Samsung continues to lead the smartphone market in 2025 with its Galaxy S series, offering cutting-edge technology, stunning displays, and powerful performance. Whether you want the absolute best flagship or a slightly more affordable model with premium features, the Galaxy S lineup has something for everyone.
Here’s a guide to the top Samsung Galaxy S phones you should consider in 2025.
Top Samsung Galaxy S Phones in 2025
Model | Key Features | Display | Camera Setup | Battery & Charging | Ideal For |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400, S Pen support | 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 3200 x 1440 | Quad camera: 200MP main, ultra-wide, telephoto | 5000mAh, 45W fast charging | Power users, photography pros |
Samsung Galaxy S25+ | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400, premium build | 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 3200 x 1440 | Triple camera: 50MP main, ultra-wide, telephoto | 4700mAh, 45W fast charging | Flagship experience, multimedia lovers |
Samsung Galaxy S25 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400, compact flagship | 6.1″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2340 x 1080 | Triple camera: 50MP main, ultra-wide, telephoto | 3900mAh, 25W fast charging | Users wanting flagship features in a smaller size |
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | More affordable flagship alternative | 6.4″ AMOLED, 2340 x 1080 | Triple camera: 50MP main, ultra-wide, telephoto | 4500mAh, 25W fast charging | Budget-conscious buyers wanting flagship feel |
What Makes the Galaxy S25 Series Stand Out?
- Top-tier performance: Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400 chipsets, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming.
- Stunning displays: Bright, vibrant Dynamic AMOLED 2X screens with high refresh rates (120Hz) for buttery smooth visuals.
- Advanced cameras: The S25 Ultra’s 200MP main sensor delivers incredible detail, while telephoto lenses offer versatile zoom capabilities.
- Enhanced battery life: Large batteries with fast charging and wireless charging support keep you powered all day.
- S Pen integration: Exclusive to the S25 Ultra, the built-in S Pen adds productivity and creativity features.
Choosing the Right Galaxy S Phone for You
- Go Ultra if: You want the absolute best camera and display, plus S Pen support.
- Choose S25+ if: You want a large display and flagship performance without the Ultra’s premium price.
- Pick S25 if: You prefer a compact flagship with top specs.
- Consider S24 FE if: You want flagship features at a more affordable price point.
Samsung has released many Galaxy S phones over the years, giving users plenty of options to choose from. Each model comes with its own set of features, from camera quality to battery life and screen size. The Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as the ultimate Galaxy S Series smartphone, equipping users with everything needed to power through the day.
Finding the right Samsung phone can be tricky with so many choices available. Some people love the S10+ for its design, while others prefer the newer S25 Plus for its impressive battery life. It all comes down to what matters most to you in a smartphone.
1. Galaxy S25 Plus
The Galaxy S25 Plus sits in the middle of Samsung’s 2025 lineup, offering a balance between price and features. At $1,000, it costs $200 more than the base S25 but $300 less than the premium Ultra model.
Many reviewers consider the S25 Plus the best balance of form and function in the S25 series. It combines a large screen with powerful hardware without the Ultra’s higher price tag.
Battery life on the S25 Plus stands out as a key improvement. Users report it lasts noticeably longer than the S24 Plus, even though the battery capacity remains unchanged. The improved efficiency makes it ideal for heavy users.
The phone features an immersive display that showcases content beautifully. Samsung has refined the design with slimmer bezels and a more comfortable grip, making it easier to handle despite its larger size.
Camera performance remains strong on the S25 Plus. While it doesn’t have all the Ultra’s camera tricks, it still delivers excellent photos in most situations. The main camera captures sharp, vibrant images even in challenging lighting.
Performance feels snappy across all tasks. The S25 Plus handles everything from basic productivity to demanding games without slowdowns. This smooth performance helps justify its midrange positioning in the lineup.
The S25 Plus comes with Samsung’s latest software features, including enhanced AI capabilities. These smart functions help with photo editing, translation, and other daily tasks.
