PCMag Reviews Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max: Hardware Upgrades, Design Changes, and $1,299 Starting Price
In a recent review, PCMag evaluated the Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max, highlighting its reported $1,299 starting price and internal upgrades such as the A20 Pro processor, improved battery life, and a smaller Dynamic Island. The reviewer noted that while the aluminum build and updated camera controls perform well, the phone is heavier at 8.78 ounces and keeps the previous generation's overall footprint. Shoppers should keep in mind that US units remain eSIM only, with final pricing, carrier incentives, and retail availability varying by merchant.
Published on Savlume: · Content updated: · Source published:
✦
AI brief
From the source report
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is worth considering if you want a large-screen phone with long tested battery life and hands-on camera controls. PCMag reports a 34-hour, 31-minute result in its video-streaming battery test and describes manual aperture, shutter-speed, and ISO controls, but the phone is heavier than its predecessor and its starting price is $1,299.
Best suited for Buyers seeking a large iPhone with long battery life, or visual creators who want manual camera and video controls, as described by PCMag.
Highlights
PCMag measured 34 hours and 31 minutes in its Wi-Fi video-streaming battery test, which may suit buyers who prioritize extended use between charges.
The reviewer reports manual control of aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, offering more adjustment for people who want to shape photos themselves.
PCMag says the 6.9-inch display supports 1Hz-to-120Hz ProMotion, a large-screen option for buyers who value screen size and adaptive refresh rates.
Before you buy
The reviewer says the phone weighs 8.78 ounces, up from 8.22 ounces for the previous model.
The reviewer reports that the phone became too hot to hold during AnTuTu testing; the article notes the app may have been pushing phones harder than before.
US models are eSIM only and cannot accept physical SIM cards.
Product facts & conditions
Model / variant
iPhone 18 Pro Max · 256GB
Written by AI from the source report, not a hands-on test. Read source ↗
PCMag gives the iPhone 18 Pro Max an Editors' Choice award, citing its tested battery life, speed, and camera controls; the reviewer also notes its increased weight and heat during a demanding benchmark.
Who it may suit Buyers who want a large iPhone with long battery life, or photographers and video creators interested in manual controls.
What the source liked
The review's Wi-Fi video-streaming test lasted 34 hours and 31 minutes.
The reviewer found the phone responsive in everyday use and reported strong benchmark results.
Manual aperture and video controls give creative users more settings to adjust.
Trade-offs & limitations
The phone is heavier than the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The reviewer says it became too hot to hold during an AnTuTu benchmark run.
Source testing context The article describes Geekbench 6, 3DMark, AnTuTu, battery streaming, charging, network, and camera testing. The reviewer also reports using the phone intensely over a week.
Questions this review helps answer
How long did it last in PCMag's battery test?
34 hours and 31 minutes while streaming an HD YouTube video over Wi-Fi with the screen set to maximum brightness.
Can users adjust camera settings manually?
Yes. The review describes controls including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance.
Walmart is offering the remastered Led Zeppelin III vinyl LP for $18.19, discounted from its listed price of $24.98. This release features the classic album in a gatefold jacket accompanied by an eight-page booklet, sold and fulfilled directly by Walmart. Orders ship free for Walmart+ subscribers or on purchases of $35 or more, while standard shipping fees apply for non-members who do not meet the minimum order threshold.
LG is holding the final day of its LG Deal Days promotion through October 18, 2026, discounting select 2026 OLED and Mini-LED TVs by up to $2,000 on LG.com. Several featured models, including select C6 and G6 series OLED displays, include bundled Visa prepaid gift cards valued at up to $200. Additionally, select large panels and the StanbyME 2 qualify for a 10% refund to the original payment method, which is processed only after the standard return window closes.
The 10% refund applies to eligible products and excludes taxes, discounts, and special pricing deals.The refund is processed after the eligible product's standard return window has passed.
DealNews reports an Amazon storefront promotion offering discounts of up to 39% off select EF EcoFlow portable power stations, solar generators, and backup batteries. Reported deals include an unspecified portable power station model listed at $859 (down from $1,399) and the DELTA Pro 3 4096Wh unit listed at $1,799 (down from $2,599). Free shipping is reported to apply to these orders on Amazon. Stock availability, specific seller terms, and sale expiration dates remain unspecified.
DealNews reports the Lisen adjustable tablet stand is available for $9.99 at Amazon, down from a listed $13.98 price. The foldable stand features aluminum and alloy steel construction, 360-degree rotation, and compatibility with 4.7-inch to 12.9-inch tablets and phones. Amazon Prime members qualify for free shipping, whereas non-Prime accounts may need to meet order minimums to avoid delivery fees. Specific third-party seller details, warranty terms, and real-time inventory remain unverified.