Samsung Galaxy S25+ review: Still one of the best Android smartphones despite an innovation standstill
A safe bet.
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ boasts a range of premium features and combines a high-quality design with brute performance, a powerful display and long battery life. It also comes with 7 years of updates and even more AI. However, not much has changed compared to the Galaxy S24+, as our test reveals.Manuel Masiero, 👁 Daniel Schmidt (translated by Daisy Dickson) Published 🇩🇪 🇫🇷 ...
Verdict on the Samsung Galaxy S25+: More of a facelift than a new edition
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is currently one of the best smartphones on the market when it comes to its features and performance. However, the improvements compared to its predecessor are very modest—essentially being limited to a faster processor, more AI, WiFi 7 instead of WiFi 6 and a more up-to-date Android version.
Nevertheless, the Galaxy S25+ impressed us during our test with its bright LPTO display, great build quality, good triple-camera and long battery life. As with the Galaxy S24+, the icing on the cake is its 7 years of updates, which hardly any other manufacturer currently offers.
Of course, Samsung's large S-Class isn't completely without its faults. We have to criticize its poor Bluetooth support, which even lacks LC3. Its PWM dimming is also very conservative and, in contrast to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, it only features a 3x optical zoom.
Pros
Cons
Price and availability
Via Samsung's online store, you can purchase the Galaxy S25+ with 256 GB storage for $999.99. Alternatively, the device can be found on Amazon for just over $100 less.
Possible alternatives compared
Image | Model / Review | Price | Weight | Drive | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. 88.4%  | Samsung Galaxy S25+ Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy ⎘ Qualcomm Adreno 830 ⎘ 12 GB Memory, 256 GB | Amazon: 1. $6.99 Wiaocit 3 Pack Tempered Glas... 2. $7.99 YWXTW 3 Pack Camera Lens Pro... 3. $26.98 UltraGlass Unbreak TOP 9H+ G... List Price: 1149 Euro | 190 g | 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash | 6.70" 3120x1440 513 PPI Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
2. 88.6%  | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Apple A18 Pro ⎘ Apple A18 Pro GPU ⎘ 8 GB Memory, 256 GB NVMe | Amazon: 1. $26.98 UltraGlass UNBREAK TOP 9H+ G... 2. $18.99 Spigen Tempered Glass Screen... 3. $31.98 UltraGlass Ultra 9H+ Glass f... List Price: 1449€ | 227 g | 256 GB NVMe | 6.90" 2868x1320 458 PPI Super Retina XDR OLED |
3. 86%  | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Google Tensor G4 ⎘ ARM Mali-G715 MP7 ⎘ 16 GB Memory, 256 GB | Amazon: 1. $1,098.75 Google Pixel 9 Pro XL - Unlo... 2. $8.49 OMOTON 3+2 Pack for Google P... 3. $8.62 Ferilinso Full Coverage 3 Pa... List Price: 1299€ | 221 g | 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash | 6.80" 2992x1344 482 PPI OLED |
4. 89.2%  | Honor Magic7 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite ⎘ Qualcomm Adreno 830 ⎘ 12 GB Memory, 512 GB | Amazon: 1. $8.99 MOOISVS 2+2Pack for Honor Ma... 2. $8.99 MOOISVS 2+2 Pack for Honor M... 3. $10.44 YOUULAR [1 Pack Privacy Scre... List Price: 1300€ | 223 g | 512 GB UFS 4.0 Flash | 6.80" 2800x1280 453 PPI OLED |
5. 89.8% v7 (old)  | Samsung Galaxy S24+ Samsung Exynos 2400 ⎘ Samsung Xclipse 940 ⎘ 12 GB Memory, 512 GB | Amazon: $929.95 List Price: 1149€ | 196 g | 512 GB UFS 4.0 Flash | 6.70" 3120x1440 513 PPI AMOLED |
6. 89.9%  | Xiaomi 15 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite ⎘ Qualcomm Adreno 830 ⎘ 16 GB Memory, 1024 GB | Amazon: 1. $8.99 Anbzsign (2+2 Pack for Xiaom... 2. $6.99 GANGANPRO 1 Pack Privacy Scr... 3. $15.99 AKABEILA [3 Pack Privacy Scr... List Price: 810€ | 213 g | 1 TB UFS 4.0 Flash | 6.73" 3200x1440 521 PPI AMOLED |
Table of Contents
- Verdict on the Samsung Galaxy S25+: More of a facelift than a new edition
