S25 Ultra Enhanced Trade-In + Exclusive $300 bonus + 5% Student Discount (affiliate) 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/s25Ultra S25 Enhanced Trade-In + Exclusive $50 credit + 5% Student Discount (affiliate) 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/S25 S25+ Exclusive $100 in credits + 5% Student Discount (affiliate) 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/S25Plus CORRECTION: at 8:46 that is 5X, not 30x. Just a typo I made in the edit. Sorry! But still, I am shocked at how much better the Ultra looks at 5x. The bokeh is so much better CORRECTION: The S25+ is 6.7" not 6.8"
Why are you saying the QHD is LIMITED, and DISABLED on the S25? 🤷♂ If I can change it in the settings it IS NOT limited or disabled. LIMITED means that's the max, DISABLED means it's not an option, it cannot be picked.🚫 It was SET to FHD on my Ultra. It was not limited or disabled. You talk to much to iFruit-y ppl Mike! (no hate, still love your vids man)
What "people"? The ones with toddler hands? I will never buy anything smaller than 6.8" screen and the reason there are so many large phones is because that's what people are buying.
@@Gravage According to recent data, the average screen size for the most popular phones is around 6.3 inches. Key points about current phone screen sizes: Majority around 6.3 inches: Most popular smartphones, especially mid-range and budget options, fall within the 6-6.5 inch screen size range. Trend towards larger screens: While there are still smaller options available, the trend leans towards larger displays. Consideration for usage: Users who primarily consume media like videos or play games may prefer even larger screens around 6.5 inches or more.
I had the S24 and upgraded to the S25 Plus. I think it's the sweet spot. Better display resolution, more screen real estate, faster charging, and still relatively light. A bit of an adjustment going back to a bigger phone, but for me worth the tradeoffs. It seems easier on my aging eyes.
I went from S21 to S24+ last year, I definitely agree with your sentiments here, the Plus models are definitely the sweet spot. I do like that the 25 Ultra is rounded this year, but I feel like the size is still too much.
It's still to wide and heavy. I don't have small hands, but i use my phone soully with 1 hand and 1 thumb. Also, the regular is pocketable way better especially in the summer when I wear swimming shorts a lot with small pockets.
I think the most important question you have to ask yourself before buying is "do I really want to carry a big heavy brick in my pocket or not?". My answer would be no, I do not want to carry a big heavy phone in my pocket all day long so I would choose the S25 model 100% every time.
I jumped the gun on the regular S25 after using the same LG G7 thinQ for the past 7-8 years. This is definitely an upgrade for me lol. My G7 is in mint condition still and works very well but it was time for an upgrade.
I bought the S25+ after an S22 and in general over a decade of bad batteries with Samsung. I'm happy to report that after a full working day at the office I make it home with 70%+ battery which I've never had before. That being said - I feel like it's too big. I would have preferred the S25 if the battery was as good.
The plus phones are a great sweet spot and I'm glad they still make them. You get 95% of the battery life of the ultra but in a better size and lighter. I went from a previous Note to a Plus and getting a bigger screen while getting a smaller phone was awesome.
If the S25U never had the slightly rounded corners and flat sides, I would have ordered the vanilla S25 navy blue. But the lighter weight and new design really sold me. Still waiting for my titanium black S25U. Hoping I can get it by next week.
My last phone was the S23 base and trying to get through the day in light performance mode was a challenge. Now with the S25 Ultra with it's bigger battery capped at 85% I'm getting through the day easily. I do prefer the size of the s23/25 base but I'd rather get through the day not needing a power bank in my pocket.
You say you use a watch as a remote but it sucks because you need to press a small circle on the display or set a timer. With a pen is so much easier because it's small and you can just put your hand behind you or some other person. You don't need to look where you're pressing because you're pressing a physical button. Edit: I do use more of a hybrid approach. I use my watch to see how the photo would turn out if I'm far away from my phone and then I take photos with my pen.
