I've tested every Samsung phone released in 2025: Here are my top picks including foldables
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Samsung is going into the summer on a bit of a hot streak, releasing its latest lineup of flagship Android phones, including the highly capable Galaxy S25 Ultra and ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge. The new devices round out the brand's versatile portfolio, from the productivity-focused Galaxy Z Fold 6 to the budget-friendly Galaxy A36 5G. Whether you're looking for cutting-edge camera features, all-day battery life, or a foldable screen that doubles as a tablet, there's a Samsung phone designed to meet your needs. When testing Samsung devices, we consider their performance, display quality, endurance, camera capabilities, and special features.
What is the best Samsung phone right now?
After extensively testing the latest phones on the market, I've found that the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best Samsung phone right now, with the company's top-of-the-line features and specifications, including an S Pen stylus for precision inputs, a 200MP camera system, and the most durable display on any Galaxy phone yet. The size and abundance of features of the S25 Ultra may almost be overwhelming for some users, but you certainly get what you pay for, with its starting price of $1,299.
Our runner-ups on this list are just as noteworthy. The smaller Galaxy S25 Plus variant is nearly as capable as the Ultra model but costs at least $300 less. You'll lose the S Pen and 200MP camera but retain most of the software AI features and AMOLED display. For something more experiential, consider the Galaxy Z Flip 6, which flips and folds into a pocketable square and is accessibly priced.
Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2025
The best Samsung phones in 2025
Why we like it: The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out as the premier handset in Samsung's lineup, largely thanks to its robust Galaxy AI capabilities and far-reaching hardware features. The latest Galaxy AI suite brings practical and useful features like real-time call translation, voice commands that work across multiple apps, and photo editing capabilities. My real-world testing suggests these AI functions surpass those on competing Android devices in speed, consistency, and overall usefulness.
Beyond the AI, the phone has impressed us with its large 6.9-inch, anti-reflective, AMOLED display and a reliable 5,000mAh battery. It helps that the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, 12GB of RAM, and improved vapor cooling chamber all contribute to a more power-efficient experience. Durability is another key strength you should be aware of, owing to its lightweight titanium frame and resilient Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass. Sure, you'll see some microscratches from everyday use, but cracking the Ultra model is harder than ever.
Furthermore, the camera system is significantly upgraded with a 50MP ultrawide lens that captures landscape and macro shots with greater detail and vibrancy. We've run several camera tests between the S25 Ultra and competing phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, and found the Samsung model to deliver the sharpest and vibrant imagery.
Review: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Who it's for: The Galaxy S25 Ultra is primarily targeted toward users who demand the best smartphone experience Samsung can provide and are keen to explore the latest consumer-facing AI features. It represents a particularly compelling upgrade for individuals holding onto three to four-year-old devices, offering significant advancements across the board.
The durable build makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize drop protection and longevity. Multimedia enthusiasts will appreciate the large, anti-reflective, 6.9-inch screen combined with enhanced cooling for smooth gaming and movie playback. Additionally, photography lovers looking for improved detail and color in wide-angle and close-up macro shots will find the new 50MP ultrawide camera valuable.
Who should look elsewhere: Despite its strengths, the Galaxy S25 Ultra isn't my top choice for everyone. Its $1,299 price point puts it out of reach for budget-conscious consumers, and users who frequently utilize the S Pen's Bluetooth gestures for actions like remotely triggering the camera may be disappointed, as the functionality has been removed.
Furthermore, individuals who prefer a less angular or "boxy" phone design might find the standard Galaxy S25 Plus or S25 Edge models more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to hold. If you don't require the absolute pinnacle of performance, the largest possible screen, or the most advanced camera system Samsung offers, the more affordable S25 Plus and S25 Edge provide many similar core features and represent better value.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Display size: 6.9 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $1,299
Why we like it: The Galaxy S25 Plus is a strong contender for anyone seeking a substantial upgrade without the Ultra's premium cost. It packs the same well-tested Snapdragon 8 Elite processor found in the Ultra and features a capable 50MP primary camera, ensuring high performance and quality photos. Users get the same smooth OneUI software experience, which means many, if not all, of the helpful AI tools found on the Ultra model, like enhanced Gemini and Generative Edit photo features, are available on the Plus, too.
