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Galaxy S24+ vs iPhone 17 Pro Max

  • 1-year warranty
  • Free standard shipping
  • Free 30-day returns
Galaxy S24+
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$589.00

Versus A$1,943.00 new

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iPhone 17 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$1,650.00

Versus A$2,199.00 new

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Differences at a glance

The Samsung Galaxy S24+ (2024) and the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max (2025) represent high-tier smartphone offerings from two of the industry's largest ecosystems. While they arrive from consecutive years and distinct software environments, both devices target users seeking large screens, high-end construction, and dependable daily performance. The Galaxy S24+ runs on the Android operating system with custom interface features, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro Max operates on iOS, creating a primary software divide for buyers.

Choosing between these two models involves balancing interface preferences, screen dimensions, and ecosystem integration rather than looking for a clear winner. Each device approaches daily computing with distinct design choices and hardware architectures tailored to different user workflows.

Available Models

Colour

Storage

Scores

Durability

When assessing long-term usability, both devices are built to handle years of daily software updates and hardware wear, though their support timelines and maintenance profiles differ.

  • Software support windows: The Galaxy S24+ receives long-term operating system updates for seven years from release, matching the extended update commitment provided by Apple for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, ensuring both models remain secure deep into the decade.
  • Repair infrastructure: Both manufacturers provide structured repair programs and authorized service networks, allowing users to replace worn components like batteries and screens to extend the active lifespan of the device.
  • Expected practical lifespan: Robust internal components and heavy-duty outer framing ensure that choosing a quality-assured refurbished option of either model provides a reliable, long-lasting daily device that retains structural integrity over years of use.

Release year

2024

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Underneath the exterior, both smartphones deliver seamless execution for demanding workflows, extensive multitasking, and graphics-heavy gaming applications.

  • System responsiveness: Both devices load heavy applications instantly and transition between open programs without stutter, supported by generous baseline random access memory allocations that keep multitasking smooth.
  • Battery behavior: The Galaxy S24+ manages power efficiently for a full day of mixed browsing and messaging, while the larger iPhone 17 Pro Max chassis accommodates a high-capacity battery designed to endure extended periods of heavy media streaming and navigation.
  • Storage configurations: Both models offer scalable storage tiers starting at generous baseline capacities, accommodating extensive photo libraries, offline media collections, and large local document files without requiring cloud storage reliance.

Screen quality

Display technology is a major focus for both devices, delivering bright, sharp viewing experiences designed for outdoor readability and multimedia consumption.

  • Panel technology: Both smartphones utilize advanced organic light-emitting diode displays that deliver absolute black levels, high contrast ratios, and vivid color reproduction for everyday viewing and photo editing.
  • Refresh rate and fluidity: Adaptive refresh rate technology scales down during static reading to conserve power and scales up during scrolling or gaming to ensure motion rendering remains fluid and responsive.
  • Outdoor visibility: High peak brightness capabilities allow both screens to remain clearly legible under direct sunlight, minimizing glare and ensuring navigation instructions or text messages can be read easily outdoors.

Audiovisual

Imaging capabilities on both smartphones cater to everyday snapshot photography as well as detailed video production through versatile multi-lens rear arrays.

  • Lens configurations: The Galaxy S24+ features a high-resolution main sensor alongside ultra-wide and optical telephoto lenses, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max utilizes a balanced multi-sensor system equipped with high-resolution telephoto capabilities for distant subjects.
  • Low-light processing: Advanced image processing algorithms capture sharp details and natural color tones in dim environments, minimizing digital noise without introducing artificial-looking smoothing.
  • Video and audio output: Both models support high-resolution video recording with stabilization features for smooth handheld footage, complemented by clear multi-microphone arrays for voice capture and balanced stereo speaker systems for media playback.

Front camera

12 megapixels

18 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Physical dimensions, connectivity standards, and daily handling characteristics define how each device fits into travel bags, pockets, and daily routines.

  • Connectivity standards: Both devices support global 5G networking, modern Wi-Fi protocols for fast home network connectivity, and precise multi-frequency satellite positioning for accurate navigation.
  • Port types and charging: The Galaxy S24+ utilizes a universal USB Type-C port for data transfer and wired replenishment, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max also relies on the USB Type-C standard alongside high-speed wireless charging capabilities.
  • Build and handling: The Galaxy S24+ balances a large display with a relatively slim profile and manageable weight, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro Max adopts a heavier, more substantial build that prioritizes maximum screen real estate and robust metal framing.

Weight

197 oz

233 oz

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.9

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

What the community thinks

User feedback and community discussions highlight distinct preferences for each device based on everyday use cases. Owners of the Galaxy S24+ frequently praise its comfortable ergonomics, clean interface layout, and long-term software update commitment. At the same time, some users note that battery life under heavy gaming can drain faster than expected. On the other hand, iPhone 17 Pro Max users frequently commend its exceptional battery endurance, expansive screen area, and reliable video recording tools, though some mention that the larger physical footprint feels heavy in smaller pockets.

Users prioritizing a lighter physical footprint, an Android operating system workflow, and seamless integration with non-Apple services will find the Galaxy S24+ well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users prioritizing maximum screen area, deep iOS ecosystem integration, and extended battery endurance under heavy use may lean toward the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Selecting either model as a sustainable choice allows consumers to access high-end technology while supporting environmentally conscious hardware reuse.

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