Samsung has unveiled its premier flagship for 2025, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, engineered to captivate users with its advanced features. Powered by the state-of-the-art Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, encased in a sturdy titanium frame, and equipped with an enhanced vapor cooling system akin to those found in premium gaming laptops, this model aims to redefine excellence within Samsung’s Ultra series.
That said, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, released last year, already set a high bar with its exceptional camera capabilities, swift performance, and polished design. Now that the S24 Ultra is available at a more accessible price point, the critical question is whether the S25 Ultra’s upgrades justify its premium cost.
Superficially, both devices share many traits: expansive displays, integrated S Pen support, and a versatile quad-camera setup. Yet, the S25 Ultra brings subtle but meaningful improvements, including a slightly larger screen, a refreshed chassis design, a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, and a superior cooling mechanism. The essential consideration is whether these refinements deliver a noticeably enhanced user experience or if the S24 Ultra remains the smarter choice in 2025.
Key Highlights
- The Galaxy S25 Ultra upgrades the S24 Ultra with a 6.9-inch display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and deeper AI integration.
- Both models feature titanium frames, a 200MP main camera, S Pen compatibility, One UI 7 on Android 15, and seven years of software updates.
- The S25 Ultra’s ProVisual Engine and upgraded telephoto lenses provide a modest edge in photography, though the S24 Ultra remains highly capable.
- Priced from $1,299 at launch, the S25 Ultra commands a premium, while the S24 Ultra’s price cuts make it a more economical alternative.
Introducing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and S24 Ultra
Before comparing them directly, let’s examine what each smartphone offers.
Samsung’s Ultra lineup consistently represents the brand’s boldest design choices, most powerful hardware, and latest software innovations. The Galaxy S24 Ultra upheld this reputation in 2024, and the S25 Ultra arrives in 2025 aiming to refine and elevate that formula further.
Overview of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands as Samsung’s flagship marvel, blurring the boundaries between a smartphone and a portable powerhouse.
Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy-a Qualcomm flagship chip optimized specifically for Samsung-the device delivers remarkable speed, supported by an expanded vapor cooling chamber that sustains peak performance during demanding tasks. Enhanced AI features integrated into One UI, a resilient titanium frame, and the hallmark quad-camera system position this phone as the most comprehensive offering of 2025.
Pros of the Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Standard 12GB RAM for smooth multitasking.
- Integrated S Pen stylus included.
- Flexible zoom capabilities with 3x and 10x telephoto lenses.
- Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset delivers higher clock speeds and advanced AI functions.
- Enhanced vapor cooling system for sustained performance during gaming and multitasking.
- Larger, brighter AMOLED display with improved outdoor visibility.
- Titanium frame offers superior durability without excessive weight.
Cons of the Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Camera hardware largely unchanged from the S24 Ultra.
- AI features are somewhat limited at launch, with further updates expected.
- Higher price point compared to discounted S24 Ultra models.
- Size and heft may challenge one-handed operation.
Overview of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Though not the latest, the Galaxy S24 Ultra remains a flagship contender in 2025. Slightly more compact than its successor and missing some refinements, it still impresses with robust hardware and polished software that outperforms many competitors. Its titanium frame combined with Gorilla Armor glass made it one of the toughest phones of 2024, while its camera system consistently ranked among the best.
Notably, the S24 Ultra retains a Bluetooth-enabled S Pen, allowing remote shutter control and presentation navigation-features absent in the newer model, which may be missed by stylus enthusiasts.
Pros of the Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Outstanding camera system with sharp zoom and versatile shooting modes.
- Durable titanium frame and Gorilla Armor glass protection.
- Bluetooth-enabled S Pen with remote control features.
- High-quality display with vibrant colors and adaptive 120Hz refresh rate.
- More affordable pricing in 2025.
Cons of the Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Large and heavy, which may hinder one-handed use.
- AI features feel less mature and occasionally sluggish.
- Ultra-wide camera remains unchanged, feeling slightly dated.
- Charging speeds lag behind some rivals.
Side-by-Side: Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. S24 Ultra
For a quick overview, here’s a summary of the main distinctions and commonalities:
| Feature | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Release Date | January 22, 2025 | January 17, 2024 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core | Deca-core |
| Display Size | 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1440 × 3210 pixels | 1440 × 3210 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz adaptive | 120Hz adaptive |
| Rear Cameras | 200MP wide, 50MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, 50MP 5x telephoto | 200MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, 50MP 5x telephoto |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 162.8 × 77.6 × 8.2 mm | 162.3 × 79.0 × 8.6 mm |
| Weight | 218g | 232g |
| Color Variants | Titanium Silver Blue, Black, Gray, White Silver | Titanium Black, Gray, Violet, Yellow |
While both share a premium titanium construction, the S25 Ultra is lighter, slightly larger in screen size, and boasts a sharper ultra-wide camera. Conversely, the S24 Ultra retains Bluetooth-enabled S Pen functionality, which the newer model omits.