Samsung also offers a reassuring seven-year commitment to software updates, keeping the phone up to date for longer than many older models and brands. (For reference, Google offers a similar update standard, but Motorola and OnePlus hover between two and four years.)
While the 4,900mAh battery capacity is unchanged from last year's S24 Plus, combining the efficient new processor and AI assistance results in slightly better battery life -- about an hour longer of usage, from the endurance tests we've run. Durability is also solid on the Plus, thanks to its Gorilla Glass screen, aluminum frame, and IP68 water resistance rating.
Review: Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus
Who it's for: This phone is ideal for those desiring a large-screen Samsung experience and high-end performance, but don't necessarily need every feature the Ultra offers, such as the S Pen or its anti-reflective screen coating. Priced $300 lower than the Ultra with a $999 starting point, the Plus hits a sweet spot for readers looking for great value.
The S25 Plus is also well-suited for users comfortable with a maximum internal storage of 512GB (only the Ultra model supports 1TB) who prioritize having the latest processing power and AI software features, backed by long-term update support.
Who should look elsewhere: Despite its strengths, potential buyers might want to look elsewhere under certain conditions. Heavy photographers or videographers anticipating needing more than 512GB of internal storage should spring for the S25 Ultra, which offers higher capacity options. Similarly, those who desire the unique features of the Ultra, like the integrated S Pen stylus or the enhanced anti-reflective display, should opt for that model instead.
In those cases, the Plus model won't fully meet those needs. For alternatives, last year's Galaxy S24 Plus offers a similar large-screen experience and may now be available at a lower price. If you prefer a smaller device but still want similar internal power and features, the standard Galaxy S25 is also worth considering.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: Up to 512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto (3x) | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 4,900mAh | Price: Starting at $999
Why we like it: While the Z Fold 6 might be Samsung's most advanced phone, the latest S25 Edge is arguably the runner-up, flaunting an ultra-thin form factor that gives it the benefit of having a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight hand feel. I've been testing the phone for a little more than a week, and it still blows my mind how this design combination exists in 2025. Picking up almost any other big-screen phone is like taking a step back in time.
While the S25 Edge is the first of its kind, it features the best aspects of the standard Galaxy S25 models, including the tried-and-tested 200MP main camera of the Ultra, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with 12GB of RAM, and a display that gets brighter than most phones when outdoors. Based on my review, the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens on the S25 Edge wasn't sorely missed, as the main sensor retained a good amount of detail even after digitally cropping.
Review: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Who it's for: Tech enthusiasts and users with delicate wrists (myself included) will benefit from the ultra-thin design of the S25 Edge. It really is one of those phones you have to see and hold to truly grasp its extraordinance. And once you use it, every other device will feel like a brick in your hand.
You'll also have to be willing to splurge a bit, as the S25 Edge starts at $1,099 for the 256GB variant. That puts it right in between the S25 Plus ($999) and S25 Ultra ($1,299), both of which field larger batteries and more cameras. Should you find a competitive trade-in offer at a retailer or carrier store, then the S25 Edge and its unique design may be worth considering.
Who should look elsewhere: While the price of the S25 Edge is one barrier to entry, I'd put it after the most significant caveat, which is battery life. With only a 3,900mAh capacity -- smaller than the standard Galaxy S25's 4,000mAh) -- you should expect to charge the S25 Edge by late afternoon. As a power user, I often found myself topping up the phone before the end of my work shifts, which is not the most ideal if you're a frequent traveler or don't often have a charger nearby.
Therefore, if endurance is a priority for you, I'd recommend the S25 Plus (4,900mAh) or Ultra (5,000mAh) models instead. If you're not a fan of Samsung's OneUI software, often criticized for having too many features and apps, it may also be worthwhile to wait for Apple's rumored iPhone 17 Air, another thin phone that runs on iOS instead.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: Up to 512GB | Rear cameras: 200MP main and 50MP ultrawide | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 3,900mAh | Price: Starting at $1,099
Why we like it: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents the culmination of years of refinement since the first Galaxy Fold in 2019, incorporating iterative improvements seen in previous models. This latest iteration delivers the most polished design we've tested, featuring flatter edges for a modern feel, a wider internal display for better usability, and a noticeably lighter construction than its predecessor.
