Iphone Xs Max Vs Samsung S21 Plus Is It Worth Upgrading In 2024

If you're still using an iPhone XS Max—released in 2018—you’re running a device that’s nearly six years old by 2024 standards. While Apple devices are known for longevity, technology has advanced rapidly, especially in the Android space. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus, launched in 2021, represents a significant leap in hardware, software, and user experience. But is making the switch from iOS to Android, or simply upgrading to this specific model, truly worthwhile in 2024?

This isn’t just about specs on paper. It's about real-world usability, future-proofing, ecosystem compatibility, and whether the upgrade delivers tangible benefits in daily life. Let’s break down the key differences and evaluate if the jump makes sense today.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap

The iPhone XS Max runs on Apple’s A12 Bionic chip—a powerhouse in its time, built on a 7nm process with a hexa-core CPU and quad-core GPU. In 2024, however, it struggles with heavier apps, multitasking, and newer iOS updates that demand more resources.

In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus features the Exynos 2100 (or Snapdragon 888 in some regions), both built on a 5nm process. This brings substantial improvements in CPU speed, graphics rendering, and AI processing. Apps open faster, games run smoother, and background tasks are handled with ease—even under heavy load.

RAM is another critical differentiator. The XS Max has 4GB of RAM, while the S21 Plus comes with 8GB. More RAM allows for better app retention, quicker switching between tasks, and improved performance in memory-intensive applications like photo editing or video streaming.

Tip: If you frequently use navigation, music, and messaging apps simultaneously, the S21 Plus’s extra RAM will make a noticeable difference in responsiveness.

Display and Design: Different Philosophies, Same Goal

The XS Max features a 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display with a resolution of 2688x1242 pixels (~458 ppi). It remains sharp and vibrant, but it’s capped at a 60Hz refresh rate. By modern standards, that feels sluggish when scrolling through feeds or playing fast-paced games.

The S21 Plus boasts a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 2400x1080 pixels (~393 ppi) and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Even though the pixel density is slightly lower, the higher refresh rate makes everything feel smoother and more fluid. The screen also supports HDR10+ and automatic brightness adjustment up to 1300 nits, making it far superior in bright sunlight.

Design-wise, the XS Max has a stainless steel frame and glass back, giving it a premium, weighty feel. The S21 Plus uses a plastic back (though high-quality polycarbonate) and aluminum frame. While some may miss the heft of metal, the lighter build improves comfort during extended use.

“Display smoothness is one of the first things users notice after switching from 60Hz to 120Hz. It changes how the phone feels in your hands.” — David Kim, Mobile UX Analyst at TechInsight Group

Camera Comparison: Evolution vs. Innovation

The iPhone XS Max has a dual 12MP rear setup: wide and telephoto lenses. It excels in color accuracy, dynamic range, and portrait mode thanks to Apple’s computational photography. However, it lacks Night mode, ultra-wide capability, and advanced zoom features.

The S21 Plus offers a triple-lens system: 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP wide, and 64MP telephoto with 3x hybrid zoom and up to 30x digital zoom. It includes enhanced Night mode, AI scene optimization, and 8K video recording—features absent on the XS Max.

In practical terms, the S21 Plus gives you more flexibility. Need to capture a wide-angle landscape? You’ve got it. Shooting in low light? The larger sensor and multi-frame processing deliver cleaner results. Zooming in on distant subjects? The S21 handles it better, even if quality degrades beyond 10x.

For front-facing selfies, the S21 Plus’s 10MP camera outperforms the XS Max’s 7MP sensor, especially in low-light conditions and with AI beautification modes.

Camera Feature Comparison

Feature	iPhone XS Max	Samsung S21 Plus
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide, Telephoto)	Triple: 12MP (UW), 12MP (W), 64MP (Tele)
Front Camera	7MP	10MP
Night Mode	No	Yes (Rear & Front)
Video Recording	4K @ 60fps	8K @ 24fps, 4K @ 60fps
Zoom	2x Optical	3x Hybrid, 30x Digital

Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Endurance

The XS Max packs a 3,174mAh battery. With moderate use, it lasts a full day—but barely. As batteries age, capacity diminishes, and by 2024, most units will have degraded significantly unless recently replaced.

