In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, two critical factors that users often prioritize are performance and battery life. To shed light on this, we conducted an exhaustive battery test comparing the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The goal was to determine which of these flagship phones would outlast the others when subjected to various real-world scenarios.
The Setup
Before we dive into the results, let’s outline the parameters of our battery showdown:
- Uniform Screen Brightness: To ensure fairness, we maintained consistent screen brightness levels across all three phones.
- No SIM Cards: None of the phones had a SIM card inserted during the test, although the S23 Ultra displayed a signal despite lacking one. This minimizes potential variations in battery drain due to network connectivity.
- Latest Software Updates: Each phone was running the latest software updates available at the time of the test to eliminate any potential software-related advantages.
- Continuous Screen Usage: Throughout the test, we kept the phone screens on continuously until their batteries were completely drained.
- Real-World Apps: We used everyday apps to replicate real-world scenarios, avoiding benchmarking apps that could have made the test easier.
The Battery Test Unfolds
Now, let’s break down the test’s progression and see how each phone fared in different scenarios.
1. YouTube Shorts (2 Hours)
The test began with two hours of swiping through YouTube Shorts. After this phase, here were the battery percentages:
| Phone | Battery Percentage |
|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 93% |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | 90% |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 88% |
The iPhone 15 Pro Max took the lead, but it’s worth noting that Apple tends to display higher battery percentages when the battery is nearly full. However, the rate of depletion tends to increase once it drops below 90%.
2. Instagram Usage (2 Hours)
After YouTube Shorts, we spent two more hours on Instagram. The S23 Ultra surged ahead, boasting 75% battery remaining. The phones were closely matched at this point.
3. Gaming (1 Hour)
To intensify the test, we introduced an hour of gaming. The iPhone 15 Pro Max took the lead with 66% battery, but all three phones remained closely matched.
4. 4K HDR Video Playback (3 Hours)
For three hours, we played a lengthy 4K HDR video. After this phase, the S23 Ultra regained the top spot. Interestingly, the 14 Pro Max experienced the most significant battery drain during HDR video playback.
5. Twitter and Spotify Usage (3 Hours)
Following the HDR video playback, we spent three more hours on Twitter and Spotify. The S23 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max were tied with 17% battery left, while the 14 Pro Max had 12%.
6. 4K 60 fps Video Recording (Until Battery Depletion)
The test’s final phase involved recording 4K 60 fps video until the phones ran out of battery. Notably, the S23 Ultra’s viewfinder went black, while the iPhones continued to operate. This was due to the larger camera bump on the iPhones, creating a gap between the phone and the surface.
The Results
After a grueling 12-and-a-half-hour test, the results aligned with the trends observed from the beginning:
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: 12 hours and 39 minutes of screen time.
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: 12 hours and 36 minutes of screen time.
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: 12 hours and 14 minutes of screen time.
All three phones demonstrated exceptional battery life, easily capable of lasting two full days for moderate users. However, the S23 Ultra stood out not only for its longevity but also for its faster-charging capabilities compared to both iPhones.
In Conclusion
In the realm of battery performance, the Galaxy S23 Ultra emerges as the superior choice, excelling in both discharging and charging. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max offer exceptional battery life, the S23 Ultra’s extended endurance and faster-charging capabilities make it a compelling option for users seeking longevity and efficiency.
Ultimately, the choice between these flagship phones should be based on your specific priorities, whether it’s battery life, operating system preference, or other features that matter most to you. All three devices deliver remarkable performance, reaffirming the relentless pursuit of excellence in the smartphone industry.