Durability sees significant upgrades, with a new Dual Rail Hinge engineered to better distribute shock, an edge designed to withstand pressure and sharp objects, enhanced armor aluminum for scratch resistance, and, crucially, an IP48 rating, adding dust resistance for the first time alongside water resistance. The hand feel of the Z Fold 6 is noticeably more sturdy than competitors like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and OnePlus Open.
Beyond the physical enhancements, a major draw is the integration of advanced Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search, Note Assist, and Interpreter Mode translations, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and 12GB of RAM. In ways, the larger inner display is the perfect canvas for chatbot experiences, sketching, and more. While the camera hardware remains similar to the Z Fold 5's, I've found the enhanced image processing beneficial for capturing low-light photography and preserving (or improving) distant details.
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Who it's for: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is primarily aimed at users seeking the most advanced and refined large-screen foldable experience currently offered by Samsung. Thanks to its specific enhancements, such as the new hinge design, tougher materials, and the valuable addition of dust resistance with its IP48 rating, it should appeal to those who prioritize durability in a foldable phone.
Furthermore, individuals keen on leveraging cutting-edge AI tools, particularly those optimized for a larger, tablet-like screen, will find the Z Fold 6 compelling. It fits nicely for tech enthusiasts and early adopters willing to invest in the latest foldable technology. For some, the attractive trade-in offers by Samsung and US carriers can help make the considerable investment more feasible.
Who should look elsewhere: The Galaxy Z Fold 6's high starting price of $1,900 makes it one of the most expensive phones on the market, placing it out of reach for many budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, those expecting a significant leap in camera hardware over the Z Fold 5 might be slightly disappointed, as the main improvements lie in AI-driven software processing rather than substantially new sensors or lenses.
If the price is a primary barrier or if exploring different approaches to the large-screen foldable concept is desired, I've tested and recommend some alternatives. Competitors like the OnePlus Open or the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold are worth considering, as they may offer compelling features and potentially a more accessible price point for a large foldable device.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Main display: 7.6 inches | Cover display: 6.3 inches | RAM/Storage: 12GB of RAM with 256GB/512GB/1TB storage options | Cameras: 12MP ultrawide, 50MP wide angle, 10MP 3x telephoto, 10MP cover screen, and 4MP under main display | Battery: 4,400mAh | Price: Starting at $1,899
Why we like it: The Galaxy A16 5G brings desirable features like 5G connectivity and a large 5,000mAh battery to an impressively low $200 price point. This makes it a compelling option for consumers focused on value and essential capabilities.
For its budget price, the A16 5G includes some of the better specs I've seen in this range, including a sizable 6.7-inch 90Hz AMOLED display, expandable storage up to 1TB, a capable 50MP main camera for day-to-day shots, and four years of security updates. My hands-on testing found the phone surprisingly sturdy to manage, with a smooth display that's great for browsing and watching shows.
Also: The best cheap phones ZDNET's tested
Who it's for: The Galaxy A16 5G is ideal for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing long battery life, 5G access, and the flexibility of expandable storage without a high cost. It's for those seeking reliable essentials, including students, children, elders, and casual users.
It also suits those who want a better-than-average 90Hz AMOLED display -- most phones in this price range have 60Hz displays for more stuttery animations -- and a decent camera for everyday use, backed by long-term software support.
Who should look elsewhere: I always remind readers that expectations should align with the price; the A16 5G lacks the premium feel and top-tier performance of flagships, and that's to be expected. Users needing a device that can handle more strenuous tasks like video editing and high-graphics gaming should consider spending more for a midrange or flagship phone.
Serious mobile photographers will also find the camera system basic. As an alternative, I'd highly recommend the Google Pixel 8a, which offers a more reliable software and camera experience.