The S21 Plus houses a 4,800mAh battery—over 50% larger. Combined with power-efficient hardware and adaptive refresh rate, it consistently delivers 1.5 days of use on a single charge. Heavy users may still need to top up, but not as urgently.

Charging is another area where the S21 Plus shines. It supports 25W wired fast charging (0–50% in ~30 minutes) and 15W wireless charging. The XS Max only supports 18W fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and 7.5W wireless charging—slower and less convenient.

Tip: Replace your iPhone XS Max battery before considering an upgrade—it can restore near-original performance and extend usability by another 1–2 years.

Ecosystem and Software Longevity in 2024

iOS 17, released in 2023, is the last version supported on the iPhone XS Max. That means no major OS updates beyond 2024, and security patches may taper off by late 2025. App developers are increasingly optimizing for newer hardware, which could lead to slowdowns or lack of support for legacy devices.

The S21 Plus launched with Android 11 but received updates up to Android 14, with security patches expected through 2026. Samsung promises four years of OS upgrades and five years of security updates for flagship models, making the S21 Plus a more future-proof investment.

Switching from iOS to Android involves a learning curve, especially around app ecosystems, cloud sync (Google vs. iCloud), and device integration. However, tools like Samsung Smart Switch simplify transferring contacts, photos, messages, and accounts.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a freelance photographer based in Portland, used her iPhone XS Max since 2019. By early 2024, she noticed apps crashing, slow exports from Lightroom, and poor low-light shots limiting her social media content. After testing a friend’s S21 Plus, she was impressed by the smoother interface, superior night photography, and ability to edit 4K videos without lag. She upgraded in March 2024 and reported a 40% increase in workflow efficiency. “It wasn’t just the camera,” she said. “The whole experience feels faster and more capable.”

Checklist: Is Upgrading Right for You?

• ✅ Is your iPhone XS Max experiencing frequent slowdowns or app crashes?
• ✅ Do you want better low-light photography or 8K video capability?
• ✅ Are you frustrated by 60Hz screen limitations?
• ✅ Do you need longer battery life for travel or workdays?
• ✅ Are you open to exploring Android apps and Google services?
• ✅ Have you considered battery replacement as a cheaper alternative?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, upgrading to the S21 Plus—or a comparable Android device—is likely a smart move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my data easily from iPhone to Samsung?

Yes. Use Samsung Smart Switch via Wi-Fi or cable. It transfers contacts, messages, photos, calendars, and even app data (where supported). Some iMessage threads may appear as SMS, but core content moves over seamlessly.

Will my iPhone accessories work with the S21 Plus?

Lightning headphones and chargers won’t work directly. You’ll need USB-C adapters or new accessories. Wireless accessories like AirPods will pair via Bluetooth, though without seamless iCloud integration.

Is the S21 Plus still available in 2024?

Not as a new flagship, but refurbished and lightly used units are widely available from carriers and retailers at $300–$400. This makes it a cost-effective upgrade path compared to buying a brand-new 2024 flagship.

Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?

For most iPhone XS Max users still holding on in 2024, the answer is yes—the upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus offers meaningful improvements across the board. From a buttery-smooth 120Hz display and vastly superior battery life to advanced camera features and longer software support, the S21 Plus delivers a modern smartphone experience the XS Max can no longer match.

That said, if you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem—using Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, or relying on Continuity features—the switch requires adjustment. Consider sticking with an iPhone 13 or newer if iOS integration is non-negotiable.

But if you're ready to explore Android’s flexibility, customization, and cutting-edge hardware, the S21 Plus remains a compelling option in 2024—not because it’s the newest, but because it strikes the right balance of performance, longevity, and value.

💬 Have you made the switch from iPhone to Samsung? Share your experience below—your insights could help others decide!