Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. S25+ vs. S25 Ultra: Which One Should You Buy?

Kelechi Edeh -

Samsung has officially unveiled the Galaxy S25 series at the Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event, bringing familiar designs but with some notable hardware and AI upgrades. With prices starting at $799.99 for the Galaxy S25, $999.99 for the S25+, and $1,299 for the Ultra, buyers will likely wonder whether the extra cost is justified.

While all three models share core specs—including the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and One UI 7 with Galaxy AI—each offer something different in terms of camera capabilities, display size, battery life, and premium materials.

So, how do they compare? And more importantly, which one should you buy?

#1: Performance & AI Features

At the heart of the S25 lineup is the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, promising 37% faster CPU speeds and 30% better GPU performance over the previous S24 generation. AI-powered enhancements play a bigger role this year, with Samsung integrating Google’s Gemini AI for real-time translations, photo editing, and voice commands.

All three phones come with 12GB of RAM as standard, which should help with multitasking. However, storage options vary—the base S25 starts at 128GB, while the S25+ and Ultra begin at 256GB. The Ultra also offers a 1TB model, ideal for those who shoot a lot of high-resolution photos or videos.

Which wins? The Ultra has the edge with more storage options, but if you don’t need 1TB of space, the S25+ promises similar performance at a lower cost.

#2: Display & Design

While all three models feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels with 120Hz refresh rates, screen size varies:

  • Galaxy S25 → 6.2 inches (FHD+)
  • Galaxy S25+ → 6.7 inches (QHD+)
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra → 6.9 inches (QHD+) with Corning Gorilla Armor 2 for better scratch resistance

Samsung has also refined the Ultra’s design, giving it a slightly curved body and titanium frame. Meanwhile, the S25 and S25+ retain their aluminum builds with Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

Also, S Pen support is still exclusive to the S25 Ultra, with its built-in slot making it the best choice for users who take notes, sketch, or want more precise control over their device. However, gesture controls and remote shutter functions have been removed this year.

Which wins? If you prefer a compact phone, the S25 makes sense. For a premium feel with S Pen support, the Ultra’s titanium build stands out.

#3: Cameras & Photography

Samsung’s camera differences have become more noticeable across the lineup:

  • Galaxy S25 & S25+: 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 10MP (3x zoom)
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra: 200MP (wide) + 50MP (ultrawide) + 50MP (5x zoom) + 10MP (3x zoom)

The Ultra’s 200MP sensor is expected to bring better low-light performance, while the 50MP ultrawide now supports macro mode. Meanwhile, all models get 8K video recording, with the Ultra adding 4K at 120fps for smoother footage.

Which wins? The Ultra is the clear winner for photography, but the S25 and S25+ still offer solid cameras for most users.

#4: Battery & Charging

Battery life remains a key differentiator:

  • Galaxy S25 → 4,000mAh, 25W fast charging
  • Galaxy S25+ → 4,900mAh, 45W fast charging
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra → 5,000mAh, 45W fast charging

Samsung claims better efficiency thanks to AI-optimized power management, but only the S25+ and Ultra support faster 45W charging. All models are also Qi2 Ready for improved wireless charging speeds.

Which wins? The S25 Ultra will likely last the longest, but the S25+ offers a strong balance of battery life and fast charging.

#5: Pricing & Value

Here’s how each model is priced:

  • Galaxy S25 → $799.99
  • Galaxy S25+ → $999.00
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra → $1,299.99

For the extra $200, the S25+ offers a larger display, better battery life, and faster charging. Meanwhile, the Ultra commands a $300 premium over the Plus, primarily for the 200MP camera, titanium build, and S Pen support.

Which wins? If you want the best camera and build quality, the Ultra is worth it. But for most people, the S25+ is the better value.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

You should get the Galaxy S25 if you want a compact flagship and don’t need the extras. Choose the S25+ for the best balance of price, features, and performance. But go for the S25 Ultra if photography and premium design are your top priorities.

Whichever model you pick, Samsung’s AI-powered experience is the biggest change this year—and with seven years of software updates, all three devices will stay relevant for a long time.

Would you upgrade to the Galaxy S25 series, or are the differences too small compared to the S24 series to justify the price?