RANKING

111

Rank 111 out of 117 Summarized in this category Rankings based on: • Pros-to-cons ratio • Number of reviews • Category average

Samsung

Galaxy S26 Ultra

Name: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Brand: Samsung

price N/A

All prices are estimates and may vary from actual prices.

549 Pros

62%
35 reviews (7h 29m)

343 Cons

61%

103 vs 67

Camera

58%

89 vs 65

Design and Build

68%

84 vs 39

Software

57%

83 vs 63

Display

87%

55 vs 8

Performance

Reviewer verdict

Pros Cons Index analysed 35 YouTube video reviews of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: it earns an Index score of 3.5/5, ranking #111 among Smartphones. Reviewers most often praise its camera, design and build, software, while the most common criticisms concern camera, design and build.

Pros: A powerful, well-rounded flagship with top-tier performance, excellent cameras and video, long battery life, and genuinely useful privacy and AI features.

Reviewers repeatedly praise the S26 Ultra for its flagship performance (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, improved cooling and sustained GPU speeds), versatile and improved camera system (larger apertures on main and 5x telephoto, smoother zooms, strong low-light and video capabilities including APV codec and horizon lock), very fast wired/wireless charging, excellent display and speakers, retained S Pen, and a new hardware privacy display and practical Galaxy AI tools (audio eraser, in-gallery editing, call screening). The phone is lighter, thinner, ergonomically comfortable, reliable in daily use, and a compelling choice for power users and creators.

Cons: Many AI features feel underwhelming and the privacy display plus some hardware choices introduce trade-offs that reduce overall novelty.

Common criticisms center on software and trade-offs: several Galaxy AI features feel gimmicky, intrusive, or of limited everyday value, and the Now/Now Nudge suite is often unhelpful. The new privacy display, while useful, requires a heavy 'maximum' mode to fully block side views and that mode degrades brightness, sharpness and color; even with it off reviewers noted viewing-angle and anti-reflective compromises. Other frequent negatives include incremental upgrades over the S25, a still-average 5,000 mAh battery capacity (despite efficiency gains), removal of some premium hardware touches (titanium→aluminum, no MagSafe magnets, S Pen Bluetooth gone), and high price.

Analysis based on 35 YouTube reviews (7h 29m of video) with 549 pros and 343 cons extracted.

Pros (549)

Camera (103)

