When it comes to the world’s best camera smartphones, two names dominate the conversation — Samsung’s Galaxy Ultra series and Apple’s iPhone Pro Max lineup. With the iPhone 17 Pro Max already launched and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra expected to debut later this month, leaks and early details have sparked a fresh camera war.

Both phones follow very different camera philosophies, from hardware choices to AI processing and video features. Before choosing the ultimate camera phone, here are the five biggest camera differences between the Samsung S26 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

1. Ultra-Wide & Selfie Cameras: Detail vs Natural Tones

According to leaks, the Galaxy S26 Ultra may feature a 50MP ultra-wide camera with improved stabilization, along with a 12MP autofocus front camera.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max, meanwhile, offers a 48MP ultra-wide sensor and an upgraded 18MP selfie camera.

Samsung is aiming for higher detail and wider framing, while Apple continues to prioritize accurate skin tones and natural color science. Landscape and group photos may look more dramatic on Samsung, while iPhones maintain a balanced, realistic look.

2. Main Camera Showdown: 200MP vs 48MP

Samsung is expected to stick with its 200MP primary camera, now paired with a larger f/1.4 aperture, allowing more light intake for low-light and night photography.

Apple’s 48MP main camera relies on larger pixels, sensor-shift OIS, and refined processing. While Samsung focuses on raw detail and flexibility, Apple emphasizes consistent exposure, accurate colors, and stability.

3. Zoom & Telephoto: Long-Range Power vs Clean Optics

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is likely to feature a dual telephoto system, including:

• 5x periscope lens

• 3x optical telephoto lens

This setup allows Samsung to excel in long-distance and hybrid zoom photography.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max uses a single 4x periscope telephoto, prioritizing optical clarity and stabilization. Samsung wins in zoom range, while Apple focuses on controlled and clean zoom results.

4. Video Recording: Creator Tools vs Cinematic Output

Apple continues to dominate mobile videography. The iPhone 17 Pro Max supports:

• ProRes RAW

• Apple Log 2

• Dolby Vision HDR

• High-frame-rate recording up to 120fps

Samsung counters with:

• 8K video recording

• HDR10+

• Advanced stabilization via ProVisual Engine

Apple is ideal for professional creators, while Samsung offers greater flexibility and manual control.

5. AI & Image Processing: Natural vs Enhanced

Apple’s camera processing, powered by the A19 Pro chip, focuses on natural colors and instant-ready results with minimal user intervention.

Samsung’s upgraded AI and ProVisual Engine emphasizes:

• Enhanced detail

• Adjustable color profiles

• Strong AI customization

Apple delivers consistent, realistic photos, while Samsung allows users to push creativity further using AI-driven enhancements.