- Specifications
- Case - The Galaxy S25+ with IP68 and three special colors
- Connectivity - The Samsung phone with UWB and a fast USB port
- Software - 7 years of monthly updates for the Galaxy S25+
- Communication and GNSS - WiFi 7 and precise GPS
- Telephone functions and call quality - 2x eSIM and live translation
- Cameras - Triple-camera with an optical 3x-zoom
- Accessories and warranty - The Galaxy S25+ with optional theft protection insurance
- Input devices and operation - Speedy ultrasonic fingerprint sensor
- Display - Bright LTPO AMOLED display with half-hearted PWM dimming
- Performance - The Galaxy S25+ with a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- Games - Maximum FPS is the rule
- Emissions - Significantly reduced power under load
- Battery life - Charging at up to 45 watts
- Notebookcheck total rating
In terms of features and performance, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ sits between the Galaxy S25 and the Galaxy S25 Ultra. In terms of price, it lies exactly where its predecessor—the Galaxy S24+—started.
For the Galaxy S25+ with 256 GB, the smallest storage variant, Samsung charges an MRSP of $999.99. The maximum storage configuration with 512 GB costs $120 more (MRSP $1,119.99).
Compared to the Galaxy S24+, the Galaxy S25+ has only received a few improvements. Among other things, the smartphone is slightly slimmer and lighter, has a faster SoC in the shape of the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, and launches with Android 15 including Galaxy AI 2.0.
Specifications
Case - The Galaxy S25+ with IP68 and three special colors
Like its predecessor, the Galaxy S25+ has a matte aluminum frame—but is 0.4 millimeters thinner and 6 grams lighter, weighing in at 190 grams. Its build quality is impeccable, and the smartphone is nice and light in your hands and has a very high-quality feel to it.
This year, there are four color variants to choose from: Icyblue, Silver Shadow, Mint and Navy—the latter being the color of our test device. In addition, there are three exclusive color variants, Blueblack, Coralred and Pinkgold, which are only available from the Samsung store.
The Galaxy S25+ uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 as protective glass for its display and back cover. The latter is slightly frosted, but somewhat sensitive to fingerprint marks. Thanks to its IP68 certification, the Galaxy S25+ is dust and waterproof.
Connectivity - The Samsung phone with UWB and a fast USB port
The Galaxy S25+ offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, UWB and USB-C 3.2 Gen 1. Its OTG-capable USB port can output image via a cable and supports the Samsung DeX desktop mode. Connected to our external test SSD, the Samsung Portable SSD T7, the USB port achieved a very good data throughput of 381.1 MB/s.
Software - 7 years of monthly updates for the Galaxy S25+
Samsung has equipped the Galaxy S25+ with Android 15 including OneUI 7.0 and, like the other smartphones in the Galaxy S25 series, is set to give it 7 years of updates lasting until January 31, 2032. According to Samsung's mobile security website, Android security patches will be rolled out monthly.
Samsung has expanded the AI functions introduced with its Galaxy S24 series. They are now more deeply anchored in the operating system and work across apps, allowing them to be used much more flexibly. Samsung has grouped them together under the umbrella term AI Agents. You can read an overview of the new AI functions in our review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Sustainability
Samsung provides comprehensive information about its sustainability efforts in its annual Sustainability Report (2024 version here). The manufacturer also provides life cycle assessments that list the environmental impact of each smartphone during production, use and disposal. Unfortunately, no data was available for the Samsung Galaxy S25+ at the time of testing.