Horizon Lock stabilization is available to help smooth video on bumpy surfaces — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Camera improvements: bigger apertures on main and 5x telephoto for better low‑light and zoom performance; smoother zoom transitions in video — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Photo/video output is capable and improved zoom makes these the reviewer’s favorite Samsungs to shoot with — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Main camera and 5x telephoto got new, faster lenses that let in more light resulting in notably better low-light and video performance and somewhat sharper images. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Autofocus is as good as before despite faster lenses. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
5x telephoto stabilization improved and feels easier to hold steady due to lens/configuration changes. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
New pro video feature (LUT preview) makes shooting log footage easier to visualize. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Strong video capabilities — APV codec (visually lossless) benefits editing workflows — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Excellent stabilization comparable to action cameras and useful horizon lock feature for video — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Samsung image processing produces pleasing colors, good white balance and natural-looking photos; good glare management at night — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
5x telephoto produces improved portraits with good skin tones and subject separation — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Selfies are decent and produce pleasing results — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Double‑tap can open camera directly in video mode for instant recording — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Horizontal lock (in Super Steady) keeps video level with the horizon even during full rotations — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Upgraded camera scanner removes fingers, folded corners and visual noise to produce clean scans — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Pro camera features: Virtual reflector in Expert RAW to simulate directional light and adjust color/strength/direction — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Pro video: Pro Video mode with LOG and new L filter options (e.g., blockbuster) for cinematic looks — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Disgustingly good camera quality; 200MP main sensor and f/1.4 lens produce excellent photos and low-light performance — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
New camera features (Samsung log, APV codec, built-in camera LS) are meaningful and not gimmicks — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Horizon lock feature on camera is practical for certain activities (e.g., skateboarding) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Camera system delivers solid everyday photos: sharper, detailed, excellent dynamic range, improved main and periscope sensors for low light — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Excellent video capabilities: up to 8K, likely best video stabilization on any smartphone, effective horizon lock for level footage — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Works well with creator accessories (example: pairing with gimbal enabled smooth lossless zoom/tracking) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
3x zoom lens photos have been improved after updates—now produce good results. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Main camera (f/1.4) produces natural background blur and better depth-of-field without portrait mode artifacts—good for content creators. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
5x telephoto is very useful and frequently used for detailed shots without disturbing subjects. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
New horizon lock stabilization is an improvement over ultra steady mode for action shots (useful when already using ultra steady). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Very versatile camera system that reliably produces good photos across ultrawide, main, portraits, 5x zoom and quick video — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
100x zoom is impressive on paper and can be useful for reading distant things (limited practical photo use) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Excellent video quality (great log video and 5x lens for video) — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Consistent, punchy, vibrant photos across lenses; strong 5x telephoto with brighter f/2.9 — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Very good camera output out of camera and useful built-in filters — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Improved photo editing (remove/license-plate edits) comparable to desktop-like results — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Cameras remain excellent (same strong set as last year: ultra-wide, main 200MP, 3x and 5x telephoto hardware) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
New option for aggressive video stabilization that keeps footage level even under extreme movement — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
One of Samsung's best camera systems overall; improved color accuracy with Digital Natural Image engine — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
200 MP main mode and 50 MP high-res mode available across main cameras — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Moon/long-range captures and AI-enhanced moon photos produced usable results — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Powerful and consistent camera system (200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, improved 5x ALOP telephoto) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Most consistent Galaxy camera system Samsung has produced (reliable usable photos) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Strong video capabilities with log, APV and manual controls — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Superior video capabilities vs Pixel: log recording, on‑device LUTs, 4K@120fps, and video features (horizontal lock) for creators — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Camera: reliable natural colors, improved aperture on main and 5x telephoto for better light gathering, brighter photos, improved detail and color accuracy (day/low light/indoor), front camera improvements and 24MP option — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Video: APV codec support (pro-level, less quality loss when editing), built-in LUTs (flat capture then selectable LUTs) and Horizon Lock stabilization—excellent video quality — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Consistent color retention vs S25 Ultra when shooting against sunlight; more reliable video/front-video consistency — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Good overall camera system: multiple telephoto options (3x and 5x optical), 50MP ultra-wide, 8K30 video, 12MP front camera — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Magic Eraser and AI camera features improved (better prediction) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Natural-looking colors with modest enhancement; good outdoor and food photography — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Stable video recording (rear and front can shoot 4K60 stable) and good audio for vlogging — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Video recording is excellent; new APV video with LUT support improves quality and smoothness when zooming. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
