Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Overview

An underwhelming year-on-year upgrade that makes software the star. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is still compelling, and a class leader in several areas, but doesn’t excite like previous generations.

-- As reviewed by Stuff TV

TechSpot Metascore

Based on 6 expert reviews

Excellent:

4
Good:

2
Average:

0
Bad:

0

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Last revision on January 31, 2025

Reviewers Liked

Performance is great
Powerful AI features
Excellent cameras
Sharp, anti-reflective screen
Better ergonomics than previous Ultras
Long software support window

Reviewers Didn't Like

Expensive
Speakers got a minor upgrade, but we wanted more
Less S Pen functionality than previous generation
The AI upsell just isn't as comprehensive as could be

Competitors and Related Products

Our editors hand-pick related products using a variety of criteria: direct competitors targeting the same market segment, or devices that are similar in size, performance, or feature sets.

Expert reviews and ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra takes AI on phones to the next level with the ability to perform actions across multiple apps at once. It also delivers a superior camera experience along with crisp HDR video, plus fantastic Snapdragon 8 Elite performance and super long battery life. I just wish Qi2 wireless charging support didn’t require a case.

By Tom's Guide on January 31, 2025

For 2025, Samsung’s AI features are a bit more powerful and easier to use. However, aside from a faster chip, a new ultra-wide sensor and a few cosmetic tweaks, it looks and feels very similar to last year’s model, which makes the S25 Ultra a less impressive update than it should be considering it starts at $1,300.

By Engadget on January 30, 2025

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the ultimate Android handset with top-of-the-line power, terrific cameras, a built-in stylus, and the most innovative AI features we've seen in a phone to date.

By PCMag on January 29, 2025

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a bit of a letdown. Yes, it's a great Android phone, it has all the bells and whistles, and it will probably be pretty popular throughout 2025. But, if you were looking for some meaningful upgrades over the S24 Ultra — you won't find them here. Even Samsung had trouble trying to stir up excitement for the S25 series, presenting AI features on-stage like they were the best thing since sliced bread... while they are mostly "Enhanced search".

By PhoneArena on January 28, 2025

100

Without making any major changes, the S25 Ultra builds on its predecessor in sensible, user-friendly ways, including a much more thoughtful AI assistant and new 50MP Ultrawide lens. Oh, and it looks beautiful in Titanium Black.

By Mark Ellis Reviews on January 28, 2025

An underwhelming year-on-year upgrade that makes software the star. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is still compelling, and a class leader in several areas, but doesn’t excite like previous generations.

By Stuff TV on January 28, 2025

Samsung Galaxy S24 owners can probably skip this generation since the overall package is pretty close (unless you really need log video capture). If someone is holding on to an S21 or S22, though, this might be a good time to trade up for what will be a noticeably improved experience.

By PetaPixel on January 29, 2025

It's understandable that early adopters and tech enthusiasts might feel underwhelmed by the S25 Ultra. But when I consider consumers who are coming from an S21 series, Pixel 6 or 7, or even an older iPhone, Samsung's new flagship handset checks almost every box you can think of. And you may even score a generous trade-in deal through your local carrier or retailer.

By ZDNet on January 29, 2025

Hands on: My last thought for now is that I really like the idea of the Now Bar on the lock screen that shows live updates to background apps. But unlike the iPhone and its Live Activities on the lock screen, it's very limited at the moment. I see the potential and I hope this is something Samsung can get more third-party developers to take advantage of.

By cnet on January 25, 2025

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Overview

Pros & Cons

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Price: $1,299

TechSpot Metascore

Reviewers Liked

Reviewers Didn't Like

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Expert reviews and ratings