The Galaxy S24 Ultra launched in the US at $1,299.99 for 256GB, while Apple’s 256GB iPhone 17 launched at $799: a $500.99 difference between their launch prices. That is not a current-price comparison—the phones launched in different years, and prices and availability now depend on seller, storage, condition, and promotions. The practical choice is also about size, operating system, zoom cameras, and whether you will use the S24 Ultra’s built-in S Pen.
At a glance: Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. iPhone 17
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Apple iPhone 17 |
|---|---|---|
| US launch price | $1,299.99 starting price; 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations (Samsung, January 2024) | $799 for 256GB and $999 for 512GB (TechRadar, September 2025) |
| Display | 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, adaptive 1–120Hz | 6.3-inch OLED, 2622 × 1206, 460 ppi, adaptive ProMotion up to 120Hz |
| Weight | 8.22 oz in Samsung’s US launch specification (mmWave model) | 177g (6.24 oz) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform | Apple A19 |
| Rear cameras | 200MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto, 50MP 5x telephoto; Space Zoom up to 100x | 48MP main and 48MP ultrawide; 2x optical-quality telephoto and up to 10x digital zoom |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB; 12GB RAM | 256GB or 512GB; RAM not stated on Apple’s specifications page |
| Battery information | 5,000mAh typical capacity; rated minimum capacity 4,855mAh | Up to 30 hours video playback or up to 27 hours streamed video playback |
| Stylus | Integrated S Pen | No built-in stylus listed |
| Published software support | Samsung announced seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates for the S24 series | A fixed support duration is not stated on the reviewed Apple specifications page |
Sources: Samsung’s S24 launch announcement, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specifications, Apple iPhone 17 technical specifications, and TechRadar’s iPhone 17 launch-price report. These are manufacturer specifications and reported launch prices, not results from comparative hands-on testing.
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What is the price difference?
At the US 256GB launch tier, the S24 Ultra’s $1,299.99 starting price was $500.99 higher than the iPhone 17’s $799 launch price. Samsung announced its price in January 2024; the iPhone price was reported in September 2025. The difference compares launch MSRPs from separate release years—not today’s prices or a current like-for-like deal.
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Current pricing is seller- and offer-specific. AT&T’s page, accessed in October 2026, lists the iPhone 17 at a $829.99 retail starting price and says the Galaxy S24 Ultra is no longer available there. Its promotional financing requires an eligible unlimited plan and trade-in, applies bill credits over 36 months, and carries other restrictions; it should not be treated as an unconditional retail price. See AT&T’s device comparison page for the carrier’s listing and terms. No like-for-like current unlocked price for both models is established here.
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Size and display: a large-screen phone versus a lighter, smaller one
The S24 Ultra is the larger device: its 6.8-inch display gives more screen area, while its US mmWave launch specification lists a weight of 8.22 ounces. The iPhone 17 has a 6.3-inch screen and weighs 177g (6.24 ounces), making it the lighter option by the listed specifications. Regional S24 Ultra variants can differ.
Both displays support adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Samsung specifies a QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a 1–120Hz range; Apple specifies a 2622 × 1206 OLED display with ProMotion up to 120Hz. Choose primarily by preferred device size and platform rather than assuming one refresh-rate specification settles display quality.
Camera hardware: dedicated long-range zoom or a dual-camera system
Galaxy S24 Ultra
Samsung lists four rear cameras: a 200MP wide camera, a 12MP ultrawide, and separate 10MP 3x and 50MP 5x telephoto cameras. Samsung also describes Space Zoom up to 100x. The separate telephoto lenses give the S24 Ultra dedicated hardware for those zoom ranges.
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- Strong Magnetic Attraction: Powerful built-in magnets, easier place-and-go wireless charging and compatible with wireless Charging
- Compatibility: Compatible with Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 6.8 inch; precise cutouts for easy access to all ports, buttons, sensors and cameras, soft and sensitive buttons with good response, are easy to press
- Matte Translucent Back: Features a flexible TPU frame and a matte coating on the hard PC back to provide you with a premium touch and excellent grip, while the entire matte back coating perfectly blocks smudges, fingerprints and even scratches
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- HD Tempered Glass Screen Protector: 0.33mm thin with 99% clarity and oleophobic coating.Features edge-to-edge coverage,bubble-free installation kit and 9H hardness against scratches
iPhone 17
Apple lists two 48MP rear cameras: Main and Ultra Wide. Its specifications describe a 2x optical-quality telephoto option and up to 10x digital zoom. This is not a dedicated 3x or 5x telephoto camera.
These specifications describe camera configuration, not comparative photo quality. Megapixel totals and advertised zoom limits alone do not establish which phone takes better pictures; no controlled photo comparison is available here.
S Pen, storage, and software support
The S24 Ultra has an integrated S Pen for handwriting, markup, and other stylus tasks. The iPhone 17 specifications do not list a built-in stylus. The pen matters most if you expect to use it regularly; otherwise, it need not outweigh size, price, cameras, or platform preference.
