As we stand on the brink of the Apple iPhone 15 Series launch, let’s
take a detailed look back at the specifications, features, and official prices
in the Philippines of the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, pitting it against
its contemporaries at the very top of the 2023 smartphone chart in terms of
power and prestige, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the
OnePlus 11 5G.
take a detailed look back at the specifications, features, and official prices
in the Philippines of the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, pitting it against
its contemporaries at the very top of the 2023 smartphone chart in terms of
power and prestige, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the
OnePlus 11 5G.
This comprehensive comparison aims to help you see how the best phones of 2023 fared against one another when it comes to feature-set and value for money. Perhaps, the information presented here can even inspire you to check out what other brands have to offer in case you are particularly loyal to just one company.
Let’s start with this meticulous side-by-side specs and price comparison table.
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TechPinas Smartphone Technical Specifications Table
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| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | OnePlus 11 5G | |
| Display |
6.7-inch, 1290 x 2796 pixels, FHD+
LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED up to 120Hz Refresh Rate 2000 Nits Max |
6.8-inch, 1440 x 3088 pixels, QHD+ Edge
Dynamic up to 120Hz Refresh Rate 1750 |
6.7 inch, 1440 x 3216 pixels, QHD+
LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED Display up to 120Hz Refresh Rate 1300 Nits Max Brightness |
| Dimensions and Weight | 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.9 mm
240 grams |
163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm
234 grams |
163.1 x 74.1 x 8.5 mm
205 grams |
| Cameras |
48 MegaPixels Wide Camera, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), 1/1.28″, 1.22µm, dual pixel PDAF, Sensor-Shift OIS 12 MP Ultra-Wide Camera, f/2.2, 12 MP TOF 12 MP Front Camera, f/1.9, 23mm SL 3D Front Depth/Biometrics Sensor Back Video Recorder Front Video Recorder |
200 MegaPixels Wide Camera, Main, F1.7, FOV 85˚, 1/1.3″ Sensor Size, Dual Pixel PDAF 12 MegaPixels Ultra-Wide 10MP Telephoto Camera, 3x Optical Zoom, F2.4, FOV 10MP Telephoto 12MP Front Camera, Back Video Recorder Front Video Recorder – 4K 30/60fps, 1080p 30fps, Auto-HDR, HDR10+, Dual Pixel |
50 MegaPixels Wide Camera, f/1.8, 24mm, 1/1.56″, 1.0µm, Multi-Directional PDAF, OIS 48 MP Ultra-Wide Camera, f/2.2, 32 MP Telephoto Camera, f/2.0, 48mm, 16 MP Front Camera, f/2.5, Back Video Recorder Front Video Recorder |
| Processor | 4nm Hexa-Core Apple A16 Bionic with 5-Core Apple GPU |
4nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy with Adreno 740 GPU |
4nm Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 with Adreno 740 GPU |
| RAM + ROM |
6GB + 128GB
6GB + 256GB 6GB + 512GB 6GB NVMe Storage |
12GB + 256GB
12GB + 512GB 12GB + 1TB UFS |
8GB + 128GB
16GB + 256GB UFS 4.0 Storage |
| Battery Capacity | 4,323 mAh Li-Ion, Non-Removable | 5,000 mAh Li-Po, Non-Removable | 5,000 mAh Li-Po, Non-Removable |
| Wired Fast Charging |
Wired Charging: Up to 50% charge in around 30 mins via PD2.0, Lightning Cable |
Wired Charging: Up to 65% charge in around 30 mins with 45W Adapter and 5A USB-C cable |
Wired Charging: Up to 100% charge in around 25 mins with 100W Adapter and provided USB-C cable |
| Operating System and User Interface | iOS 16 Upon Launch | Android 13 Upon Launch
One UI 5.1 by Samsung |
Android 13 Upon Launch
Oxygen OS 13 |
| Network Connectivity |
5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5.3 |
5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E ready Bluetooth 5.3 |
5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E ready Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Under-Display Fingerprint Scanner | No | Yes | Yes |
| Water and Dust Resistance | IP68 | IP68 | IP64 |
| Build | Corning-Made Front and Black Glass, Stainless Steel Mid-Frame | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 Front and Back, Aluminum Mid-Frame | Gorilla Glass Victus Front, Gorilla Glass 5 Back, Aluminum Mid-Frame |
| Embedded Stylus | None | Embedded S-Pen with Bluetooth Integration | None |
| Official Suggested Retail Prices in the Philippines |
6GB + 128GB = PHP 77,990 6GB + 256GB = 6GB + 512GB = 6GB + 1TB |
12GB + 256GB = PHP 89,990 12GB + 512GB = |
8GB + 128GB = PHP 45,990 16GB + 256GB = |
| Official Release Date or Start of Pre-Order Period in the Philippines | October 14, 2022 | February 2, 2023 | March 10, 2023 |
| Colorways | Space Black, Silver, Gold, Deep Purple |
Phantom Black, Green, Cream, Lavender, Graphite, Sky Blue, Lime, Red, BMW M Edition |
Titan Black, Eternal Green, Jupiter Rock |
Screen
When it comes to their stunning displays, these flagship contenders have set the bar high.
The Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max’s 6.7-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED Display radiates brilliance with its 1290 x 2796 pixel resolution. Its impressive 120Hz refresh rate ensures fluid scrolling and seamless animations, while the remarkable 2000 nits maximum brightness guarantees vibrant visuals even in bright outdoor settings.
Not to be outdone, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra counters with a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, boasting a higher resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels. With a matching 120Hz refresh rate, users can anticipate smooth interactions and enhanced responsiveness. Moreover, the display’s 1750 nits peak brightness adds to the allure, ensuring captivating visuals that remain clear and vivid under various lighting conditions.
While both Apple and Samsung bring their A-game to the display arena, the OnePlus 11 5G stands as a worthy competitor with its 6.7-inch LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED Display. Showcasing a QHD+ resolution of 1440 x 3216 pixels, it offers an enticing balance between detail and performance. Its 120Hz refresh rate maintains responsiveness, and the display’s 1300 nits maximum brightness underscores its suitability for various environments.
While all three devices exhibit remarkable display capabilities, for me, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra screen’s higher resolution, larger size, and high peak brightness lend it an edge, allowing for a more immersive and captivating visual experience.
Design and Ergonomics
Looking at the design and dimensions of each model, it’s clear that these flagship contenders present a diverse spectrum of form factors that cater to various user preferences.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max boasts dimensions of 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.9 mm, offering a solid feel in hand with a touch of sleekness with its sharp sides and curved corners. Weighing 240 grams, it imparts a sense of substance that aligns with its premium aesthetics, thanks to the stainless steel midframe. With an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, it’s poised to withstand the rigors of daily life.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra takes a slightly larger approach, measuring 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm, and weighing 234 grams. This provides ample room for its expansive display while maintaining a sturdy profile. Boasting an under-display fingerprint scanner and an identical IP68 water and dust resistance rating, it combines security and durability that users have come to expect from the Korean Giant’s flagship handset line.
Finally, the OnePlus 11 5G opts for a slimmer and lighter design, measuring 163.1 x 74.1 x 8.5 mm and weighing only 205 grams. This emphasizes ease of handling and portability, augmented by its under-display fingerprint scanner. The lush use of shiny metallic accents on this model, including its circular camera module at the back, definitely add to its aura of sophistication. It’s worth noting that the OnePlus device carries an IP64 water and dust resistance rating, offering commendable protection while not quite reaching the same level as its competitors.
Nevertheless, all three flagship level handsets feature opulent, durable, and premium materials on their shell, specifically, scratch-resistant and shatter-proof glass from Corning and either aluminum or stainless steel. Hence, all three would feel extremely classy, robust, and luxurious when you hold them in your hand. Choosing the best of the three in terms of design all dependents on the user’s personal preference.
Imaging Prowess
Each contender brings forth its own set of distinct strengths when it comes to taking stills and movies, tailored to cater to diverse photography preferences.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max showcases a harmonious blend of camera capabilities, showcasing a 48MP Wide Camera that excels in capturing intricate details with great clarity. Accompanying this, a 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera offers the perfect tool in capturing expansive scenes without compromising on visual quality. Moreover, the 12MP Telephoto Camera equipped with a 3x optical zoom lens empowers users to venture closer to their subjects, capturing shots with precision even from a distance. An innovative addition to its repertoire, the TOF 3D LiDAR scanner enhances portrait and augmented reality experiences by accurately mapping depth. Apple’s approach orchestrates these diverse elements seamlessly, positioning the iPhone 14 Pro Max as a versatile toolset for both creative and practical photography needs.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra steps onto the stage with a bold statement, armed with a groundbreaking 200MP Wide Camera that redefines the boundaries of smartphone photography. This mammoth resolution promises to unveil intricacies previously unseen in mobile photography, offering users the ability to explore their shots with unmatched clarity. Accompanied by a 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera, the device captures sweeping vistas and group shots with vivid detail. What truly sets the Galaxy S23 Ultra apart is its innovative dual telephoto setup — a 10MP lens with 3x optical zoom for a precise approach to distant subjects, and a 10MP lens with an astonishing 10x optical zoom, unlocking the ability to capture faraway scenes with unprecedented clarity. This strategic versatility presents the Galaxy S23 Ultra as a standout choice for photography enthusiasts who desire both detail and flexibility in their smartphone captures.
