The Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 17 The Samsung model hit the market in February 2026, while the Apple was introduced in September 2025. Ambos offer large 6.9-inch screens, robust constructions and capabilities for intense tasks such as video editing and gaming. Choosing between the two depends on ecosystem preferences, unique features, and priorities like optical zoom or integration with other devices.
The comparison reveals clear differences in design, hardware and features. The Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out for innovations such as the Tela of Privacidade, which limits the viewing angle to protect sensitive content, and the inclusion of the S The iPhone 17 Pro Max prioritizes the stability of the iOS ecosystem and features such as the customizable Botão and Ação. Both devices serve demanding users, but each one better suits specific profiles.
Design and construction
The Galaxy S26 Ultra features an Armor Aluminum structure with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 at the rear and Suas dimensions are 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9 mm and weight 214 grams, which makes it thinner and lighter. The device offers multiple color options, including vibrant tones such as violet and blue.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max adopts an aluminum unibody design with Ceramic Shield 2 on the screen and Ceramic Shield on the back. Mede 163.4 x 78 x 8.75 mm and weighs 233 grams, resulting in solid but slightly thicker construction. Available colors include silver, cosmic orange and intense blue.
Both resist drops and scratches, with high durability certifications. The Samsung maintains rounded corners for better ergonomics, while the Apple focuses on a camera module with pronounced relief.
Screen and visual experience
The screen of the Galaxy S26 Variable refresh rate from 1 to 120 Hz optimizes power consumption.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch Super Retina Inclui to Ilha Dinâmica for notifications and controls.
The two screens deliver vivid colors and high contrast. The Samsung model offers higher resolution, while the Apple stands out in maximum brightness for outdoor use.
Camera system
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 200 MP main sensor, a 50 MP ultra-wide sensor, a 50 MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom and another 10 MP telephoto with 3x zoom. The front is 12 MP. Suporta 8K recording at 30 fps and advanced AI features for automatic editing.
The iPhone 17 The front is 18 MP with Center Stage. Grava in 4K Dolby Vision at 60 fps.
Tests show that both produce images with high detail and good dynamic range. The Samsung wins in zoom and lens versatility, while the iPhone excels in color consistency and low-light video.
Performance and storage
The Galaxy S26 Ultra runs with Snapdragon 8 Armazenamento reaches 1 TB. The chip delivers high performance in multitasking and gaming.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max uses A19 Pro with six CPU cores and GPU with Ray Tracing, estimated at 12 GB of RAM. Armazenamento starts at 256 GB and goes up to 2 TB. The focus is on energy efficiency and single-core tasks.
Benchmarks indicate an advantage for the Samsung in multi-core, but the iPhone leads in optimization for everyday apps. Ambos withstand heavy use without significant overheating.
Battery and charging
The battery of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is 5,000 mAh, with autonomy for up to 31 hours of video. Suporta 60W wired and 25W wireless charging.
The iPhone 17
Both devices offer a full day of moderate to intense use. The Samsung charges faster wired, while the iPhone integrates better with magnetic accessories.
Exclusive features and software
The Galaxy S26 Ultra includes built-in S Pen, Galaxy AI with functions such as Roda One UI 8.5 based on Android 16, with long update support.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max features Botão of Ação and deep integration with the Apple ecosystem. Executa iOS 26, with an emphasis on privacy and fluidity.
The Samsung offers more customization and productivity tools. The Apple prioritizes simplicity and integrated security.
Prices and availability at Brasil
The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at R$11,499 for 256 GB and reaches R$13,899 in higher versions. Chegou to Brasil in March 2026.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at prices close to R$9,300 at resellers, with higher official options. Está available from the end of 2025.
Both represent large investments, but the Galaxy offers more innovative features at a competitive starting price.
