Short answer

• iPhone (Apple) = iOS, tight hardware-software integration, best for people who want simplicity, long software support, strong privacy features, and seamless integration with Macs/iPads/Apple Watch.
• Samsung (Galaxy series, Android) = wide range of devices and prices, highly customizable, often leads with hardware features (displays, cameras, batteries), and works best if you prefer flexibility, more hardware choices, or the Google/Android ecosystem.

Key differences at a glance

• Operating system: iPhone = iOS (closed, consistent UI, Apple App Store). Samsung = Android (One UI on top of Android — more customization, side-loading apps possible).
• Models & price range: iPhones: limited number of models each year (usually higher starting prices, some older models stay available). Samsung: many models from budget (A-series) to flagships (S series, Z fold/flip) across price points.
• Hardware & features: Samsung often pushes display tech (higher refresh rates, brighter OLEDs), variable camera hardware, and features like expandable storage (on some models) or foldable screens. iPhones focus on performance per watt, optimized camera processing, and consistent real-world photo/video results.
• Performance: iPhones typically lead in single-chip performance and real-world snappiness due to Apple silicon + optimization. Samsung flagships are very fast too, especially top Snapdragon/Exynos models, but benchmarks aren’t the whole story.
• Cameras: Both make excellent cameras. Samsung gives more feature options and aggressive HDR/processing; iPhone gives consistent color, great video, and often simpler, more natural results. Which is “better” depends on which photos/videos you prefer.
• Software updates & longevity: Apple supports iPhones with iOS updates for many years (commonly 5–7+ years). Samsung has improved Android update commitments (multiple years of OS and security updates on many flagship and midrange models) but generally still shorter than Apple’s timeline.
• Ecosystem & continuity: If you have or plan to use Macs, iPads, Apple Watch, AirPods — iPhone gives tight cross-device features (AirDrop, Handoff, iMessage/FaceTime continuity). Samsung pairs well with Windows and Android devices, and offers Galaxy Watch/Tab/Book integration and Samsung-specific features (Galaxy ecosystem, Samsung DeX).
• Customization & openness: Android/Samsung = more control (default apps, widgets, launchers, file access). iPhone = more restricted but simpler and more consistent.
• Privacy & security: Apple emphasizes privacy controls and on-device processing for many features. Android can be secured, but the Google/Samsung models give more third-party flexibility which can increase risk if you install unknown apps.
• Repair & resale: iPhones typically hold resale value better. Repairability varies by model; both have authorized repair networks, but iPhone parts/repairs are widely available.
• Accessories & standards: iPhones use MagSafe and Lightning or USB-C depending on model (recent iPhones moved to USB-C). Samsung uses USB-C and supports many industry standards; chargers and accessories may be more varied for Samsung.

Which to choose by priority

• Choose iPhone if you want: simplest reliable experience, long software support, great video and consistent camera results, strong integration with Apple devices, higher resale value.
• Choose Samsung if you want: wider choice of models and prices, cutting-edge displays and hardware, more customization, foldable options, or better value in midrange phones.

Practical buying tips

• Don’t buy the newest flagship at full price unless you need the newest features — prior-year flagships often offer most value.
• If you rely on a laptop/tablet ecosystem, pick the phone that matches it (iPhone + Mac/iPad, Samsung/Android + Windows/Chromebook or Android tablets).
• Test the UI in store if you care about feel — iOS and Android feel different.
• Consider storage (non-expandable on most iPhones; some Samsung models offer microSD on lower-tier phones but not on most flagships).
• Check update policy for the exact Samsung model you like — Samsung now offers extended update Windows on many phones, but it varies by model and region.

If you want, tell me:

• which features matter most (camera, battery, price, ecosystem, customization), your budget, and whether you use a Mac or Windows — I’ll recommend specific models.