Meanwhile, the OnePlus 11 5G showcases its strengths with a straight-foward approach. Its 50MP Wide Camera promises crisp shots with commendable detail, ensuring that every moment is captured vividly. The 48MP Ultra-Wide Camera enhances its photography capabilities, catering to expansive landscapes and group shots with its 115˚ lens, which is notably wider than that’s on the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, and large 1/2″ sensor size. Complementing the setup, a 32MP Telephoto Camera with 2x optical zoom offers a closer perspective on subjects without compromising on quality. OnePlus’ focus on delivering reliable and versatile camera features positions the OnePlus 11 5G as a balanced option for users who seek dependable photography capabilities in a high-performance smartphone that’s not as expensive as its rivals.
When it comes to the front-facing camera, OnePlus 11 5G has the highest resolution of the three with its 16 MegaPixel selfie shooter versus 12MP on both Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. So if you love snapping self-portraits and groufies with loved ones, you might want to consider this.
Video Recording Performance
Although we wouldn’t be wrong in assuming that the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max is the best handset in this trio for recording videos for professional work because of Apple’s advanced imaging algorithm, industry-leading HDR, 10-bit ProRes codecs, Enhanced Stabilization, and Cinematic Mode for both FullHD and 4K video recording, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and OnePlus 11 5G also has cool tricks up their sleeves that we must take note of. For one, Android flagship models can record 8K clips using their main camera at the back, which Apple’s top-of-the-line handset can’t do. This is particularly useful for those who want to future-proof their videos and to record clips that can be cropped into 4K or FullHD clips in post-production without losing clarity.
For those who love using the front-facing camera for recording daily videos or talking head clips, as expected from top-of-the-line releases, both the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra can shoot 4K clips up to 60fps using that shooter. Oddly enough, though, OnePlus 11 5G’s front-facing cam can only shoot FullHD 1080p clips at 30fps, which for me is one of this smartphone’s main points for improvement. I hope OnePlus could enable 4K recording using the selfie shooter of their flagship because this is a feature that can be very useful for many consumers in this social media age.
Flagship Power and Performance
Delving into the heart of processing prowess, each smartphone showcases its own robust engine designed to power an array of tasks with finesse. The iPhone 14 Pro Max impressively wields the 4nm Hexa-Core Apple A16 Bionic chip, coupled with a 5-Core Apple GPU, to deliver a seamless user experience. Apple’s dedication to optimization and performance shines through, ensuring that tasks, whether demanding or routine, are executed with remarkable efficiency.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is driven by the 4nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, complemented by an Adreno 740 GPU. This potent combination attests to Samsung’s commitment to providing a powerhouse capable of handling diverse tasks and applications, even all at once.
Similarly, the most affordable model of the trio, the OnePlus 11 5G, is powered by the 4nm Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, a testament to OnePlus’ commitment to delivering high-caliber performance to its users, similar to what far more pricey smartphones by other brands are capable of.
Moving to storage and RAM, these devices offer an array of options to cater to varying needs. The iPhone 14 Pro Max boasts an impressive range of configurations, starting from 6GB of RAM and extending up to an astonishing 1TB of storage. This expansive spectrum ensures that users have ample room for their data, apps, and multimedia content. Although iDevices typically have less RAM compared to their Android counterparts, the Cupertino’s optimizations assure that their products can stand shoulder to shoulder with competitors in terms of actual performance. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra offers top-notch specs with a whopping 12GB of RAM, and options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage, providing a flexible range to suit different usage and file storage requirements. The OnePlus 11 5G seeks to cater to varying preferences with choices of 8GB RAM paired with 128GB storage, as well as an elevated 16GB RAM variant accompanied by 256GB storage. These options empower users to align their device’s performance and storage with their individual requirements, whether they lean toward multitasking, content creation, or simply efficient daily use — all while being mindful of their budget.
Battery and Charging Speed
When it comes to battery life and charging capabilities, each smartphone presents its own set of attributes to keep you connected and energized throughout the day. The iPhone 14 Pro Max houses a 4,323 mAh Li-Ion battery, providing a substantial foundation for a reliable battery life. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra packs a larger 5,000 mAh Li-Po battery, potentially offering extended usage between charges. The OnePlus 11 5G mirrors the Galaxy S23 Ultra with a 5,000 mAh Li-Po battery, aligning itself with competitive longevity.
