Introduciton:
The Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra are premium smartphones designed for users who want powerful performance, advanced cameras and large displays. Although both devices are older flagship models, they may still appeal to buyers looking for premium features at a lower price in India’s refurbished and second-hand market.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max features Apple’s A15 Bionic processor, a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion technology and a triple-camera system. It is also known for its strong battery endurance and integration with Apple’s software ecosystem.
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor in India and a versatile quad-camera system. Its built-in S Pen provides additional functionality for note-taking, drawing and productivity.
Both smartphones offer a premium experience, but their strengths differ. The iPhone is attractive to users who prefer iOS and reliable video recording, while Samsung offers extensive optical zoom, Android customisation and S Pen support.
In this iPhone 13 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra comparison, we will examine their specifications, prices in India, cameras, performance, battery life and key differences to help you choose the right smartphone.
iPhone 13 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra: Specifications
| Specification | Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2778 × 1284 pixels | 3088 × 1440 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | Up to 120Hz | Up to 120Hz |
| Processor | Apple A15 Bionic | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in India |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 108MP |
| Ultrawide Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Cameras | 12MP with 3x optical zoom | 10MP with 3x optical zoom and 10MP with 10x optical zoom |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 40MP |
| Battery | Apple-rated video playback up to 28 hours | 5,000mAh |
| Wired Charging | Fast charging supported | Up to 45W |
| Wireless Charging | MagSafe up to 15W | Wireless charging supported |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Operating System at Launch | iOS 15 | Android 12 with One UI 4.1 |
| Special Features | ProMotion and Face ID | Built-in S Pen and Galaxy features |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Specifications are for the standard models. Regional hardware configurations and software features may vary.
Price in India
The following prices are historical launch-price references. Actual prices in 2026 may differ significantly because these phones are no longer current-generation models and availability depends on the seller and device condition.
| Smartphone | Original Launch Price in India |
|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB | ₹1,29,900 |
| Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB | ₹1,39,900 |
| Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 256GB | ₹1,09,999 |
| Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 512GB | ₹1,18,999 |
These are not guaranteed current selling prices. Check current listings, battery condition, warranty and seller reputation before purchasing.
1. Display and Design
The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion technology supporting refresh rates up to 120Hz. It delivers deep blacks, detailed visuals and smooth scrolling. The large screen is suitable for watching videos, browsing websites and playing games.
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with QHD+ resolution and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Its larger display provides more space for entertainment and productivity, while its curved edges create a distinctive design.
Both phones offer premium OLED displays, but Samsung provides a higher resolution and a slightly larger screen. The iPhone offers an excellent viewing experience with Apple’s display technology.
Display winner: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra for its larger QHD+ display.
2. Camera Comparison
The iPhone 13 Pro Max features three 12MP rear cameras: a main camera, an ultrawide camera and a telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. It supports Night mode, ProRAW photography, Cinematic mode and 4K Dolby Vision video recording.
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 108MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera and two 10MP telephoto cameras with 3x and 10x optical zoom. Its extensive zoom range is useful for photographing distant subjects, travel scenes and concerts.
Apple’s camera system is particularly appealing for video recording and consistent everyday photography. Samsung offers more flexibility when photographing distant subjects because of its dedicated 10x optical zoom camera.
Camera winner: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra for long-range optical zoom. The iPhone 13 Pro Max remains a strong option for video recording.
3. Performance and Gaming
The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses Apple’s A15 Bionic processor with a 5-core GPU. It provides strong performance for everyday apps, demanding games, video editing and multitasking. Its close integration with iOS helps deliver a consistent user experience.
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor in India. It can handle demanding Android applications, gaming and multitasking, although sustained performance may vary with temperature and workload.
Both phones can still handle many everyday tasks, but their age means battery health and software condition are important when buying used. Newer games and apps may also place greater demands on their hardware.
Performance winner: The iPhone 13 Pro Max is a strong option for users who prioritise sustained everyday performance, while the Galaxy S22 Ultra offers flexible Android features and a larger display.
4. Battery Life and Charging
Apple rates the iPhone 13 Pro Max for up to 28 hours of video playback under its testing conditions. Its battery performance was a notable strength when the device launched. It supports fast wired charging and MagSafe wireless charging.