For most users, the S25 Plus hits the sweet spot in Samsung’s 2025 lineup. It offers premium features without the Ultra’s premium price, making it a sensible choice for those who want a high-end experience without paying top dollar.
2. Galaxy S25 Ultra
The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands as Samsung’s premier flagship device for 2025. Released earlier this year, it continues the Ultra tradition of packing the most advanced features into the company’s smartphone lineup.
Design-wise, the S25 Ultra has earned praise for its beautiful aesthetics. Some users say it gives off iPhone 5s vibes in terms of design, with fantastic weight distribution that makes it comfortable to hold despite its size.
The display technology on this phone is particularly impressive. Critics have called it the greatest phone screen ever, setting a new standard for what users can expect from mobile displays in 2025.
Performance is another area where the S25 Ultra shines. Reviews describe its processing power as “jaw-dropping,” handling everything from everyday tasks to demanding applications with ease. This makes it an excellent choice for power users who need their phone to keep up with heavy workloads.
The camera system remains one of the most versatile available on any smartphone. With multiple lenses and sensors, it offers photographers flexibility for different shooting scenarios. Samsung has enhanced the camera with advanced AI features that help users capture better photos with less effort.
Battery life seems solid based on early reviews, though specific numbers vary depending on usage patterns. The phone supports fast charging, which helps mitigate battery concerns for heavy users.
At over $1,000, the S25 Ultra sits firmly in premium territory. While expensive, it offers future-proofing with its high-end specs and features that should keep it relevant for years to come.
The phone also includes exclusive features that aren’t available on other devices, making it unique in the crowded smartphone market. These innovations help justify its position as Samsung’s top-tier offering.
3. Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Galaxy S24 Ultra sits at the top of Samsung’s smartphone lineup in 2025. Building on the success of previous Ultra models, this device combines premium materials with cutting-edge technology.
The phone features a titanium frame that makes it both lighter and more durable than its predecessors. Its flat display and squared-off edges give it a distinctive look compared to other Galaxy models.
Samsung equipped the S24 Ultra with a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. The screen offers exceptional brightness and clarity, making it easy to use even in direct sunlight.
Camera capabilities remain a key selling point. The S24 Ultra includes a 200MP main camera that captures stunning detail. Users particularly praise the camera quality and its performance in various lighting conditions.
Battery life impresses most users, typically lasting through a full day of heavy use. The 5,000mAh battery supports fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.
The S24 Ultra runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor in most markets. This chip delivers best-in-class performance for everything from casual browsing to intensive gaming.
Galaxy AI features prominently on this device. Translation, photo editing, and note-taking tools use artificial intelligence to enhance productivity. However, some reviewers note that these AI features aren’t as helpful as their hype suggests.
The S-Pen stylus comes built into the phone’s body. This tool allows for precise note-taking, drawing, and navigation through the interface. Many users find this feature sets the Ultra apart from other flagship phones.
Storage options begin at 256GB, with versions available up to 1TB. The base model includes 12GB of RAM, sufficient for smooth multitasking.
According to user feedback, many consider it the best phone on the market. Though at a premium price point, the S24 Ultra delivers on its promises of top-tier performance and features.
4. Galaxy S23 Ultra
The Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out as Samsung’s premium flagship model with exceptional features. Its powerful performance and fluid interface rival even some tablets, with users comparing it favorably to the iPad Pro M1.
Battery life is impressive on the S23 Ultra, giving users confidence to get through busy days without constantly searching for a charger. The phone also includes an S Pen stylus, adding functionality that business professionals and creative users appreciate.
Camera capabilities are a major selling point. The S23 Ultra boasts a 200MP camera system with excellent Night Mode for low-light photography. Its 10X optical zoom allows users to capture distant subjects with clarity that most competitors simply can’t match.
Display quality shines with a super bright screen that remains visible even in direct sunlight. The adaptive display technology adjusts to different lighting conditions, protecting eyes while maintaining vibrant colors.
