The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, one of the world’s slimmest smartphones, is poised to launch, sparking curiosity about its reception among consumers. Its rival, the thicker Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max, presents a formidable challenge. In mid-2025, the battle isn’t just about the fittest, but also the thinnest. Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two flagship devices.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Specifications
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159 x 76 x 5.9 mm (6.26 x 2.99 x 0.23 inches) | 163 x 77.6 x 8.25 mm (6.42 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches) |
| Weight | 163 grams (5.75 ounces) | 227 grams (7.99 ounces) |
| Display | 6.7-inch HDR10+ AMOLED (120Hz) | 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz) |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 (513 ppi) | 2868 x 1320 (460 ppi) |
| Operating System | Android 15 (One UI 7) | iOS 18 |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| MicroSD Slot | No | No |
| Tap-to-Pay | Google Play | Apple Pay |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | A18 Pro |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Rear Cameras | 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide | 48MP Fusion main (f/1.78), 48MP ultrawide (f/2.2), 12MP telephoto (f/2.8, 5x optical zoom) |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP (f/1.9) |
| Video Recording | Rear: 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps, 1080p@240fps Front: 4K@60fps, 1080p@60fps |
Rear: 4K@120fps, 1080p@240fps Front: 4K@60fps, 1080p@120fps |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Ports | USB-C | USB-C |
| Biometrics | Under-display Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor | Face ID |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery | 3,900mAh, 25W wired, 15W wireless, Reverse Wireless Charging | 4,685mAh, 30W wired (50% in 30 mins), 25W MagSafe wireless, 15W Qi2 wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless |
| App Store | Google Play Store | App Store |
| Network | 5G | 5G |
| Colors | Titanium Icy Blue, Titanium Silver, Titanium Jet Black | Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, Desert Titanium |
| Price (USD) | Around $1,300 | Starts at $1,199 |
| Availability | Unknown | Apple, Amazon, Best Buy |
The back of the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Design
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge lives up to its name with its remarkably thin profile. Leaked images reveal a slender frame, two vertically aligned cameras on a subtle bump (a unique feature within the S25 series), microphones on the top and bottom edges, and a side button below the volume rocker.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, at 8.25mm, is noticeably thicker. Its titanium frame boasts a brushed metal finish, flat edges, and a matte glass back for enhanced grip. A triple-lens camera system, similar to its predecessor, and a dedicated Camera Control button are key design elements.
While the S25 Edge’s final design awaits confirmation, the iPhone 16 Pro Max currently holds the edge in this category.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Display
A person holding the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
The S25 Edge is rumored to feature a vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and a sharp 3120 x 1440 QHD+ resolution. Dynamic AMOLED 2X and ProScaler technology promise exceptional visual quality for media consumption.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max sports a larger 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion and always-on functionality. It offers a 2868 x 1320 resolution and a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, also with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
While both devices offer smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals, the S25 Edge’s higher resolution and enhanced image processing might give it a slight advantage.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Performance
The official launch video of the Rolex Land Dweller on an iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The S25 Edge is equipped with 12GB of RAM and the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, featuring eight CPU cores and an Adreno GPU. A vapor chamber and advanced thermal interface material aim to prevent overheating during demanding tasks like gaming.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max utilizes the A18 Pro processor with 8GB of RAM. While generally efficient, its single CPU core may be susceptible to overheating under heavy load, particularly in warm environments or with certain cases.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Battery and Charging
A person holding the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
The S25 Edge houses a 3,900mAh battery with 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging capabilities. Actual charging speeds remain to be seen.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a larger 4,685mAh battery with 30W fast charging, achieving a 50% charge in 30 minutes. It also supports 25W MagSafe wireless charging, 15W Qi2 wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
A definitive winner in this category depends on the S25 Edge’s actual charging performance.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Cameras
Close-up of the two rear cameras on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
The S25 Edge features a dual rear camera setup with a 200MP main lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a triple camera system: a 48MP Fusion main camera, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The iPhone’s versatile camera system offers a wider range of photographic options.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Software and Updates
The iOS 18.5 update waiting on an iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The S25 Edge runs on Android 15 with One UI 7, offering enhanced privacy features, improved multitasking, and AI capabilities. Samsung promises seven years of OS and security updates.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes with iOS 18, featuring Apple Intelligence for intelligent summaries and writing assistance, along with an advanced Siri. Apple’s update policy remains less defined in terms of duration.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Price and Availability
The back of the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The S25 Edge is expected to launch at $1,099 for the 256GB model and $1,199 for the 512GB variant, available in Titanium Icy Blue, Titanium Silver, and Titanium Jet Black.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, already available, starts at $1,199 for 256GB, $1,399 for 512GB, and $1,599 for 1TB, with color options including Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Verdict
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge depicted in silver color.
The Galaxy S25 Edge presents a compelling option with its slim design, powerful performance, and competitive pricing. Its durability, thanks to the titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Corning 2, adds to its appeal. The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a strong contender with its refined design, versatile camera system, and mature iOS ecosystem. The ultimate choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.
