plus comes with 12GB of RAM as a standard offering, supporting efficient multitasking. It is available with 256GB or 512GB of internal storage. The iPhone 14 Pro Max includes 6GB of RAM and offers a wider array of storage options, from 128GB up to 1TB.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S25 Plus houses a 4900 mAh battery, providing substantial power for daily use and supports 45W wired fast charging, alongside wireless charging capabilities. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is equipped with a 4323 mAh battery, known for its efficient power management, and supports proprietary fast charging and wireless charging.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S25 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with a QHD+ resolution of 3120x1440 pixels, resulting in a sharp visual experience. The iPhone 14 Pro Max also has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering a resolution of 2796x1290 pixels, providing clear and detailed images.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both phones feature adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsive visuals, with the Galaxy S25 Plus capable of reaching 2600 nits peak brightness and the iPhone 14 Pro Max reaching up to 2000 nits peak brightness outdoors. The iPhone 14 Pro Max also includes an Always-On display feature and the Dynamic Island, which integrates notifications and activities into the display cutout.
  • Color and Protection: Both displays support HDR content, with the Galaxy S25 Plus supporting HDR10+ and the iPhone 14 Pro Max supporting HDR10 and Dolby Vision, contributing to vibrant colors and contrast. The Galaxy S25 Plus is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max uses Ceramic Shield for enhanced durability.

Resolution

1440 x 3120 pixels

1290 x 2796

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and both the Galaxy S25 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max offer advanced photographic and videographic tools.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S25 Plus is equipped with a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a Pro camera system with a 48MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens also offering 3x optical zoom.
  • Photography Features: Both devices excel in everyday photography, with the Galaxy S25 Plus leveraging its ProVisual Engine and AI features for enhanced image processing. The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers features like Night mode, Photonic Engine, and Apple ProRAW for detailed and versatile image capture, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The Galaxy S25 Plus supports 8K video recording, providing high-resolution video capture. The iPhone 14 Pro Max records 4K video and includes advanced features like Cinematic mode and ProRes video recording for professional-grade videography. Both phones feature 12MP front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.

Front camera

12MP

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, practical elements like connectivity, ports, and physical design contribute to the overall user experience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S25 Plus supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, offering advanced wireless connectivity, and features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 14 Pro Max supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, and utilizes Apple's Lightning port.
  • Biometric Security: For secure unlocking and authentication, the Galaxy S25 Plus incorporates an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. The iPhone 14 Pro Max relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S25 Plus has an aluminum frame and glass back, with dimensions of 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3 mm and a weight of 190 grams. The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a stainless steel frame and glass construction, measuring 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.85 mm and weighing 240 grams. The iPhone 14 Pro Max also includes satellite connectivity for emergency services in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.

Weight

190 g

120 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 14 Pro Max often highlights its robust camera system, particularly its low-light performance and video capabilities, as well as the intuitive nature of iOS and the Dynamic Island feature. Some users appreciate its consistent performance and the longevity of software support. Criticisms sometimes point to the proprietary Lightning port and its weight. For the Galaxy S25 Plus, early reviews and user sentiment praise its vibrant display, extended software support, and the inclusion of advanced AI features. Its newer processor and improved cooling system are also frequently noted as advantages for demanding tasks. Some users might find its design similar to previous generations, and the camera performance, while strong, may not always surpass competitors in specific scenarios.

Users prioritizing a device with the latest processing technology, extensive software support, and a highly customizable Android experience may find the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its larger RAM and advanced AI features cater to those who engage in heavy multitasking and seek cutting-edge smart functionalities. Conversely, individuals who value a highly integrated ecosystem, a proven camera system with strong video capabilities, and the streamlined user experience of iOS may lean towards the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Its Ceramic Shield and stainless steel construction also appeal to those seeking a premium build. Both devices offer compelling features, and choosing between them often comes down to personal preference for operating system and specific feature priorities. For those considering either of these powerful smartphones, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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