Many consider the S23 Ultra the best phone Samsung has ever made. The design strikes a balance between elegance and functionality with premium materials that feel substantial in the hand.
For first-time Samsung users, the S23 Ultra offers an impressive introduction to the ecosystem. One Reddit user described it as “best or near best in class for everything” after switching from another brand.
Storage options start at 256GB with 8GB of RAM, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos. The phone runs on Android with Samsung’s custom interface, offering additional features beyond stock Android.
In 2025, the S23 Ultra remains relevant despite newer models. Its combination of camera quality, battery life, and performance continues to satisfy users who want premium features without upgrading yearly.
5. Galaxy S10
The Galaxy S10 marked a significant milestone in Samsung’s smartphone lineup when it launched in 2019. Despite being several years old, it still performs admirably in today’s mobile landscape.
What made the S10 special was its premium feel and design. Many users found it more beautiful than newer models, with a body that fits perfectly in hand. The attention to detail in its construction set a high bar for flagship phones.
The display quality of the S10 continues to impress even by current standards. Samsung equipped it with a vibrant, high-resolution screen that handles everything from everyday tasks to media consumption with ease.
Camera performance remains a strong point for the S10. The multi-lens setup delivers top-notch photo quality that still satisfies most photography needs in 2025.
Battery life doesn’t disappoint either. The S10 offers excellent longevity on a single charge, especially considering its age. This endurance makes it reliable for daily use without constant recharging.
Samsung released several variants in the S10 family. The standard S10 served as the main flagship, while the S10e offered a more compact and affordable option. For those wanting maximum screen real estate, the S10 Plus provided a larger display and enhanced features.
The S10 line represented the last generation of Samsung flagships to include a headphone jack, which many users still appreciate. It also featured expandable storage through a microSD card slot, giving it flexibility that newer models often lack.
While not the latest technology, the S10’s processor handles most apps and tasks without issue. Users report smooth performance for everyday activities, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers in 2025.
6. Galaxy S7 Edge
The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge stands as one of the most celebrated models in Samsung’s lineup. Released in 2016, this phone combined cutting-edge technology with a distinctive curved display that wrapped around both edges.
What made the S7 Edge special was its perfect balance of form and function. The curved screen wasn’t just for looks—it offered quick access to apps, contacts, and notifications through the edge panel feature.
Camera quality was a major highlight. The S7 Edge packed a 12MP rear camera with larger pixels that captured impressive photos even in low light. Many users and tech experts praised it as one of the best smartphone cameras of its time.
Battery life was another strong point. The 3,600mAh battery easily lasted through a full day of heavy use. It also supported fast charging and wireless charging options, giving users flexibility.
The phone was water-resistant with an IP68 rating, allowing it to survive dunks in up to 5 feet of water for 30 minutes. This was a welcome return of a feature missing from the S6 series.
Performance-wise, the S7 Edge didn’t disappoint. It ran on either Snapdragon 820 or Exynos 8890 chips (depending on region) paired with 4GB RAM, handling everything from everyday tasks to demanding games with ease.
Samsung brought back the microSD card slot that was absent in the S6, addressing a common complaint from fans. This allowed users to expand the 32GB base storage significantly.
Many enthusiasts still consider the S7 Edge a high point for Samsung. Its blend of innovative design, powerful specs, and practical features made it a tough act to follow.
7. Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S23 offers a great balance of features in a compact design. It comes with premium specs that make it a strong choice for those who prefer smaller phones.
Battery life is a standout feature of the S23. Unlike previous generations that struggled with power management, the S23 shows impressive energy efficiency and battery life. This makes it a reliable companion for daily use without constant recharging.
The camera system continues to impress on the S23. Even without the Ultra’s fancy zoom capabilities, the standard S23 camera takes excellent photos in most lighting conditions. The hardware remains solid and capable of meeting most photography needs.
Samsung enhanced several key features across the entire S23 lineup. All models received upgrades to the camera, battery, memory, and network capabilities, including support for Wi-Fi 6E.