I already know the best for me which is what I'm watching this video on, the base S25. I don't understand why people love big phones. As for the glare, it's properly handled by the Anti Glare protective coating and the experience is exactly the same as gorilla armor
I've had the S21 Ultra 5G for almost 4 years. While I love the ultra camera, it was a bit too big of a phone. Just ordered the S25+. Hoping it's a good balance between camera quality and phone size.
Would be nice to keep the same device 's photo on the either the left or the right consistently throughout the video instead of swapping side on each photo
You know, I get that people buy the Samsung phone as the 'default' Android phone, but every year the Chinese offerings become more compelling to the value-oriented consumer. Honor, OnePlus, Oppo, Xiaomi, Asus seems to be killing it right now.
My personal takeaways 1) not Worth the upgrade (from S24U even from S23U) Even if you are a high demanding User, previous S24U should suffice, even S23U 2) Why taking away Bluetooth functions??? Yeah not everbody uses it, but just leave there for whoever wants to use them (dont be like apple) 3) Again, nerfing the Base model! But why? Why not making a great small phone??? I love Pixel 9 generation just for that. A Super Large phone A Super Small Phone A great Small phone cheaper With Samsung lineup, i feel the Plus model is just, unnecesary, you already have the Ultra ad big phone and you have the small phone. I supposed they are trying to usher the users to buy the Ultra maybe????
My take is that they should 'rebrand' small S25 phone as 'FE', keep the Plus model as S25, and then keep the Ultra where it is. That way, they kill two birds with one stone: get rid of the current FE, since it is too similar to Plus and greatly simplify the lineup.
I think buying S25 is really worth of you're into gaming and for me future proofing next generations of windows emulators. But for a general use it's not worth it.
Many mistakes 1. Plus model has 45 W charging 2. S24 plus last year had 12 GB RAM 3. Base model has 512 GB configuration 4. 25 W and 45 W charging doesn’t offer that big of a difference in real life in samsung what happened mike? I was waiting for your review
I'm really sorry about that. This is embarrassing. I always spend a lot of time fact checking and ensuring I get things right but you are correct. I made a few factual errors in this video. 1 & 2 - Ugh, I knew this and I have no idea why I misspoke in the video. Those only apply to the base model. I think I just got too used to bundling the base and the plus together and slipped. 3. I'm actually only seeing 128 & 256 in my region on both Samsung's site and on BestBuy. I just double checked the spec sheet Samsung sent me as well and I'm only seeing those two storage options
@ happens to the best of us. In my region, base model starts with 256 and no option for 128. Also kudos for talking about lack of UWB on vanilla model Lastly, can you tell how pronounced is the difference between 8 bit displays that Samsung refuse to let go and what competition is offering like 10 bit and even 12 bit panels!!
In all tech reviews about the S25U, if you stop and zoom in very closely, you can clearly see the drops of sweat of the reviewer that is trying to convince you to downgrade to this phone.
I have the s24 ultra as my second phone and i hold the s25 ultra for like 60 seconds the other day and tbh it was enough time to feel somehow cheaper in comparison :S I will wait to see the fold 7, think im done with samsung's slab phones... they are now a generic bricks with 0 identity. This is my opinion and my taste so no need to flame, its how i felt holding it.
1:05 The screen size of the S25 Plus is 6.7 inches… and not only do you provide incorrect information, but you also go on to analyze it further in comparison to the S25 Ultra.
It's hard to recommend any of these. First, it looks like Samsung, once again, did not invest time and effort into camera software polishing (shutter lag / motion blur, weak indoor performance, video issues... same stuff present from year to year). Easily the weakest part of their devices. Second, all focus is on Ultra so regular and Plus, no matter how good they are, look like crippled not-really-flagship versions of Ultra.
Samsung could make an effort and give slightly better cameras to the 25 plus Not everyone wants a big phone, but most people want a relatively good camera, but that's not the case, By the way, all AI features will be paid.
@MikeOBrienMedia I love it. Except still 25W support for charging, I think S25 is the phone to go if you like compact phones and have atleast 2 year old phone
It's hard sell compare to older galaxy and other android flagships. So many flagship from other brand can beat S25 for better/similar features for far fewer dollar.