AI features like audio eraser are useful when needed; photo assist AI edits are very accurate and can be 'magic' in situational uses. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Zoom camera hardware is top-notch with big sensors, mirrorless-level bokeh, 8K video recording, and good stabilization — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Main camera improved aperture (from f/1.7 to f/1.4) and telephoto improved (from f/3.4 to f/2.9) — better low-light and night photography — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Night photos show noticeable improvement with reduced noise and better detail retention — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Good skin tone rendering, detail and portrait extraction; front camera optimized for selfies and portrait shots — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Video: supports 4K60 and 8K30, good audio & video clarity, improved colors and saturation — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
AI-based 4K extraction from 8K with processing gives better results — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Super steady video and horizon lock provide very stable, professional-looking footage — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Pro video formats (APV) preserve original quality across edits — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Generally good camera quality; video quality is a particular strength (better exposure consistency, stabilization, less grain) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Photos look great with different processing (warmth/contrast) — reliable for non‑hardcore photographers — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Cameras are reliable for photos and video; good daylight and low-light performance — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
200MP sensor and 100x zoom are useful and more legible than previous generations — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Good video tools (log, built-in LUTs) for recording — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Camera system produces detailed, low-noise daytime and improved night shots; good stabilization for video — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Excellent horizontal lock stabilization and video boost for low-light video — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Camera system: 200 MP main, 50 MP ultra-wide, two telephotos (50 MP 5x and 10 MP 3x) offering versatile optics — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Strong zoom capabilities (up to 100x digital) with usable detail at long range — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Fast camera shutter and good pro/8K/4K video recording options (8K30, 4K120) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Horizontal video lock stabilizes horizon while recording — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Can shoot 200 MP photos for high-detail shots — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Zoom cameras are a game changer — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Camera hardware improvements: 50 MP main sensor, upgraded telephoto lenses (50MP mention, telephoto details), improved ultrawide. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Camera versatility with usable 30x zoom and improved ultrawide, good skin tone and vibrant colors. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Good autofocus, close focusing / macro capability and smooth tracking in video. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Versatile camera array including 200MP primary, 50MP ultrawide, 3x and 5x optical zoom, and improved 10x "optical quality" — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Video improvements: up to 25x zoom and super steady horizontal lock (gimbal-like stabilization) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Cameras are very good overall; bigger apertures on main and 5x cameras let in more light and improve low-light/close-up bokeh. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
New video/software camera features: APV log codec, excellent horizon lock stabilization using the 200 MP sensor to produce very stable QHD 60fps video. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Improved primary camera (larger aperture) and improved selfie field of view; better low-light/night mode noise reduction for photo/video — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Horizon lock image stabilization is an effective software feature for stable footage — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
4K and 8K video quality is great; video quality comparable to iPhone in many situations — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Main camera produces great daylight photos with natural detail, good color and dynamic range; selfies excellent with wider lens — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Excellent video stabilization and very good daylight 4K video on main camera — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Consistent exposure, dynamic range, and white balance in low-light video — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
People love Samsung cameras for bright, well-exposed photos that look good to most users — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Subtle image processing (facet tuning, evened lighting) makes photos look better for most people — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Horizontal lock (super steady video) for easier action capture — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Larger camera module (implies improved optics/visibility of upgrade) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Camera improvements on software: brighter aperture, smarter image processing, 200MP sensor claimed 47% better and 50MP telephoto 37% brighter (on paper) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Improved night photography with more precision and noise reduction (software improvements) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Video: Super steady upgraded leveling with horizon lock (action-camera style stabilization) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Versatile camera hardware: 200 MP main, 3x tele, 5x periscope, 50 MP ultrawide, 12 MP AF selfie — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Very high-quality images, especially from the main camera — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Strong video capabilities: up to 8K30 on multiple lenses; 4K120 on main/ultrawide; APV log mode available in pro and normal video modes — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Selfie camera can shoot 4K60 and supports APV log — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Excellent cameras for photos and video; reliable for content creation — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Strong zoom performance (example: 100x zoom looks much better than competitor tested) — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Excellent portrait photos and overall strong photo quality in daylight and low light — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Video features: Auto Framing and strong video stabilization (horizontal lock works well) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Good selfie camera detail and quality — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Impressive rear camera hardware (200 MP main, 50 MP ultrawide, dual telephotos) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Stabilization features and horizontal video lock work well for smooth/locked videos — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Design and Build (89)

