# PCMag Reviews Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max: Hardware Upgrades, Design Changes, and $1,299 Starting Price Canonical page: https://savlume.com/items/pre370fa4jadlo5krun7kg9vl Publisher: Savlume Published on Savlume: 2026-09-21T19:53:40.000Z Content updated: 2026-10-13T20:10:16.833Z Source publication time: 2026-09-21T19:53:40.000Z Offer status: Unverified 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. ## Media review 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. Attribution: PCMag Reviews ยท Eric Zeman AI-assisted summary of source text, not a Savlume hands-on test. - Source-reported strength: The review's Wi-Fi video-streaming test lasted 34 hours and 31 minutes. - Source-reported strength: The reviewer found the phone responsive in everyday use and reported strong benchmark results. - Source-reported strength: Manual aperture and video controls give creative users more settings to adjust. - Source-reported limitation: The phone is heavier than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. - Source-reported limitation: The reviewer says it became too hot to hold during an AnTuTu benchmark run. ### 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. ### Does the US model accept a physical SIM card? No. The article says US models are eSIM only. ## Evidence and sources Source report only. Merchant price, availability, seller, and conditions have not been independently confirmed. Last attempted check: Not recorded Last successful verification: Not recorded PCMag Reviews: https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/apple-iphone-18-pro-max Purchase destination: https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-18-pro AI-assisted summary of cited source material. Not a hands-on review. Prices and availability can change.