Depends on the usecase. I personally live in europe, but work for an american company and we are not allowed to use china phones. So for that its either samsung (,nothing) or google.
I don't really think so. The battery is the same, the screen is better on the ultra, the titanium frame and the gorilla armor is far stronger. The camera is better
I personally think the plus is the best value for most ppl. It gives amazing battery life & a beautiful display for only $200 bucks more than the base. The base is way too small, IMHO
Except on weird software decisions like permanently hiding lockscreen notifications after you have unlocked the phone whether you have interacted with them or not. I will never buy another OnePlus phone until they address this.
If you care about cameras, I'd tell you to buy an iPhone. I use both Ios and Android. If I'm going to be taking pictures, I always take my iPhone. Other than that, I use and love my android phones.
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CORRECTION: at 8:46 that is 5X, not 30x. Just a typo I made in the edit. Sorry! But still, I am shocked at how much better the Ultra looks at 5x. The bokeh is so much better
CORRECTION: The S25+ is 6.7" not 6.8"
S25+ has 45 w charging speed.. Another mistake
Sir I sent you a mail from suvrajotimajumder please check
Why are you saying the QHD is LIMITED, and DISABLED on the S25? 🤷♂ If I can change it in the settings it IS NOT limited or disabled. LIMITED means that's the max, DISABLED means it's not an option, it cannot be picked.🚫 It was SET to FHD on my Ultra. It was not limited or disabled. You talk to much to iFruit-y ppl Mike!
(no hate, still love your vids man)
People used to buy the base model because it was affordable. Now, they get it because they're over huge phones and want something smaller.
What "people"? The ones with toddler hands? I will never buy anything smaller than 6.8" screen and the reason there are so many large phones is because that's what people are buying.
Hahaha so true I switch to the S25 from S21 Ultra. So refreshing
@@Gravage not everyone carries around purse😂
@@Gravage According to recent data, the average screen size for the most popular phones is around 6.3 inches.
Key points about current phone screen sizes:
Majority around 6.3 inches:
Most popular smartphones, especially mid-range and budget options, fall within the 6-6.5 inch screen size range.
Trend towards larger screens:
While there are still smaller options available, the trend leans towards larger displays.
Consideration for usage:
Users who primarily consume media like videos or play games may prefer even larger screens around 6.5 inches or more.
facts, traded in my s24+, want a small one handed phone, have a pc and tablet for my other big screen needs
I knew you were cooking when I saw no videos for 12 days...
nicely done man, was eagerly waiting for this review
I have a few more filmed and almost ready to go!
@@MikeOBrienMedia can't wait!
I had the S24 and upgraded to the S25 Plus. I think it's the sweet spot. Better display resolution, more screen real estate, faster charging, and still relatively light. A bit of an adjustment going back to a bigger phone, but for me worth the tradeoffs. It seems easier on my aging eyes.
Perfect size imo.. Not too tall, not too narrow.. Just perfect.
I've ordered mine today wonder how's the battery compared to s24 plus or ultra
I went from S21 to S24+ last year, I definitely agree with your sentiments here, the Plus models are definitely the sweet spot. I do like that the 25 Ultra is rounded this year, but I feel like the size is still too much.
It's still to wide and heavy. I don't have small hands, but i use my phone soully with 1 hand and 1 thumb. Also, the regular is pocketable way better especially in the summer when I wear swimming shorts a lot with small pockets.
@ you may love the flip6. Got it as a second phone to my s25+. Very compact.
I think the most important question you have to ask yourself before buying is "do I really want to carry a big heavy brick in my pocket or not?". My answer would be no, I do not want to carry a big heavy phone in my pocket all day long so I would choose the S25 model 100% every time.
To enjoying viewing media content and playing games these days the bigger screen is the way to go. Will always buy the Ultra versions no matter what
It's not a brick, though...
The ultra gets too big for me, the s25+ is just perfect.. S25 regular gets too small for me, would've gone for a flip6 if I wanted a compact phone.