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- 360° Rotating & 120° Folding Ring Stand: This Samsung S24 Ultra phone case comes with a built-in ring stand that rotates 360° and folds flat when not in use. Perfect for hands-free viewing, video calls, or a more secure one-hand grip. It also works with magnetic car mounts
- Camera Slide Cover: The smooth slide cover adds privacy and protects lenses from scratches, dust, and daily bumps, keeping the camera safe for your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra cases
- Shockproof Drop Protection: Hard PC back and soft TPU inner layer with corner airbags absorb shocks and protect against drops. Raised 1.2mm screen and 1.5mm camera edges add extra defense. Comes with 1 tempered glass protector for full coverage, making Samsung S24 Ultra phone case safer for daily use
- Magnetic Accessory Friendly: Hidden passive metal plates let magnetic wallets and magnetic car mounts latch on securely, giving your Galaxy S24 Ultra case stable, shake-free magnetic support. Supports standard wireless charging (Wireless charging is not recommended)
- Designed for Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 6.8": Perfectly fits the Galaxy S24 Ultra with precise cutouts and comfortable grip. Fully supports the ring stand, camera slide cover, and built-in metal plates for magnetic accessories
Samsung offers the S24 Ultra in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations, with 12GB of RAM. Apple lists the iPhone 17 in 256GB and 512GB; its specifications page does not state RAM. Samsung announced seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates for the S24 series. Apple’s reviewed technical specifications do not give a comparable fixed support-duration figure, so these sources do not establish a like-for-like support-period comparison.
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Samsung lists a 5,000mAh typical battery capacity and notes a rated minimum of 4,855mAh. Apple instead publishes playback estimates: up to 30 hours of video playback or up to 27 hours of streamed video playback. These use different measurement types and do not show which phone lasts longer in the same real-world use.
Samsung says the S24 Ultra can reach 65% charge in around 30 minutes with a 45W adapter and 5A USB-C cable under its stated test conditions; the adapter is sold separately. Apple says its advertised fast-charge condition requires a 40W adapter, also sold separately, with a USB-C cable. Those manufacturer claims should not be read as a directly comparable charging test.
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- 【Case for S24 Ultra】SPIDERCASE designed for Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 6.8-inch, does Not fit for other models, please check your phone model before buying. Precise hole cutting and sensitive buttons ensures easier access to every button and function.
- [Functional & Invisible Stand] The stand of the Samsung Galaxy S24 ultra case is foldable, sturdy and built to last, with built-in handy stand made by light and solid Aerospace-grade aluminum offering a sturdy and flexible portrait, landscape or conference call mode experience. It allows you to get a more comfortable viewing angle. Reduce the frequency of looking down at the phone screen to avoid hurting your back and neck.
- [Super Strong Magnetic] With a built-in magnetic ring that aligns perfectly with magnetic chargers, this case offers a stronger attachment and faster charging speed. Compatible with all magnetic accessories and wireless chargers (such as car wireless charger, wireless power banks, magnetic wallets, etc).
- [12FT Military-grade Shockproof]Passed Military Drop Tested up to 12FT, it has a tough PC brushed back and soft flexible rubber bumpers that provide strong cushioning for everyday drops. Built-in 360°all-around powerful impact-dispersing airbag and 4-corner impact-resistant corner technology. The tiny design of 1.5 mm lips over the camera and 1.5 mm bezels over the screen prevent the screen and camera from dust and scratches.
- [Slim Design & Comfortable Grip] This slim Samsung Galaxy S24 ultra case brings you greater portability and firmer grip, easy to stay clean, anti-fingerprint and brings the exceptional silky touch feeling, with no bulk and no skidding to fit in pocket easily.
Which phone fits your priorities?
- Choose the Galaxy S24 Ultra if you want a larger display, dedicated 3x and 5x telephoto cameras, an integrated S Pen, a 1TB storage option, or Samsung’s stated S24-series software-support commitment.
- Choose the iPhone 17 if you prefer the smaller, lighter device, use iOS and Apple services, or want a two-camera system with Apple’s 2x optical-quality mode.
- Compare actual offers before buying if price is decisive. Check storage, seller, new or refurbished condition, carrier lock, availability, and whether the advertised amount depends on a trade-in, service plan, or installment credits.
Water resistance and accessories
Samsung rates the S24 Ultra IP68 based on submersion testing in freshwater and cautions that water resistance can diminish over time. Apple specifies IP68 under IEC 60529, with a maximum depth of 6 metres for up to 30 minutes. These are stated laboratory ratings, not a reason to treat either phone as damage-proof in every situation.
Samsung lists cases, USB-C cables, charging adapters, and anti-reflection screen protectors among S24-series accessories. Apple’s specifications page links to its accessories section. Verify exact model compatibility when choosing a case or other accessory.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
