Samsung’s most recent flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has arrived in the market. While at first glance it may appear to be a small step forward compared to its predecessor, dismissing it as such would undermine the overall user experience. As highlighted in our comprehensive review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, there’s more than meets the eye with this device.
In addition to evaluating the Galaxy S25 Ultra, I also spent time with the Galaxy S25 Plus. Although the latter offers a plethora of features, it fell short of my expectations. However, the flagship model, the Ultra, has made a lasting impression on me.
You might assume that my admiration for the S25 Ultra is due to its impressive quad-camera setup, boasting a 200MP primary sensor, a new 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and dual telephoto lenses providing 3x and 5x optical zoom. That’s not the case, though. There are other reasons why I find the Galaxy S25 Ultra more appealing than I initially anticipated.
Over the years, Samsung has been meticulously fine-tuning the design of the Galaxy S series. The S25 Ultra is the culmination of these efforts, achieving the ideal balance between size, weight, and functionality. This latest model is a mere 0.4mm thinner and 16 grams lighter than the S24 Ultra, but these subtle changes significantly enhance the device’s feel and usability.
Power and longevity are critical factors for smartphone users, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra excels in these areas. With a high-performance Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor and Samsung’s most advanced software, One UI 7, the device delivers a fast and seamless user experience.
However, it’s not all roses. The camera, while versatile and capable, does not outperform some of its competitors at high zoom levels. Additionally, the removal of Bluetooth from the S-Pen eliminates certain features that some users may miss.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is undoubtedly a well-rounded and refined smartphone. It demonstrates how years of incremental improvements can culminate in a polished product. However, as the competition intensifies, it’s time for Samsung to take a leap forward with its smartphone lineup.
In its current state, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains a worthwhile investment for those who value performance and user experience. However, if you’re seeking a radically different experience, you may want to keep your options open.
