Galaxy S25 Ultra User Rates the Model 9.5/10, Here's Why

Months after the Galaxy S25 Ultra was unveiled, positive and not-so-enthusiastic reviews about the device have surfaced. Apparently, after a week of hands-on experience, nothing about the S25 Ultra stood out as “extraordinary” or “mind-blowing”, but in a good way. We weren't sure what this meant, but we've broken it down here for you.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra has features that appeal to seasoned and casual users. Its performance, camera system, and integration of AI-driven functionalities position it as a complete package for an Android flagship. However, it still faces its share of criticisms, prompting a deeper exploration of its strengths and areas for improvement. In this blog, we’ll discuss the user experience of the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the device’s strengths and criticisms.

While the Galaxy S25 Ultra has garnered praise for its design and performance, it’s essential to consider the criticisms.

One user shared their thoughts and said the S25 felt “boring, simply ticking boxes of what a flagship should be”. Yet, it’s still a complete package and the best flagship today.

Some users have expressed reservations about certain aspects of the device. For instance, WIRED stated that nothing much is new with the S25 Ultra and that “two different smart assistants are confusing.” Google’s Gemini is now the default assistant instead of Bixby. However, Bixby can still control the phone’s settings.

Honest feedback, such as adopting the Qi2 charging protocol on the S25 Ultra but needing a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra magnetic case for optimal Qi2 performance and MagSafe compatibility, highlights helpful considerations for enhancing the user experience.

Comparisons with flagship models, such as the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the OnePlus 13, reveal areas where Samsung can improve. Features like charging speeds, battery capacity, and display specifications have been discussed, with the S25 receiving praise and criticism.

These critiques on the S25 Ultra provide valuable insights into what its user base thinks and the areas of improvement, thereby reminding Samsung to never take customer loyalty for granted and to rethink its future flagship models.

In the following sections, we’ll explore areas where the Galaxy S25 Ultra stood out to users, starting with its performance and speed.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, delivering swift app launches and seamless multitasking. In all fairness, users have reported smooth gaming experiences, with the device handling graphics-intensive games effortlessly. This robust processor ensures that the S25 Ultra meets the demands of modern smartphone users.

Featuring a 6.9-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the Galaxy S25 Ultra offers vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling. The edge-to-edge design and Gorilla Armor 2 glass enhance durability and aesthetics. These design elements contribute to an immersive viewing experience and a premium feel.

The S25 Ultra boasts a versatile camera setup, including a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP periscope telephoto lens. These enhancements enable users to capture detailed photos across various lighting conditions. The camera's AI capabilities further refine image processing, delivering impressive results.

Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has reliable battery performance. It allows the use of the device for an extended period without frequent recharging. Moreover, it also supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, enabling quick power replenishment. Though not entirely new to the series, the super-fast charging feature does wonders for charging speeds in Samsung phones.

On the other hand, the S25 Ultra may have adopted the Qi2 charging protocol and is finally “Qi2 ready”, but you still need to make it MagSafe-compatible.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces One UI 7, built on Android 15, delivering a more intuitive and personalized user experience. Notable features include the “Now Bar,” offering real-time updates directly on the lock screen, and “Now Brief,” an AI-driven assistant that provides context-aware information such as weather updates and calendar events.

Despite some drawbacks, like the S Pen’s lack of Bluetooth support starting in the S25 series, it has also seen significant enhancements. It now leverages Galaxy AI to boost productivity using features like:

• AI drawing assist

• Sketch to image

• Smart select

Features like app continuity allow users to transition effortlessly between their smartphone, tablet, and other Samsung devices, enhancing productivity and convenience. This interconnectedness creates a seamless user ecosystem.

Every device comes with its own set of limitations, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra is no exception. While it boasts impressive features, there are areas where it falls short. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the aspects where the S25 Ultra could have been better, helping you make an informed decision before committing to this premium device.

One of the standout features of the Galaxy S series has been the integration of the S Pen, offering users enhanced productivity and creative capabilities. However, the S25 Ultra has seen a reduction in S Pen functionalities, notably the removal of Bluetooth features that previously enabled Air Actions and remote shutter capabilities.

According to discussions in the Samsung Community, this change was implemented due to low usage statistics, leading Samsung to discontinue these features. This decision has disappointed long-time users who value the comprehensive toolset that the S Pen traditionally offers.

Battery life remains critical for smartphone users, especially those who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day. The Galaxy S25 Ultra houses a substantial battery; however, it falls short of the 6000mAh capacity that some consumers anticipated.

In comparison, devices like the OnePlus 13 offer rapid charging solutions, addressing battery longevity concerns differently. While the S25 Ultra provides commendable battery life, the absence of a larger capacity or faster charging options may influence the purchasing decisions of power users.

Display quality significantly impacts user experience, affecting everything from media consumption to daily interactions. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features an 8-bit display, which, while delivering vibrant visuals, doesn't match the color depth some competitors offer.

For instance, the OnePlus 13 boasts a 10-bit display, providing a broader color spectrum and enhanced visual fidelity. This disparity may be a consideration for users seeking the most immersive display experience available.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s charging capabilities, while reliable, don’t offer the rapid charging speeds found in some rival devices. The OnePlus 13, for example, is noted for its quick charging and robust battery life, allowing users to minimize downtime. Samsung's more conservative approach to charging speeds may be seen as a drawback for users who prioritize rapid power replenishment.

Performance stability is crucial for a seamless user experience, particularly for demanding applications and multitasking scenarios. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, offering substantial power. However, some users have reported stability issues, such as app crashes and inconsistent performance.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its A16 Bionic chip, is often praised for its stability and optimized performance. These stability concerns may affect the overall user experience for Galaxy S25 Ultra owners.

Durability and resistance to environmental factors are important considerations for many smartphone users. The Galaxy S25 Ultra comes with an IP68 rating, offering protection against dust and water immersion. However, it lacks the more stringent IP69 rating, which provides higher resistance to high-pressure water jets and extreme conditions. While IP68 is sufficient for everyday scenarios, the absence of IP69 certification may be a factor for users requiring enhanced durability.

The camera system is a significant selling point for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, featuring advanced sensors and multiple lenses. However, users have reported noticeable shutter lag, leading to delays between pressing the shutter button and capturing the image. This lag can result in missed moments and affects the overall photography experience. Competing devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max are recognized for their swift and responsive camera performance, providing a more immediate capture experience. Addressing this issue could enhance the S25 Ultra's appeal to photography enthusiasts.

While there’s nothing much we can do about the S25 Ultra hardware and software features, but to fully maximize its potential, we recommend using the world’s thinnest Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra case. Here’s why:

• Ultra-thin design: Only 0.04 inches thick and 0.8 ounces, adding no bulk.

• Premium protection: Made from 600D aramid fiber, it shields against scratches and minor impacts.

• MagSafe compatible: Enjoy seamless use with MagSafe accessories without compromising style.

• Perfect fit: Precise cutouts ensure all buttons and ports are easily accessible.

For even better experience and protection, consider investing in high-quality screen protectors to prevent scratches and cracks, fast chargers to reduce downtime, and Galaxy Buds for an immersive audio experience.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra isn't perfect. Some users have pointed out battery limitations, slower charging speeds, and minor software quirks that hold it back from being a flawless 10/10 device.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains an exceptional smartphone. The right accessories, like an S25 Ultra phone case, can protect this device without compromising on design or functionality. Paired with high-quality screen protectors and fast chargers, the S25 Ultra experience can be fully optimized. Users can turn their 9.5/10-rated device into a near-perfect 10/10 smartphone according to daily needs and preferences.