Apple shifted to aluminum this year for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, ensuring better heat transfer and a host of benefits compared to titanium alloy or stainless steel. Six drop tests were performed to compare the iPhone 17 Pro Max against the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
- Apple shifted to aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
- Six drop tests were performed comparing iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra.
- The iPhone 17 Pro Max sustained damage from a 1-meter corner drop.
- Both devices sustained similar damage in the 1.5-meter front drop.
- The test concluded in a tie between the two flagships.
- Samsung may switch to aluminum for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
The testing methodology for the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra involved three drops from different sides and three drops from increased heights. The results showed varying levels of damage depending on the drop angle and height.
In the 1-meter back drop, the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s rear glass cracked, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra sustained more prominent damage around its telephoto camera. The 1-meter corner drop revealed visible scuffs and a dent on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, whereas the Galaxy S25 Ultra showed incredible durability.
In the 1-meter front drop, the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s OLED screen cracked and affected the front camera, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s fingerprint sensor continued to work. During the 1.5-meter back drop, the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s chassis held up well, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s rear camera lenses broke.
The 1.5-meter corner drop resulted in the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s paint stripping away and its 1x camera losing focus. Both devices sustained similar damage in the 1.5-meter front drop, leading to a tie in the overall drop test results.
Surprisingly, the test turned out to be a tie, with each flagship scoring points off one another in various drop tests. Assuming Samsung switches to aluminum for the Galaxy S26 Ultra next year, it could inherit the strengths and weaknesses of the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Originally reported by wccftech.com as “iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Aluminum Build Holds Up Well To Drops Against Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Titanium Alloy, But Is Susceptible To Corner Impacts” on 2025-09-24 01:23:00.
