Two years after their release, the iPhone 12 Pro Max and Galaxy S21 Ultra remain benchmarks in smartphone excellence. Both devices were flagship powerhouses in 2021—Apple’s first to feature a LiDAR scanner and Samsung’s answer with a built-in S Pen and 108MP sensor. But now, in 2024, users are asking: do these phones still hold up? And more importantly, if you're still using one, is it worth upgrading?
The answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on your usage patterns, ecosystem loyalty, and what you value most in a smartphone: longevity, camera quality, software updates, or raw performance. Let’s break down how both devices have aged and whether moving to a newer model delivers meaningful gains.
Performance and Longevity: Two Years On
The iPhone 12 Pro Max runs on Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, while the Galaxy S21 Ultra features either the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888, depending on region. At launch, all three chips were top-tier. But over time, thermal throttling and software bloat have impacted real-world performance differently.
iOS tends to optimize older hardware exceptionally well. Even today, the A14 handles iOS 17 smoothly, with fast app launches, responsive multitasking, and reliable background processes. Apple’s tight control over hardware and software ensures consistent long-term support—iOS 18 will likely still support the iPhone 12 series, giving it at least five years of updates.
In contrast, the Snapdragon 888 and Exynos 2100 were notorious for overheating. After two years of daily use, many S21 Ultra owners report slower app loading times, occasional stutters in games, and longer boot cycles. While One UI 6 (based on Android 14) runs adequately, it doesn’t feel as fluid as stock Pixel devices or newer Samsung flagships.
Camera Quality: How Well Have They Aged?
Both phones launched with exceptional camera systems. The iPhone 12 Pro Max introduced sensor-shift stabilization and improved low-light photography. The S21 Ultra brought dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom), a 108MP main sensor, and pro-grade video tools.
Today, the iPhone still excels in natural color reproduction, dynamic range, and video stabilization. Its computational photography algorithms continue to deliver consistent results—even in challenging lighting. The 12MP sensor may seem outdated, but Apple prioritizes pixel quality over quantity. For social media, casual shooting, and everyday documentation, it remains more than capable.
The S21 Ultra’s high-resolution mode produces stunning detail in daylight, and its periscope zoom is unmatched by the iPhone even now. However, aggressive noise reduction in low light can make night shots look oversmoothed. Additionally, Samsung’s AI processing sometimes oversaturates skies and skin tones—a trait that hasn’t improved much in newer models.
“Even in 2024, the S21 Ultra’s zoom lens offers practical utility no iPhone had until the 15 Pro Max.” — David Lin, Mobile Photographer & Tech Reviewer
Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Endurance
Battery degradation is inevitable after two years. The iPhone 12 Pro Max originally offered around 12–14 hours of screen-on time. Now, most units show 70–80% health, reducing that to 8–10 hours. Fast charging remains limited to 20W, and MagSafe adds convenience but not speed.
The S21 Ultra started with a larger 5,000mAh battery and supports 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. However, the less efficient Exynos variant drained faster, and even Snapdragon models now average 6–9 hours of screen time. Users report needing midday charges more frequently, especially with 120Hz enabled.
Neither phone supports modern ultra-fast charging (65W+), which newer flagships offer. This becomes a pain point if you value quick top-ups. Replacing the battery improves experience significantly—Apple charges $99, Samsung around $80, both reasonable investments for another 1–2 years of use.
Detailed Comparison: Key Features Side-by-Side
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro Max | Galaxy S21 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A14 Bionic | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 |
| RAM | 6GB | 12GB / 16GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.6), Sensor-shift OIS | 108MP (f/1.8), Laser AF |
| Zoom | 2x optical, 10x digital | 3x & 10x optical, 100x digital |
| Battery Capacity | 3,687mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, 15W MagSafe | 25W wired, 15W wireless |
| Software Support | Up to iOS 18 (est.) | Android 14 + 4 UI updates |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (6m, 30min) | IP68 (1.5m, 30min) |
Real User Experience: A Mini Case Study
Jamie, a freelance videographer in Austin, has used the Galaxy S21 Ultra since March 2021. Initially drawn to its 8K recording and S Pen for storyboarding, she found the device powerful but inconsistent. “By late 2022, the phone would overheat during 4K shoots,” she says. “Battery dropped to 75% health within 18 months. I switched to an iPhone 15 Pro Max last month—it charges faster, stays cooler, and the Dynamic Island is surprisingly useful.”
Still, she misses the S21 Ultra’s zoom. “For event coverage, being able to frame from across the room without moving was a game-changer. The iPhone still feels like a step back there.”
Meanwhile, Mark, a finance analyst in Chicago, has kept his iPhone 12 Pro Max. “I replaced the battery last year. It runs iOS 17 flawlessly. My only gripe is the lack of always-on display and 120Hz—I didn’t realize how much I’d miss smooth scrolling until I tried a friend’s S23 Ultra.”
Should You Upgrade? A Step-by-Step Decision Guide
Deciding whether to upgrade depends on your current pain points. Follow this timeline to evaluate your needs:
- Assess Battery Health: Check if it’s below 80%. If yes, consider a replacement before deciding to upgrade.
- Evaluate Performance: Are apps crashing? Is the interface laggy? Try resetting settings or offloading unused apps.
- Review Camera Needs: Do you need better zoom, night mode, or video features? Newer phones offer significant improvements.
- Consider Ecosystem: Are you invested in iCloud, AirPods, or Galaxy Wearables? Switching costs matter.
- Compare Upgrade Costs: Weigh the price of a new phone against repair or continued use of the current one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone 12 Pro Max still good in 2024?
Yes. With iOS 17 running smoothly and strong build quality, it remains a reliable daily driver. Camera, battery (if maintained), and app compatibility are still competitive for most users.
Does the Galaxy S21 Ultra get Android 14?
Yes. Samsung delivered Android 14 with One UI 6.0, and it will receive security updates into 2025. However, performance on older hardware can be sluggish compared to newer devices.
Can either phone handle modern mobile gaming?
The A14 handles games like Genshin Impact at medium settings without major issues. The Snapdragon 888 version of the S21 Ultra performs similarly, but sustained play causes throttling. Both are usable but not ideal for hardcore gamers.
Final Verdict: Is Upgrading Worth It?
If your iPhone 12 Pro Max or Galaxy S21 Ultra still meets your daily needs—calls, messaging, browsing, photography, and moderate app use—then upgrading isn’t urgent. Both phones have aged gracefully, thanks to strong software support and durable builds.
However, if you crave faster charging, smoother 120Hz displays, better thermal management, or advanced camera features like Nightography (Pixel), Action Mode (iPhone), or improved telephoto (S23/S24 Ultra), then upgrading offers tangible benefits. Newer processors, brighter screens, and enhanced AI photography bring noticeable improvements.
For most users, the decision comes down to diminishing returns. The leap from 2021 flagships to 2024 models is evolutionary, not revolutionary. Unless you’re experiencing hardware failure or specific limitations, extending the life of your current device is both economical and environmentally responsible.
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