@rohiin The Ultra and the Plus are the same size...
They aren't. Plus is 6.7 and ultra is 6.9
I’m tired of using big smartphones. Gonna try this small s25 this time. Happy and excited of my pre-ordered😊
I jumped the gun on the regular S25 after using the same LG G7 thinQ for the past 7-8 years. This is definitely an upgrade for me lol. My G7 is in mint condition still and works very well but it was time for an upgrade.
Wow! My LG G7 gave up the ghost years ago. Battery stopped holding a charge. I have a S24+. Love it!!! Too soon to switch.
thanks. tired of big phones like notes and ultra. changed to S24 an year ago and i dont regret it
Yeah I am a huge fan of the little phones. I just wish it had that 5x periscope lens!
@MikeOBrienMedia i just got the samsung 24 it fits my needs coming from a google 7
I bought the S25+ after an S22 and in general over a decade of bad batteries with Samsung. I'm happy to report that after a full working day at the office I make it home with 70%+ battery which I've never had before. That being said - I feel like it's too big. I would have preferred the S25 if the battery was as good.
The plus phones are a great sweet spot and I'm glad they still make them. You get 95% of the battery life of the ultra but in a better size and lighter. I went from a previous Note to a Plus and getting a bigger screen while getting a smaller phone was awesome.
The S25+ has the same 45W charging as the S25 Ultra; please don't mislead🙂
Im sure he miss spoke, I don't think he's given out misinformation on purpose, but thanks for clearing that up.
He also typed on the screen, that's why don't think it's a misspeak
Yeah he addressed that it was a misspeak, check other comments
S25 plus has 45w charging, not 25. Same like s24 plus
oops, I think I misspoke. I meant the S25 base model has slower charging!
If the S25U never had the slightly rounded corners and flat sides, I would have ordered the vanilla S25 navy blue. But the lighter weight and new design really sold me. Still waiting for my titanium black S25U. Hoping I can get it by next week.
My last phone was the S23 base and trying to get through the day in light performance mode was a challenge. Now with the S25 Ultra with it's bigger battery capped at 85% I'm getting through the day easily. I do prefer the size of the s23/25 base but I'd rather get through the day not needing a power bank in my pocket.
You say you use a watch as a remote but it sucks because you need to press a small circle on the display or set a timer. With a pen is so much easier because it's small and you can just put your hand behind you or some other person. You don't need to look where you're pressing because you're pressing a physical button.
Edit: I do use more of a hybrid approach. I use my watch to see how the photo would turn out if I'm far away from my phone and then I take photos with my pen.
I already know the best for me which is what I'm watching this video on, the base S25. I don't understand why people love big phones. As for the glare, it's properly handled by the Anti Glare protective coating and the experience is exactly the same as gorilla armor
People have different preferences (and hand sizes). Simple as that.
We're those pictures taken in Puerto Rico? Thanks for the vid. Helped me make my decision.
Yes! I was just down in PR to attend a wedding last weekend
Thank you for reviewing all three, but for a guy who doesn’t take many photos like me, I believe the regular S25 is the best choice.
I've had the S21 Ultra 5G for almost 4 years. While I love the ultra camera, it was a bit too big of a phone. Just ordered the S25+. Hoping it's a good balance between camera quality and phone size.
Would be nice to keep the same device 's photo on the either the left or the right consistently throughout the video instead of swapping side on each photo
Thanks for the feedback! I completely agree
You know, I get that people buy the Samsung phone as the 'default' Android phone, but every year the Chinese offerings become more compelling to the value-oriented consumer. Honor, OnePlus, Oppo, Xiaomi, Asus seems to be killing it right now.
My personal takeaways
1) not Worth the upgrade (from S24U even from S23U) Even if you are a high demanding User, previous S24U should suffice, even S23U
2) Why taking away Bluetooth functions??? Yeah not everbody uses it, but just leave there for whoever wants to use them (dont be like apple)
3) Again, nerfing the Base model! But why? Why not making a great small phone???
