How the Galaxy S21 Ultra Compares to the iPhone 13 Pro Max and Other Flagships

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra has long been touted as one of the most impressive flagship smartphones on the market, with a host of features that put it head and shoulders above the competition. With the launch of newer models like the iPhone 13 Pro Max, Galaxy S22 Ultra, and other flagship devices, many UAE consumers are left wondering if the S21 Ultra is still the best choice in 2025.

This article will compare the Galaxy S21 Ultra with some of its key competitors, focusing on specs, performance, pricing, and features in the UAE market. Whether you're looking to upgrade or buy your first flagship device, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Galaxy S21 Ultra vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max: A Clash of Titans

The iPhone 13 Pro Max is Apple's answer to Samsung's flagship devices, and it’s one of the top contenders in the premium smartphone category. Both the S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max come packed with cutting-edge technology, so let's dive into their major differences:

Design & Display:

• Galaxy S21 Ultra: The Galaxy S21 Ultra boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which supports a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+. The screen is curved on the edges, with ultra-thin bezels, making it a visual delight. Gorilla Glass Victus ensures durability, and it is available in Phantom Black and Phantom Silver finishes.
  
  

• iPhone 13 Pro Max: The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which also supports a 120Hz refresh rate (Apple calls it ProMotion). However, the iPhone’s design is more squared off, reminiscent of the iPhone 4 series. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is built with Ceramic Shield for added protection against drops.
  
  

Verdict: Both displays are stunning, with vibrant colors and fluid motion. Samsung has an edge with its larger 6.8-inch screen and curved edges, while Apple’s Ceramic Shield provides excellent drop protection. If you prefer a larger display and curved edges, the S21 Ultra takes the lead.

Camera:

• Galaxy S21 Ultra: The S21 Ultra features a quad-camera setup consisting of a 108MP primary sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and two 10MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom). It offers 8K video recording, laser autofocus, and super-steady video.
  
  

• iPhone 13 Pro Max: The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes with a triple-camera setup consisting of a 12MP primary sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto lens (3x optical zoom). Apple also introduced ProRAW and ProRes video, giving photographers and videographers more control over their shots.
  
  

Verdict: Both phones offer impressive cameras, but the Galaxy S21 Ultra pulls ahead with its 108MP sensor and 8K video recording capabilities. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, however, has the advantage of better integration with Apple's software ecosystem, which enhances its camera performance, especially for video content creation.

Performance & Software:

• Galaxy S21 Ultra: Powered by the Exynos 2100 (in the UAE) or Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (in other regions), the S21 Ultra is a powerhouse. With 12GB or 16GB of RAM, multitasking and gaming are a breeze. It runs on One UI (based on Android 11), offering a customizable user experience and a range of productivity features.
  
  

• iPhone 13 Pro Max: The iPhone 13 Pro Max runs on the A15 Bionic chip, which is Apple's most powerful processor. Paired with 6GB of RAM, the A15 chip offers superior optimization and efficiency. The phone runs on iOS 15, which delivers seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem of devices.
  
  

Verdict: The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers incredible optimization with its A15 Bionic chip and iOS, while the Galaxy S21 Ultra provides more RAM and a more customizable Android experience. In terms of raw power, both devices are extremely capable, though the S21 Ultra wins on multitasking due to its higher RAM capacity.

Battery Life:

• Galaxy S21 Ultra: The S21 Ultra comes with a 5,000mAh battery, offering all-day usage. It also supports 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging for other devices like earbuds or a friend's phone.
  
  

• iPhone 13 Pro Max: The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 4,352mAh battery, which offers impressive longevity due to Apple's optimized iOS. It supports 20W fast charging and MagSafe wireless charging.
  
  

Verdict: The Galaxy S21 Ultra has a larger battery, but the iPhone 13 Pro Max outshines in terms of efficiency, meaning the overall battery life is very comparable. Apple's software optimization means that even with a smaller battery, it still lasts almost as long as the S21 Ultra.

Galaxy S21 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 3: Different Purposes, Same Flagship Quality

While the Galaxy Z Fold 3 might seem like a direct competitor in terms of pricing, it’s more of a niche product for those who want cutting-edge foldable technology. The S21 Ultra offers a more traditional smartphone design, but both devices are flagships.

• Display: The Galaxy Z Fold 3 features a 7.6-inch folding display, offering a unique experience, but it’s bulkier than the S21 Ultra. The S21 Ultra has a sleek, streamlined design with a larger screen but no fold.
  
  

• Performance: Both devices are similar in terms of performance, with the Snapdragon 888 powering both. However, the Z Fold 3 has the edge in multitasking due to its folding nature.
  
  

Verdict: If you’re after a phone that folds out into a tablet, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the obvious choice. But for a more traditional flagship experience, the S21 Ultra remains superior.

Galaxy S21 Ultra vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max: Price and Deals in UAE

Pricing is often a deciding factor when choosing between devices, and in the UAE market, both the Galaxy S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max are high-end devices. However, there can be some price fluctuations based on deals, promotions, and the retailer.

• Technoor.me offers competitive prices for the Galaxy S21 Ultra, with occasional discounts and financing options. The price can vary depending on the storage variant and color choice, but the S21 Ultra remains a premium device.
  
  

• iPhone 13 Pro Max pricing also remains consistent but can be a bit more expensive, especially when considering the higher storage configurations.
  
  

Verdict: The Galaxy S21 Ultra may offer better value for money, particularly during promotions like Black Friday, Ramadan, and Eid sales at retailers like Technoor.me.

Accessories: Customizing Your Experience

When it comes to accessories, both Samsung and Apple have a wide range of options available.

• For the Galaxy S21 Ultra, you can find various cases, screen protectors, wireless chargers, and earbuds. Popular accessories include the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro, S Pen, and high-quality leather cases.
  
  

• For the iPhone 13 Pro Max, accessories like MagSafe chargers, leather cases, and AirPods Pro are available.
  
  

Verdict: Samsung’s S21 Ultra offers the added advantage of compatibility with the S Pen and other Galaxy-specific accessories, while Apple’s MagSafe system is a great addition to the iPhone 13 Pro Max ecosystem.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose in the UAE?

In the UAE, both the Galaxy S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max are premium choices, each offering distinct advantages. Here’s a quick summary:

• Choose the Galaxy S21 Ultra if: You’re looking for a larger screen, a better zoom camera, and the ability to customize your smartphone experience with Android. The S21 Ultra is perfect for power users who need versatility in their device.
  
  

• Choose the iPhone 13 Pro Max if: You prefer iOS for its ecosystem and software optimization, and you’re willing to invest in a device that offers top-tier video performance, reliability, and long-lasting software support.
  
  

For those looking for the best deals, Technoor.me is a great place to explore competitive pricing, accessories, and financing options for both models. You can also find exclusive offers and sales on Galaxy S21 Ultra at Technoor.me, making it an ideal place for shoppers in the UAE.

In conclusion, the Galaxy S21 Ultra remains one of the best smartphones of its generation, offering an impressive range of features. Whether it’s the camera, display, or performance, the S21 Ultra stands tall against competitors, including the iPhone 13 Pro Max. If you’re in the UAE, be sure to check out Technoor  for the latest deals and availability!