Iphone 13 Pro Max Vs S22 Ultra Two Years Later Is It Still Worth Upgrading 2

Two years after their release, the iPhone 13 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra remain relevant in a market that refreshes annually. While newer flagships dominate headlines, many users are still relying on these devices daily. The question isn’t just about raw specs anymore—it’s whether either phone still delivers value today, and if upgrading between them makes sense in 2024.

This comparison goes beyond benchmarks. It evaluates real-world longevity, software support, camera consistency, and ecosystem integration—factors that matter most when you're deciding whether to keep your current device or make the switch.

Performance After Two Years: Still Flagship-Worthy?

The iPhone 13 Pro Max runs Apple’s A15 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU variant exclusive to the Pro models. In 2024, this SoC continues to deliver smooth performance across iOS 17, handling multitasking, gaming, and augmented reality apps without throttling. Apps launch quickly, and background app reloads are rare—a testament to iOS’s memory management.

Samsung’s S22 Ultra features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (in most regions) or Exynos 2200 (in select markets). While powerful at launch, thermal throttling was an issue under sustained load. Two years later, some users report minor lag during heavy use, especially in warmer climates. However, with One UI 6 based on Android 14, performance remains generally solid for everyday tasks.

Tip: Clear cached data every few months on Android to maintain responsiveness; iOS users benefit from automatic optimization but should avoid filling storage beyond 80%.

Apple’s tighter hardware-software integration gives the iPhone 13 Pro Max an edge in long-term fluidity. Even as iOS adds new features, Apple optimizes for older chips. Samsung has improved its update model, but legacy hardware doesn’t receive the same level of fine-tuning.

Camera Comparison: Who Shoots Better in 2024?

Both phones were camera powerhouses in 2022, but how do they hold up now?

The iPhone 13 Pro Max introduced Photographic Styles, macro mode, and Cinematic Mode in video. Its triple-lens system (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto) produces natural color science, excellent dynamic range, and industry-leading video stabilization. Low-light performance has aged well, thanks to Deep Fusion and Smart HDR 4 processing. Videos shot today still look professional, even in challenging lighting.

The S22 Ultra launched with a quad-camera array: 108MP main, dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x), and a laser autofocus sensor. Samsung’s AI-driven processing favors vibrant colors and high contrast, which can look punchy but occasionally oversharpened. The 100x Space Zoom is more novelty than utility, but the 10x optical-quality zoom is genuinely useful for distant subjects.

“Even in 2024, the S22 Ultra's periscope lens offers unmatched versatility for hybrid zoom shots.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst at TechScope

In practical terms, the iPhone wins for point-and-shoot reliability and video quality. The S22 Ultra excels in flexibility—especially for users who want creative control over zoom and manual settings via Pro Mode.

Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Endurance

Battery degradation is inevitable, but both devices started strong. The iPhone 13 Pro Max offered up to 28 hours of video playback; the S22 Ultra claimed 26 hours. After two years of regular charging cycles, actual endurance depends heavily on usage patterns and charging habits.

Users report the iPhone retains around 85–90% of original capacity with optimized charging enabled. iOS also provides detailed battery health metrics, helping owners monitor decline. The S22 Ultra supports faster charging (45W vs. iPhone’s 20W), but Samsung doesn’t offer granular battery health info in settings—third-party apps are required.

Feature	iPhone 13 Pro Max	S22 Ultra
Battery Capacity	4,352 mAh	5,000 mAh
Fast Charging	20W (no charger included)	45W (charger sold separately)
Wireless Charging	MagSafe (15W), Qi (7.5W)	Qi/PMA (15W), Reverse Wireless
Typical Daily Use (2024)	14–16 hours screen-on	12–14 hours screen-on

Despite the larger battery, the S22 Ultra’s higher display peak brightness (up to 1,750 nits) and less efficient Exynos variants can drain power faster. The iPhone’s 120Hz ProMotion display adapts dynamically, conserving energy when possible.

Ecosystem and Software Support Outlook

This is where the paths diverge significantly.

Apple typically supports iPhones with major iOS updates for five to six years. The iPhone 13 Pro Max will likely receive iOS 20 or 21, putting its support window through 2027–2028. Security updates may continue beyond that. This longevity enhances resale value and reduces e-waste.

Samsung promises four major Android upgrades and five years of security patches for the S22 Ultra—meaning it will get Android 16 and security updates until early 2027. That’s impressive for Android, but not all features from newer One UI versions come to older devices. For example, advanced AI tools like Circle to Search or Live Translate may be limited or absent.

If you’re invested in either ecosystem, switching is costly. iPhone users benefit from seamless AirDrop, iMessage, FaceTime, and iCloud integration. S22 Ultra owners gain DeX desktop mode, S Pen functionality, and better file management—features iOS lacks.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Cross-Ecosystem Switch

Sarah used her iPhone 13 Pro Max for two years before switching to the S22 Ultra for the S Pen and multitasking. Initially frustrated by the lack of iMessage and lower app optimization, she adapted using Google Messages and cross-platform tools like Signal. “The camera flexibility won me over,” she says, “but I miss how effortlessly my old iPhone shared photos with family.”

Her experience highlights a key truth: hardware can be matched, but ecosystem loyalty is hard to break.

Is Upgrading Still Worth It in 2024?

For most users still on either device, upgrading solely for performance gains isn’t necessary. Both phones handle social media, streaming, navigation, and productivity apps without issue. However, specific needs might justify a change:

• Switching from iPhone to Android: Only consider if you value customization, multitasking, or stylus input.
• Switching from Android to iPhone: Do it for longer software support, superior video recording, or tighter ecosystem integration.
• Keeping your current phone: Perfectly reasonable. With a battery replacement (if needed), both can last another 1–2 years.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

1. Has your battery health dropped below 80%?
2. Are you experiencing frequent app crashes or slowdowns?
3. Do you need features like satellite SOS (iPhone) or S Pen (S22 Ultra)?
4. Have you outgrown the camera capabilities for your needs?
5. Are you ready to migrate contacts, messages, and accounts across ecosystems?

If three or more apply, upgrading makes sense. Otherwise, extend your device’s life with a case, screen protector, and occasional battery service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 13 Pro Max run iOS 18 smoothly?

Yes. Apple has confirmed iOS 18 will support iPhone 13 and later models. While some AI-powered features may be limited, core functionality will remain fast and responsive.

Does the S22 Ultra still receive monthly updates?

Samsung delivers quarterly security updates for the S22 Ultra as of 2024. Major feature updates ended with One UI 6, but critical patches continue through 2027.

Which phone holds resale value better?

The iPhone 13 Pro Max retains higher resale value due to longer software support and global demand. Used units fetch 15–25% more than comparable-condition S22 Ultras.

Final Verdict: Upgrade Only for Purpose, Not Pressure

The iPhone 13 Pro Max and S22 Ultra were built to last. Two years on, neither feels obsolete. The iPhone edges ahead in long-term support and video quality; the S22 Ultra counters with versatile zoom and productivity tools.

Upgrading between them in 2024 isn’t about necessity—it’s about intention. If your current device meets your needs, keep it. If you crave a new capability or have hit hardware limits, then make the move with purpose.

🚀 Still on a 2022 flagship? Share your experience—what made you stay, or what finally pushed you to upgrade? Join the conversation below.