In-Depth Comparison: Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. S24 Ultra
Design and Construction
Samsung’s Ultra series has long embraced a sleek, angular design ethos. The S25 Ultra continues this tradition but softens edges for enhanced comfort. Rounded corners and matte titanium sides improve grip and lend a refined aesthetic, making it feel less severe in hand compared to the S24 Ultra.
The S24 Ultra presents a more industrial vibe with sharper edges and flat top and bottom surfaces, which contribute to a perception of sturdiness despite its bulkier form. Its rounded side rails create an illusion of slimness when held.
Dimensions and Weight
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: 162.8 × 77.6 × 8.2 mm; 218g.
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: 162.3 × 79.0 × 8.6 mm; 232g.
Though the differences are subtle, the S25 Ultra feels lighter and slightly more compact, yet both are best suited for two-handed use.
Materials and Durability
Both phones feature titanium frames and Gorilla Armor glass, ranking among the most durable smartphones on the market. They carry IP68 ratings for water and dust resistance, ensuring protection against everyday hazards. The S25 Ultra benefits from a larger vapor chamber, enhancing thermal management during intensive use.
S Pen Capabilities
While both devices include an S Pen stored within the chassis, the S25 Ultra’s stylus lacks Bluetooth features such as remote shutter and gesture controls, which remain available on the S24 Ultra. This may disappoint users who rely on these remote functions, though both offer excellent responsiveness for writing and drawing.
Camera Module Design
The S25 Ultra showcases raised “floating” camera rings with black accents, creating a striking visual but potentially attracting dust and lint. The S24 Ultra’s camera array is more understated, with simpler lens rings and a cleaner back panel. Both phones are sizable and eye-catching, with the S24 Ultra favoring classic styling and the S25 Ultra aiming for a refreshed appearance.
Color Options
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: Titanium Black, Gray, Violet, Yellow, plus exclusive online colors like Blue, Green, and Orange.
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: Titanium Black, Gray, Silver Blue, White Silver, with online exclusives including Jet Black, Jade Green, and Pink Gold.
The S24 Ultra offers more vibrant and playful shades, whereas the S25 Ultra opts for sleek, metallic finishes.
Software and AI Innovations
Operating System and User Interface
Both phones are software powerhouses, but the S25 Ultra benefits from newer hardware and the latest One UI 7 interface, which introduces a redesigned home screen, enhanced camera UI, and the new Now Bar. The Snapdragon 8 Elite’s improved CPU and GPU performance contribute to a snappier overall experience. The S24 Ultra runs One UI 6.1 by default but can be updated to One UI 7.
Artificial Intelligence Features
| Category | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Productivity | Gemini Live, Cross-App Actions, Now Brief, Circle to Search, Note Assist, Transcript Assist | Gemini Live, Circle to Search, Note Assist, Transcript Assist |
| Communication | Interpreter, Call Assist, Writing Assist | Interpreter, Call Assist, Writing Assist |
| Creativity | Photo Assist, Drawing Assist | Photo Assist, Drawing Assist |
The S25 Ultra introduces advanced AI capabilities like Gemini’s cross-app actions, enabling seamless workflows such as drafting emails from chat messages or transferring tasks between apps. While the S24 Ultra supports many AI tools, they are less refined and slower. Samsung is gradually back-porting these features, but the S25 Ultra remains the flagship showcase.
Display Features
Both models sport Samsung’s premium Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels, delivering vivid colors, sharp resolution, and smooth adaptive refresh rates.
| Feature | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Screen Size | 6.9 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Peak Brightness | 2600 nits | 2600 nits |
| Refresh Rate | 1-120 Hz adaptive | 1-120 Hz adaptive |
| Resolution | 3120 × 1440 QHD+ | 3120 × 1440 QHD+ |
Screen Size and Visual Quality
The S25 Ultra’s display is marginally larger due to slimmer bezels and rounded corners, offering a slightly more immersive viewing experience. Both screens support QHD+ resolution and adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth visuals and excellent contrast, though neither supports Dolby Vision, relying instead on HDR10+.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
Both phones reach similar peak brightness levels, around 1,400 nits in adaptive mode, making them equally visible in bright sunlight. Color reproduction is vibrant on both, with the S24 Ultra leaning toward more accurate tones and the S25 Ultra favoring slightly enhanced saturation-differences noticeable mainly to display enthusiasts.
