Samsung has officially unveiled the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and it's time to see how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Although both smartphones embody top-tier technology, the distinctions between them raise intriguing questions about whether the S25 Ultra is worth the upgrade.
The core specs reveal both models share certain similarities and minor advancements. Starting with the design, the Galaxy S24 Ultra initially embraced sharp edges and a flat display, marking the transition from the S23 Ultra's curved style. The new S25 Ultra has refined this look slightly, with edges remaining sharp but becoming just curved enough for improved grip and usability. It's marginally thinner than the S24 Ultra, measuring at 8.2 mm compared to its predecessor's 8.6 mm, and it weighs 14 grams less. Every little change adds to our comfort with these devices.
Both models feature high-quality materials including titanium frames and Gorilla Glass, ensuring durability. The most notable design shift is found on the back, particularly around the camera modules. The S25 Ultra sports black accents surrounding its lenses, contrasting the S24 Ultra's color-matched rings.
When it come to the display, both phones sport the same Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X technology with identical peak brightness capabilities of 2600 nits. Yet, the S25 Ultra has made small upgrades to its dimensions, boasting a slightly larger screen measuring 6.86 inches against the 6.79 inches of the S24 Ultra, thanks to reduced bezels. This effectively maximizes screen real estate and enhances viewing experiences.
The camera systems also have similarities, but not without enhancements. Both devices maintain their respective main, telephoto, and periscope lenses; the primary sensors are unchanged at 200 MP, 10 MP, and 50 MP respectively. The standout upgrade arrives with the ultrawide camera, moving from 12 MP on the S24 Ultra to 50 MP on its successor, which should provide more detailed photography.
On the performance front, the S25 Ultra boasts Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which promises significant performance gains of up to 40%, along with increased power efficiency—up to 44% compared to the previous Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Despite this, many reviewers note the S24 Ultra remains no slouch, making the performance jump less persuasive for potential upgraders focused solely on speed.
Another major area of focus is battery performance. Both models arrive with equal capacity batteries of 5,000 mAh and support for wired and wireless charging at 45W and 25W respectively. Expectations for speed have stagnated, with consumers hoping for faster charging with the new models, yet nothing has fundamentally changed here.
Switching gears to software, the Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces One UI 7, which enhances the user experience but will also come to the S24 Ultra via updates. It carries advanced AI features—integral for optimized usability—but existing S24 Ultra users will effectively receive most software improvements over time, dialing back motivations to upgrade.
Pricing also plays its part: the base model S25 Ultra starts at $1,299, with the S24 Ultra available for around $900 or lower. This pricing dynamic places S24 Ultra at a noticeably competitive advantage, especially for cost-conscious consumers who balance preferences for performance against price.
Despite the minor upgrades and advancements, many speculate whether these changes will truly entice users to switch models. A good number of reviewers deem the S25 Ultra to have achieved lukewarm reception compared to the prior generation, emphasizing if you own the S24 Ultra or can find it at discount prices, you are likely best served staying put.
Consumer sentiment suggests many will not find compelling reasons to trade up from the S24 Ultra; rather, they will appreciate the incremental upgrades offered by the new model, but still benefit from the S24 Ultra's still-relevant strong performance. For those using older devices or considering entry-level flagship options, the S25 Ultra remains alluring with exquisite build and slightly improved features.
With pre-orders already underway for the S25 Ultra, the prospect of upgrading remains open but weighted heavily on personal preference and usage requirements. Reviews detailing extensive performance analyses will clarify the standing of this device against time, but for now, the market anticipates how well both models perform amid their notable proximity.