Price comparison of flagship smartphones

Apple has announced a price increase for its new iPhone 18 Pro, setting it at 1,479 euros. This is 10 euros more than the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, its main competitor in the ultra-premium segment, which launched at 1,469 euros.

Technical specifications of the smartphones

The iPhone 18 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra have similar dimensions and both feature OLED screens, though the Galaxy has a larger 6.9-inch display. Both support Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and 5G, but differ in internal storage, camera configurations, and hardware such as the Apple A20 Pro versus Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips.

Design and features

The iPhone 18 Pro introduces new colors and a slightly heavier build, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra retains a classic design and includes an always-present S-Pen stylus. Both models are IP68 certified and feature advanced glass protection, but the Galaxy has a thinner profile. Apple claims improved heat distribution, while Samsung focuses on AI integration and practical features like the Privacy Display.

Camera and display capabilities

The iPhone 18 Pro offers a variable aperture for creative effects, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra focuses on optical precision and AI-enhanced photography. Both smartphones have high-resolution screens and strong color accuracy, though Apple's display maintains a slight edge in colorimetry. The Galaxy has a larger screen, but both offer excellent brightness levels.

Performance and battery life

The iPhone 18 Pro sets a new benchmark in smartphone performance with its A20 Pro chip, capable of handling demanding tasks efficiently. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is also a strong contender, though it lags slightly in battery capacity. Both phones last nearly two days on a single charge, with the iPhone showing slightly better efficiency in lab tests.

Charging and price considerations

Both smartphones support fast charging, with Samsung being slightly faster. However, the iPhone 18 Pro is more expensive than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the iPhone offers advanced features like Siri AI and a refined OS, the Galaxy provides better value for money and more versatile hardware. The choice between the two ultimately depends on user preference for operating system and specific features.