Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
The two biggest flagships compared: cameras, zoom, S Pen, video, ecosystem and which one is right for you.
Adsokane team · Updated 1 November 2026
These are the two phones people compare most when money is no object. Both have 6.9-inch screens, titanium frames and top-tier cameras. The real decision usually comes down to iOS or Android, and whether you want Samsung’s S Pen and extra zoom options.
Specs side by side
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.9-inch AMOLED, 120 Hz | 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR, ProMotion 120 Hz |
| Chip | Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | A18 Pro |
| Main camera | 200 MP | 48 MP |
| Zoom cameras | 10 MP 3x + 50 MP 5x | 12 MP 5x |
| Ultra wide | 50 MP | 48 MP |
| Stylus | Built-in S Pen | No |
| Software | Android with One UI, 7 years of updates | iOS |
Cameras and zoom
The S25 Ultra has two zoom cameras, at 3x and 5x, plus a 200 MP main sensor, which makes it very flexible for zoomed and detailed shots. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has one 5x zoom and is widely praised for video: it records 4K at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision, and its footage is consistent across all lenses.
S Pen
The built-in S Pen is unique to the Ultra. It is useful for handwritten notes, signing documents, precise photo editing and sketching. If you would actually use a stylus, nothing on the iPhone replaces it.
Ecosystem
If you already use a Mac, iPad, Apple Watch or AirPods, the iPhone fits in seamlessly. If you use Windows and Galaxy devices, the S25 Ultra links well with Galaxy Watch, Buds, tablets and Windows PCs. Switching platforms is possible but takes effort with chats, apps and accessories.
Tip:WhatsApp chat history can now be moved between Android and iPhone, but check the current steps before you switch.
The verdict
Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra if
You want the most flexible zoom, a built-in stylus and Android’s customisation, or you already use Galaxy devices.
Compare store pricesBuy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
You want the best video recording, long-term smoothness of iOS, and you already use a Mac, iPad or Apple Watch.
Compare store prices