Durability debates have intensified this year with Apple’s shift back to aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, while Samsung stayed with titanium on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. YouTube channel PhoneBuff recently ran a robotic drop test to compare the two flagships under identical conditions, dropping them from heights of 1 and 1.5 meters onto a rough concrete-like surface.
Back drop:
Both phones cracked, but differently. The S25 Ultra’s rigid titanium frame transferred shock across its entire rear glass, leading to widespread shattering and even damage around the cameras. The iPhone’s softer aluminum absorbed more of the impact, limiting damage mostly to the smaller rear glass panel, while its cameras stayed intact.
Corner drop:
Samsung’s titanium corners proved tougher, suffering only minor scuffs, while the iPhone’s aluminum frame dented more noticeably.
Face-down drop:
Both devices saw screen damage, though Apple’s Ceramic Shield showed slightly improved resistance compared to past models.
Higher drops (1.5m):
Damage worsened. The Galaxy’s rear glass and camera lens covers shattered heavily, while the iPhone sustained more cracks but managed to keep its camera lenses intact. However, Apple’s phone lost camera focus functionality after impact, despite the lenses appearing unbroken.
Final verdict:
PhoneBuff scored Samsung marginally ahead overall, but the result was called a “near tie.” The takeaway: aluminum absorbs shocks better across surfaces, titanium resists dents at pressure points—but neither flagship is drop-proof. For buyers investing at these prices, a protective case remains the safest bet.
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