iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S25+

iPhone 17 Pro Max

The iPhone 17 Pro Max marks a significant design departure with an aluminum unibody chassis, centered camera plateau, and vapor chamber cooling. It is thinner and lighter while maintaining IP68 durability.

• The aluminum unibody construction feels solid and premium — a refreshing change from titanium that harkens back to classic iPhone design language
• Camera plateau design is the most divisive element — it photographs poorly but actually feels natural in hand and prevents wobble on flat surfaces
• Vapor chamber cooling is a genuine game-changer for sustained performance — the phone runs significantly cooler than iPhone 15 Pro or 16 Pro under load
• Centered Face ID and front camera feel more natural and modern, though placement takes some getting used to

Samsung Galaxy S25+

The S25+ features a sleek, refined design with flat edges and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both sides. While not dramatically different from the S24+, it's slightly thinner and lighter, earning praise for its premium feel.

• The flat-edge design gives it a more modern, premium look compared to previous generations