Recycled materials are used for the product's packaging and recycled cobalt for its battery. The latter was already used for the Galaxy S24 series. However, cobalt is now additionally to be taken from previously used Galaxy devices and from batteries that have already been disposed of as waste during the manufacturing process.
Communication and GNSS - WiFi 7 and precise GPS
The Galaxy S25+ supports WiFi 7 as its fastest Wi-Fi standard and delivered fast and stable data transfers during our test. When connected to our reference router, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000, the Samsung phone achieved peak values of around 1,200 MBit/s in the 5 GHz band, increasing to up to 1,400 MBit/s in the 6 GHz band.
In mobile networks, the Galaxy S25+ has access to a wide range of frequencies, so you should be able to get a reception signal with the smartphone in almost any location.
During our test, the Galaxy S25+ proved to be a precise navigation device. It communicates with all major satellite navigation services via dual-band GNSS and receives a position signal very quickly. On a 4-kilometer walk, the Galaxy S25+ was slightly more accurate than our comparison device, the Garmin Venu 2—a fitness smartwatch known for its high GPS accuracy.
Telephone functions and call quality - 2x eSIM and live translation
The Galaxy S25+ offers the same phone functions as the Galaxy S24+. This includes dual-SIM support and users have the option to use an eSIM instead of a second SIM card. You can also operate the phone using 2 eSIMs.
The Galaxy S25+ boasts excellent call quality. The Samsung phone reproduces voices clearly and filters out background noise effectively—provided it isn't too loud. During our test, intelligibility remained high for all call participants even when the loudspeaker was activated. The AI live translations already known from the Galaxy S24+ are also supported on the Galaxy S25+.
Cameras - Triple-camera with an optical 3x-zoom
The Galaxy S25+'s 12 MP selfie camera works using autofocus and takes beautiful portrait shots in daylight. These can be enhanced with filters in the camera app and transformed into AI images using Portrait Studio—you can choose between styles such as Comic, Watercolor or Sketch. The selfie camera records videos at up to 4K at 60 frames per second.
On paper, its triple rear camera is no different to that of the Galaxy S24+. In turn, this means the camera hierarchy is clearly defined within the S25 family: The Galaxy S25 Ultra with its 4 cameras and a 200 MP main lens is aimed at photo enthusiasts, while the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ use a triple camera setup: a 50 MP main camera, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 10 MP zoom camera.
The phone's main camera produces 12 MP photos using 4-in-1 pixel binning and takes really good pictures with realistic colors and impressive low-light performance. In terms of image detail and sharpness, however, the photos aren't quite in the top league, as subjects sometimes appear pale and/or blurry. Maybe this can be corrected with a future software update.
In good lighting conditions, its ultra-wide-angle camera also shoots decent photos, but some blurring creeps in at the edges. We like its 10 MP telephoto camera much better with its lossless 3x zoom, which still shoots sharp images even at 5x magnification.
The main camera records good quality video at up to 8K and at 30 frames per second, supported by reliable image stabilization. The AI tool Audio Eraser can be used to remove background noise such as voices or wind. Videos can also be recorded in log mode, which covers a wider dynamic range and could be interesting for video editing.
Image Comparison
Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.
Daylight photo 1Daylight photo 2Ultra-wide angle5x zoomLow-light photo
Under controlled lighting conditions, the main camera proved that it could capture colors very naturally and didn't show any major outliers even in 1 lux of residual light. The individual elements of the test chart also remained easily recognizable with minimal lighting.
Accessories and warranty - The Galaxy S25+ with optional theft protection insurance
The Galaxy S25+ only comes with a USB-C cable and a SIM tool. Additional accessories are available via Samsung's online store, including a matching 45-watt power supply.
In the United States, the phone is covered by a standard 12-month warranty, which can optionally be extended with Samsung's Care+ insurance cover. This runs for up to 2 years, also covers theft and costs between $50 and $200 for the Galaxy S25+, depending on the package selected.
