Every Samsung Galaxy S25 model compared: How to decide which phone to buy

Samsung just held its Unpacked event, where it showcased a new lineup of its flagship Galaxy smartphones. This year, the unveiling included the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, with upgraded construction, displays, and performance.

Also: Best Samsung Galaxy S25 deals: $200 gift cards and free offers at T-Mobile and Verizon

With artificial intelligence seemingly taking over the world around us, it's only fitting that Samsung's latest flagship smartphones feature it front and center. The new Samsung Galaxy S25 lineup has AI built-in in a way we've never seen before, as it's committing to Google's Gemini model to take over many of the features that were previously reserved for Galaxy AI.

Here's how each Samsung Galaxy S25 model compares and some ways you can decide which one is right for your needs:

Specifications

You should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra if...

1. You want the best Galaxy camera array available

The S25 Ultra's rear camera array is one of the best we've ever seen on a smartphone. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra features a 200MP wide-angle lens, like last year's model, but its ultrawide camera sensor has been upgraded to 50MP, up from 12MP. This is now on par with the 50MP telephoto camera.

Also: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra hands-on: 3 major upgrades I'm looking forward to testing

Such a high megapixel count may not sound feasible for the phone's optics, but it's what made last year's S24 Ultra capture highly detailed images. This year's set of upgraded camera sensors is sure to also make for beautifully captured 8K video on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

2. You want the stylus experience, with an AI upgrade

The larger 6.9-inch display on the S25 Ultra makes easy work of using the new AI features, especially when powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 3 Elite processor and accompanied by the included S Pen. If you're a power user, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best out of the new trio, as well as for those who enjoy having a powerful mini-computer in their back pocket.

Gemini is coming to the Galaxy S25 series, including Gemini Live, accessing Gemini by long-pressing the power button, Gemini support for Samsung applications, and Project Astra features in the coming months.

Using the Gemini AI features on the S25 Ultra lets you easily take action by selecting something on your screen with the stylus, such as suggesting a generated summary if you select text. You can also use the AI-powered circle to search and enjoy easier searching with natural language processing.

You should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25+ if...

1. You want the 'high-end' experience for a midrange price

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is the perfect midrange model for a flagship series. It features capabilities typically reserved for high-end models, like a larger display, a strong processor, and a great camera array. You can still enjoy the Galaxy AI features that the top model provides, with Gemini integrations throughout most Samsung apps on the S25+.

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is available for pre-order today, starting at $1,000, with general availability on Feb. 7.

You should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25 if...

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET

1. You want a faster base model

With the Samsung Galaxy S25, you don't have much to worry about when it comes to RAM. The Galaxy S25 has 12GB of RAM, up from last year's 8GB in the S24. This makes for better performance overall, especially with the Snapdragon 3 Elite processor, and also allows for more efficient processing of AI features.

2. You'd simply like to save money without missing out

Going from an older phone to a Samsung Galaxy S25 is still an upgrade, even if you're getting the most basic smartphone in the lineup. There's nothing truly "basic" about the S25, as it also supports Gemini and many other AI features. It also features the same processor as the rest of the S25 lineup, which makes for faster performance and improved power efficiency.

Also: Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked 2025: Galaxy S25 Ultra, AI features, and more

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is available now for pre-order, starting at $800, though you can get up to $1,250 in eligible trade-ins if you buy it through the Samsung website. The S25 series will be available for sale on Feb. 7.

Alternatives to consider