For users who want a premium experience without the bulk of larger phones, the S23 fits the bill perfectly. Its design feels modern and sleek while remaining comfortable to hold and use with one hand.
Software support is another advantage of the S23. Samsung continues to provide updates, keeping the phone current with new features and security patches longer than many competitors.
The S23 stands out as one of the best compact Android phones available today. It proves that you don’t need the most expensive model to get a great Samsung experience.
If you’re considering older Samsung generations, the S23 is likely the best option. It fixed many issues present in earlier models, particularly the power efficiency problems that plagued the S22 series.
8. Galaxy S24
The Galaxy S24 has made a significant impact as one of Samsung’s latest flagship offerings. It stands out as a strong performer that balances premium features with a more reasonable price tag compared to its higher-end siblings.
Users praise the S24 for its lightning-fast performance. According to Reddit discussions, many owners report that the device doesn’t stutter even for a millisecond, making everyday tasks smooth and responsive.
Size matters for many smartphone buyers, and the S24 fits perfectly in this category. The phone is slightly larger than previous models but still easy to use one-handed, making it ideal for people who prefer more compact devices.
Value is a key selling point for the S24. At $700 (currently discounted from its original price), it offers an excellent balance of features without reaching the premium prices of Ultra models. The S24 nails the most critical smartphone features while keeping costs reasonable.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the S24 FE (Fan Edition) provides a similar experience at an even lower price point of $575-650, though with some feature compromises compared to the standard S24.
The S24 comes with the exciting Circle to Search feature, which has impressed many users. This innovative tool allows quick searches directly from the screen, enhancing the overall user experience.
Samsung continues to improve with each generation, and many reviewers consider the S24 a turning point. Some tech experts have called it the first truly great Samsung flagship, suggesting Samsung has refined its approach to make a more complete product.
The base model starts with 128GB of storage, which proves sufficient for average users, though power users might prefer higher-capacity versions for future-proofing.
9. Galaxy S3
The Samsung Galaxy S3 marked a significant moment in smartphone history when it launched in 2012. This device quickly became one of Samsung’s most successful phones, selling over 80 million units worldwide.
With its 4.8-inch 720p display, the S3 stood out during a time when phones were notably smaller. Users loved the screen real estate, which made everything from browsing to watching videos more enjoyable.
The phone featured a slim, light design that felt comfortable to hold. Despite being made of plastic, its curved edges and pebble-inspired design gave it a premium feel that many users appreciated.
Under the hood, the S3 packed a quad-core processor that delivered impressive performance for its time. It ran Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, offering a smooth experience for multitasking and running apps.
Battery life was decent but not outstanding. Many users carried spare batteries since the S3 had a removable back cover – a feature now rare in modern smartphones.
The camera capabilities were solid for 2012 standards, though not exceptional. Still, it handled everyday photography well enough for most users.
What made the S3 special was its innovative features. It introduced Smart Stay, which kept the screen on while you were looking at it, and S Voice, Samsung’s early voice assistant.
For Verizon customers, the Galaxy S3 came in attractive color options including Marble White, providing a clean, distinctive look.
The S3 represented a time when smartphone innovation was moving quickly. Features we take for granted today were brand new and exciting. Even now, some fans look back at the S3 as one of the most important Galaxy devices in Samsung’s history.
10. Galaxy S25
The Samsung Galaxy S25 lineup released in early 2025 brings several key improvements over its predecessors. The standard S25 model starts at $800 and hits a sweet spot for many users seeking premium features without the Ultra’s price tag.
Samsung refined the design with a more comfortable grip thanks to its slimmed-down profile. The phone sports an immersive display with excellent brightness and color accuracy that makes everything from videos to everyday apps look fantastic.
Performance received a boost with the latest processor, handling everything from basic tasks to demanding games without breaking a sweat. Battery life remains solid through a full day of typical usage.
The camera system on the S25 offers versatile shooting options with improved low-light capabilities. While not as feature-packed as the Ultra version, it still captures sharp, vibrant photos that satisfy most photography needs.