Input devices and operation - Speedy ultrasonic fingerprint sensor
The Galaxy S25+ can be operated super smoothly via its responsive touchscreen. When tapping the display, the smartphone's linear vibration motor generates precise haptic feedback, the intensity of which can be adjusted in the Android settings. The function key can also be configured there. Using the default setting, it launches Google Assistant after a long press and the camera app after a double tap.
An ultrasonic fingerprint sensor located under the display unlocks the smartphone very quickly and scored a 100% recognition rate in our test. Users can also authenticate themselves biometrically using less secure 2D facial recognition via the selfie camera.
Display - Bright LTPO AMOLED display with half-hearted PWM dimming
The Galaxy S25+ displays a 1080p resolution on its 6.7-inch screen straight out of the box, but it can also be switched to 720p and—like the Galaxy S25 Ultra—to 1440p. Using LTPO, the AMOLED panel can dynamically adjust its refresh rate from 1 to 120 Hz. In addition to HDR10 and HDR10+, the screen also supports HLG.
When displaying a pure white background, the panel has an average brightness of 1,370 cd/m², increasing to up to 2,695 cd/m² when showing evenly distributed light and dark image areas (APL18). In HDR mode, it even reaches up to 2,900 cd/m².
Compared to the Galaxy S24+, this model's display doesn't get any brighter. But the Galaxy S25 Ultra doesn't manage any more, either. In the lowest brightness level, our test device's screen can be dimmed down to 1.02 cd/m², which is easy on the eyes in the dark.
The AMOLED panel doesn't use high-frequency PWM dimming. At minimum brightness, it flickers at a comparatively low 240 Hz and increases to an almost constant 480 Hz as the brightness increases. Although the signal amplitude is fairly flat, the display flickering could still cause eye discomfort for sensitive people.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brightness Distribution: 96 %
Center on Battery: 1371 cd/m²
Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 2.7 | 0.5-29.43 Ø4.86
ΔE Greyscale 2 | 0.09-98 Ø5.1
96.8% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.03
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 3120x1440, 6.7" | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Super Retina XDR OLED, 2868x1320, 6.9" | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL OLED, 2992x1344, 6.8" | Honor Magic7 Pro OLED, 2800x1280, 6.8" | Samsung Galaxy S24+ AMOLED, 3120x1440, 6.7" | Xiaomi 15 Pro AMOLED, 3200x1440, 6.7" | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | -5% | 51% | 29% | -8% | 5% | |
| Brightness middle | 1371 | 1055 -23% | 2148 57% | 1607 17% | 1358 -1% | 1016 -26% |
| Brightness | 1370 | 1061 -23% | 2050 50% | 1609 17% | 1358 -1% | 1017 -26% |
| Brightness Distribution | 96 | 93 -3% | 86 -10% | 95 -1% | 92 -4% | 98 2% |
| Black Level * | ||||||
| Colorchecker dE 2000 * | 2.7 | 1.5 44% | 0.5 81% | 0.9 67% | 3 -11% | 1.15 57% |
| Colorchecker dE 2000 max. * | 4.2 | 4.7 -12% | 1.4 67% | 1.8 57% | 4.4 -5% | 3.57 15% |
| Greyscale dE 2000 * | 2 | 2.3 -15% | 0.8 60% | 1.7 15% | 2.5 -25% | 1.9 5% |
| Gamma | 2.03 108% | 2.21 100% | 2.23 99% | 2.24 98% | 1.98 111% | 2.2 100% |
| CCT | 6450 101% | 6625 98% | 6582 99% | 6346 102% | 6656 98% | 6677 97% |
* ... smaller is better
Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)
| Screen flickering / PWM detected | 240 Hz Amplitude: 14.18 % Secondary Frequency: 480 Hz |  | |
The display backlight flickers at 240 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) . The frequency of 240 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below. In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 8437 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 343500) Hz was measured. | |||
Measurement series with fixed zoom level and different brightness settings (The amplitude curve at minimum brightness looks flat, but this is due to the scaling. The info box shows the enlarged version of the amplitude at minimum brightness).
