Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile vs iPhone 13 Pro Max • Unlocked

Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$212.99

Versus $783.99 new

See options
iPhone 13 Pro Max • Unlocked
iPhone 13 Pro Max • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$362.27

Versus $999.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G (released in February 2022) and the iPhone 13 Pro Max (released in September 2021) are both high-end smartphones from their respective manufacturers. While the Galaxy S22 offers a more compact design and runs on the Android operating system, the iPhone 13 Pro Max provides a larger display and operates on iOS. Both devices feature advanced camera systems and powerful processors, catering to users seeking premium mobile experiences.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 13 Pro Max was released in September 2021, making it slightly older than the Galaxy S22 5G, which launched in February 2022. [1, 3, 5, 11, 17, 22, 27, 28, 31, 37]
  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 13 Pro Max shipped with iOS 15 and is compatible with current iOS versions, with expectations for continued support for several more years. [1, 5, 6, 7, 17, 21, 26, 28] The Galaxy S22 5G launched with Android 12 and Samsung's One UI, and typically receives several years of major Android updates and security patches. [9, 36]
  • Physical Durability: Both devices offer robust build quality. The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. [1, 12, 13, 21, 28] The Galaxy S22 5G is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on its display and also carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. [9]

Release Year

2022

2021

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Galaxy S22 5G and the iPhone 13 Pro Max are equipped with powerful internal components designed for smooth performance across various tasks.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 5G utilizes a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, multitasking, and graphics-intensive games efficiently. [3, 9, 23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max is powered by a highly capable chip, known for its strong performance in complex computations and graphics rendering, ensuring a responsive user experience. [2, 6, 8, 13, 17, 28, 29]
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 5G comes with 8GB of RAM, contributing to smooth multitasking and quick app switching. [9, 23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max features 6GB of RAM, which, combined with its optimized operating system, provides fluid navigation and efficient handling of multiple applications. [6, 8, 17, 28, 29]
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S22 5G is available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. [9, 23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers a wider range of storage capacities, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, catering to users with extensive storage needs. [2, 6, 8, 17, 21, 22, 28, 29]
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 13 Pro Max is recognized for its extended battery life, often providing power for up to two days of moderate usage, supported by a 4352 mAh battery and efficient hardware. [4, 10, 12, 13, 18] The Galaxy S22 5G, with a 3700 mAh battery, typically offers a full day of use for most users, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging. [3, 23, 33]

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both smartphones is delivered through high-quality displays, each with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S22 5G features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. [3, 9, 23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max boasts a larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering an expansive viewing area. [1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 14, 16, 19, 21, 28, 29, 32]
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S22 5G provides a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in clear and sharp images. [9, 23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers a higher resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels, contributing to its detailed visual output. [1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 14, 16, 19, 21, 28, 29, 32]
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both devices feature adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, providing smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. [1, 9, 13, 14, 16, 19, 23, 32] The iPhone 13 Pro Max's display can reach a typical brightness of 1000 nits and a peak of 1200 nits for HDR content, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. [1, 2, 16, 19] The Galaxy S22 5G also offers a bright display with Vision Booster technology for enhanced outdoor visibility. [9, 23]

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1284 x 2778

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with versatile camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various scenarios.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S22 5G features a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP wide lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. [3, 9, 23, 35] The iPhone 13 Pro Max also has a triple 12MP Pro camera system, comprising a wide lens with sensor-shift OIS, an ultra-wide lens with autofocus and macro capabilities, and a telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. [2, 4, 21, 24, 28, 30, 32, 34]
  • Photography Features: The Galaxy S22 5G includes features like Night Mode, 30x Space Zoom, Single Take, and Director's View, enhancing its photographic versatility. [23, 35] The iPhone 13 Pro Max offers Night mode, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, and Apple ProRAW for advanced image capture. [2, 21, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34]
  • Video Recording Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 5G supports 8K video recording and Super-steady Video. [23, 35] The iPhone 13 Pro Max introduces Cinematic mode for videos with shallow depth of field (1080p at 30fps) and supports ProRes video recording up to 4K at 30fps, alongside 4K HDR video recording. [2, 21, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34]
  • Front Cameras: The Galaxy S22 5G has a 10MP front-facing camera. [3, 9, 23] The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 12MP TrueDepth front camera, capable of advanced portrait features and video recording. [2]

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate these two devices in daily use.

  • Connectivity: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity, offering fast network speeds. The Galaxy S22 5G is optimized for T-Mobile's 5G network, including its Ultra Capacity 5G. [3, 23, 33, 39] The iPhone 13 Pro Max supports both sub-6 GHz and mmWave 5G, providing broad compatibility. [2, 32] Both also feature Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for high-speed wireless internet. [2, 15, 21, 23, 28, 29, 33]
  • Ports and Biometrics: The Galaxy S22 5G uses a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. [23, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max utilizes Apple's Lightning port, which supports USB 2.0 speeds. [15, 21, 28, 29] For security, the iPhone 13 Pro Max relies on Face ID for facial recognition, while the Galaxy S22 5G typically uses an under-display fingerprint sensor.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S22 5G is a more compact device, measuring 146.0 x 70.6 x 7.6mm and weighing 168g, making it easier for one-handed use. [9, 25, 33] The iPhone 13 Pro Max is larger and heavier at 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.65 mm and 240g, offering a more substantial feel and a larger screen experience. [2, 5, 6, 7, 20, 21, 28, 29]
  • Additional Features: The iPhone 13 Pro Max includes an Ultra Wideband chip for spatial awareness and enhanced AirDrop functionality. [2, 21, 28]

Weight

7 oz

8000 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.1

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 13 Pro Max frequently praises its exceptional battery life, often cited as one of the best available, allowing for extended usage without frequent recharging. [4, 10, 12, 13, 18] Its camera system, particularly the Cinematic mode and ProRes video capabilities, also receives high marks for professional-grade content creation. [2, 24, 26, 30, 34] Some users, however, note its considerable size and weight, which can impact one-handed usability. [4] The Galaxy S22 5G is often commended for its compact form factor, vibrant display, and capable camera system, making it a strong choice for those preferring a smaller flagship Android device. [36] Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life being less enduring compared to larger counterparts, especially under heavy use. [36]

Users prioritizing maximum battery endurance and a large display for media consumption and advanced video features may find the iPhone 13 Pro Max well-suited to their needs. Its robust iOS ecosystem and long-term software support also appeal to those seeking extended device longevity. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more compact and lightweight smartphone, coupled with the flexibility of the Android operating system and a strong camera for everyday photography, might lean towards the Galaxy S22 5G. Both devices represent solid choices within their respective ecosystems, offering premium experiences tailored to different user preferences. For those considering either of these models, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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