iPhone 18 Pro Max Review: Apple's Biggest and Longest-Lasting 2026

The iPhone 18 Pro Max review reveals Apple's biggest and longest-lasting superphone yet, featuring a massive battery upgrade that makes it a true two-day phone. As the supersized sibling of the regular iPhone 18 Pro, it inherits all the premium features but adds a larger screen and battery. However, this comes at a cost: it's heavy and unwieldy. Starting at £1,299 (€1,599/$1,299/A$2,299), it's a significant investment.

Design and Display: A Double-Edged Sword

The iPhone 18 Pro Max follows the familiar Pro Max formula: take everything great about the 18 Pro and supersize the screen and battery. The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display is a joy to behold—super bright, crisp, smooth, and with an effective anti-glare coating. It's ideal for films, TV, or games, offering similar real estate to most folding phones. But at 249g, it's really heavy for even a very large smartphone. It made my hand hurt after 10 days of use and is a two-handed phone needing some sort of handle or strap.

Performance and Battery Life

Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro Max packs Apple's fastest performance yet, with the new A18 Pro chip. But the headline is battery life: Apple's biggest battery upgrade yet makes it a true two-day phone. In our tests, it lasted over 14 hours of screen-on time, easily beating rivals. The new Siri AI is smarter and more responsive, while the variable aperture camera delivers first-class photos in any lighting.

iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Competitors

Key Takeaways

• Longest-lasting iPhone ever: Two-day battery life is a game-changer.
• Heavy and bulky: At 249g, it's heavier than folding phones.
• Premium price: Starts at £1,299, but justified by top-tier features.
• Best camera on iPhone: Variable aperture and new Siri AI enhance photography.

FAQ

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max worth the price?

Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max worth the price?

If you want the longest battery life and best camera in an iPhone, yes. But if portability matters, consider the smaller 18 Pro.

How heavy is the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

How heavy is the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

It weighs 249g, which is 23g more than its nearest rival and 38g more than the iPhone 18 Pro.

ADVERTISEMENT

Does the iPhone 18 Pro Max have a variable aperture camera?

Does the iPhone 18 Pro Max have a variable aperture camera?

Yes, it features a new variable aperture camera that adjusts to lighting conditions for better photos.

In conclusion, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is a powerhouse for those who prioritize battery life and screen size over portability. It's Apple's biggest and longest-lasting superphone, but its weight and price are significant trade-offs.