During our measurements with Calman and a photo spectrometer, the AMOLED display revealed a few minor inaccuracies. The screen showed the best picture quality using the picture mode Natural, but was still not quite on the ideal line for colors and grayscale (Delta-E < 3 in each case) and produced a minimal yellowish cast. However, this shouldn't be noticeable during everyday use.
Display Response Times
| ↔ Response Time Black to White | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1.71 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 0.9155 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 0.7905 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 8 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (20.7 ms). | ||
| ↔ Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey | ||
| 1.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 0.759 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 0.637 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.165 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 5 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (32.3 ms). | ||
The viewing-angle-stable AMOLED panel performs very well outdoors, as display content remains clearly visible even in direct sunlight. However, the Galaxy S25+ can't quite match the outdoor capabilities of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, as the flagship's screen is protected by Gorilla Armor 2 glass. Thanks to its anti-reflective coating, this allows even fewer reflections than the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 installed into the Galaxy S25+.
Performance - The Galaxy S25+ with a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
The Galaxy S25+ uses the fastest Android SoC currently available, namely the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, in combination with 12 GB LPDDR5x RAM. The "for Galaxy" suffix means that the processor has a higher clock rate than the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Although the Galaxy S25+ couldn't outperform other high-end smartphones in terms of pure performance, it was slightly ahead of them in almost all synthetic benchmarks. Only the Apple A18 Pro could at least partially beat the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, for example in AImark v3 and the Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark.
| UL Procyon AI Inference for Android - Overall Score NNAPI | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (21837 - 23281, n=3) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Average of class Smartphone (1267 - 81594, n=149, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Geekbench AI | |
| Single Precision TensorFlow NNAPI 1.2 | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (633 - 700, n=3) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (51 - 1501, n=43, last 2 years) | |
| Half Precision TensorFlow NNAPI 1.2 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (51 - 9453, n=42, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (619 - 697, n=3) | |
| Quantized TensorFlow NNAPI 1.2 | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Average of class Smartphone (123 - 13084, n=42, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (1298 - 1567, n=3) | |
The Galaxy S25+ is one of the fastest smartphones when it comes to graphics calculations, which are performed by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy's Adreno 830. However, it didn't always take first place in the GPU benchmarks, which was probably a result of thermally induced downclocking.
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7: T-Rex Onscreen | 1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen
GFXBench 3.0: on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL | 1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen
GFXBench 3.1: on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen | 1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen
GFXBench: on screen Car Chase Onscreen | 1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen | on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen | 2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen | 1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen | 3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen
| 3DMark / Wild Life Extreme Unlimited | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| 3DMark / Wild Life Extreme | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| 3DMark / Wild Life Unlimited Score | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| 3DMark / Solar Bay Score | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| 3DMark / Solar Bay Unlimited Score | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| 3DMark / Steel Nomad Light Unlimited Score | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| 3DMark / Steel Nomad Light Score | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| 3DMark / Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Physics | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| 3DMark / Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Graphics | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| 3DMark / Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 / T-Rex Onscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 / T-Rex Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| GFXBench 3.0 / Manhattan Onscreen OGL | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench 3.0 / 1080p Manhattan Offscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| GFXBench 3.1 / Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench 3.1 / Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench / Car Chase Onscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench / Car Chase Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| GFXBench / 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
The Galaxy S25+ achieved similarly strong results in the browser benchmarks, even reaching the regions of the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max, whose Apple A18 Pro is the measure of all things in this respect.
