Samsung S25 Plus: Is This the Smartest Choice?
In my recent Samsung Galaxy buying guide video, I suggested that the Galaxy S25 Ultra might not be the optimal choice for all users. While the S24 Ultra and even the S23 Ultra remain compelling options from a value perspective, the Galaxy S25 Plus presents a compelling alternative. After a week of initial use, I'd like to share my first impressions.
Design and Build Quality
The S25 Plus retains the squared-off design language introduced in previous iterations. This aesthetic choice provides a sense of solidity and premium feel in hand. The design is consistent with the S24 Plus, offering a familiar yet refined experience.
Camera Performance
While the S25 Plus lacks the 5x optical zoom found in the S25 Ultra, its digital zoom, utilizing the 3x lens, delivers commendable results. The 50-megapixel main sensor allows for capturing detailed images. While the 10x zoom lens of the S23 Ultra provided exceptional image quality, the S25 Plus compensates with its digital zoom capabilities.
A notable advancement in the S25 Plus is its video recording quality. Initial tests, particularly for platforms like Instagram Stories, reveal significant improvements. The device demonstrates impressive performance in varying lighting conditions, maintaining accurate skin tones and overall clarity.
Here's a sample of the video quality:
"This was recorded in a studio environment without professional lighting. The device effectively handles changing light conditions, transitioning smoothly from shaded areas to direct window light. Audio quality is also clear and consistent. While the quality may not match the S25 Ultra, it performs admirably in terms of skin tone accuracy and overall presentation."
This enhanced video capability has led me to reconsider my reliance on iPhones for quick, high-quality video capture.
Performance and Multitasking
The S25 Plus, powered by its Snapdragon processor, handles demanding tasks with ease. Even resource-intensive applications like Genshin Impact pose no challenge. The device excels in multitasking, offering a polished and feature-rich user experience through its One UI interface.
Battery Life
Initial assessments of battery performance are promising, mirroring the longevity observed in the S25 Ultra. A comprehensive battery test is planned, involving extensive use of navigation, work-related calls, and camera functionalities, including RAW image capture and 4K 60fps video recording.
Display Quality
Samsung continues to excel in display technology. While the S25 Plus lacks the anti-reflective coating of the S25 Ultra, it offers vibrant colors and an immersive viewing experience, characterized by minimal distractions and thin bezels. A subtle yet significant improvement is the reduced need to adjust green and blue levels, indicating a more refined color calibration.
Addressing Known Issues
The S25 Plus, like other Samsung devices, exhibits a degree of shutter lag. While the S Pen is absent in this model, all other software features present in the Ultra variant are included. Samsung Dex remains a valuable feature for users seeking a desktop-like experience on the go.
Software and AI Features
One UI 7 incorporates a range of AI-powered features, enhancing the user experience. While the integration of Bixby and Gemini could be more seamless, the Now Bar proves surprisingly useful. Continued development in contextual awareness is anticipated, potentially integrating with third-party applications for a more personalized experience.
Value and Availability
Samsung is offering competitive deals on both the S25 Ultra and S25 Plus. Potential buyers are encouraged to explore available promotions, as some may find upgrading to be more cost-effective than retaining their current devices.
