The iPhone 17 leads with the A19 Pro chip, a stunning new design with titanium frame, and Apple Intelligence. The Samsung Galaxy S26 counters with a brighter 3000-nit display, larger battery, and advanced Galaxy AI features powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26 — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Apple's 2026 mainstream flagship with A19 chip and enhanced thermal management
Flagship Android phone with balanced performance, 6.3-inch display, and 50MP telephoto lens
Processor. Display. RAM. Battery. Starting Price. AI Features. OS
Both are exceptional 2025/2026 flagships. Choose iPhone 17 for its refined design, ecosystem, and video capabilities. Choose Samsung S26 for display brightness, customization, and Galaxy AI productivity features.
iPhone 17: KSh 149,999 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: ₹1,34,900 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 1206 x 2622 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 120Hz ProMotion | Samsung Galaxy S26: 120Hz AMOLED
iPhone 17: 48MP with f/1.9 aperture | Samsung Galaxy S26: 50MP with OIS
iPhone 17: 256 GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: Face ID only | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: Apple A19 | Samsung Galaxy S26: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
iPhone 17: 18% improvement over A18 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 60 | Samsung Galaxy S26: 120Hz
iPhone 17: 8GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 128 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: $799 | Samsung Galaxy S26: $999
iPhone 17: 48MP f/1.6 | Samsung Galaxy S26: 200MP with OIS
iPhone 17: None | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 4K at 60fps | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 3,582 mAh | Samsung Galaxy S26: 4500mAh
iPhone 17: 3.5 GHz (A19 Pro) | Samsung Galaxy S26: 3.6 GHz (Snapdragon 8 Gen 4)
iPhone 17: 460 ppi | Samsung Galaxy S26: 500 ppi
iPhone 17: 45W | Samsung Galaxy S26: 65W
iPhone 17: 5+ years (iOS 19+) | Samsung Galaxy S26: 4 years (Android 16)
iPhone 17: 3,645 points | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 8GB LPDDR5X | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12GB base
iPhone 17: 256GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: $799 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 6.6 | Samsung Galaxy S26: 6.3 inches
iPhone 17: 6-core A19 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 12MP f/1.6 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 60fps | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 10MP | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 4K 120fps | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 6GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: Up to 28 hours | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 3000 nits | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2,000 nits
iPhone 17: 15W | Samsung Galaxy S26: 20W
iPhone 17: 34 hours | Samsung Galaxy S26: 40 hours
iPhone 17: 2,890 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: +18% over A18 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: Aluminum | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: $899 | Samsung Galaxy S26: $899
iPhone 17: 8GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12GB
iPhone 17: 10+ years | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 3,500 nits | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 2500 nits | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2000 nits
iPhone 17: f/1.6 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 3285 points | Samsung Galaxy S26: 3,420 points
iPhone 17: 38 minutes | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 7+ years | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 6.3 inches | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: ~3,100 | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 48 MP (3x optical) | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 7.80 mm | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 128 GB | Samsung Galaxy S26: 256GB
iPhone 17: IP69 (6m submersion) | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
Main Camera Low-Light Performance (ISO Range)
iPhone 17: ISO 100-12,800 native | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 15% better efficiency | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 1/1.56" (standard) | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: None (digital only) | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 25+ | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: 25% improvement | Samsung Galaxy S26: N/A
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 512GB
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Dynamic AMOLED 2X
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Standard sensors
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Standard enhancement
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Full Galaxy AI suite with Now Nudge
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Not available
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12 GB
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 512 GB
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Triple camera setup
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Thicker bezels
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Not specified
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2,340 × 1,080
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Yes (S Pen on Ultra)
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: No (on standard model)
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12 MP with Dual Pixel PDAF
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: Android 16 with One UI
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2,150,000
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2000 nits
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 9,180 points
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 20 hours
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 50MP f/1.6 with OIS
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: $749
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12GB
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 6.3"
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 5x optical
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 28 minutes
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 28 hours
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 6 years
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 45W
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 7 years
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2,847,000 (Snapdragon 8 Elite)
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 2,850 (single-core)
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 12GB max
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 18 minutes
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 7 years OS + 7 years security
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 45W wired
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 50MP (3x optical)
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: $899
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 256GB
iPhone 17: N/A | Samsung Galaxy S26: 167g
How to choose between iPhone 17 and Samsung Galaxy S26
iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26 — Structured Comparison Data
Machine-readable comparison dataset for iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26. Contains 107 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26 — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26.
