Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S25 Ultra
Starting at
£678.00£1,229.24 new
Galaxy S26 Ultra
Starting at
£894.79£1,449.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Ultra?
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs S26 Ultra comes down to the chipset, software updates and weight. Refurbished, the Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at £678, £216.79 less than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Software updates
Weight
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra has longer software support: until Mar 2033 vs until Feb 2032.
- Weight: 218 g on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, 214 g on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra specs
The Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Ultra share many core features like screen size, resolution, refresh rate, RAM, camera setup, and unlocked 5G connectivity. The S26 Ultra is marginally slimmer and lighter with a slightly taller and wider frame, which may appeal if you prefer a sleeker or a subtly bigger device. The S25 Ultra suits those who want a solid, high-performance phone with a proven track record, while the S26 Ultra fits buyers looking for a similar experience with a slightly refined form factor.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra price
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support, build style, and operating system.
Operating System And Updates
This means either phone will keep receiving new features and security improvements, helping your device stay current over time.
Device Design
Both devices maintain a traditional smartphone form. This suits users who prefer a straightforward, sturdy design.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra screen
Screen quality is identical on both phones, offering the same size, resolution, and refresh rate. This means video watching, gaming, and everyday use will feel consistent on each device.
Screen Size And Resolution
Both devices have a 6.9 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 by 3120 pixels. This large, sharp display offers plenty of room for detailed images and immersive viewing, ideal for video, browsing, and multitasking.
Refresh Rate
The 120 Hz refresh rate on both phones provides smooth scrolling and fluid animations. This higher refresh rate benefits users who value responsive interactions and better visuals during gaming or fast navigation.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra camera
Both phones feature a quadruple camera setup and a 12 megapixel front camera. This consistency suggests a similar photographic experience for capturing detailed photos and video calls.
Camera Setup
The Galaxy S25 Ultra and S26 Ultra each have four rear cameras. This offers versatility for different shooting scenarios like wide-angle and close-up photos, catering to users who enjoy photography on their phone.
Front Camera
Both phones come with a 12 megapixel front camera, providing clear and sharp selfies or video calls. This suits users who regularly use the front camera for social media or communication.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra size and design
Miscellaneous specifications highlight physical size, weight, connectivity, and storage options. Although many features match, the physical dimensions and weight differ slightly, which can affect comfort and portability.
Size And Weight
The Galaxy S25 Ultra measures 162 mm tall, 77 mm wide, and 8 mm deep, weighing 218 g. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is slightly taller at 163.6 mm, wider at 78.1 mm, yet thinner at 7.9 mm and lighter at 214 g. If you prefer a slimmer and lighter phone with a slightly bigger footprint, the S26 Ultra fits that preference.
Connectivity And SIM Options
Both phones are unlocked, compatible with 5G networks, and use USB-C connectors. They support a physical SIM plus eSIM, which offers flexibility for managing multiple numbers or carriers.
Storage Choices
Each device is available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options. This range suits users with varied needs, from everyday storage to those who keep extensive media or apps on their phones.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S25 Ultra or Galaxy S26 Ultra: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £678, £216.79 less than the Galaxy S26 Ultra
Buy the Galaxy S26 Ultra if
- you want longer software support (until Mar 2033 vs until Feb 2032)
- you want the newer model (2026)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S25 Ultra often highlight how the phone looks almost brand new, with no marks or scratches, and praise the excellent battery health. They find the performance reliable and the display excellent for everyday use. The camera quality impresses many users, especially for photos in different lighting conditions, and the build quality feels solid. Several reviews mention the phone runs fast and the sound quality is good, with many happy to save money by buying refurbished. Some customers appreciate the device's size and AI features, while others note the phone's easy setup and smooth software updates.
Reviews for the Galaxy S26 Ultra describe it as feeling like a brand new phone, with excellent condition and no noticeable issues. Users enjoy the camera and speed, often commenting that the phone is fun to use and handles heavy use well. A few mention minor cosmetic marks that are barely visible or only noticeable without a case. Battery life and overall performance meet expectations, and customers express satisfaction with the device's size and design. Some users note small quirks like occasional blurriness on WhatsApp status pictures but generally recommend the phone.
Both devices attract users who want a premium smartphone experience with a large, high-resolution screen and strong camera capabilities. The Galaxy S25 Ultra appeals to those who value a proven, solid device with excellent battery and build quality, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra suits buyers looking for a slimmer, lighter design and similar core features.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Galaxy S26 Ultra FAQs
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs S26 Ultra comes down to the chipset, software updates and weight. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has longer software support: until Mar 2033 vs until Feb 2032.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is cheaper refurbished, from £678 compared with £894.79 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Both have the same battery: 5000 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 200 megapixels.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2032. The Galaxy S26 Ultra gets updates until Mar 2033.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra adds longer software support (until Mar 2033 vs until Feb 2032). Refurbished, it costs £216.79 more (from £894.79 vs £678).
Both come in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB refurbished.
