The OnePlus 13 and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra are two of the most anticipated smartphones of early 2025. Both promise premium features, positioning them among the top Android contenders. Each harnesses the power of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a significant leap from previous generations. While the OnePlus 13 boasts superfast charging and excellent value, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is poised to be the long-term, reliable choice. This comparison will help you prepare for their January 2025 launch. As more information emerges, we’ll keep this article updated.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Specifications
| Feature | OnePlus 13 | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Glass: 162.9 x 76.5 x 8.5 mm (6.41 x 3.01 x 0.33 in) Leather: 162.9 x 76.5 x 8.9 mm (6.41 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
164.3 x 75.8 x 9.2mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.36 in) |
| Weight | Glass: 213g (7.51 oz) Leather: 210g (7.41 oz) |
219g (7.72 oz) |
| Display | 6.82″ LTPO OLED, 1440 x 3168 pixels, 120Hz HDR10+, Dolby Vision 1,600 nits (typical), 4,500 nits (peak) Crystal Shield super-ceramic glass |
6.86″ LTPO OLED, 1440 x 3120 pixels, 120Hz HDR10+ 1,600 nits (typical), 4,500 nits (peak) Gorilla Glass Armor |
| OS | OxygenOS 15 (based on Android 15) | One UI 7 (based on Android 15) |
| RAM & Storage | 12GB + 256GB UFS 4.0 16GB + 512GB 24GB + 1TB |
16GB + 256GB UFS 4.0 16GB + 512GB 16GB + 1TB |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (US) or Exynos 2500 (Region Dependent) |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (f/1.6, OIS, Hasselblad) 50MP Ultrawide (f/2.0, 120°) 50MP Periscope Telephoto (f/2.6, 3x) |
200MP (OIS) 50MP Ultrawide 10MP Telephoto (3x) 50MP Periscope Telephoto (5x) |
| Front Camera | 32MP (f/2.4, fixed focus) | 32MP (f/2.4, fixed focus) |
| Video | Rear: Up to 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps Front: Up to 4K@60fps |
Rear: Up to 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps Front: Up to 4K@60fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4, BLE 5G Wi-Fi 7 (dual-band) |
Bluetooth 5.4 5G Wi-Fi 7 (dual-band) Samsung DeX |
| Ports | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Water Resistance | IP69 | IP68 |
| Battery & Charging | 6,000mAh 100W SuperVOOC Wired 50W AirVOOC Wireless 5W Reverse Wireless |
5,000mAh 45W Wired Wireless Charging Reverse Wireless Charging |
| Colors | Glass: White, Black Leather: Blue |
Black, Silver, Green |
| Price (Estimated) | Starting ~$620 (China) | Starting ~$1,300 |
Note: OnePlus 13 specifications are based on the Chinese model. Minor differences may exist in the global version. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specifications are based on rumors and leaks.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Design
OnePlus 13 front and back renders.The OnePlus 13, with its 6.8-inch display, is undeniably large. While the design has evolved, echoes of the OnePlus 12 remain, particularly the circular camera module positioned left of the rear panel. OnePlus has adopted a flatter frame, mirroring Apple and Samsung’s flagship approach. The back retains subtle curves. The aluminum frame contrasts with the OnePlus Open. Wider, flat buttons complement the frame’s design. Color options include black and white glass finishes, and a blue faux leather variant. Despite a larger battery, the OnePlus 13 is lighter than its predecessor. It also features IP69 and IP68 ratings, offering robust dust and water resistance.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra render.Leaks suggest the Galaxy S25 Ultra will embrace a flat aesthetic with a flat back panel and frame. Rounded corners will replace the curved frame edges. A titanium frame is expected. The four rear cameras and laser autofocus module will likely be individually housed, continuing the trend since the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Concentric circles around each lens are rumored. Dimensions are expected to remain similar to the S24 Ultra, but with a potential weight reduction to approximately 220g. Color options may include black, blue, gold, silver, and online exclusives like jade green and pink gold. The S Pen is expected to return, housed on the left side. An IP68 rating is anticipated, with no mention of IP69 in current leaks.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Display
OnePlus 13 official render in blue.The OnePlus 13 shifts to a flat 6.82-inch display, maintaining the 1440 x 3168 resolution of its predecessor. Brightness remains impressive at 1,600 nits (typical) and 4,500 nits (peak). The LTPO display supports a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and power efficiency. Dolby Vision enhances HDR content. Wet hand usage is supported. An upgraded ultrasonic fingerprint scanner promises faster, more convenient unlocking. A new sun mode and night-time eye protection features are also included. The Chinese model features a “Ceramic” protective shield instead of Gorilla Glass.