| Jetstream 2 - 2.0 Total Score | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (236 - 334, n=3) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro (Chrome 132) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Chrome 121) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (13.8 - 387, n=165, last 2 years) | |
| Speedometer 2.0 - Result | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (425 - 446, n=3) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Chrome 121) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (15.2 - 569, n=147, last 2 years) | |
| Speedometer 3.0 - Score | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (29 - 29.9, n=3) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro (Chrome 132) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (1.03 - 34, n=96, last 2 years) | |
| WebXPRT 4 - Overall | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro (Chrome 132) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (236 - 244, n=3) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Chrome 121) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (22 - 273, n=157, last 2 years) | |
| Octane V2 - Total Score | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (95809 - 99202, n=3) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro (Chrome 132) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Chrome 121) | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (Chrome 129) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (2228 - 100368, n=207, last 2 years) | |
| Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total | |
| Average of class Smartphone (277 - 28190, n=166, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ (Chrome 121) | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro (Chrome 131) | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro (Chrome 132) | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ (Chrome 133.0.6943.137) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (377 - 389, n=3) | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Safari Mobile 18.0.1) | |
* ... smaller is better
Its UFS 4.0 storage helps the Galaxy S25+ to achieve very short loading times, but it proved to be relatively weak when it came to random read and write operations during our test.
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | Honor Magic7 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Xiaomi 15 Pro | Average 256 GB UFS 4.0 Flash | Average of class Smartphone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AndroBench 3-5 | -24% | 1% | -28% | 27% | 6% | -28% | |
| Sequential Read 256KB | 4057.35 | 1850.5 -54% | 3910.81 -4% | 2450.9 -40% | 3998.65 -1% | 3691 ? -9% | 2043 ? -50% |
| Sequential Write 256KB | 3311.02 | 1280.56 -61% | 3683.81 11% | 1523.87 -54% | 3673.38 11% | 2713 ? -18% | 1659 ? -50% |
| Random Read 4KB | 294.51 | 310.88 6% | 282.34 -4% | 387.42 32% | 409.67 39% | 385 ? 31% | 285 ? -3% |
| Random Write 4KB | 351.16 | 398.27 13% | 357.04 2% | 176.19 -50% | 555.55 58% | 415 ? 18% | 327 ? -7% |
Games - Maximum FPS is the rule
Stereo speakers, the Adreno 830 GPU's enormous performance and a 120-Hz display all make the Galaxy S25+ into a powerful gaming smartphone. In our tests with Gamebench, its frame rates were almost always at the upper limit, and even 120fps proved to be no problem in some cases.
From our small selection of games, the smartphone was only lured out of its reserve by Asphalt 9: Legends. Here, the frame rate fluctuated a little more than usual at maximum details, but was still well above 100 frames per second on average.
Emissions - Significantly reduced power under load
Temperature
With surface temperatures of up to 44.1 °C, the Galaxy S25+ got quite warm during our stress tests, which isn't unusual for such a fast smartphone.
Internal throttling quickly occurred under load. In the 3DMark stress tests, the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy's performance collapsed after the first run and was reduced to almost half in some cases. All comparison devices ran more stable, including the Galaxy S24+ predecessor model.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 43.6 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 35.1 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 63.7 °C for the class Smartphone.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 44.1 °C / 111 F, compared to the average of 33.9 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 26.5 °C / 80 F, compared to the device average of 32.8 °C / 91 F.
3DMark Steel Nomad stress test
| 3DMark | |
| Wild Life Stress Test Stability | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Wild Life Extreme Stress Test | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Solar Bay Stress Test Stability | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Steel Nomad Light Stress Test Stability | |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | |
| Xiaomi 15 Pro | |
| Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Honor Magic7 Pro | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | |
Speakers
The Galaxy S25+'s stereo speakers produce a sound that's low in bass but generally well-balanced, and it even reached a maximum volume of around 90 dB(A) during our test without getting distorted.
External audio devices can be connected via USB-C and Bluetooth 5.4. In addition to Bluetooth LE, the Galaxy S25+ also supports Auracast. However, the list of supported Bluetooth codecs is short and only includes SBC, AAC, aptX, LDAC and the Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC).
