The iPhone 17 Pro Max Unique Design Helps It Narrowly Beat Galaxy S26 Ultra In Latest Drop Test Comparison, But The Results Are Closer Than You Think
https://wccftech.com/galaxy-s26-ultra-vs-iphone-17-pro-max-drop-test/
Publish Date: 2026-03-19 18:03:00
Source Domain: wccftech.com
The switch from Titanium alloy to aluminum on the Galaxy S26 Ultra makes the flagship on par with the iPhone 17 Pro Max when comparing the materials used, but it should be noted that this move will alter the smartphone’s durability in the latest drop test. The last time one YouTuber conducted the exact test against the same Apple flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Titanium chassis aided the latter when it made contact from the corners. Now, it’s a different tale, but the iPhone 17 Pro Max manages to secure the win against its rival, thanks to a subtle design tweak.
After several drops, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s fingerprint sensor stops working, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Face ID functionality remains undeterred
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has returned to PhoneBuff’s drop tests, with one of its biggest strengths being that Apple didn’t cover the device’s entire back with Ceramic Shield, leaving metal on the Camera Plateau, resulting in better durability and what ultimately gave it the edge against the Galaxy S26 Ultra. A total of 6 drops were performed on both handsets, with the results of each drop summarized below.
1 meter back drop – Both flagships had their rear glass shattered, but the Galaxy S26 Ultra took the brunt of the impact, with the telephoto glass receiving the most serious damage. Fortunately, the Samsung flagship’s camera system is functional, but there’s a bit of lens flare showing up. As for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the top metal area is practically unscathed, with the bottom portion made up of glass absorbing the force.
1 meter corner drop – The corners of both smartphones have been scuffed, but the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s marks appear more prominent, likely due to the Cosmic Orange paint job. There’s also a visible dent on the iPhone, whereas the Galaxy S26 Ultra looks to be in significantly better shape.
1 meter front drop -…
