After using the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for a few weeks, I can confidently say this device sets a new benchmark for what an Android smartphone can be. However, it’s not without its flaws. Samsung has refined its flagship in ways that genuinely enhance everyday use, but there are still areas that left me wanting more.

Design and Display

The first thing that stood out to me was the design. Samsung has managed to create a device that feels both premium and comfortable. The slightly rounded edges make the large 6.9-inch AMOLED display easier to hold, and despite the screen size, the phone feels surprisingly light in hand. The display itself is breathtaking—vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a peak brightness that makes outdoor usage effortless. Watching movies, playing games, and even just scrolling through social media is a joy. However, while the large screen is great for media consumption, it can be awkward during one-handed use, and even with Samsung’s one-handed mode, it sometimes felt unwieldy.

Performance That Impresses

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM, the S25 Ultra handles everything I throw at it with ease. Multitasking is seamless, gaming is smooth without any noticeable lag, and even demanding apps load in an instant. Samsung’s One UI feels snappier than ever, but I did notice occasional software quirks, such as app crashes and inconsistent animations, which can be frustrating. For a device at this price point, I expected flawless software performance, and while it’s mostly there, those rare hiccups stand out.

Camera Excellence

The camera system is where Samsung has truly outdone itself. The new 200MP main sensor captures an astonishing level of detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. I particularly loved the improved zoom capabilities—shots taken at 10x zoom are crisp, and even at 50x, they are surprisingly usable. Night mode has also seen improvements, producing brighter and more detailed images than its predecessor. However, the camera software still tends to over-process images, making some shots look unnatural, especially in bright daylight. There’s also the issue of shutter lag in certain scenarios, which can be frustrating when trying to capture fast-moving subjects.

The new 200MP main sensor captures an astonishing level of detail, even in challenging lighting conditions (Image credit: Samsung)

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life has been a highlight for me. With my usage, which includes streaming, browsing, and frequent camera use, the phone comfortably lasts a full day. The 5000mAh battery, combined with efficient power management, ensures I never have to worry about running out of juice. Fast charging is another bonus, getting me from 0 to 70% in about 30 minutes. Still, I wish Samsung had pushed the boundaries with even faster charging, as competitors are already offering quicker solutions. Wireless charging is present and works well, but again, it feels like Samsung played it safe here.

Software and Features

One UI continues to be one of my favorite Android skins, offering a host of customization options and features that enhance the user experience. The improved S Pen integration is a nice touch, and I found myself using it more than I thought I would, especially for note-taking and photo editing. However, Samsung’s software still comes with a fair bit of bloatware. While some apps can be uninstalled, others are there to stay, and it feels unnecessary on such a premium device.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is not just another incremental upgrade; it feels like a thoughtful evolution. From its stunning display and powerhouse performance to its versatile camera system and reliable battery life, it has everything I want in a smartphone. However, minor software hiccups, camera over-processing, and the device’s large size keep it from being perfect. It’s an excellent phone, but not without its compromises. If you’re looking for a device that excels in almost every aspect, the S25 Ultra should be at the top of your list—but be prepared for a few trade-offs along the way.