I Used the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for Over a Year—Is It Still Worth Buying in 2026?
After over a year of daily use, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has been my constant companion. From capturing life’s moments to managing work tasks, this device has been through it all. With the Galaxy S26 Ultra now available, many are wondering if the S25 Ultra still holds its ground. Let’s dive into my long-term experience to see if it’s still worth your investment in 2026.
- Design and Build: The titanium frame and refined design have aged gracefully, offering both durability and comfort.
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor continues to handle demanding tasks with ease.
- Camera Quality: The 200MP main sensor delivers stunning photos, though some competitors have caught up.
- Battery Life: The 5,000 mAh battery still provides reliable all-day usage.
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s design has stood the test of time. Its titanium frame and rounded corners not only give it a premium feel but also make it comfortable to hold. The device is lighter and thinner than its predecessor, the S24 Ultra, which I appreciated during extended use. The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display remains vibrant and sharp, with a 120Hz refresh rate that ensures smooth scrolling and gaming. ([gizmochina.com](https://www.gizmochina.com/2025/06/28/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-review-long-term/?utm_source=openai))
Performance and Software
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor and 12GB of RAM, the S25 Ultra has handled everything I’ve thrown at it—from intensive gaming sessions to multitasking between numerous apps. Even in 2026, it performs admirably, though the newer S26 Ultra boasts the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip with optional 16GB RAM, offering modest performance gains. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-vs-samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra?utm_source=openai)) The S25 Ultra runs on One UI 7 with Android 15, providing a user-friendly interface and regular updates that have kept the device feeling fresh.
Camera Performance
The 200MP main camera has been a highlight, capturing detailed and vibrant photos in various lighting conditions. The 50MP ultrawide lens and dual telephoto lenses (10MP and 50MP) offer versatility, though some competitors have introduced advanced computational photography that slightly outperforms the S25 Ultra in certain scenarios. ([techblogusa.com](https://techblogusa.com/reviews/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-long-term-review-2026?utm_source=openai)) Nonetheless, the camera system remains robust for most users.
Battery Life
The 5,000 mAh battery has consistently provided all-day usage, even with heavy use. While the S26 Ultra introduces faster charging capabilities (60W wired, 25W wireless), the S25 Ultra’s 45W wired and 15W wireless charging speeds have been sufficient for my needs. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-vs-samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra?utm_source=openai))
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Premium design with durable titanium frame | Camera system slightly outperformed by newer competitors |
| Strong performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite processor | Charging speeds not as fast as newer models |
| Reliable all-day battery life | Some AI features feel like repackaged existing technology |
Is It Worth It?
After more than a year, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains a formidable device. Its design, performance, and battery life continue to impress. While the S26 Ultra offers incremental upgrades, the S25 Ultra still provides excellent value, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. If you’re seeking a reliable flagship smartphone in 2026, the S25 Ultra is still a worthy contender.
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