Apple's iPhone 18 Pro Max has taken the top spot in CNET's latest battery comparison, outperforming 31 other smartphones. Several other iPhone models also delivered strong results, highlighting Apple's performance across different price ranges.

CNET evaluated 32 smartphones using two tests. The first involved streaming video over Wi-Fi at maximum screen brightness for three hours. The second simulated everyday usage over 45 minutes, combining video playback, video calls, gaming, and social media browsing. All devices started at 100% battery, with the remaining charge used to calculate the rankings.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Apple's first foldable, the iPhone Duo, tied for first place in the mixed-use test, both retaining 99% battery. Meanwhile, the smaller iPhone 18 Pro achieved the best result in the video streaming test, with 94% remaining after three hours.

In the overall rankings, the iPhone 18 Pro Max secured first place. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 Pro also performed well, tying for second alongside the Motorola Razr (2026) and OnePlus 15.

The results were particularly interesting for Apple's foldable. Despite its $1,999 price tag, the iPhone Duo tied for fourth overall with the $699 iPhone 17e and Motorola Razr Ultra (2026). This suggests that a higher price does not necessarily translate into better battery endurance.

CNET attributed the iPhone 18 Pro Max's strong performance to its larger battery compared with the previous generation, the power efficiency of the A20 Pro chip, and optimizations in iOS 27.

Apple also recorded the highest average battery performance among manufacturers for the second consecutive year, with OnePlus taking second place. However, CNET noted that overall smartphone battery performance has remained relatively unchanged compared with 2025 and 2024.

The results show that battery capacity alone does not determine endurance. Processor efficiency, display technology, and software optimization all play important roles in how long a smartphone lasts between charges.