For those who want something slightly larger, the Galaxy S25+ costs $1,000 and sits between the standard and Ultra models. It offers a bigger screen and battery while maintaining the core experience.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra tops the lineup at $1,300 with its premium build, advanced camera array, and largest display. However, many reviewers find the standard S25 delivers the best value.
According to some hands-on experiences, the regular S25 strikes an excellent balance between features and price. Users particularly praise its sleek design and premium feel, which doesn’t sacrifice functionality.
Software updates remain a strength with Samsung’s continued commitment to long-term support, ensuring the S25 will stay current for years to come.
Features of Samsung Galaxy S Phones
Samsung Galaxy S phones come with standout features that set them apart in the smartphone market. These devices combine cutting-edge display technology, impressive camera systems, and powerful processing capabilities to deliver premium user experiences.
Display Technology
Samsung’s Galaxy S series is known for its high-quality screens with high refresh rates. The displays have evolved dramatically since the first model’s 4-inch screen. Modern S series phones feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology that produces vibrant colors and deep blacks.
Screen sizes have increased substantially over the years, with recent models offering 6.1 to 6.8-inch displays. Most newer models support adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, making scrolling and animations appear smoother than standard 60Hz displays.
The brightness levels have also improved significantly, with newer models capable of reaching up to 2,600 nits of peak brightness. This makes content easily visible even in direct sunlight.
Edge-to-edge “Infinity” displays with minimal bezels provide a more immersive viewing experience. Many S series phones also offer HDR10+ certification for better contrast and color accuracy when watching compatible content.
Camera Innovations
Camera technology in the Galaxy S series has seen remarkable advancements. The latest Ultra models feature staggering 200MP wide-angle cameras alongside ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. This multi-camera setup ensures users can capture virtually any scene.
Zoom capabilities have improved dramatically, with some models offering dual telephoto cameras for better long-distance photography. Space Zoom technology combines optical and digital zoom to achieve up to 100x magnification on certain models.
Low-light photography has been enhanced through larger sensors and advanced night mode algorithms. Features like variable aperture have appeared in models like the S9 and S10, allowing the camera to adapt to different lighting conditions automatically.
Video capabilities now include 8K recording on premium models, along with advanced stabilization for smoother footage. Pro-grade camera controls give photography enthusiasts manual adjustments similar to DSLR cameras.
Performance and Processing Power
Samsung equips Galaxy S phones with top-tier processors that deliver exceptional performance. Early models used the Exynos 3110 with 512MB RAM, while current flagships feature either Snapdragon or Exynos chips paired with 8-12GB RAM.
These processing improvements enable smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. Modern S series phones handle resource-intensive applications with ease, from video editing to 3D gaming.
Battery technology has evolved significantly, with recent models featuring 4,500mAh batteries or larger. Fast charging capabilities have improved as well, with 45W wired charging on some models reducing downtime significantly.
Storage options have expanded from the original 8-16GB to a minimum of 128GB on newer models. Many phones also support expandable storage through microSD cards, though this feature has been removed from some recent flagships.
Software and User Experience
Samsung’s Galaxy S phones combine powerful hardware with refined software. The user experience stands out due to thoughtful Android integration and Samsung’s unique interface enhancements.
Android Integration
Galaxy S phones run Android with Samsung’s One UI overlay, offering excellent integration with Google services. Users get access to the Google Play Store with millions of apps, while core Google apps like Gmail, Maps, and Photos work seamlessly.
Samsung devices receive Android updates for up to seven years on newer models like the Galaxy S24 series. This commitment to long-term support means your phone stays current longer than most competitors.
The integration extends to smart features like Google Assistant, which works alongside Samsung’s own Bixby assistant. Users can choose their preferred voice assistant for hands-free control.
Cross-device functionality shines with features that connect Galaxy phones to Windows PCs and other Android devices. This makes file sharing, notification syncing, and continuing tasks across devices simple and intuitive.
