In the flagship smartphone battlefield, two giants Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra and Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro Max are going head-to-head. Both upcoming devices are expected to deliver outstanding performance and are rumoured to boast premium design, amazing battery life and top-tier camera systems. But there are differences, especially when it comes to user experience and capabilities.
Here, in this post, we have gathered all their unique features along with differences for you. If you’re specifically searching for a detailed Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs iPhone 18 Pro Max comparison based on leaks and rumours, this breakdown covers everything you need to know. So, let’s get started…
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs iPhone 18 Pro Max
Here’s a detailed look at how they compare according to the latest leaks; take a look…
General Specs
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.9″ QHD+ OLED, 120Hz LTPO, Samsung M-class display tech, very high peak brightness; minimal bezels; up to 144 Hz refresh rate (rumoured) | 6.9″ OLED (1.5K rumoured for Pro models), ProMotion 120Hz, very high peak brightness; under-display Face ID |
| SoC / Performance | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (global) / Exynos 2600 in some regions. Flagship performance & AI enhancements. | Apple A20/A20 Pro (rumoured, built on TSMC 2nm node). Apple-silicon performance, efficiency and on-device AI. |
| RAM | Rumoured up to 12–16 GB | Rumoured 12 GB RAM |
| Build & Materials | Rumoured titanium frame with Gorilla Glass Armor 2 and refined design | Rumoured Titanium/steel frame with premium glass and refined finish |
| Dimensions / Weight (est.) | 228g; thin profile 0.78 cm (rumoured) | Not confirmed in leaks; however, it may be on heavier side due to large battery and premium materials |
| Colours | Phantom Black, Silver, Green | Multiple premium colours |
Both phones include a bigger screen with the most advanced chipsets. The bigger displays will allow users to have enhanced productivity, improve media consumption and gaming. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumoured to include Gorilla Glass protection and a sleek, modern frame. While the iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to focus on ProMotion 120 Hz and exceptionally high peak brightness for outdoor visibility.
So far their design is concerned, S26 Ultra is expected feature a centered punch-hole camera setup with flat or subtly curved edges, while Apple’s Pro Max model is rumoured to have Dynamic Island for aesthetic. Both phones are expected to include robust water and dust resistance.
Camera System
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Rear cameras (main/aux) | S26 Ultra is expected to include Quad setup with 200MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 50MP telephoto (5x optical), with tele/zoom module | Triple (Pro) with upgraded sensors, variable aperture for main, and a 48MP periscope telephoto |
| Front camera | Rumoured improved front (likely 12–24MP depending on model) | Rumoured 24MP front |
| Video capability | High-bitrate recording, advanced stabilization and AI enhancements for low light / HDR (expected) | Strong video focus with advanced stabilization, cinematic modes, high bitrate/ProRes style workflows |
So far camera system is concerned, both S26 Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro Max include amazing camera systems along with telephoto and computational photography. But Pro Max is expected to come with larger sensors for improved long-range zoom and computational photos. On video front again, Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max seems to be taking lead.
Battery Capacity & Charging
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | Ultra rumoured 5400 mAh | A20 silicon battery in Pro models (Rumoured) |
| Charging | Wired fast charging (rumoured around 60W), improved wireless (Qi2 compatibility, 25W wireless on Ultra reported). | Expect fast wired charging, MagSafe and wireless charging |
| Wireless Charging / Magnetic Accessories | Qi2 magnetic wireless support reported | MagSafe ecosystem reported |
Apple’s battery is not yet disclosed; however, iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to match or slightly exceed Samsung in real-world endurance because of its iOS optimization. Additionally, iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to come with strong accessory support with MagSafe ecosystem.
Software & UI
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| OS & UI | Android 16 with One UI 8 (Samsung customizations + AI additions) with multiple years of updates. | iOS 20 (or next iOS generation at launch) with long update support from Apple; tight HW/SW integration. |
| Software Updates | Reports suggest up to 7 years security/OS support on flagship line | Pro models are expected to get the longest support (more than what is usually provided) |
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to include Android 16 with One UI 8 along with years of updates, ensuring maximum software support and updates. While iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to come with longest support.
Storage & Connectivity
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Multiple tiers (likely 256GB / 512GB / 1TB options on Ultra). | Multiple tiers expected (such as 256GB / 512GB / 1TB options for Pro models). |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7 or advanced Wi-Fi, Bluetooth latest gen; USB-C (fast data speeds expected). | 5G, Wi-Fi 6/7 (rumoured), Bluetooth improvements; USB-C expected (different USB-C versions across models possible). |
Both devices are expected to offer different storage variants along with multiple connectivity options for ease and improved user experience.
Extras
| Category | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Features | S Pen support may return for the Ultra (rumoured) | Rumoured to include ecosystem services (FaceTime, iCloud integration), possible satellite/comms enhancements (rumoured) |
| AI Capabilities | Enhanced AI camera/software features expected | On-device AI improvements |
Pricing
Both the flagship devices are rumoured to come with heavy price tags. Latest leaks suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra may be priced at USD $1,289, which is around ₹104,299 in Indian market. While Apple iPhone Pro Max will start at USD $1,299, which translates to 1,54,900 in Indian rupee.
Launch Date / Availability (rumoured)
Galaxy S26 series is expected to be launched in Q1 of 2026 (i.e., Jan–Mar), while some reports suggest that launch may take place during Samsung’s late-Feb event. iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max, on the other hand is rumoured to come in Sept 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 / 18e will be launched after 6 months (approximately in spring of 2027).
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs iPhone 18 Pro Max: Which is Better?
Both Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro Max are rumoured to come with impressive features, amazing battery life, unique camera settings and cutting-edge chipsets. However, when it comes to choosing the best, it all boils down to your personal preferences and liking. Both are flagship powerhouses, but which one suits you solely depends on your personal preferences.
S26 Ultra is the best choice for Android users who want maximum camera hardware flexibility, large battery along with extras (S Pen, One UI). While, iPhone 18 Pro Max is perfect for iPhone lovers who prioritise polished software, refined photos and long update support.