Screen Protection
The S25 Ultra features Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering improved resistance to cracks and scratches compared to the S24 Ultra’s Gorilla Glass Victus. Both maintain similar glare and reflection characteristics.
Biometric Security
Each device employs an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and basic facial recognition via the front camera, providing fast and reliable unlocking methods.
Camera Capabilities
The S25 Ultra retains the core camera setup of the S24 Ultra, including a 200MP main sensor and dual telephoto lenses (3x and 5x). The standout upgrade is the ultra-wide camera, which jumps from 12MP to a detailed 50MP sensor, significantly enhancing image clarity and low-light performance.
| Camera | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Ultra Wide | 50MP | 12MP |
| Wide-angle | 200MP | 200MP |
| Telephoto | 50MP (5x) + 10MP (3x) | 50MP (5x) + 10MP (3x) |
| Front | 12MP | 12MP |
| Zoom | Optical 3x & 5x; Digital up to 100x | Optical 3x & 5x; Digital up to 100x |
Image Quality
The S25 Ultra delivers more natural photos with reduced oversaturation, enhanced detail, and improved contrast in low-light scenarios. While the S24 Ultra remains excellent, the newer model’s subtle improvements give it a slight advantage in image fidelity.
Video Recording
Both phones support 8K video at 30fps and 4K at 60fps with robust stabilization. Some users have noted a greenish tint and exaggerated blue skies in S25 Ultra footage, which can be adjusted during editing. Otherwise, video quality is sharp and smooth on both devices.
AI-Enhanced Photography
The S25 Ultra’s ProVisual Engine uses AI to boost low-light and telephoto shots, alongside creative tools like Sketch to Image and Generative Edit. Although the S24 Ultra is receiving many of these features via software updates, the S25 Ultra’s faster hardware enhances their responsiveness.
S Pen Camera Controls
Both phones allow the S Pen to function as a remote shutter button. However, the S24 Ultra supports additional Bluetooth air gestures for camera control, a feature removed from the S25 Ultra’s stylus.
Battery and Charging
Battery Capacity
Both models house a 5,000 mAh battery, a standard capacity for flagship smartphones of this size.
| Feature | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Capacity | 5,000 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| Video Playback | Up to 31 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Wired Charging | 45W | 45W |
| Wireless Charging | 15W (Qi 2.1 compatible) | 15W |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | 4.5W | 4.5W |
The S25 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, built on a 3nm process, offers improved power efficiency, resulting in modest gains in battery life across video playback, gaming, and general use.
Real-World Battery Performance
Both phones comfortably last a full day with moderate to heavy use. Power users engaging in gaming and 4K video recording may notice the S25 Ultra’s slight endurance advantage, though it’s not a dramatic difference.
Charging Speeds
Wired charging peaks at 45W on both devices, reaching about 68% charge in 30 minutes-respectable but behind some rivals. Wireless charging remains capped at 15W, with the S25 Ultra supporting the newer Qi 2.1 standard but lacking built-in magnetic alignment, requiring a magnetic case for snap-on accessories. Reverse wireless charging stays at 4.5W, suitable for accessories but not efficient for charging other phones.
Audio Performance
| Audio Feature | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Loudness (LUFS) | -24.6 LUFS | -24.6 LUFS |
| Speaker Setup | Stereo: bottom-firing + earpiece | Stereo: bottom-firing + earpiece |
Both phones feature stereo speakers tuned by AKG, delivering balanced sound. The S25 Ultra offers a slightly warmer, fuller audio profile with richer vocals and bass, though the difference is subtle and mainly noticeable in direct comparisons.
Performance Analysis
Processor Improvements
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy is a 3nm chip optimized for Samsung devices, promising up to 30% faster CPU, 37% improved GPU, and 40% enhanced AI performance compared to the S24 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Benchmark tests confirm these gains, though everyday tasks like social media browsing and photo editing show minimal perceptible difference. The Elite chip excels during intensive gaming, 8K video editing, and AI-heavy applications.
Memory and Storage
Both models come with 12GB RAM and storage options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB. Samsung has announced a 16GB/1TB S25 Ultra variant for China, but it’s unlikely to be widely available. While 12GB remains sufficient for multitasking, some competitors now offer 16GB as standard.
Software and AI Enhancements
Both run One UI 7 on Android 15, with the S25 Ultra featuring a new Personal Data Engine for secure on-device AI processing. This enables smarter notifications, enhanced AI selection tools, and audio noise reduction in videos. Most AI features are also coming to the S24 Ultra, though without dedicated hardware acceleration. Google Gemini has largely replaced Bixby as the default assistant on both devices.
