Our score: 8.6/10 — rated on a 0–10 scale using our published methodology.
Who should buy
- 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120 Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset handles current games and on-device AI workloads
- Quad rear camera with 200 MP main sensor and 5x periscope telephoto
Who should skip
- Starts at $1,299.99 for 256GB, making it an expensive choice even among premium smartphones.
- The 6.9-inch display and 7.7-ounce weight make it less convenient for one-handed use and pocket carry.
- No wall charger is included, so buyers without a compatible adapter will need to purchase one separately.
Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra positions itself as Samsung's pinnacle smartphone experience, targeting the premium segment of the market. Building on the legacy of the Galaxy Note series, it combines a large-screen format with the integrated S Pen stylus for productivity. Based on the initial information, this year's model heavily emphasizes artificial intelligence through its "Galaxy AI" suite, which is integrated with Google's Gemini. The device aims to deliver top-tier performance with a Snapdragon chipset, a versatile camera system, and a battery designed to last more than a full day, all wrapped in a premium titanium chassis.
Key Features
Based on the available details, the Galaxy S25 Ultra focuses on refining its core strengths while pushing forward with new AI capabilities. These are the features that stand out.
Galaxy AI and Gemini Integration
The most prominent new feature is "Galaxy AI." User reviews highlight its deep integration into the operating system and apps, suggesting it's more than a standalone application. The system is described as being capable of assisting with writing, answering complex questions, and researching topics on the fly. It also extends to creative tasks, with mentions of AI-powered photo editing. The inclusion of Gemini suggests a powerful large language model is at the core of these features, making the S25 Ultra a potentially powerful tool for users who rely on their phone for productivity and content creation.
6.9-inch Display and S Pen
The S25 Ultra continues to feature a large, 6.9-inch display, which is described as "stunning," "detailed," and "responsive." A screen of this size is ideal for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking. The experience is further enhanced by the included S Pen stylus, a hallmark of the Ultra line. This allows for precise input, note-taking, and drawing, giving it capabilities that few other smartphones on the market can match. This combination makes it a strong choice for power users, business professionals, and digital artists who need a pocketable device that blurs the line between phone and tablet.
To make the most of the S Pen, explore its Air Actions and screen-off memo capabilities. These features allow you to control your phone with gestures and jot down notes instantly without even unlocking the device.
Performance and All-Day Battery
The device is powered by a "Snapdragon chip set," which, according to user reports, delivers "lightning-fast performance." This suggests smooth, instant responses and a lag-free experience across demanding apps and multitasking. Complementing the powerful processor is what appears to be a robust battery.
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.9 inches |
| Processor | Snapdragon chip set |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Available Colors | Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Whitesilver |
| Online Exclusive Colors | Titanium Jadegreen, Titanium Jetblack, Titanium Pinkgold |
| What's in the box | Smartphone, Data Cable, Ejection Pin |
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra does not include a power adapter in the box. You will need to purchase a compatible USB-C charger separately to charge the device.
Design & Build
The color names—such as "Titanium Black" and "Titanium Gray"—strongly indicate the use of a titanium frame, a material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This suggests a device that is both durable and relatively light for its large size. The phone is available in a range of muted, metallic finishes, including several colors that are exclusive to online purchasers. The overall aesthetic is consistent with Samsung's previous Ultra models: a sharp, rectangular form factor designed to maximize screen real estate and accommodate the internal S Pen silo.
Who It's For
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is clearly aimed at the "pro" user who wants the most capable device possible. Its feature set appeals directly to several groups. Business professionals and students will appreciate the S Pen for note-taking and document markup, combined with the new AI features for drafting emails and summarizing text. Content creators and mobile photographers are targeted with what is described as an "exceptional camera system" and a large, color-accurate display for editing.
Finally, it’s for the tech enthusiast who wants top-of-the-line performance for gaming and media, a battery that can keep up with a demanding day, and the latest software innovations. It is less suited for those who prioritize a small, one-handed device or those on a tight budget, as it represents a significant investment.
At the time of writing, the unlocked model is available, but some carrier-specific versions are listed as out of stock. Be sure to check availability if you intend to purchase the device through a carrier like T-Mobile or AT&T.
FAQ
Does the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra come with a charger?No, the product listing explicitly states that the Galaxy S25 Ultra does not include a charger. The box contains the smartphone, a data cable, and an ejection pin.
What is Galaxy AI?Based on user reviews, Galaxy AI is a suite of artificial intelligence features integrated into the phone's operating system. It assists with tasks like writing, research, answering questions, and photo editing, and it appears to be powered by Google's Gemini model.
How big is the screen on the Galaxy S25 Ultra? Does the S25 Ultra include the S Pen?Yes, the inclusion of the "wonderful S Pen" and "stylus" is mentioned as a key feature, which is standard for Samsung's Ultra-tier smartphones.
What storage sizes are available for the Galaxy S25 Ultra?The device is available in three storage configurations: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
How much does each storage option cost?Samsung lists the 256GB model at $1,299.99, the 512GB model at $1,419.99, and the 1TB model at $1,659.99.
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Pros
- 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120 Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset handles current games and on-device AI workloads
- Quad rear camera with 200 MP main sensor and 5x periscope telephoto
- Integrated S Pen for precise input, note-taking and drawing
- 5000 mAh battery with 45 W wired and 15 W wireless charging
- Titanium frame with IP68 water and dust resistance
- Galaxy AI features for writing assistance, search and photo editing
Cons
- Starts at $1,299.99 for 256GB, making it an expensive choice even among premium smartphones.
- The 6.9-inch display and 7.7-ounce weight make it less convenient for one-handed use and pocket carry.
- No wall charger is included, so buyers without a compatible adapter will need to purchase one separately.
Verdict
Based on its specifications, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a compelling option for buyers who want a large, high-resolution display, flagship processing power, versatile camera hardware, and an integrated S Pen. Its $1,299.99 starting price and substantial size make it less appealing for shoppers prioritizing affordability or comfortable one-handed use.
Compare alternatives
| Product | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Review | $799.99 | 8.4/10 |
| Apple iPhone 11 Review | $799 | 7.6/10 |
| Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Review | $1,399.99 | 7.0/10 |