I love Pixel 9 generation just for that.
A Super Large phone
A Super Small Phone
A great Small phone cheaper
With Samsung lineup, i feel the Plus model is just, unnecesary, you already have the Ultra ad big phone and you have the small phone.
I supposed they are trying to usher the users to buy the Ultra maybe????
Yeah trying to cater to all will result it catering to none. But guess we’ll see with the sales down the line.
My take is that they should 'rebrand' small S25 phone as 'FE', keep the Plus model as S25, and then keep the Ultra where it is.
That way, they kill two birds with one stone: get rid of the current FE, since it is too similar to Plus and greatly simplify the lineup.
2:41 In American* units... The rest of the English speaking world doesn't know what those numbers mean 💀
I think buying S25 is really worth of you're into gaming and for me future proofing next generations of windows emulators. But for a general use it's not worth it.
agree
Many mistakes
1. Plus model has 45 W charging
2. S24 plus last year had 12 GB RAM
3. Base model has 512 GB configuration
4. 25 W and 45 W charging doesn’t offer that big of a difference in real life in samsung
what happened mike? I was waiting for your review
I'm really sorry about that. This is embarrassing. I always spend a lot of time fact checking and ensuring I get things right but you are correct. I made a few factual errors in this video.
1 & 2 - Ugh, I knew this and I have no idea why I misspoke in the video. Those only apply to the base model. I think I just got too used to bundling the base and the plus together and slipped.
3. I'm actually only seeing 128 & 256 in my region on both Samsung's site and on BestBuy. I just double checked the spec sheet Samsung sent me as well and I'm only seeing those two storage options
@ happens to the best of us.
In my region, base model starts with 256 and no option for 128.
Also kudos for talking about lack of UWB on vanilla model
Lastly, can you tell how pronounced is the difference between 8 bit displays that Samsung refuse to let go and what competition is offering like 10 bit and even 12 bit panels!!
@@MikeOBrienMedia i read that you’re working on a comparison video with OP 13 so it’d be good if you talk about the panel quality
What is screen on time on the base S25?
In Europe S25 base has 128, 256 and 512 GB
Went from base S21 to S25 Ultra. No ragrets even with the massive size 😭❤️👌.
Bro, SAME! And it definitely is massive compared to the S21😅
UWB may not be that much of a consideration now but Samsung just announced they may use it for next gen buds
It would be nice to have precision finding on the buds finally!
@MikeOBrienMedia even better, it will use the bandwidth for lossless audio
you can also have include the S24 FE in your future vids
Thanks for the suggestion! The FE would definitely make this comparison more interesting.
Ive got the regular s23. Is it much of an upgrade to the s25 +, or shall i keep my s23
Keep
If the s25 base had 512gb I would get that
It does and if you go for pre order you'll get free upgrade from 256 to 512gb
@Hanyanenek2 I don't think so, the base only has 128 or 256
I am watching this video from S25 512GB variant. Which country are you from where there is no 512GB variant? 🙄
@@Dontpushyour_luck The USA, I already ordered the S25+ so it's okay, not a big deal.
Plus model. Big enough screen for media and games, small enough to handle easier
In all tech reviews about the S25U, if you stop and zoom in very closely, you can clearly see the drops of sweat of the reviewer that is trying to convince you to downgrade to this phone.
I have the s24 ultra as my second phone and i hold the s25 ultra for like 60 seconds the other day and tbh it was enough time to feel somehow cheaper in comparison :S
I will wait to see the fold 7, think im done with samsung's slab phones... they are now a generic bricks with 0 identity.
This is my opinion and my taste so no need to flame, its how i felt holding it.
Is it worth upgrading from the base 24 to base 25? I want a better camera with no shutter lag. IPhone beats Samsung big time on that.
5:42 S25 plus also has 45w charging right?!
Yes! Corrected this in the pinned comment and description. So sorry for the mistake!