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G tech specs: Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300 | Display: 6.7 inches | RAM/Storage: 4GB/128GB | Cameras: 50MP wide, 5MP wide, 2MP macro, and 13MP front-facing camera | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $199
Why we like it: For those prioritizing excellent value -- getting the most "bang for your buck" -- the Galaxy A35 5G presents a compelling case, potentially steering buyers away from the pricier S and Z series. There are three standout reasons why this device arguably surpasses other sub-$400 options: it boasts a fantastic 6.6-inch AMOLED display that smoothly ramps up to a 120Hz refresh rate, features a versatile triple-camera system headlined by a 50MP main sensor, and includes a 5,000mAh battery that lasted me well into the night.
With the A35 5G, Samsung focused on the features users value most at this price point. Compared to its predecessor, the A34 5G, this model offers tangible upgrades like a more premium glass backing, a higher-performing Exynos chipset, and enhancements to the camera system. Crucially, its inclusion in Samsung's five-year software and security update commitment offers longevity rarely matched by competitors in this price bracket.
Review: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Who it's for: The Galaxy A35 5G is primarily targeted towards value-conscious consumers seeking a highly capable smartphone under the $400 mark. Its combination of a high-quality 120Hz AMOLED screen, a respectable 50MP main camera, and a large 5,000mAh battery addresses the core features many users look for in a reliable daily driver. I recommend the Samsung phone to most people who want a little more power and performance than traditional budget handsets.
The A35 5G is also an excellent choice for individuals who value long-term usability and security. The five-year update commitment provides peace of mind and considerably extends the device's lifespan compared to rivals like Motorola and OnePlus.
Who should look elsewhere: While the A35 5G excels in value, it may not satisfy users seeking specific niche features or aesthetics found in some competitors. Those prioritizing a particularly unique or "exciting" design language might find alternatives like the Nothing Phone 3a more visually appealing.
Furthermore, if rapid charging speed is a necessity, other devices could be a better fit; the OnePlus 13R, for example, supports up to 80W wired charging (compared to Samsung's 25W). Another alternative, the Google Pixel 9a, offers a more user-friendly software experience, with less bloatware (read: pre-installed applications and services) than the Samsung.
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G tech specs: Processor: Samsung Exynos 1380 | Display: 6.6 inches| RAM/Storage: 6GB/128GB | Cameras: 50MP wide, 8MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 32MP front-facing camera | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $399
What is the best Samsung phone?
While the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra sits at the top of this year's ranking list (for now), here's a wider scope of ZDNET's best picks and their respective feature sets.
| Samsung phone | Price | Display | Cameras | Battery |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | $1,299 | 6.9 inches | 200MP wide, 50MP with 5x optical, 10MP with 3x optical, and 50MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera | 5,000mAh |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus | $999 | 6.7 inches | 50MP wide, 10MP with 3x optical, and 12MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera | 4,900mAh |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 | $1,899 | 7.6 inches | 50MP wide, 10MP with 3x optical, and 12MP ultrawide, 10MP cover screen, 4MP under main display | 4,400mAh |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | $1,099 | 6.7 inches | 200MP wide, 50MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera | 3,900mAh |
| Samsung Galaxy A35 5G | $399 | 6.6 inches | 50MP wide, 8MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 32MP front-facing camera | 5,000mAh |
| Samsung Galaxy A16 5G | $199 | 6.7 inches | 50MP wide, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, and 13MP front-facing camera | 5,000mAh |
Why choose a Samsung as your smartphone of choice?
While previous comparisons have placed Apple ahead of Samsung regarding the overall phone experience, Samsung is arguably the best option in 2025. One reason is the variety of models across different price points, from the A-series that encapsulates the sub-$500 market to the S-series for premium shoppers. Having tested the latest handsets from both brands (and others), I find that the Samsung Galaxy continues to offer the most features and capabilities at relatively competitive prices.
When compared to the Google Pixel lineup specifically, Samsung wins out by having a more robust software experience, with greater customizability for users to modify settings, home screen setups, app behaviors, and more. Historically, Google has leaned on Samsung to debut the latest software features, such as Circle to Search and enhanced Gemini, so you can count on Galaxy phones to field more innovative capabilities sooner.
Overall, the popularity of Samsung is a key asset to the brand, as there's a greater variety of cases and accessories, as well as more certified repair technicians for after-sales support.
Which Samsung phone is right for you?