Includes a USB-C cable in the box — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Slightly thinner and lighter than the S25; good overall feel and attractive cobalt violet color — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Stylus included (fits with curved tip design) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Dbrand screen protector and cases are compatible (screen protector works with privacy display) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Retains S Pen slot (still available even if some wireless features removed) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Feels lighter, more balanced and more comfortable than most big phones; excellent ergonomics — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
S Pen is included and useful for sketching and note-taking — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Attractive design and aluminum body; thin profile (second thinnest device owner has) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Lighter and thinner design than previous model makes it easier to hold for longer periods — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Premium feel and more comfortable rounded corners compared to previous model (S25 Ultra). — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
S Pen support retained; new thinner S Pen still feels similar and usable. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Physical design (rounder corners) feels better in hand and overall look is cleaner (removed antenna patch). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Colors (e.g., cobalt violet) and exclusive color options are appealing. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Durability — survives rough treatment (pocket with keys, jet wash) with minimal visible wear — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Thin/ergonomic design makes it nicer to use day-to-day despite being less visually exciting — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
S Pen remains a valuable tool for signing, markups, notes and precise control (important differentiator) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Good drop/display durability (no scratches on display after drops) — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Lighter feeling due to aluminium frame compared to rival Ultras — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Solid, familiar design (similar to previous Ultras) and comfortable feel — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Looks nice; familiar premium design (only slight changes) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Slightly lighter due to aluminum frame — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Lightweight for its size (214 g), slightly lighter than S25 Ultra — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Lighter and thinner design for a 6.9-inch Ultra (214 g) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Durable build — resisting scratches/damage well in use — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Small design refinements improve in-hand feel (rounded corners, camera plate) and slightly lighter (~4g) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
S Pen included (great for note-taking despite lacking Bluetooth) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Plain, simple unboxing with necessary accessories (SIM ejector, user guide, warranty, USB-C cable) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Color has subtle color-shifting (violet to gray) which some may find attractive — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Solid build: chamfered aluminum frame and included S Pen — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Durable protection: tougher aluminum frame and top-tier glass (Gorilla Glass Victus 2 / Gorilla Glass Armor 2) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
IP68 dust and water resistance — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Build durability is strong in real-world drops: armor aluminum 2.0 survived two drops (hardwood and tile) with zero visible damage. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Armor aluminum 2.0 makes the phone lighter and helps heat dissipation—suitable for daily use. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Amazing hardware; feels really good in the hand with a boxy design and more rounded corners compared to the S25 Ultra — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Premium, sleek color and improved design — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Comfortable rounded corners and edges give a boxy phone a more comfortable grip — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Slim profile — claimed as the slimmest Ultra-plus they've launched (approx. 7.9 mm thickness) — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Very light display (physically/light-weight feel) and uses aluminum to be lighter — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
IP68 rating for dust/water resistance — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
S Pen included (slightly toned down vs prior iterations) — a handy tool — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Pristine, premium design; polished pocket-sized powerhouse — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Unique translucent/milky camera plateau that glows under light and looks visually interesting — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Potentially removable circular lens rings (design allows rings to come off with glass intact) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Improved camera lens module design where rings/glass click back into place (easy, cheap fixes) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass shows better-than-expected scratch resistance compared to previous year — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Solid build: aluminum frame (armor aluminum) and single-metal frame construction; rock-solid rigidity with no flex — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
IP68 rating with SIM tray rubber ring and protected ports — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
S Pen remains precise due to copper coils improving digitizer accuracy — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Long-term durability and solid build — has held up well over 5 months — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
S Pen included and useful for signing documents, note-taking and quick tasks — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
S Pen practical despite lacking some features — increased day-to-day use — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Made of aluminium again (after titanium detour) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Durable build despite drops — armor aluminium frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2/Armor 2 hold up well — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Matte finish that resists fingerprints and stays relatively clean — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Subtle camera housing design compared with some huge camera bumps — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
S Pen included and handy for annotating, signing and sketching — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Comfortable rounded corners make the phone more comfortable in the palm — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Includes S Pen with reliable locking and button to indicate orientation — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Thinnest and lightest Ultra phone yet from Samsung — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
S Pen support integrated on the Ultra with good design and eject mechanism. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Available in six colors including cobalt violet and Samsung exclusives — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Includes USB-C to USB-C cable and SIM tool in box — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
New fully rounded, softer design feels more comfortable in hand — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Slightly thinner than previous generation (7.9 mm vs 8.2 mm) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Simpler, less flashy camera layout with frosted glass looks cleaner — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Physical buttons and ports: power, volume, dual speakers, S Pen — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
S Pen retained (redesigned to match phone corners) and useful for precision input — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Official silicone case with magnetic backing fits well and provides protection — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Overall very positive first impressions: comfortable feel, faster charging, camera and AI improvements — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Initial impressions were pretty positive after holding the phone. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Design is slightly thinner, lighter, and rounder compared with prior models (more comfortable/modern look). — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Phone is a really good device overall with clever new features. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Hardware is very nice; favorite Ultra design in a long time — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Includes S Pen — high-quality, integrated stylus experience — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Good ergonomics for a large phone and pleasing color options — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Slightly thinner and lighter design with IP68 ingress protection — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
S Pen included and integrated—always with you, charged and ready — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Thinner design — Samsung's thinnest Ultra yet — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
More rounded look and updated S Pen with angled end — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Multiple color options including black, white, cobalt violet (hero color), sky blue, and online-exclusive shades — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Phone feels and looks premium despite aluminum frame — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Corning Gorilla Armor 2 on screen and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back for protection — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Includes S Pen (though without Bluetooth) — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Aluminum frame improves thermal management and makes the phone lighter — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Rounded S Pen integration and subtle design improvements — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
New camera island aesthetic liked by reviewer — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Attractive color options (notably the silver variant) and overall good looks — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
S Pen still offers useful features like Screen Write — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Excellent build quality, lightweight and good weight management; easy to use without a cover — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch

