Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is here, and it brings an intelligent leap forward in mobile technology. With a starting price of $1,299.99, this is a phone clearly targeted at power users, creatives, and professionals who want the very best Android phone 2025 has to offer. Available now in the U.S., the S25 Ultra sits proudly at the top of Samsung’s smartphone lineup, offering flagship hardware, refined design, and next-level AI smarts.
Design & Build Quality
Samsung has gone all-in on premium materials for the S25 Ultra. It is the only model in the Galaxy S25 series that features a titanium frame, giving it a sleek, durable feel. On the front, it uses Corning Gorilla Armor 2, which Samsung claims is 29% more resistant to cracks than its predecessor. The back is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- IP68 rating: Water and dust resistance up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes
- Color options: Titanium Black, Gray, Silverblue, Whitesilver
- Samsung.com exclusives: Titanium Jadegreen, Jetblack (with black frame), Pinkgold
While the design is top-notch, there’s one minor flaw—the S Pen doesn’t sit flush with the body and sticks out slightly, which some users may find annoying.
Display Excellence
The S25 Ultra’s display is where it truly shines. It boasts a 6.9-inch LTPO Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels. The 120Hz adaptive refresh rate ensures ultra-smooth scrolling and gameplay, while the peak brightness of 2,600 nits and anti-reflective coating make it readable even under direct sunlight.
Samsung also reduced bezel thickness by 15%, making the front look nearly all screen.
Comparisons:
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9-inch, 2,868 x 1,320, 2,000 nits
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: 6.8-inch, 2,992 x 1,334, 3,000 nits
Despite the slight drop in pixel density from its predecessor, the S25 Ultra display quality remains stunning.
Performance & AI Features
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, the S25 Ultra is built for performance. This chip not only ensures fast app launches and smooth multitasking, but also drives Samsung’s latest on-device AI features, including:
- Live translation
- AI photo editing
- Smart summarization and suggestions
Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or managing multiple apps, this phone handles it all effortlessly.
Biometrics & Security
Samsung continues to rely on a fast, accurate ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the display for primary biometric security. Face unlock is available, but it’s not secure enough for banking or sensitive apps.
Comparisons:
- Apple and Google offer secure 3D face authentication
- Samsung still needs to match that standard for high-trust face unlock
Camera System
The S25 Ultra retains its familiar quad-camera setup:
- 200MP main sensor
- 50MP ultrawide
- 50MP telephoto
- 10MP periscope zoom
- 12MP front-facing camera
It also includes laser autofocus and delivers excellent results across lighting conditions. Whether it’s portraits, night shots, or zoomed-in detail, the Galaxy S25 Ultra camera test consistently impresses.
S Pen: What’s Changed
The built-in S Pen remains a standout feature, but it no longer supports Bluetooth or Air Actions. Samsung says fewer than 1% of users used those features, mostly for remote shutter controls.
- Still supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Replacement cost: $49.99
- Old Bluetooth-enabled pens are not compatible
- Remote control now possible via gestures or accessories like smartwatches
Battery Life & Charging
Samsung rates the Galaxy S25 Ultra at 14 hours and 15 minutes of real-world use—more than enough for a full day of productivity or entertainment. Fast charging ensures you’re never tethered for long.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Premium titanium and Gorilla Armor 2 build
- Best-in-class display with anti-glare
- Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy delivers flagship performance
- Strong on-device AI features
- Excellent camera system
- Long battery life
Cons
- Expensive
- No secure face unlock
- S Pen no longer supports Bluetooth or Air Actions
- S Pen doesn’t sit flush with the frame
Verdict: Should You Buy It?
If you’re a professional, content creator, or someone who simply demands the best smartphone experience available, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the phone to beat in 2025. It’s expensive, yes, but it justifies its price with powerful specs, a gorgeous screen, robust AI, and productivity features.
Alternative options:
- Galaxy S25+: Lighter, cheaper, similar performance
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: Better face unlock, iOS ecosystem
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Brightest display, excellent computational photography
For Android enthusiasts looking for the pinnacle of smartphone technology, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review shows clearly why this device is a top contender for the best Android phone 2025.