Choose this Samsung phone... | If you want... |
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | The top-of-the-line flagship Samsung phone with all the bells and whistles in a traditional form factor. It's pricier than most, but is worth the money if you want a no-frills handset that can do just about everything. |
Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus | A Galaxy phone capable of accomplishing 90% of what the Ultra model can do and costs less. The Galaxy S25 Plus is also slightly smaller, making it easier to manage. |
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 | A tablet/smartphone hybrid foldable and one of the most innovative Samsung devices available. It's arguably the best foldable phone on the market, too. |
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | An ultra-thin and lightweight phone that doesn't compromise on performance. If you're ready to ditch bulkier handsets (and willing to pay for it), this is one of the first of its kind. |
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G | You're shopping on a $400 budget. Even then, you'll receive a generous suite of premium features like a 120Hz OLED, a triple-camera setup, and a long-lasting battery. |
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G | You're shopping on a $200 budget, but still want a good handset. It's difficult to impress in this price range, but the A16 5G gets the job done. |
Factors to consider when choosing a Samsung phone
ZDNET writers like myself spent months testing every phone in this best list while also sourcing opinions and recommendations from industry experts and analysts who have also tested the devices. Here are the key factors that we look for when curating the top picks.
- Design: Unlike how we would compare the best Android phones, comparing Samsung phones across different price points mostly boils down to the hardware. How a phone is designed, what materials the manufacturer chooses, and whether the device can take a hit or two are considered when picking the very best.
- Cameras: The camera systems on Samsung phones have gotten superb over the past few years, so much so that you're well off even if you opt for a mid-ranger like the Galaxy A56.
- Special features: If there's one thing that differentiates most Samsung phones from other manufacturers, it's unique features. From the S24 Ultra with its built-in stylus and 200MP camera to the foldable screens of the Z Fold and Z Flip, you'll feel a sense of wonderment when using something that's built differently.
- Availability: Samsung has a reputation for bringing the wildest phones to the press, even if they're not readily available. That's why every pick on this list can be purchased at the time of writing, whether that's on Samsung's website or at a local carrier store.
How we test Samsung phones
ZDNET's review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every Samsung model, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and more. Here's a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many users' buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing.
- Performance: Several factors affect a phone's performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, all background tasks closed, and the most stable mobile connection possible.
- Camera quality: ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models.
- Battery life and charging: It's also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it (wired, wireless, or both).
- Special features: These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite.
- Pricing and availability: Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally.
For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive phone testing methodology page.
Kerry Wan's smartphone advice
I've used dozens of smartphones in the past year alone, learning the ins and outs -- the tips and tricks -- to make the most out of my handset. Here are my three biggest pointers on taking care of your smartphone in 2025:
Speeding up your smartphone
Something I always do when setting up a new Android phone is dialing up animation and transition speeds. You can do this by turning on Developer Options, a backend catalog of system settings meant for developers to access (rules were meant to be broken, right?).
To turn on Developer Options, go into your About Phone page in the settings and look for the Build Number. Tap on that seven times, and you should see a pop-up indicating that Developer Options has been turned on. Now, the activated tab will appear in the main settings list. From there, scroll down until you find Windows, Transition, and Animator duration scale. Tap into each and switch from 1x (default) to 0.5x to double the speed of your phone's animations.
Optimizing your battery health
To preserve your phone's battery life, it's best to charge it between 20% and 80% and never let it drop to 0% or charge fully to 100%. This is because the heat generated from overcharging the phone can burn (or degrade) the battery, reducing its number of charge cycles. This phenomenon is the reason why you shouldn't charge your phone overnight or leave it plugged in for an extended period of time.
When in doubt, after a year or two of usage, consider getting your phone's battery swapped to refresh its charge cycles. You'll be amazed at how well it functions again.
How to keep your phone clean
Unless you're invested in a repairs and warranty plan like Samsung Care, consider suiting your phone with a protective case and/or tempered glass screen protector. Beyond drop protection, the two accessories will prevent the phone from getting scratches, scuffs, and other blemishes and can greatly reduce the chance of water damage. For what it's worth, if a manufacturer claims its phone is rated IP68, that means the device can withstand dust ingress and be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at 1 meter.
Also: Best satellite phones: Models tested from SpaceX, Garmin, & More
What other Samsung phones are releasing in 2025?
