Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy S25 Edge, the sleek and surprising addition to its 2025 flagship lineup.
While the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains the top dog for power users, the Edge steps in with a bold new approach—focusing on ultra-thin design, premium feel, and lighter form factor.
But is it worth the high price tag, or does the Ultra still reign supreme?
? Release Date & ? Price
The Galaxy S25 Edge hits the market on May 30, 2025, with a premium price to match its luxury appeal. The 256GB variant costs £1,099, while the 512GB version comes in at £1,199. This places it dangerously close to Ultra territory in terms of price.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, released back in February 2025, starts at around $1,199 USD, though it’s now commonly available for around $915. With more features baked in, the Ultra arguably offers better value for money, especially for performance-driven users.
? Design & Build Quality
The biggest talking point of the S25 Edge is just how incredibly slim and light it is. Measuring only 5.8mm thick and weighing just 163g, it’s one of the thinnest smartphones ever made. In comparison, the S25 Ultra is a hefty 218g and significantly thicker due to its integrated S Pen.
Both phones use a titanium frame and come with IP68 water and dust resistance. The Edge features Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the front, while the Ultra offers Gorilla Glass Armor with a superior anti-glare finish, making it easier to view outdoors. In terms of grip and comfort, the Edge’s rounded corners and lighter body give it a more pleasant in-hand feel.
? Display & Audio
The Galaxy S25 Edge boasts a 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display, which matches the S25 Plus but is slightly smaller than the Ultra’s massive 6.8-inch panel. Despite lacking the anti-glare tech, the Edge’s screen is bright, vibrant, and HDR10-certified, and supports AI-based Procala video upscaling.
Audio performance is solid on both devices, featuring stereo speakers that are loud and crisp. Whether you’re watching videos or taking calls in noisy spaces, both phones deliver strong audio clarity.
⚙️ Software & Features
Despite early rumors, the S25 Edge ships with One UI 7 on Android 15, not Android 16. Like the rest of the lineup, it comes with seven years of OS and security updates. You’ll find all the core Samsung Knox security tools, Google AI features like Circle to Search, and Samsung’s own AI-powered tools like Generative Edit and Audio Eraser.
However, one big omission is the S Pen, which remains exclusive to the Ultra. The Edge’s ultra-thin design leaves no room for stylus storage, so note-takers and sketchers will have to stick with the Ultra.
? Performance & Cooling
Both phones run on the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Elite for Galaxy chipset, meaning you’ll get similar flagship-level performance for gaming, multitasking, and media creation. However, the Ultra features a dedicated vapor chamber for cooling, while the Edge relies on thermal interface materials (TIM) due to its thinner build.
During early hands-on testing, the Edge did get a bit warm when recording 4K video, which raises concerns about sustained performance under heavy load. We’ll know more after full real-world testing, but the Ultra has the edge when it comes to thermal management.
? Battery & Charging
Battery life is where the S25 Edge compromises the most. It packs a 3,900mAh battery, one of the smallest in any flagship this year. In contrast, the Ultra offers a 5,000mAh battery, which provides a full day’s usage with ease.
Charging is also slower on the Edge, with 25W wired charging compared to 45W on the Ultra. Both phones support 15W wireless and 7.5W reverse wireless charging, but power users will definitely benefit from the Ultra’s faster top-ups.
? Camera System
On paper, the Galaxy S25 Edge features a 200MP main camera—the same sensor as the Ultra’s primary lens. However, it only comes with a dual-lens setup, using a basic 12MP ultra-wide sensor with autofocus for macro shots. There’s no telephoto lens, meaning digital zoom tops out at 10x.
The Ultra boasts a more advanced quad-lens setup, including dual telephoto lenses and a better 50MP ultra-wide camera, allowing for superior zoom and low-light capabilities. Both devices support 8K video, 4K at 60fps, Pro Video mode, and AI-enhanced photo editing tools.
For selfies, both phones use the same 12MP front camera, with access to Samsung’s full suite of AI video and photo tools.
⚖️ Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you want maximum power, better battery life, stylus support, and the best camera setup Samsung has to offer, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the clear winner. It’s built for serious users who demand the most from their smartphone.
But if you’re someone who values elegance, portability, and sleek design, and can live without the S Pen and extra camera hardware, the Galaxy S25 Edge is a bold, beautiful alternative. It’s the thinnest Galaxy ever made, and it definitely makes a statement.
? Quick Take
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: Best for power users, creatives, and multitaskers
- Galaxy S25 Edge: Best for minimalists, fashion-forward users, and those who hate bulky phones
