Verdict
A year after launch, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains one of the most complete Android flagships. The S26 Ultra is newer, but a meaningful discount can make the S25 Ultra the smarter value because it still delivers excellent cameras, performance, S Pen productivity and long-term support.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra entered the market as Samsung’s no-compromise conventional flagship, and that position still holds up well in 2026. Its 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, titanium frame and integrated S Pen give it a combination of premium hardware and productivity features that few rivals match.
Performance is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy generation, which remains extremely capable for games, video work, multitasking and demanding apps. Samsung’s lengthy software-support policy also means the phone has years of useful life remaining, reducing the risk of buying a previous-generation flagship.
The camera system is still a major strength. A 200MP main sensor is supported by a 50MP ultrawide, 50MP 5x telephoto and 10MP 3x telephoto. That combination gives the S25 Ultra genuine flexibility from wide landscapes through portraits to long-range zoom. Newer rivals may beat it in specific situations, but the system remains one of the most versatile available.
The limitations are familiar. Samsung stayed with a 5,000mAh battery and relatively conservative charging, while several competitors moved to larger high-density batteries and much faster charging. The S25 Ultra is also physically large, and users who do not care about the S Pen or long zoom may be paying for capabilities they rarely use.
Its greatest advantage in 2026 is value. Once discounted below the S26 Ultra, the S25 Ultra becomes more attractive because the core experience has aged very little. Buyers should compare actual local prices rather than assuming the newest model is automatically the better purchase. At the right price, this remains a premium flagship with remarkably few serious weaknesses.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent 6.9-inch QHD+ 120Hz display
- Versatile 200MP camera system with 3x and 5x zoom
- Integrated S Pen
- Strong Snapdragon 8 Elite performance
- Premium titanium build
- Long software support
Cons
- 5,000mAh battery and charging are conservative
- Large phone despite weight reduction
- Incremental upgrade over S24 Ultra
- Newer S26 Ultra now exists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Galaxy S25 Ultra still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, particularly when discounted. Its performance, cameras, S Pen and support window remain highly competitive.
What zoom cameras does the S25 Ultra have?
It includes dedicated 3x and 5x telephoto cameras in addition to the 200MP main and 50MP ultrawide.
Should I buy the S25 Ultra or S26 Ultra?
Choose based on price and priorities. The S26 Ultra is newer, but the S25 Ultra can offer better value if the discount is substantial.