Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 24, 2021 October 16, 2023
Release Year 2021 2023

Physical

Volume 96.7 cm³ 343.94 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 2.79 "/g 1.98 "/g
Weight 240 g 627 g
Height 160.8 mm 285.4 mm
Width 78.1 mm 185.4 mm
Thickness 7.7 mm 6.5 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Graphite
  • Sierra Blue
  • Alpine Green
  • Silver
  • Gray
  • Mint
  • Lavender

Display

Screen Size 6.7 " 12.4 "
Resolution 1284 x 2778 1600 x 2560
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 16:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 87.8 % 84.3 %
Pixel Density 458 PPI 243 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1000 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1200 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 96.95 mAh/in² 65.62 mAh/in²
Battery Density 45.01 mAh/cm³ 29.34 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4352 mAh 10090 mAh
NFC Support Yes No
Chipset Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) Exynos 1380 (5 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.23 GHz Avalanche + 4x1.82 GHz Blizzard) Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (5-core graphics) Mali-G68 MP5

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0, Magnetic Connector

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 15 13
Maximum OS Version 18 17

Comparison Summary

Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. We have a classic matchup here – a powerhouse smartphone versus a capable tablet, each with its own strengths and intended use cases. My aim is to cut through the tech jargon and give you a clear picture of how these devices perform in the real world.

1. Specifications Breakdown

FeatureApple iPhone 13 Pro MaxSamsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+Real-World Implications
Design
Launch Date2021-09-242023-10-16The Tab S9 FE+ is significantly newer, incorporating more recent tech and design trends.
Form FactorStandard SmartphoneStandard TabletThe iPhone is designed for pocketability, while the Tab S9 FE+ is intended for larger screen experiences.
Dimensions160.8 × 78.1 × 7.7 mm285.4 × 185.4 × 6.5 mmTab S9 FE+ is much larger and less portable.
Weight240g627giPhone is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged holding.
Display
Size6.7"12.4"Tab S9 FE+ offers a much more expansive viewing area.
Resolution1284x27781600x2560Tab S9 FE+ has a slightly higher resolution, but this is balanced by its larger size.
Pixel Density (PPI)458243iPhone's display is far sharper, providing more detail and clarity.
TechnologyOLEDIPS LCDiPhone's OLED panel delivers superior contrast and color accuracy.
Refresh Rate120Hz90HziPhone's 120Hz refresh rate offers smoother scrolling and animations.
Brightness1200 nits0 nitsThe iPhone is vastly brighter and much better for outdoor visibility. The 0 nits reading for the Samsung is obviously an anomaly, and real world testing would be required to get an accurate measurement.
Performance
ChipsetApple A15 Bionic (5 nm)Exynos 1380 (5 nm)The A15 Bionic is significantly faster and more efficient.
AnTuTu Score1,327,255507,000The iPhone boasts significantly higher performance for resource-intensive tasks like gaming and video editing.
GPUApple GPU (5-core)Mali-G68 MP5The iPhone's GPU is tailored for its chipset, giving it an edge in graphical performance.
Camera
Main Camera Resolution12MP (f/1.5)12MP (f/2.0)iPhone captures more light with a wider aperture.
Selfie Camera Resolution12MP8MPiPhone offers higher resolution selfies.
Telephoto LensYesNoiPhone has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom.
Wide Angle Lens12MP (f/1.8)8MP (f/2.2)iPhone's wide-angle is wider and sharper with a larger aperture.
ToF 3D SensorYesNoiPhone offers advanced depth sensing for AR applications and better portrait effects.
Video RecordingUp to 4K@60fpsUp to 4K@30fpsiPhone is capable of faster video recording frame rates for smoother video.
Video StabilizationYesNoiPhone offers built in stabilization.
Camera FeaturesExtensive (OIS, RAW, Night Mode, etc.)Basic (Dual Camera)iPhone is better for advanced photography and videography.
Battery Life
Capacity4373 mAh10090 mAhTab S9 FE+ has a much larger battery which may translate into significantly longer usage between charges.
Charging20W fast charging45W fast chargingTab S9 FE+ charges faster.
Charging FeaturesMagSafe, WirelessBypass ChargingiPhone provides wireless charging options, Tab S9 FE+ allows for direct power without charging the battery.
Software
Operating SystemiOS 15 (upgradeable to 18)Android 13 (upgradeable to 17)Choice depends on your preferred ecosystem and the user interface.
Connectivity
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6Wi-Fi 6Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards.
Bluetooth5.0 LE5.3Tab S9 FE+ has a newer version of Bluetooth.
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, GalileoGPSiPhone has much better location accuracy using multiple GPS systems.
SIMDual SIM (Nano + eSIM)N/AiPhone allows you to use multiple SIM cards.
Storage
Internal StorageUp to 1 TBUp to 256 GBiPhone offers much more internal storage.
RAM6 GB or 8 GB8 GB or 12 GBTab S9 FE+ offers more RAM for multitasking.
Expandable StorageNoNoNeither device supports expandable storage.
Audio
Audio QualityDolby Atmos, Digital Plus, DTS, Microphone Noise Cancellation, Stereo SpeakersDolby Atmos, Stereo SpeakersiPhone offers much more advanced audio for greater immersion.
Security
FeaturesBasic Security FeaturesSide-mounted Fingerprint SensorTab S9 FE+ offers fingerprint security.
Build Quality
Screen ProtectionUnknownUnknownMore information needed on the screen's material for both devices.
Sensors
SensorsProximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, BarometerFingerprint, Proximity, AccelerometeriPhone includes additional environmental sensors.