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra has a 5,000mAh battery and supports wired charging up to 45W. It also supports wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare for compatible devices.
Samsung has the larger published battery capacity and faster maximum wired charging. However, battery life depends on screen brightness, network conditions, application usage and battery health. Because both phones are older models, a used device’s actual battery condition can make a substantial difference.
Battery verdict: Both offer capable battery features. The iPhone has a published video-playback estimate of up to 28 hours, while Samsung offers a 5,000mAh battery and faster wired charging.
5. Software and Special Features
The iPhone 13 Pro Max launched with iOS 15 and supports Apple’s connected ecosystem, including compatible MacBooks, Apple Watches and AirPods. It offers Face ID, iCloud integration and Apple’s familiar interface.
The Galaxy S22 Ultra launched with Android 12 and Samsung’s One UI interface. Its built-in S Pen supports writing, drawing, document annotation and selected remote-control functions. It also offers Android customisation and Samsung productivity features.
Samsung announced four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for the Galaxy S22 series. Because this model is older, check its current software and security-update status before purchasing.
Software winner: Samsung for S Pen productivity and Android customisation. The iPhone is better suited to users who prefer iOS and Apple’s ecosystem.
Pros and Cons
Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max
Pros
- Large 6.7-inch OLED display.
- Smooth 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate.
- Powerful A15 Bionic processor.
- Triple-camera system with 3x optical zoom.
- Strong video-recording features.
- Good original battery-life rating.
Cons
- No dedicated 10x optical zoom camera.
- Slower wired charging than Samsung.
- Older devices may have reduced battery health.
- Less customisation than Android.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Pros
- Large 6.8-inch QHD+ display.
- 108MP main camera.
- Dedicated 3x and 10x optical zoom cameras.
- Built-in S Pen.
- 5,000mAh battery.
- Up to 45W wired charging.
Cons
- Older Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 platform.
- Device temperature can affect sustained performance.
- Large size may not suit every user.
- Software support is more limited than on newer Galaxy generations.
Which Phone Should You Buy in India?
Choose the iPhone 13 Pro Max if you prefer iOS, want a large premium display and value Apple’s video-recording features. It may be suitable for content creators, social media users and people who already own Apple devices.
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra if you want extensive optical zoom, a high-resolution display, S Pen functionality and Android customisation. It is particularly useful for users who take long-distance photographs or need a phone for note-taking and productivity.
Before buying either device, compare current prices and storage options. For a used iPhone, inspect Battery Health and Parts and Service History. For Samsung, test the display, S Pen, cameras, charging port, speakers and fingerprint reader. Verify the IMEI, repair history and warranty status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone 13 Pro Max better than the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra?
The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers strong video recording and Apple’s software ecosystem. The Galaxy S22 Ultra provides a larger QHD+ display, 10x optical zoom and a built-in S Pen. The better phone depends on your priorities.
Which phone has the better camera?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra offers a versatile camera system with a 108MP main sensor and dedicated 10x optical zoom. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is a strong choice for video recording and everyday photography.
Which phone has the better display?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra has a larger 6.8-inch QHD+ display. The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Both offer premium viewing quality.
Which phone has better battery life?
Apple rates the iPhone 13 Pro Max for up to 28 hours of video playback. The Galaxy S22 Ultra has a 5,000mAh battery and supports up to 45W wired charging. Actual battery life depends on usage and device condition.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra good for gaming?
It can handle many demanding games, but sustained performance may vary with temperature and workload. When buying used, check battery health and whether the phone overheats during gaming.
Which phone is cheaper in India?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra launched at a lower starting price than the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Current prices depend on storage, availability, device condition and seller offers.
Conclusion
The iPhone 13 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra comparison shows two older flagship phones with different advantages. The iPhone offers strong performance, a premium OLED display and capable video recording. Samsung provides a larger QHD+ display, a versatile zoom camera system and a built-in S Pen.
For users who prioritise optical zoom and productivity, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is worth considering. Those who prefer iOS, Apple’s ecosystem and video creation may find the iPhone 13 Pro Max more suitable. Compare current prices, battery health and device condition before making your final decision.