Software (84)

Uses Gemini AI for headline features (leveraging Google's AI) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Underappreciated new lenses and AI stickers (fun features) and useful built-in AI tools (audio eraser, call screening, Creative Studio). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Good upgrade choice for users coming from non-Samsung phones (e.g., Pixel) for stylus and Samsung ecosystem features — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Includes S Pen and long software support — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Perplexity assistant available as long‑press assistant — slick UI and strong at realtime research — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Powerful in‑gallery AI editing: generate edits (add objects, change time of day), replace backgrounds, and copy subjects from other images — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Quick Settings redesigned with customizable layout, resizable controls, vertical volume/brightness sliders, and reset option — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Finder button on home screen to quickly search photos, apps, and tracks — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Calculator can detect copied calculations from messages for quick answers — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Private album in Gallery to hide sensitive photos/videos protected by fingerprint — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Extensive customization via Good Lock: weather wallpapers, folder options, custom icon packs (Theme Park) — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Keyboard customization (Keys Cafe) with gestures and deep styling options — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Accessibility dim strobing reduces flashing areas to be easier on eyes — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Upgraded S Pen features: improved circle to search with 'ask anything' suggestions and custom pointer/sound via Good Lock — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Status bar battery background toggle — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Good Lock LockStar unlock animations for customizable lock/unlock effects — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Theft protection: failed authentication lock auto‑locks device and notifies owner when someone tries to open locked apps — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Android customization—ability to remove bloatware and apply preferred launcher — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Face unlock is quick and reliable — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
S Pen is genuinely useful for daily productivity (not a gimmick) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Great hardware and polished, feature-packed software (One UI 8.5 on Android 16) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Extremely customizable OS with many automation and AI features (Gemini automations, Finder search, audio eraser, system AI for settings) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features (Finder search pulls reservations, audio eraser works systemwide) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Classic Samsung power-user features: DeX, Good Lock, S Pen usefulness — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Overall polished, reliable, and cohesive experience; great software support and useful AI features — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
On-device AI features (Now Nudge, Bixby improvements) are integrated and can be genuinely helpful for certain tasks. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
1 UI (1 UI 8.5 / 1 UI 9 beta) — modern, highly customizable, improved quick panel, lock screen, widgets and navigation for large phones — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Useful Samsung features still present: modes & routines, Good Lock, split-screen multitasking, Samsung DeX — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI call features — live transcription, automatic spam blocking, phone can answer calls — genuinely useful and time-saving — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
One UI is excellent: reliable software, multitasking, edge panels, S Pen and customization — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
S Pen support retained — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Useful software features: Quick Share to Mac (AirDrop integration), Now Bar media controls, and Gemini assistant for One UI guidance — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be automated via modes/routines for convenient use — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Maximum privacy mode available for extremely confidential use — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Samsung DeX is much better than Pixel's desktop mode — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Good Lock offers deep customization options not available on Pixel — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Stable and well-liked One UI 8.5 on Android 16 with promise of seven generations of updates — TechBar · ▶ Watch
New AI features: improved Photo edit prompts, 'Now Nez' scheduling assistant, keyboard quick-send suggestions—useful small AI helpers — TechBar · ▶ Watch
BSP voice assistant integrated with Perplexity for more natural help; improved search features (Circle to Search updates) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
S Pen features (doodling, drawing) and software improvements compared to older generations — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
S Pen is very useful for quick notes, precision editing, and as a remote cursor — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Samsung DeX can transform the phone into a desktop when connected to a monitor — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
