Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review
Table of Contents
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces subtle hardware refinements but unlocks a whole new world of possibilities. Featuring a larger, more immersive display, its rounded corners and slimmer body enhance comfort and usability compared to its predecessors. Under the hood, Samsung equips the S25 Ultra with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, ensuring buttery-smooth performance and some of the most advanced AI-powered features available on a smartphone—many of which run locally for enhanced speed and privacy.
With a premium price tag of $1,299.99, the S25 Ultra isn’t a device for everyone. However, its combination of cutting-edge hardware, intelligent AI integration, and an embedded S Pen sets it apart from the more affordable Galaxy S25 ($799.99) and S25+ ($999.99). As the ultimate Android flagship of early 2025, it earns its place as an Editors’ Choice winner.
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Design
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra stands as the largest and priciest model in the Galaxy S25 lineup. This year, Samsung has moved away from its signature sharp, squared edges, opting for rounded corners that align it more closely with the rest of the Galaxy S series, rather than its Galaxy Note-inspired predecessors. As the only model in the lineup to feature S Pen support, the S25 Ultra remains the go-to choice for digital artists, professionals, and note-takers.
Measuring 6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches and weighing 7.69 ounces, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is slightly slimmer and lighter than the S24 Ultra (6.40 x 3.11 x 0.34 inches, 8.22 ounces). However, if this form factor still feels too large, the Galaxy S25+ (6.24 x 2.98 x 0.29 inches, 6.70 ounces) offers a more compact alternative without sacrificing too many features. Comparatively, other flagship rivals like the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.42 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches, 7.99 ounces) and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (6.40 x 3.0 x 0.30 inches, 7.80 ounces) offer similar dimensions, meaning pocket space savings are minimal.
A key standout feature of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is its premium build—it’s the only model in the series with a titanium frame and the latest Corning Gorilla Armor 2 protecting the front display. Samsung claims this next-gen glass offers 29% better shatter resistance compared to the S24 Ultra’s first-generation Gorilla Armor. It also comes with an anti-reflective coating to minimize glare. On the back, Samsung uses Gorilla Glass Vectus 2, while the S25 and S25+ settle for aluminum frames and Gorilla Glass Vectus 2 on both sides.
Colors
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in a refined selection of colors, including Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Silverblue, and Titanium Whitesilver. For those looking for something more unique, Samsung offers three exclusive online-only shades: Titanium Jadegreen, Titanium Jetblack, and Titanium Pinkgold.
The rear glass panel is where the color shines, while the chrome frame remains uniform across all models—except for the Titanium Jet-black variant, which is the only one featuring a black frame. While these colors maintain a classic and professional aesthetic, they may feel a bit safe and subdued, especially compared to the bolder Titanium Orange and Titanium Violet options from the S24 Ultra. As a final touch, the S Pen is color-matched to the rear glass, ensuring a cohesive look.
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Design
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Every model in the Samsung S25 series boasts a 120Hz variable refresh rate and an impressive peak brightness of 2,600 nits. The S25 Ultra features a 6.9-inch LTPO Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels, offering a 0.1-inch size increase over the previous S24 Ultra’s 6.8-inch display. While the pixel density has slightly decreased year over year, all other specs remain unchanged. Additionally, Samsung has reduced the bezel thickness by 15%, giving the S25 Ultra an almost edge-to-edge display.
The S25+ comes with a 6.7-inch screen, maintaining the same resolution and features as the S25 Ultra. Meanwhile, the standard S25 has a 6.2-inch display with a lower resolution of 2,340 x 1,080 pixels.
For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch display with a resolution of 2,868 x 1,320 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. On the other hand, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch screen with 2,992 x 1,334 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
Performance
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset powers all three variants of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. Unlike previous “for Galaxy” processors, which were essentially overclocked versions of Qualcomm’s standard chips, this year’s model features a customized application processor that enables the S25 lineup to handle more AI tasks directly on the device.
According to Samsung, the new chip delivers substantial performance improvements: a 40% boost in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capabilities, a 37% gain in CPU performance, and a 30% increase in GPU performance compared to the previous generation. To complement these enhancements, Samsung has also increased the size of the vapor chamber by 40% compared to the S24 Ultra, improving both cooling efficiency and long-term performance.
Pros and Cons
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning Display: 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, and anti-reflective coating. | Expensive: Starts at $1,299.99, making it a premium investment. |
| Powerful Performance: Snapdragon 8 Elite processor for smooth multitasking and gaming. | AI Features May Be Unpolished: Some users find them inconsistent or unnecessary. |
| Versatile Camera System: 200MP main sensor with upgraded ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. | S Pen Downgrade: Bluetooth functionality removed, losing remote camera control and gestures. |
| Long Battery Life: Lasts up to 1.5 days under moderate usage. | Design Similar to Previous Models: Lacks major aesthetic changes. |
| S Pen Integration: Great for productivity, precise input for notes and creative tasks. |
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a fierce smartphone, featuring top-producing performance, one of the best camera systems, and the display that will leave you breathless. Snapdragon 8 Elite platform, featuring a 200MP main camera, long-lasting battery life-this is the device for those who demand cutting-edge technology. The S Pen integration is helpful even if one is disappointed that the Bluetooth function has been dropped. Yes, potential buyers may be put off by the high price tag and minor aesthetic updates compared to its predecessors, but for those looking for a flagship, the S25 Ultra has compelling attributes. All in all, it is likely one of the top Android phones to own in 2025.