2. Key Insights

Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max:

  • Strengths:
    • Raw Performance: The A15 Bionic chip delivers top-tier speed, ideal for demanding apps, gaming, and content creation. The higher AnTuTu score illustrates this, where the iPhone outperforms the tablet by a considerable margin.
    • Display Quality: The OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is incredibly sharp, vibrant, and smooth, which is noticeably better than the Tab S9 FE+'s IPS LCD display. The difference is stark, especially in terms of contrast and color accuracy.
    • Camera Prowess: The iPhone has a versatile camera system with better overall performance, offering a telephoto lens, LiDAR for depth sensing, and higher quality video capture. The larger aperture on the main and wide angle cameras let in more light than the Samsung's and therefore provide better image quality.
    • Audio Capabilities: The iPhone offers a suite of audio features far beyond that of the Samsung, and the addition of noise canceling microphones make it ideal for calls in noisy environments.
  • Competitive Advantages:

    • Ecosystem Integration: iOS devices work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem, making it perfect for users who already own Apple devices.
    • Build and Design: The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a premium build and is much more pocketable, if that is important to you.
  • Trade-offs and Limitations:

    • Size: While the screen is large for a phone, it doesn't come close to the expansiveness of the Tab S9 FE+.
    • Price: Typically, Apple devices are more expensive than their Android counterparts.
    • Battery Capacity: Though very respectable, the battery capacity is significantly smaller than the Samsung tablet.
    • No Expandable Storage: You are limited to the internal storage purchased.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+:

  • Strengths:
    • Large Display: The 12.4" screen is ideal for multitasking, content consumption, and creative work, offering a more immersive experience.
    • Battery Life: A larger battery will translate to longer use between charges.
    • Multitasking: The Tab S9 FE+'s abundant RAM is great for heavy multitasking.
    • Stylus Support: Though not listed, this tablet is compatible with an S Pen making it useful for drawing and taking notes.
  • Competitive Advantages:
    • Multitasking Capabilities: The combination of a larger screen and more RAM makes it excel at running multiple apps simultaneously.
    • Media Consumption: The larger display provides a great platform for watching videos and movies.
    • Value Proposition: Typically Samsung tablets can be more affordable than the high end phones.
  • Trade-offs and Limitations:
    • Performance: While the Exynos chip is no slouch, it doesn't match the raw power of the iPhone's A15 Bionic. The drastically lower AnTuTu score proves this.
    • Display Quality: The IPS LCD display lacks the contrast and color accuracy of the iPhone's OLED.
    • Camera System: It doesn't match the iPhone's advanced camera system. It lacks a telephoto lens and additional sensors, which can make a difference in various photography scenarios.
    • Portability: The large size makes it less convenient to carry around compared to a smartphone.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max:

  • Ideal Users:
    • Content Creators: Those who need high-quality photos and videos for social media, vlogging, or other creative projects will love the iPhone's camera system.
    • Gamers: The A15 Bionic chip ensures games run smoothly at high settings.
    • Apple Ecosystem Users: People who are already invested in the Apple ecosystem will appreciate the seamless integration.
    • Power Users: Anyone who needs top-tier performance for demanding apps and tasks.
    • Everyday Users: Those who want the best possible screen and a great all round phone will enjoy the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
  • Use Cases:
    • Capturing high-quality photos and videos.
    • Mobile gaming and demanding app use.
    • Seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem.
    • Professional tasks requiring excellent performance.
    • On the go use, given the pocketable design.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+:

  • Ideal Users:
    • Media Consumers: Those who watch a lot of videos, movies, and TV shows will appreciate the expansive display.
    • Students: Its large screen is excellent for reading, taking notes, and working on assignments.
    • Multitaskers: Users who often need to use multiple apps simultaneously, especially if they like splitting the screen.
    • Creative Professionals: Those who enjoy digital drawing, with the use of a stylus.
    • Travelers: Those who want a large display that can be used for movies on the go.
  • Use Cases:
    • Watching movies and TV shows.
    • Reading and annotating documents.
    • Multitasking with multiple apps simultaneously.
    • Digital drawing and art creation.
    • Tablet use while traveling.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three key questions to help you decide:

  1. What is your primary use case?
    • If you need a high-performance phone with an excellent camera, go for the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
    • If you want a large screen for media consumption and multitasking, the Tab S9 FE+ is a great choice.
  2. How important is portability?
    • If you need a device that easily fits in your pocket, the iPhone is the clear winner.
    • If you are okay with a larger device that you may have to carry in a bag, the Tab S9 FE+ might be more suitable.
  3. Which ecosystem do you prefer?
    • If you're already heavily invested in Apple, the iPhone is the most logical choice.
    • If you prefer Android and its customization options, the Tab S9 FE+ will be your go-to.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: The Mobile Photographer
    • Recommendation: Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. Its superior camera system, wider aperture, and multiple lenses make it the better choice.
  • Scenario 2: The Movie Buff
    • Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. The expansive 12.4" screen is ideal for viewing content, despite being an LCD screen.
  • Scenario 3: The Student/Multitasker
    • Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. The larger screen and generous RAM make it perfect for reading, note-taking, and running multiple apps.
  • Scenario 4: The Power Gamer
    • Recommendation: Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. The A15 Bionic chip will guarantee the best experience on demanding games.

My Choice

If I had to choose, I would go for the Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. While the larger screen of the Samsung Tab is appealing, my priorities lean towards a device that excels in performance, camera quality, and overall user experience, and the iPhone delivers this in spades. I’d rather use a phone with a great screen, than a tablet with a mediocre one. I love the flexibility of having a phone that is easy to take anywhere, which the Samsung is certainly not. Additionally, as someone invested in the Apple ecosystem, I value the seamless integration.

The Samsung Tab is by no means a bad device, and depending on my personal use case I might have chosen it instead of the iPhone, but given my priorities, it's the iPhone 13 Pro Max for me.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.