Delving into charging prowess, all three contenders feature fast charging solutions that efficiently replenish your device’s battery. The iPhone 14 Pro Max supports up to 50% charge in approximately 30 minutes through PD2.0 and a Lightning Cable, ensuring a quick power boost when time is of the essence. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra impressively offers up to 65% charge in around 30 minutes with a 45W Adapter and 5A USB-C cable, facilitating swift recharging to keep you engaged throughout the day. However, the OnePlus 11 5G leaps ahead with a remarkable feat, boasting up to 100% charge in approximately 25 minutes using a 100W Adapter and the provided USB-C cable, allowing for an astonishingly rapid turnaround.
Considering both battery capacity and charging capabilities, the OnePlus 11 5G emerges as a clear winner in this category. With its notable battery capacity and lightning-fast charging, it positions itself as a prime choice for users who demand an efficient and lasting power solution that seamlessly complements their active lifestyle.
Privacy and Security
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, and OnePlus 11 5G all stepped up to the plate with a suite of sophisticated security options. Classic patterns and passcodes continue to serve as reliable choices for unlocking these devices, ensuring that users can keep their personal information safe.
Furthermore, these smartphones have embraced the cutting-edge realm of biometric authentication, with each offering Facial Recognition technology. This advanced security measure allows users to effortlessly unlock their devices with a mere glance, enhancing convenience without compromising security.
However, a notable distinction arises in the realm of fingerprint recognition. Both the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the OnePlus 11 5G have integrated an Under-Display Fingerprint Scanner, providing an additional layer of security and versatility. This technology enables users to unlock their phones by placing their finger on the designated area of the screen, combining ease of use with heightened privacy.
Interestingly, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max opts not to include this under-display fingerprint technology, relying instead on its established Face ID system for facial recognition. While Face ID is undoubtedly efficient and secure, the absence of a fingerprint scanner might be perceived by some users as a missed opportunity to offer a secondary method of authentication.
Stylus Support or Lack Thereof
The inclusion of S Pen Stylus support in the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra marks a significant advantage that sets it apart from its competitors, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and the OnePlus 11 5G. The S Pen Stylus support not only enhances the device’s functionality but also offers users a unique and versatile way to interact with their smartphone.
The S Pen stylus brings a new dimension to the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s user experience, enabling precise and intuitive input. This advantage becomes particularly evident when taking notes, drawing, editing photos, or navigating through the device’s interface. Its pressure sensitivity and precise tip allow for detailed creativity and accurate selections, elevating tasks such as digital art creation and annotation.
In contrast, the iPhone 14 Pro Max and OnePlus 11 5G lack native stylus support, limiting the range of creative and productive activities users can perform directly on the screen. While there are third-party stylus options available for the iPhone, they often lack the seamless integration and precision that the S Pen offers on the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Furthermore, the S Pen stylus support extends the usability of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra for users who prefer handwritten notes and annotations, making it an excellent choice for professionals, students, and creatives alike. The absence of stylus support in the iPhone 14 Pro Max and OnePlus 11 5G might compel users seeking such functionality to consider the Galaxy S23 Ultra as a more versatile tool that goes beyond traditional smartphone interactions.
Pricing and Budget Considerations
For many Filipinos in these financially challenging times, price is a major consideration in picking a new smartphones, even at flagship level.
The OnePlus 11 5G emerges as a clear frontrunner in this category, offering an enticing proposition with a starting price of PHP 45,990. This competitive pricing allows users to access a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a blend of power and affordability.
On the other hand, the iPhone 14 Pro Max enters the arena with various configurations, and prices that start from PHP 77,990. Apple’s offering presents a premium choice for those who value the brand’s ecosystem, top-tier features, and design excellence.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, while positioned at a higher price range, introduces a range of options with prices spanning from PHP 81,990 to PHP 103,990, depending on the chosen variant. Notably, the exclusive Samsung.com edition extends its reach to PHP 103,990, bringing along special features for the brand enthusiasts.
Considering the cost-effectiveness, the OnePlus 11 5G undoubtedly takes the lead, presenting an attractive proposition for users who seek a powerful smartphone without stretching their budget. However, your final decision should be aligned with your individual priorities, be it a premium ecosystem, exclusive features, or affordability, as each contender caters to a distinct set of preferences.
Conclusion
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, and OnePlus 11 5G each assert their dominance in the 2023 smartphone market with their slew of standout features. From dazzling displays and impressive camera systems to processing power and unique innovations, these devices cater to an array of preferences and demands.
After studying and comparing their technical specifications and main selling points, it becomes clear that choosing the ultimate winner is a subjective endeavor. With each device boasting its own set of strengths, the decision ultimately hinges on personal taste, desired features, and budget considerations.
The iPhone’s seamless ecosystem, the Galaxy’s groundbreaking innovations, and the OnePlus’ affordability all present compelling choices. In the end, the best choice resides in the hands of the user, who must weigh these attributes to discover the perfect smartphone companion that aligns with their distinct needs and aspirations.