The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus is here, and it begs the question: is it a significant upgrade over the Galaxy S24 Plus? While the spec sheet may not scream revolution, the enhancements are more than skin deep. This comparison dives into the key differences between the S25 Plus and S24 Plus to help you decide whether to upgrade or stick with your current device.
Design and Display: Subtle Refinements
The corner of the screens on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S25.
Both phones share a similar design philosophy: a triple rear camera system, flat edges with rounded corners, and a flat front display. The S25 Plus, however, is slightly lighter and slimmer than its predecessor, offering a more refined feel. The new Navy color option also adds a touch of modern flair.
Display-wise, both models boast a vibrant 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2x display with an adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth scrolling and crisp visuals, even in direct sunlight.
Performance and Software: A Generational Leap
The Samsung Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 Plus on a stand.
Here’s where the S25 Plus pulls ahead. It’s powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, promising even better performance than other Snapdragon 8 Elite devices. The S24 Plus, on the other hand, uses the still-capable Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy.
Both phones offer 12GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB of storage. However, the S25 Plus shines with its advanced Galaxy AI features. While the S24 Plus introduced Galaxy AI, the S25 Plus expands upon it with cross-app AI agents, AI Select, AI Brief, and more.
Software-wise, the S25 Plus runs One UI 7 based on Android 15, while the S24 Plus currently runs One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, though an Android 15 update is anticipated. One UI 7 introduces innovative features like the Now Bar, a Dynamic Island-esque notification center at the bottom of the lock screen. The S25 Plus also features Audio Eraser, a video recording tool that isolates and adjusts specific sounds, akin to Apple’s Audio Mix.
Camera: Software Enhancements
Galaxy S25 Plus in NAvy color.
Both phones sport the same camera hardware: a 50MP main lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP selfie camera. Samsung claims the S25 Plus benefits from improved camera processing thanks to the new chipset. While a hardware upgrade would have been welcomed, the S24 Plus’s camera performance was already excellent.
Battery and Charging: Maintaining the Status Quo
Samsung Galaxy S25 in navy with the screen on
Both the S25 Plus and S24 Plus feature a 4,900mAh battery with 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. While silicon-carbon battery technology is absent, the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s efficiency is expected to deliver impressive battery life.
Price and Availability: Identical Investment
Samsung Galaxy S25 series phones in the hands of a person.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus launches at the same $1,000 price point as the S24 Plus, available in 12GB/256GB and 12GB/512GB configurations.
Verdict: To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade?
The S25 Plus offers a refined experience with its enhanced performance, updated software, and subtle design improvements. If you’re using the S23 Plus or older, the upgrade is compelling. However, S24 Plus owners might find the improvements incremental, potentially making it worthwhile to wait another generation. The S25 Plus shines for those prioritizing the latest chipset, innovative AI features, and an extra year of software updates.