There are three Samsung phones expected to be released over the coming months and into the summer, including the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and the company's first tri-foldable phone.
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 are expected to launch closer to July, when Samsung typically unveils its next-generation foldable phones. This year, I expect both models to feature thinner and lighter form factors, more creative use cases that leverage their unique designs, and camera improvements. The latest rumors point to Samsung expanding the outer display of the Z Flip 7 to around four inches, allowing users to better interact with the device without having to unfold it, and the Z Fold 7 will likely get a performance and battery bump.
Samsung teased a tri-foldable phone back in January, when it suggested that there were several untapped form factors the company was exploring. A phone with a display that folds thrice is not necessarily new, but it is rare and expensive. I'm expecting Samsung's tri-foldable phone to launch later this year, toward the end of fall, which would position the company's innovation factor well, as Apple is also expected to launch the iPhone 17 series with a more traditional slab design.
FAQ on smartphones in 2025
Which Samsung phones will get Android 15?
The latest version of Android, Android 15, is expected to arrive on supported Samsung Galaxy phones starting in early 2025. Compatible models include Galaxy S series (S21 or newer), Galaxy Z series (Z Flip 3 or newer), Galaxy A series (A14 or newer), Galaxy F series (F15 or newer), Galaxy M series (M15 or newer), and Galaxy Tab series (Tab S8 or newer).
What Samsung models support the One UI 7 update?
Samsung's One UI 7 has officially launched, starting with the new Galaxy S25 series of smartphones. It's expected to come to older models, too, including the Galaxy S21 series and newer, Z Flip and Fold 3 series and newer, and A16 series and newer. Select M and F series smartphones will also receive the One UI 7 update.
Which is best, Samsung Galaxy A or S?
While the A and S series of Samsung Galaxy phones cater to two different customers, there is an overlap in features and designs making both models worthy of consideration.
You should buy the A series if...
- You want a great-value smartphone that won't break the bank (less than $500).
- There's a generous installment plan or sign-on offer from your carrier.
You should buy the S series if...
- You want the most premium smartphone experience that Samsung offers and don't mind paying for it.
- You value innovation and/or having the best display and camera performance.
What is the newest Samsung phone?
The newest Samsung phone is the Galaxy S25 Edge, which features an ultra-thin form factor that makes it the company's slimmest S-series phone to date. It comes with 256GB of storage, 12GB of RAM, and a starting price of $1,099.
Which Samsung phone has the best camera?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has the best camera of any Samsung phone and one of the best overall cameras on the market. It features a 200MP main camera along with four accompanying cameras, allowing it to take extremely high-quality shots, including close-up images and ultrawide photos. The S25 Ultra can also video record in up to 8K UHD quality at 30fps, making it one of the most capable phone cameras money can buy.
Is the Samsung S23 worth buying?
Two years later, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is still worth buying. Compared to 2024 and 2025 S series phones, the previous generation mainly falls short on Galaxy AI features and camera performance. Even then, for a now depreciated selling price, the Galaxy S23 covers a good 80% of the S25 experience. That makes it the perfect alternative to the latest Samsung phones, even if they're now two years older.
Does Samsung have the best Android phone?
The ZDNET team ran extensive tests on the top Android phones in 2025, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra took the top spot, with one of the sharpest and most color-accurate displays on the market, ample amount of RAM and storage, and an exceptional camera system that's reliable even in dimmer environments.
Latest updates
- May 2025: The Galaxy Z Flip 6 has been replaced with the new Galaxy S25 Edge, with the honor of being the best lightweight Samsung phone. Information regarding Samsung's rumored tri-foldable phone has also been added.
- April 2025: We added information regarding what Samsung phones users can expect later this year, including the Galaxy S25 Edge, Z Flip 7, and Z Fold 7.
- March 2025: We updated the information regarding Samsung's OneUI 7 updates, as they're officially rolling out to older models.
- February 2025: We named the Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25 Plus as "Best Samsung phone overall" and "Best Samsung phone for most people" respectively, taking the place of last year's S24 models.
Other Samsung phones we tested
Be sure to check out ZDNET's comparisons of the best phones and Android phones available. I've also listed the top Samsung picks that didn't make our list for your further consideration.