Samsung Galaxy S25+ audio analysis
(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (90.9 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 18.3% lower than median
(+) | bass is linear (6.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 6.3% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (5.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 6.7% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (4.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (16.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 7% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 87% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 36%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 27% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 66% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max audio analysis
(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (92.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 17.5% lower than median
(+) | bass is linear (4.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.8% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (1.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (15.4% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 3% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 95% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 36%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 21% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 75% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Battery life - Charging at up to 45 watts
Power consumption
The Galaxy S25+ gets by with very little power when idling, but then it really gets going under load. Overall, however, its power consumption is no higher than that of other smartphones fitted with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
The Galaxy S25+ can be charged via a cable at a maximum of 45 watts and wirelessly at up to 15 watts. Reverse wireless charging is also supported. In our test, a full charging cycle took 70 minutes (power supply unit: Ugreen 2C1A, 65 watts). A battery level of 80 percent was reached after just 38 minutes.
| Off / Standby |   0.03 / 0.17 Watt |
| Idle |  0.45 / 1.09 / 1.13 Watt |
| Load |
14.41 / 16.37 Watt |
    
| |
Key:
min: ,
med: ,
max: Metrahit Energy | |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ 4900 mAh | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max 4685 mAh | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 5060 mAh | Honor Magic7 Pro 5270 mAh | Samsung Galaxy S24+ 4900 mAh | Xiaomi 15 Pro 6100 mAh | Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Average of class Smartphone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 6% | -37% | -27% | 19% | 17% | 3% | -15% | |
| Idle Minimum * | 0.45 | 0.42 7% | 0.48 -7% | 0.94 -109% | 0.43 4% | 0.6 -33% | 0.49 ? -9% | 0.872 ? -94% |
| Idle Average * | 1.09 | 1.55 -42% | 1.53 -40% | 1.5 -38% | 0.84 23% | 0.9 17% | 0.967 ? 11% | 1.415 ? -30% |
| Idle Maximum * | 1.13 | 1.58 -40% | 1.86 -65% | 1.57 -39% | 0.95 16% | 1.1 3% | 1.037 ? 8% | 1.556 ? -38% |
| Load Average * | 14.41 | 3.41 76% | 11.03 23% | 6.76 53% | 6.7 54% | 13.9 ? 4% | 7.04 ? 51% | |
| Load Maximum * | 16.37 | 11.82 28% | 11.68 29% | 16.42 -0% | 9.5 42% | 16.5 ? -1% | 10.6 ? 35% |
* ... smaller is better
Power consumption: Geekbench (150 cd/m²)
Power consumption: GFXbench (150 cd/m²)
Runtimes
With a capacity of 4,900 mAh, the Galaxy S25+'s battery is comparatively small, but still gives the smartphone very good runtimes. When simulating web surfing, it lasted almost 20 hours and when playing video in a continuous loop, we noted just over 30 hours.
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ 4900 mAh | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max 4685 mAh | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 5060 mAh | Honor Magic7 Pro 5270 mAh | Samsung Galaxy S24+ 4900 mAh | Xiaomi 15 Pro 6100 mAh | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Runtime | 22% | -16% | -3% | -15% | 11% | |
| Reader / Idle | 3398 | 4226 24% | 2527 -26% | 3093 -9% | ||
| H.264 | 1804 | 1990 10% | 1806 0% | 2226 23% | ||
| WiFi v1.3 | 1189 | 1249 5% | 998 -16% | 1481 25% | 1009 -15% | 1444 21% |
| Load | 240 | 357 49% | 217 -10% | 264 10% |
Notebookcheck total rating
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is a very good high-end smartphone with a bright display, super fast processor, good cameras and long battery life. However, little has changed compared to its predecessor.
Samsung Galaxy S25+
- 03/14/2025 v8
Manuel Masiero
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The selection of devices to be reviewed is made by our editorial team. The test sample was provided to the author as a loan by the manufacturer or retailer for the purpose of this review. The lender had no influence on this review, nor did the manufacturer receive a copy of this review before publication. There was no obligation to publish this review. We never accept compensation or payment in return for our reviews. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.
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