Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review – The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra enters the market with subtle hardware refinements but a game-changing AI experience. Its expansive display, sleeker design with rounded edges, and narrower body improve usability while maintaining a premium feel. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, the S25 Ultra delivers buttery-smooth performance and introduces some of the most advanced AI features seen on a smartphone, many of which function directly on the device.
With a premium price tag of $1,299.99, the S25 Ultra isn’t for everyone. However, its high-end hardware, cutting-edge AI software, and built-in S Pen stylus set it apart from the $799.99 Galaxy S25 and the $999.99 S25+, making it the best Android flagship of early 2025 and earning our Editors’ Choice award.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 15 |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy |
| Dimensions | 6.40 x 3.11 x 0.34 inches |
| Display Size | 6.9 inches |
| Resolution | 3,120 x 1,440 pixels |
| Cameras (Rear/Front) | 200MP + 50MP + 50MP + 10MP / 12MP |
| Battery Life | 14 hours, 15 minutes (tested) |
Refined Design: A More Comfortable Feel
As the largest and most premium model in the Galaxy S25 lineup, the S25 Ultra sports a new rounded-corner design, moving away from its boxier Galaxy Note-inspired look. This change makes it more comfortable to hold while keeping its signature premium aesthetic.
Measuring 6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches and weighing 7.69 ounces, it’s slightly lighter and slimmer than its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 Ultra (6.40 x 3.11 x 0.34 inches, 8.22 ounces). If you’re looking for a more compact option, the Galaxy S25+ (6.24 x 2.98 x 0.29 inches, 6.70 ounces) delivers similar features in a smaller package.
For those comparing flagship devices, the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,199) and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL ($1,099) have comparable dimensions, so you won’t save much pocket space by choosing a different high-end model.
Premium Build and Durability
One key upgrade is the titanium frame, exclusive to the S25 Ultra, which improves durability without adding extra weight. It also debuts Corning Gorilla Armor 2 on the front, offering 29% better fracture resistance than the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s first-gen Gorilla Armor. The anti-reflective glass also helps reduce glare, enhancing outdoor visibility.
Samsung uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back panel for additional protection, while the S25 and S25+ opt for aluminum frames and Victus 2 glass panels.
Camera and Port Layout
Samsung maintains the clean, minimalist rear camera design, featuring four round lenses and a laser autofocus module. Button and port placement is also familiar, with:
- Right edge: Power and volume buttons
- Top edge: Two microphone holes
- Left edge: Uninterrupted for a sleek look
- Bottom edge: Houses the S Pen, USB-C (v3.2) port, speaker slit, and SIM tray
As expected, the S25 Ultra does not support expandable storage and lacks a headphone jack, reinforcing Samsung’s modern, wireless-first approach.
Final Verdict: Is the S25 Ultra Worth It?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra stands as the most powerful and feature-rich Android phone of 2025. With top-tier performance, cutting-edge AI, an industry-leading camera system, and the beloved S Pen, it’s an unstoppable powerhouse for power users, professionals, and creatives.
If you’re looking for the best Android phone money can buy, the S25 Ultra is it.