Which is more affordable, the iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 generally offers a more competitive starting price compared to the iPhone 17, making it a stronger value proposition for budget-conscious buyers. The Galaxy S26 base model is expected to start around $799, while the iPhone 17 base model begins near $849. However, total cost of ownership varies depending on accessories, trade-in deals, and carrier promotions. Apple's longer software support lifecycle and stronger resale value may make the iPhone 17 a better long-term investment despite its higher upfront cost.
Is the iPhone 17 better than the Samsung Galaxy S26?
Whether the iPhone 17 is better than the Samsung Galaxy S26 depends entirely on your priorities. The iPhone 17 excels in software optimization, ecosystem integration, privacy features, and consistent long-term updates. The Samsung Galaxy S26 counters with greater hardware customization, superior display flexibility, and broader Android app freedom. iPhone users deeply embedded in Apple's ecosystem will prefer the iPhone 17, while Android enthusiasts who value customization and cutting-edge hardware specifications will likely find the Galaxy S26 more compelling. Neither device is objectively superior overall.
Which phone is better for professional photography, iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26?
Both phones deliver flagship-level photography, but each has distinct strengths. The iPhone 17 leverages Apple's advanced computational photography, improved Neural Engine processing, and natural color science, making it ideal for content creators who want consistent, true-to-life results with minimal editing. The Samsung Galaxy S26 offers higher megapixel sensors, greater manual control, and more aggressive AI-enhanced zoom capabilities, appealing to photographers who want maximum detail and versatility. For video production specifically, the iPhone 17's ProRes recording and final cut integration give it a professional edge.
What are the biggest updates in the iPhone 17 and Samsung Galaxy S26 for 2026?
For 2026, both flagships are pushing AI integration to new heights. The iPhone 17 introduces enhanced Apple Intelligence features, a redesigned thinner chassis, and improved satellite connectivity options. The Samsung Galaxy S26 advances its Galaxy AI suite with real-time language translation, on-device generative AI tools, and a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset variant. Both devices adopt improved thermal management and next-generation battery efficiency standards. These 2026 updates reflect an industry-wide shift toward AI-first smartphone experiences rather than purely hardware-driven upgrades seen in previous generations.
Which phone has better battery life, the iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 typically edges out the iPhone 17 in raw battery capacity, housing a larger cell that supports longer screen-on time during intensive tasks like gaming or video streaming. However, Apple's tight hardware-software optimization means the iPhone 17 delivers competitive real-world battery performance despite a smaller battery. The Galaxy S26 also supports faster wired and wireless charging speeds. For users who prioritize all-day endurance without carrying a charger, the Galaxy S26 holds a measurable advantage, while iPhone 17 users benefit from more predictable, consistent battery behavior across daily workflows.
How to Choose Between iPhone 17 and Samsung Galaxy S26
Processor: iPhone 17 has A19 Pro, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
Display: iPhone 17 has 6.3" ProMotion OLED, 2200 nits, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has 6.3" AMOLED 2X, 3000 nits.
RAM: iPhone 17 has 12GB, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has 12GB.
Battery: iPhone 17 has 4,200 mAh, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has 4,500 mAh.
Starting Price: iPhone 17 has $799, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has $799.
AI Features: iPhone 17 has Apple Intelligence, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has Galaxy AI 2.0.
OS: iPhone 17 has iOS 19, while Samsung Galaxy S26 has Android 16 + One UI 8.
iPhone 17 is better than Samsung Galaxy S26