User Interface Enhancements
Samsung’s One UI adds significant value to the Android experience. The interface is designed for one-handed use, with important controls positioned in the lower portion of the screen.
Recent Galaxy S models include AI-powered features like:
- Circle to Search: Quickly search for anything visible on screen
- Live Translate: Real-time conversation translation
- Note Assist: Smart note organization and summarization
- Photo Assist: Advanced editing tools for images
Dark mode implementation is comprehensive, extending to all system apps and many third-party applications. This reduces eye strain and improves battery life on the AMOLED displays.
Samsung’s Edge Panels provide quick access to favorite apps, contacts, and tools with a simple swipe from the screen edge. The customization options let users tailor the interface to their preferences through themes, icon packs, and widget arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Samsung’s Galaxy S series has evolved significantly over the years. These phones offer cutting-edge features while maintaining the premium build quality that Samsung is known for.
What are the standout features of the latest Samsung Galaxy S series phone?
The Galaxy S25 Ultra showcases several impressive features. It comes with an upgraded 200MP main camera sensor that captures stunning detail even in low light conditions.
Battery life has seen significant improvements. The new phones can easily last more than a day with heavy use thanks to more efficient processors and larger battery capacities.
The S25 series introduces enhanced AI capabilities that improve photo editing, translation, and daily task automation. These features work on-device for better privacy and faster performance.
How does the Samsung Galaxy S series compare to other flagship smartphones?
Samsung’s Galaxy S series typically offers better display technology than competitors. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays provide higher brightness, better color accuracy, and superior HDR performance.
In terms of cameras, the S24 and S25 Ultra models compete strongly against iPhone Pro Max models and Google Pixels. Each brand has strengths, with Samsung excelling in zoom capabilities and versatility.
Samsung also offers better customization options through One UI compared to iOS. However, iPhones generally receive software updates for a longer period.
What improvements have been made in the camera technology of the new Samsung Galaxy S phones?
Recent Galaxy S phones have significantly improved night photography. The S25 Ultra captures clearer, brighter images in dark environments with less noise than previous generations.
Portrait mode has become more realistic. The edge detection around subjects is now nearly perfect, creating professional-looking bokeh effects without awkward artifacts.
Video stabilization has also improved dramatically. The latest models can capture smooth footage even when recording while walking or in moving vehicles.
Can you list the top Samsung Galaxy S series phones based on performance metrics?
The Galaxy S25 Ultra leads in overall performance with the latest Snapdragon processor and up to 16GB of RAM. It handles multitasking and gaming without any slowdowns.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra follows closely behind with excellent performance that most users won’t find lacking in day-to-day use.
For those seeking value, the Galaxy S25 Plus offers nearly flagship performance at a lower price point. It makes fewer compromises than the base model.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra still performs admirably for most tasks despite being an older model. It remains a solid choice for users who don’t need the latest features.
How do the Samsung Galaxy S series phones handle software updates and support over the years?
Samsung now provides 7 years of OS updates for its flagship S series phones starting with the S24 lineup. This matches Google’s Pixel update policy and exceeds most Android manufacturers.
Security patches arrive monthly for the newest models, ensuring your phone stays protected against vulnerabilities. Older models typically receive quarterly updates.
Some users of older models like the beloved Galaxy S10 report that performance remains smooth even after several years of use and multiple OS upgrades.
What are the differences between the Samsung Galaxy S Ultra models and the regular S series?
The Ultra models feature larger screens with higher resolution. The S25 Ultra has a 6.8-inch display compared to the 6.2-inch screen on the base S25 model.
Camera systems differ significantly. Ultra models include periscope zoom lenses that can reach 10x optical zoom, while regular models typically max out at 3x optical zoom.
Battery capacity is another key difference. The Ultra models pack much larger batteries, with the S25 Ultra featuring a 5,000mAh battery compared to smaller capacities in regular models.
S Pen support remains exclusive to Ultra models. This stylus enables note-taking, precise photo editing, and drawing capabilities not available on standard S series phones.