Samsung Galaxy S25+ Review: A Deep Dive
Introduction
The Galaxy S25+ represents an enticing "in-between" option in the Samsung lineup. It’s not the Ultra, but it’s certainly a substantial step up from the standard S25. The key selling point this year is the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, an overclocked "for Galaxy" version that delivers a significant performance boost. This chipset offers a 30% increase. The core offering remains unchanged, with its glass design, aluminum chassis, and IP68 water/dust resistance.
Design and Display
Construction
The Galaxy S25+ maintains the same familiar design as its predecessor, featuring a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. This design mirrors the S24+ and offers a premium feel and aesthetic attractiveness.
Screen
The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 1440p resolution and a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate is carried over from the S24+.
Camera
The Galaxy S25+ features a dual-pixel 50MP primary, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide cameras on the back. At the front, the 12MP selfie camera is placed, similar to the S24+.
Battery and Charging
The battery capacity remains at 4,900mAh. There is a minor update. The charging is the same at 45W wired and 15W wireless charging, as well as 4.5W reverse wireless option. Wireless charging is now Qi2.1 ready.
Software and Features
The Galaxy S25+ ships with Android 15 and One UI 7. These updates bring a range of functionalities, including AI enhancements, comparable to the S24 series.
Specs at a Glance
- Body: 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3mm, 190g; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and back with an aluminum frame; IP68 dust/water resistance.
- Display: 6.70" Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2600 nits peak brightness, 1440x3120px resolution, 19.5:9 aspect ratio.
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm): Octa-core (2×4.47 GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix L + 6×3.53 GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix M); Adreno 830 GPU.
- Memory: 256GB / 12GB RAM, or 512GB / 12GB RAM; UFS 4.0 storage.
- OS/Software: Android 15, up to 7 major Android upgrades, One UI 7.
- Rear Cameras:
- Main: 50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm, 1/1.56", dual pixel PDAF, OIS.
- Telephoto: 10 MP, f/2.4, 67mm, 3x optical zoom, PDAF, OIS.
- Ultrawide: 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120 ̊, Super Steady video.
- Front Camera: 12MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), dual-pixel PDAF.
- Video Capture:
- Rear: 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/240fps.
- Front: 4K@30/60fps.
- Battery: 4,900mAh; 45W wired (PD3.0), 15W wireless (Qi2.1), 4.5W reverse wireless.
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC.
- Additional Features: Fingerprint reader (under display), stereo speakers, Samsung DeX, Ultra Wideband (UWB), Circle to Search.
Unboxing and Included Accessories
The Galaxy S25+ comes in a slim black box, including a SIM ejector tool, a USB-C cable.
Charging Cable
Included with the Galaxy S25+ is a USB-C cable (model DN980) rated at 3A/25W. This means it will not fully support the 45W charging potential. This necessitates using a 5A capable cable or purchasing a new charger and cable.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ offers a compelling blend of performance and features. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset provides a notable performance increase. While the camera and the design aspects remain similar to the S24+. The design remains premium, with a beautiful screen.
