Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review: Evolution or Just Hype?

Introduction

Design and Build

The Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces subtle yet impactful design enhancements. It is slightly thinner and lighter than the S24 Ultra, featuring more rounded corners and flatter edges, which improve ergonomics and in-hand comfort. Weighing at only 218g, it is 14g lighter than S24 Ultra. 

The device boasts a titanium frame and is protected by Gorilla Glass Armor 2, enhancing its durability against scratches and structural stress. 

The S Pen stylus is seamlessly integrated into the design, though it no longer supports Bluetooth connectivity. 

Storage Size
 

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra comes with the following storage options:

• 256GB with 12GB RAM

• 512GB with 12GB RAM

• 1TB with 12GB RAM
 

All variants use UFS 4.0 storage for faster data transfer speeds. Unlike some competitors, the S25 Ultra does not support expandable storage via microSD cards .

Colors

Samsung Galaxy S25 comes in 4 premium colors when you purchase from Authorised Reseller:

• Titanium Silverblue
• Titanium Whitesilver
• Titanium Gray
• Titanium Black

• Titanium Jetblack
• Titanium Jadegreen
• Titanium Pinkgold

Price

256GB storage at S$1,828

512GB storage at S$2,008

1TB storage at $2,188

*Price as of 11 Feb 2025

Display

Equipped with a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, the S25 Ultra offers a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits.

The screen delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The reduced bezels and slightly larger display compared to the S24 Ultra enhance the immersive viewing experience. 

Performance

Under the hood, the S25 Ultra houses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ensuring swift and efficient performance. The improved thermal management system allows for extended gaming sessions without significant heat buildup or performance throttling. This enable smooth multitasking and responsiveness across various applications. 

Camera

The camera system sees notable upgrades, including a new 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens that enhances landscape and group photography. The main 200-megapixel sensor remains, delivering detailed and vibrant images. However, some users have noted that the AI-driven camera features can be inconsistent, occasionally affecting the overall shooting experience. 

Battery Life and Charging

The S25 Ultra maintains a 5,000 mAh battery, similar to its predecessor. Thanks to the energy-efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, users can expect extended battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use. The device supports 45W wired charging and introduces Qi2 wireless charging. However, the implementation of Qi2 requires the use of specific magnetic cases, which some may find inconvenient. 

Software and Special Features

Running on One UI 7 atop Android 15, the S25 Ultra offers a user-friendly interface with seven years of promised software updates. The integration of AI features, such as the Google Gemini assistant, aims to enhance user experience through tools like Drawing Assistant and improved video processing. Despite these additions, some users find the AI features underwhelming and not as transformative as anticipated. 

Pros and Cons
 

Pros:

• Refined design with improved ergonomics

• High-quality display with exceptional brightness

• Robust performance with efficient thermal management

• Enhanced ultra-wide camera capabilities

• Long-term software support

Cons:

• AI features may not meet all user expectations

• Removal of Bluetooth functionality from the S Pen

• Qi2 wireless charging requires additional accessories

Price Evaluation

Priced from S$1,828, the Galaxy S25 Ultra positions itself in the premium smartphone segment. While it offers several enhancements over the S24 Ultra, the incremental nature of these upgrades may lead some to question the value proposition, especially if they own the previous model. However, for users with older devices or those seeking the latest features, the S25 Ultra presents a compelling option. 

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a series of thoughtful refinements that enhance the user experience. While it may not represent a monumental leap from its predecessor, it solidifies Samsung’s position in delivering high-quality, reliable smartphones. For Android enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, design, and longevity, the S25 Ultra is a worthy consideration.

Cash Out Your Used Phone

Thinking about upgrading to the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra? With prices starting at $1,828, investing in this powerhouse smartphone is a big decision. If you’re looking to offset the cost, selling your old device is a great way to free up some cash.
 

At SellUp, we make it hassle-free to trade in your current phone for instant cash. Just visit our website, select your device model, indicate its condition, and get an instant quote. Once you’re satisfied with the offer, you can book an appointment for a seamless, same-day sale. Upgrade smarter—sell your old phone and step into the future with the S25 Ultra today!