Samsung Galaxy S25 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Key Specifications Compared
| Feature | Galaxy S25 | Galaxy S24 | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) | 6.2″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (120Hz) | 6.1″ Super Retina XDR (120Hz) |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 / Exynos 2500 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400 | A17 Pro |
| Battery | 4,900mAh | 4,500mAh | 3,274mAh |
| Charging Speed | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 27W Wired, 15W MagSafe |
| Starting Price | $999 | $899 | $999 |
Note: Regional variations may apply for chipset and pricing.
Design: Premium Yet Predictable
The Galaxy S25’s design borrows heavily from its predecessor, featuring a Gorilla Glass Victus 3 back and armored aluminum frame. At 7.6mm thick, it’s slightly slimmer than the S24, but the flat edges and centered punch-hole camera feel overly familiar. While the new Mystic Sapphire color option stands out, competitors like Google are experimenting with textured finishes. For a unique touch, apply a Galaxy S25 Skin—these adhesive wraps add grip and style without bulk.
Performance: Speed vs. Efficiency
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (in the U.S.) delivers a 20% Geekbench 6 multi-core boost over the S24, but the Exynos 2500 variant trails by 12%. Both handle AAA games like Genshin Impact at 60fps, though sustained play triggers a 7% performance dip due to thermal limits. The iPhone 15 Pro’s A17 Pro remains cooler under load, but Samsung’s Game Booster AI optimizations provide smoother frame rates in supported titles.
Camera: Stagnation in the Zoom Era
Samsung’s 200MP primary sensor captures stunning daylight detail, but the 10MP 3x telephoto lens struggles in low light compared to the Pixel 8 Pro’s 5x zoom. The S25’s Nightography mode reduces noise by 18% (vs. S24), but images often lack contrast. Video enthusiasts will appreciate 8K@30fps recording, though the absence of ProRes support is a missed opportunity.
Software and Ecosystem: One UI 6.1 Shines
One UI 6.1 introduces Quick Gesture AI, which learns app habits to streamline navigation. DeX mode now supports dual 4K monitors, making it a laptop replacement contender. However, duplicate apps (e.g., Samsung Free vs. Google Discover) still clutter the interface. For power users, our Galaxy S25 Ultra review dives deeper into productivity features.
Final Thoughts: A Safe Bet with Room for Boldness
The Galaxy S25 excels as an all-rounder but plays it too safe to dominate 2024’s flagship race. Buy it if:
- You prioritize display quality and battery life
- Upgrading from an S21/S22 series device
- Want seamless integration with Galaxy Buds and Watches
Skip it if you own an S23/S24 or demand cutting-edge camera tech. Either way, a Galaxy S25 Skin remains a cost-effective way to refresh its look.