Galaxy S25 Ultra render.The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display is rumored to see minimal changes, retaining the 6.86-inch, 1440 x 3120 resolution, and LTPO technology with a 120Hz refresh rate. Reduced bezels may slightly decrease the overall width. Brightness levels are expected to be comparable to the S24 Ultra, which boasted around 1,500 nits (typical) and 2,600 nits (peak). Hopefully, Samsung will address any previous display glitches. The S25 Ultra supports HDR10+, while the OnePlus 13 supports Dolby Vision. This difference may be noticeable when viewing content from platforms like Netflix and HBO Max. Other major streaming services support both formats. Gorilla Glass Armor is likely to remain the protective glass of choice.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Performance
Leaked image of OnePlus 13.Both devices are expected to utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This 3nm chip features Oryon cores, previously exclusive to Qualcomm’s laptop chips. The eight Oryon cores, arranged in two and six-core clusters, promise significant performance and efficiency gains. Software optimization and additional hardware will ultimately determine the real-world performance difference between the two phones.
OnePlus 13 vapor chamber.OnePlus continues its focus on thermal management with a multilayer vapor cooling chamber. A 13% increase in surface area, combined with the chip’s improved architecture, should enhance heat dissipation. Samsung also utilizes vapor chamber cooling, though details about the S25 Ultra’s implementation are scarce. The OnePlus 13 offers 12GB RAM with 256GB storage and 16GB RAM with 512GB storage. A 24GB/1TB variant is available in China. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to offer 16GB RAM across all storage options (256GB to 1TB).
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Battery and Charging
OnePlus 13 fast charging.The OnePlus 13 packs a 6,000mAh battery, a significant upgrade from the OnePlus 12’s 5,400mAh, without adding extra weight. 100W SuperVOOC wired charging (potentially limited to 80W in North America) promises a full charge in roughly 45 minutes. 50W AirVOOC wireless charging is also supported, along with 5W reverse wireless charging.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to retain the 5,000mAh battery and 45W wired charging. Its advantage lies in using the universal PPS charging standard, enabling faster charging with various chargers. Wireless charging and Qi2 support are expected, potentially offering wireless speeds up to 15W and magnetic accessory compatibility.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Camera
White OnePlus 13.The OnePlus 13 features a triple rear camera system. The 50MP Sony LYT-808 primary sensor (f/1.6) remains unchanged. Both the ultrawide and 3x telephoto cameras receive upgrades to 50MP sensors, promising improved light capture. The 32MP selfie camera is carried over. All cameras benefit from Hasselblad color science. 8K video recording at 30fps is now supported on the rear camera, while the front camera can record 4K at 60fps.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra render.The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to feature an enhanced 200MP primary camera with improved image processing. The ultrawide camera gets a boost to 50MP. The 10MP 3x telephoto camera is rumored to receive a new sensor. The 50MP 5x periscope telephoto and 32MP front camera are likely to remain the same. 8K@30fps video recording is also expected. Samsung’s selfie camera offers autofocus, while OnePlus uses fixed focus.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Software and Updates
OxygenOS 15 on OnePlus 12.The OnePlus 13 runs OxygenOS 15 (based on Android 15) globally. This update introduces visual enhancements, including improved theming, lock screen customization, and smoother animations. OxygenOS 15 also optimizes system storage and brings Open Canvas functionality. Update guarantees for the OnePlus 13 are yet to be confirmed.
One UI 7.The Galaxy S25 Ultra is anticipated to launch with One UI 7, based on Android 15. This update features new icons, an improved camera app, and a “Now Bar” offering interactive controls. Samsung continues to lead in AI features, including AI-assisted writing and live call translations. Samsung offers seven years of software updates for its flagship devices and supports DeX for a desktop-like experience.
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Conclusion
OnePlus 13 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra renders.The OnePlus 13 has cemented its place in the premium smartphone segment. With features like IP69 rating, an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, a large battery, and rapid charging, it presents a compelling option at an expected price below $1,000. The Galaxy S25 Ultra excels with its S Pen, versatile charging options, and a more advanced telephoto setup. Samsung also offers superior long-term software support. A definitive verdict requires real-world testing. This comparison serves as a primer for the upcoming battle between these two highly anticipated devices. We will update this article with further insights upon their global release.
