Samsung Galaxy S25 Series: Deals, Features, and Comparisons
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is finally here! While shipments started a week earlier, February 7th marked a significant shift in the available pre-order perks. Let’s break down the current offers and compare the S25 models with some compelling alternatives.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Deals
The deals now focus on gift cards rather than free storage upgrades. Here’s the breakdown:
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Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Receives a $200 gift card. This offer is available at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
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Samsung Galaxy S25+: The offer is a bit more nuanced.
- The 256GB model gets a $100 gift card, effectively lowering the price to $900.
- The 512GB model receives a $50 gift card and a $100 discount, making it a nearly equivalent of a free storage upgrade. Considering the value of the 512GB upgrade, this is generally the better deal.
- Samsung Galaxy S25: This base model comes with a $100 gift card. Notably, the S25 finally boasts 12GB of RAM, an improvement over previous base models. However, it still only features 128GB of base storage, making the upgrade to more storage a worthwhile consideration.
Samsung’s Software Advantage: One UI 7
One of Samsung’s strongest selling points right now is its software. One UI 7 has been well-received, particularly its AI features (like Circle to Search). Other highlights include DeX and a guaranteed 7 years of software updates. It’s important to note, however, that you don’t need an S25 to enjoy these advantages.
Affordable Alternatives with One UI 7
Samsung offers excellent software experiences on more budget-friendly devices as well:
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Galaxy S24 FE: While a 2024 model, this phone will eventually receive One UI 7, offering 6 years of software support. Expect a slightly later rollout compared to the S25 series.
- Galaxy A16 5G: This budget-friendly phone also gets One UI 7, but with some limitations. It lacks advanced AI features like Galaxy AI, DeX, and Circle to Search. However, its affordability and the core One UI experience still make it attractive. You can also bundle this phone with Galaxy Buds FE for an additional $40.
Samsung’s Accessory Deals
Beyond the phones, Samsung also offers deals on its audio products:
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Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Samsung’s premium true wireless earbuds are available with a $50 discount. These earbuds have improved audio quality, advanced noise cancellation, and a more premium design compared to the FE model.
- Galaxy Buds FE: These offer a more budget-friendly option, bundlable with the Galaxy A16 5G for a combined package deal.
OnePlus Alternatives: Powerful Processors and Features
Stepping away from Samsung, OnePlus presents competitive options:
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OnePlus 12R: Available for $400, this features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, although it’s starting to show its age compared to newer releases. It still outperforms many mid-range processors. Other strong points include a large 5,500mAh battery and a bright 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display and higher-than 1080p resolution. The camera system is its less impressive aspect.
- OnePlus 13R: Priced at $600 with a $100 gift card, including 256GB storage, it includes current-generation features. The key upgrade is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a 50MP 47mm (2x) telephoto lens. With an upgraded Si/C battery, it has increased capacity of a significant 6000mAh.
The HMD Nokia Skyline: A Unique Contender
The HMD Nokia Skyline stands out with its adoption of the Qi2 magnetic charging profile. While this is a significant differentiating feature, the phone’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor is less performant than flagships and that it only receives 2 major OS updates. The ease of repairability is a noteworthy positive.
Conclusion
The choice between the different models depends on how much you are willing to spend and which features you value most. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series offers excellent performance and software, but the OnePlus phones represent incredible value, especially for flagship-level processing power within tighter budgets. Consider the software advantages of Samsung and the affordability and repairability that comes with the HMD Nokia Skyline before settling on a choice. Each phone caters to diverse needs and preferences within the Android ecosystem.