Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Price, specifications, AI features and more compared

Samsung has launched its latest flagship lineup – the Galaxy S25 series – in India, and as expected, the comparison with Apple’s iPhone 16 series is inevitable. With both brands continuing their long-standing rivalry, we focus on the high-end models, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max, to compare their pricing, AI features and specifications in detail.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Pricing breakdown

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is available in three variants, with prices starting at ₹1,29,999 for the 256GB storage model. The 512GB version is priced at ₹1,49,999, while the 1TB variant comes at ₹1,65,999. Samsung has introduced a range of attractive colour options, including Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium Gray, Titanium White, and Titanium Black.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s pricing starts at ₹1,44,900 for the 256GB variant, with the 512GB version priced at ₹1,64,900, and the 1TB model available for ₹1,84,900. When comparing the two, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a more affordable option, with the first two storage variants being ₹14,901 cheaper than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The price gap widens to ₹18,901 for the 1TB model. Moreover, the Galaxy S25 Ultra comes with 12GB of RAM, compared to the iPhone’s 8GB.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Design and display

Both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max feature 6.9-inch displays, marking the largest screen size ever seen on both devices. The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a larger and more rounded display, providing a slightly more modern aesthetic compared to its predecessors. Despite the increase in size, it remains surprisingly light, weighing just 218 grams, and retains the reliable 5,000mAh battery that has been a staple in the Ultra series since the Galaxy S20.

On the other hand, the iPhone 16 Pro Max incorporates Super Retina XDR technology with Always-On and ProMotion features, ensuring a smooth and immersive visual experience. The iPhone also introduces a new pressure-sensitive Camera Control button, allowing for seamless zooming. Both devices are impressive in terms of display, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a slight edge with its more lightweight build.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Camera systems

When it comes to camera technology, both smartphones are in a league of their own. The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a 200MP primary sensor, complemented by a 50MP ultra-wide camera and a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. Additionally, a secondary 10MP telephoto camera offers 3x optical zoom, making the S25 Ultra an outstanding choice for photography enthusiasts.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, however, takes a different approach with its upgraded 48MP Fusion camera, featuring a second-generation quad-pixel sensor for zero shutter lag. The iPhone’s camera system also includes a 48MP ultra-wide camera and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. Apple’s Pro models also offer up to 10x optical zoom, further enhancing their versatility.

Both devices promise stellar performance in terms of photography, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s larger megapixel count and superior zoom capabilities may make it the go-to option for those seeking the best in mobile photography.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Performance and AI-power

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, Qualcomm’s latest flagship chipset designed for 2025. With an advanced APU for greater efficiency and performance, the S25 Ultra is claimed to offer top-tier performance, especially in gaming and multitasking.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is driven by Apple’s new 3nm A18 Pro chipset, featuring a 6-core GPU. Apple’s chipset also boasts enhanced machine learning accelerators, ProRes video recording support, and improved USB 3 speeds. Both smartphones are built for top-tier performance.

Samsung may take the lead in artificial intelligence with the introduction of the Personal Data Engine in One UI 7. The Korean giant claims that this AI-powered assistant learns as you use your phone and anticipates your needs, offering highly personalised functionality.

Meanwhile, Apple’s AI capabilities are still under development, but Samsung seems to have the upper hand in this department for now.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Verdict

Both the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max are stellar devices. The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out with its more affordable pricing, impressive camera system, and AI-driven software enhancements. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its superior chipset, unique camera features, and sleek titanium design, remains a formidable competitor.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference – whether you prefer Samsung’s versatile features and customisable design, or Apple’s refined ecosystem and cutting-edge performance.