Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Price, Upgrades and Refurbished

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the latest flagship smartphone from Samsung, showcasing cutting-edge technology internally and not so innovative refined design. Well, it is visually similar to its previous 3 predecessors The S22 Ultra, S23 Ultra and the S24 Ultra. In this article, we will explore the features and specifications of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, compare it with older Samsung models, and evaluate whether refurbished older models offer better value for money.

Preface

The Galaxy S25 Ultra represents the pinnacle of Samsung's smartphone innovation with its AI features and camera being the USPs.

Display and Design

The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display as Samsung calls it and comes with with a resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels. It supports HDR10+ and achieves a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring vibrant visuals and excellent outdoor visibility. The display also features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and gaming experiences.

The phone is encased in a titanium frame, making it durable and lightweight. It is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Armor 2, offering resistance against scratches and impacts. The design is sleek and modern, with rounded corners and a built-in S Pen for productivity, more about S Pen in the later part of the blog.

Performance

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which was exclusively made for Samsung, the Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers exceptional performance for multitasking, gaming, and AI-driven applications. It comes with up to 16GB of RAM (most expensive laptops out there still get only 8GB IYKYK) and 1TB of internal storage, ensuring ample space for apps, media, and files.

Camera System

The Galaxy S25 Ultra features an industry leading quad-camera setup, including:

• 200MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and multi-directional PDAF.
• 50MP ultra-wide camera for capturing expansive scenes.
• 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.
• 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom.

The camera system supports 8K video recording and advanced AI features for enhanced photography.

Battery and Charging

The phone is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, supporting 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. It offers reliable battery life for all-day usage. Interestingly it also bundles with reverse wireless charging same as old models in the family did.

Software and AI Integration

Running on Android 15 with One UI 7, the Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces advanced AI capabilities, including generative AI for multitasking and productivity. Features like Audio Eraser and Circle to Search enhance user experience.

Comparison with Older Samsung Models

Samsung has a rich history of flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S series. The Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S21 Ultra, and Galaxy S25 Ultra all stand out as impressive flagship smartphones from Samsung, but each brings unique qualities to the table. The Galaxy S23 Ultra and S21 Ultra share a 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED display, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces a slightly larger 6.9-inch QHD+ AMOLED display with enhanced visuals. In terms of processors, the S23 Ultra boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the S21 Ultra offers a choice between Exynos 2100 and Snapdragon 888, and the S25 Ultra takes performance to the next level with its Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The Exynos processors that were shipped to many APAC countries were notoriously underperforming when compared to its Snapdragon alternatives.

When it comes to cameras, the S23 Ultra and S25 Ultra both include a 200MP main camera, but the S25 Ultra enhances versatility with a 50MP telephoto camera compared to the S23 Ultra’s 10MP telephoto. Many users have managed to capture the details in the sky, its that good. The S21 Ultra, while slightly older, still packs a powerful 108MP main camera and 10MP telephoto lens. All three models feature a robust 5000mAh battery, but charging capabilities vary slightly the S23 Ultra and S25 Ultra support 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, whereas the S21 Ultra offers 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.

Price is another factor to consider, with the S21 Ultra being the most affordable at ₹89,999 INR, the S23 Ultra priced at ₹1,09,999 INR, and the S25 Ultra at ₹1,29,999 INR, reflecting its advanced features. Each model caters to different needs, whether it's cutting-edge performance, camera versatility, or budget-friendly value.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra offers incremental upgrades in display size, camera capabilities, and processing power compared to older models.

One Step downward

The S Pen of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces several advancements (software-wise) over its predecessors, including the S Pen models for the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S21 Ultra. It has gone two steps forward and one step backward.

Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen

1. AI Integration: The S25 Ultra's S Pen leverages AI for enhanced functionality, including features like Sketch-to-Image and AI Select, which allow users to transform sketches into images and crop or analyse content with precision.
2. Drawing Assist: It offers tools to create artwork from text descriptions and turn photos into cartoons and caricatures. Can it replace a tablet and stylus? Yes and N0.
3. Enhanced Note-Taking: The S Pen integrates seamlessly with Samsung Notes, offering direct handwriting translation and endless scrolling for brainstorming. It has evolved good in detecting even some of the worst handwritings out there.
4. Always-On Display: Users can write memos directly on the screen without waking the device which can be saved into the notes.
5. Magnify and Translate: Hovering over text allows real-time translation and magnification.
6. No Bluetooth Dependency: Unlike previous models, the S25 Ultra's S Pen does not rely on Bluetooth, simplifying usage and eliminating pairing. Which means the pen cannot be used as a remote trigger for camera shutter and controls.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra S Pen on the other hand enhances functionality with Bluetooth-enabled air gestures, reduced latency, high pressure sensitivity, and customizable features like Smart Select and Intelligent Capture. The Galaxy S21 Ultra S Pen, as the first in the S series, introduced precision writing, Air Command, Live Messages, and AR Doodle but was sold as an optional accessory.

Quick Key Differences With Its Predecessors:

• AI Features: The S25 Ultra's S Pen introduces more AI-powered tools, making it more versatile for creative and productivity tasks over its older variants.
• Bluetooth Dependency: The S23 Ultra relies on Bluetooth for air gestures, while the S25 Ultra eliminates this dependency.
• Integration: The S25 Ultra's S Pen is more seamlessly integrated with the device, offering features like Always-On Display memos.

In summary, the S Pen of the Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out for its AI-driven capabilities and simplified usage, while the S23 Ultra emphasises remote control features through Bluetooth, and the S21 Ultra focuses on precision and basic functionality.

Refurbished Older Models: Value for Money

Refurbished Samsung models, such as the Galaxy S21 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra, provide excellent value for money. Here’s why:

Affordability

Refurbished models are significantly cheaper than new flagship devices. For example, a refurbished Galaxy S21 Ultra can be purchased for around ₹39,399, where as a refurbished S24 Ultra can be found for about ₹80,000 compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s price of ₹1,29,999 INR.

Performance

While older models may not match the Galaxy S25 Ultra in terms of processing power, they still deliver reliable performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The Snapdragon 888 in the Galaxy S21 Ultra remains a capable chipset.

Camera

The camera systems in older models, such as the 108MP main camera in the Galaxy S21 Ultra, are still competitive and suitable for most photography needs.

Sustainability

Opting for refurbished devices aligns with eco-friendly practices, reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability.

Accessories and Support

Refurbished models often come with warranties and are tested for quality, ensuring a reliable user experience.

Which Option is Better?

The choice between the Galaxy S25 Ultra and refurbished older models depends on individual priorities also should you actually pay more and upgrade to an S25 Ultra? Time to find out.

• Choose the Galaxy S25 Ultra if:
  • You want the latest technology and features, including advanced AI integration and cutting-edge camera capabilities.
  • You’re willing to invest in a premium smartphone experience.
• Choose refurbished older models if:
  • You’re on a budget and want a high-quality smartphone at a lower price.
  • Sustainability is important to you, and you prefer eco-friendly options.
  • You’re satisfied with slightly older technology that still performs well.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a remarkable flagship smartphone, offering top-tier performance, design, and features. However, if you want to buy refurbished older models like the Galaxy S21 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra in India, Refurbo is always an option as it remains excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers and sustainability advocates. Ultimately, the decision depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Let me know if you'd like to explore this further!