Software Update Longevity
Samsung leads the industry with software support, guaranteeing updates for the S24 Ultra through January 2031 and the S25 Ultra through 2032, ensuring long-term security and functionality.
Daily Usage Experience
Both phones deliver smooth performance for everyday tasks. The S25 Ultra feels slightly more future-proof with faster app switching, steadier frame rates in demanding games, and improved heat management thanks to its enhanced cooling system.
Pricing Details
Released on January 22, 2025, and available from February 7, the Galaxy S25 Ultra retains the same starting price as the S24 Ultra did at launch, a rarity in today’s market:
- 256GB: $1,299 / £1,249 / AU$2,149
- 512GB: $1,419 / £1,349 / AU$2,349
- 1TB: $1,659 / £1,549 / AU$2,749
This pricing approach offers value for early adopters despite the new features. Meanwhile, the S24 Ultra has been discontinued on Samsung’s official US channels but remains available at discounted rates through third-party retailers and carriers, often bundled with trade-in offers.
Your choice depends on budget and priorities: the S25 Ultra delivers the latest technology at full price, while the S24 Ultra offers excellent value with only minor compromises.
Common Features of Galaxy S25 Ultra and S24 Ultra
Despite the new release, these two models share a solid foundation:
- Camera System: Both feature a 200MP main sensor and dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x zoom), among the best zoom setups available.
- Software: Both run One UI 7 on Android 15, with most AI features accessible on both.
- S Pen: Included with both, though only the S24 Ultra supports Bluetooth remote functions.
- Memory and Storage: Options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB paired with 12GB RAM.
- Durability: Titanium frames, Gorilla Armor 2 glass, and IP68 water/dust resistance.
- Connectivity: Full 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and Ultra-Wideband support.
- Battery and Charging: 5,000 mAh battery, 45W wired, 15W wireless, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
- Security: Ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and facial recognition.
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers tuned by AKG with similar loudness levels.
In everyday use, the S24 Ultra remains a formidable device closely mirroring the S25 Ultra’s capabilities.
Which Should You Pick?
Choose the Galaxy S25 Ultra if:
- You want the latest AI features like Gemini Live and cross-app workflows.
- Maximum performance and efficiency are priorities.
- You desire the improved 50MP ultra-wide camera and refined image processing.
- Future-proofing with the newest hardware and extended update support matters.
- Your budget accommodates Samsung’s premium offering.
Stick with the Galaxy S24 Ultra if:
- You seek flagship performance at a more affordable price.
- Top-tier camera quality remains important.
- You’re satisfied with One UI 7 and most AI features.
- Bluetooth-enabled S Pen remote functions are essential.
- You value long-term software support through 2031.
Consider Alternatives if:
- You’re interested in other options such as:
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: Leading AI and computational photography.
- Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Superior iOS ecosystem and video capabilities.
- OnePlus 13: Faster charging and larger battery.
- You want to avoid premium flagship prices.
- Your current phone meets your needs without issues.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is essentially an evolution of the S24 Ultra, featuring the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, subtle design refinements, and enhanced AI tools. For current S24 Ultra owners, upgrading isn’t urgent, as performance, camera quality, and software remain excellent.
For those upgrading from older devices, the discounted S24 Ultra offers nearly all the benefits of the S25 Ultra at a better price, making it a compelling choice. However, if you want Samsung’s largest display, the new Personal Data Engine for AI, and the longest update cycle, the S25 Ultra is the premium pick-albeit at a higher cost for incremental improvements.
Both phones excel in daily tasks, media editing, and gaming, so your decision ultimately depends on whether the latest enhancements justify the investment for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth upgrading from the S24 Ultra to the S25 Ultra?
For most S24 Ultra users, the improvements in AI, processing speed, and display size are incremental, so upgrading is not essential unless you want the newest features.
What are the primary differences between the two models?
The S25 Ultra offers a slightly larger screen, the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, enhanced AI powered by the Personal Data Engine, and a sharper ultra-wide camera. The S24 Ultra closely matches it in core specs and software support.
Will the S24 Ultra become more affordable now that the S25 Ultra is out?
Yes, prices have dropped significantly at third-party retailers and carriers, making the S24 Ultra a more budget-friendly option.
Which phone has better long-term software support?
Both models receive seven years of updates, with the S24 Ultra supported through 2031 and the S25 Ultra through 2032, ensuring longevity.
Which Galaxy Ultra phone offers the best camera experience?
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s upgraded 50MP ultra-wide camera combined with its 200MP main sensor and dual telephoto lenses make it Samsung’s most versatile and capable camera system to date.