Thanks for the clarification @@MikeOBrienMedia
regular s25 best tbh perfect size and weight
I agree. If Samsung added the 5x periscope lens to the base model, I would never use the Ultra again
1:05 The screen size of the S25 Plus is 6.7 inches… and not only do you provide incorrect information, but you also go on to analyze it further in comparison to the S25 Ultra.
Yes! Corrected this in the pinned comment and description. So sorry for the mistake!
@@MikeOBrienMedia No problem… I just mentioned it… 😁😁😁
I'm still using my s22 ultra. Will upgrade to S24 for a functions of a PEN!
I have a feeling they will sell the Bluetooth pens separately
I would say wait a little longer and see if it does come then make your choice
You aren't going to use it. No one uses that bluetooth s pen. You can take pictures with your watch or with a remote.
@lbeetech what if i don't have a watch?
@aai404 Buy a $4 shutter remote off Amazon or something...
Samsung forgot to provide a way to carry the 2 bricks around 😂
The S25+ also has 45-watt charging as the Ultra.
It's hard to recommend any of these. First, it looks like Samsung, once again, did not invest time and effort into camera software polishing (shutter lag / motion blur, weak indoor performance, video issues... same stuff present from year to year). Easily the weakest part of their devices. Second, all focus is on Ultra so regular and Plus, no matter how good they are, look like crippled not-really-flagship versions of Ultra.
Samsung could make an effort and give slightly better cameras to the 25 plus
Not everyone wants a big phone, but most people want a relatively good camera, but that's not the case,
By the way, all AI features will be paid.
The S25 base also doesn't have the proscaler mode
you forgot to put the weight on screen, and the S25+ isn't 25W
The day the base model gets at least a 4800 mah battery and 512gb storage im switching to it. I normally use the + model
In some regions, it already has 512, just not in the US unfortunately
Watching this on my brand new S25 🤩
Do you like it?
@MikeOBrienMedia I love it. Except still 25W support for charging, I think S25 is the phone to go if you like compact phones and have atleast 2 year old phone
I love the Samsung s25❤🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thanks for watching!
i think its time to retire my s10+, s25 looking like fine replacement
It's hard sell compare to older galaxy and other android flagships. So many flagship from other brand can beat S25 for better/similar features for far fewer dollar.
It's funny you should mention that. My OnePlus 13 comparison is in the works right now!
Depends on the usecase. I personally live in europe, but work for an american company and we are not allowed to use china phones. So for that its either samsung (,nothing) or google.
I don't really think so. The battery is the same, the screen is better on the ultra, the titanium frame and the gorilla armor is far stronger. The camera is better
So the non ultras don't have a macro mode 🤯
I personally think the plus is the best value for most ppl. It gives amazing battery life & a beautiful display for only $200 bucks more than the base. The base is way too small, IMHO
S25+ Charging 45W
Just get a OnePlus 13 and you can spend $400 less and not compromise.
Except on weird software decisions like permanently hiding lockscreen notifications after you have unlocked the phone whether you have interacted with them or not. I will never buy another OnePlus phone until they address this.
I am working on this comparison right now!
S25.
S25 plus should have 5x zoom 😢
6.7 inches on the S25 Plus.
Yes! Corrected this in the pinned comment and description. So sorry for the mistake!
@@MikeOBrienMediaI feel honoured that you replied! Always enjoy your videos. Have the S25 Plus - great device. Thanks.
S24 ultra v s25 ultra pls
ooo good idea!
Why? What's the point in year over year reviews?
Apple or Samsung hard decision
If you care about cameras, I'd tell you to buy an iPhone. I use both Ios and Android. If I'm going to be taking pictures, I always take my iPhone. Other than that, I use and love my android phones.
Checkout the iPhone 17 pro max
Still enjoying my s24 ultra
Not ready to upgrade now 😂
I love the S24 Ultra. If I didn't crack the screen, I would still be using it
Your shirt sucks and there's no decision s25 ultra is the supreme galactica. Why u comparing these waste of yours and our time
Upgraded to s25 base model from lg v30 and s25 fckin rocks... Its a fckin demon of a phone