One UI has improved: smoother, more organized, and highly customizable — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Includes S Pen with good feel and directional usage — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Refined One UI 8.5 — smooth and snappy, improved search placement and global search/AI integrations — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Creative Studio features: on-device editing, merging photos, sticker/wallpaper/profile card generation — useful content-creation tools — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Smart AI suggestions integrated into workflows (e.g., suggesting photos when sharing), and call screening/details features — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Includes useful features like Samsung's privacy display — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
One UI offers a lot of software customization options — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Privacy notifications mode isolates notification text instead of entire screen — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature for blurring notifications (useful to some) — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
One UI (Android skin) is stable, well-designed and aesthetically pleasing — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Samsung's software updates commitment (up to 7 years) and generally improved reliability — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features and software additions (Now Nudge, Now Brief, Circle to Search) available — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Quick Share improves workflow with Mac and iPhone (easy file/photo transfer) — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Long software support promised (7 years of OS and security updates) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Useful 1 UI features like audio eraser and notification summarization work well — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI improvements: call screening, live transcription, nudge suggestions, and smart assistant features — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features: on-device image generation, styles, prompts, and sticker creation are easy and fun — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Many AI-driven software features (call screening, audio eraser, photo assist) that are useful and optional to use. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Will receive One UI 9 / Android 17 updates and AI features when rolled out — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Software optimization: Samsung/One UI tuned and polished; reliable updates — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Samsung provides 7 years of OS updates — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
New One UI 8.5 with multiple AI features (Brief improvements, Now Nudge, better Bixby, Perplexity AI integrations, improved Circle to search) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Document scanner improvements and AI-powered photo editing by text prompts — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Seven major OS updates and seven years of security patches promised — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Lots of on-device photo editing AI and more AI power than other Androids / much more than Apple — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Powerful AI editing examples: remove fog, change reflections, merge subjects into photos — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Generative features (change outfits, add subjects) are fast and creative — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Good productivity features (generate invitations, create wallpapers, quick prompts) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Most complete hardware and software experience on Android (stable, customizable One UI) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Seven years of software updates (long update support) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Highly customizable UI and useful S Pen shortcuts/features — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features included (call screening, AI answering unknown calls, and other AI utilities) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
One UI is one of the best Android skins — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Supports up to 7 years of major Android updates — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Overall a complete, reliable Android flagship with top software and AI features — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features (Circle to Search, Gemini, Gemini Live) provide genuinely useful, time-saving functionality — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Full Samsung feature set (Dex, wireless Dex) available and useful on occasion — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Easy-to-use Samsung UI; portrait video HDR is excellent — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Lots of customization options (Good Lock, Modes and Routines) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Powerful Galaxy AI with advanced features and strong AI performance — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Long-term software updates and regular fixes via security updates — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Improved document scanning (auto-crop, save as PDF) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch

Display (83)

6.9-inch AMOLED 2X display with Gorilla Armor 2 protection — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Privacy display works well in practice (including a 'maximum privacy' setting) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Privacy display that can be automatically triggered per‑app and hides notifications for onlookers; useful without permanent viewing penalties — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Privacy display provides a strong maximum mode that effectively blocks side viewing of texts/emails (useful for checking private content in public). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be automated and partially applied (notifications, texts, emails, part of the screen) and supports convenient shortcuts (double press side button, GoodLock workaround for long press). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflection is still much better than most phones (including latest iPhone), despite being slightly worse than last gen. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Excellent overall display experience (display, haptics, touch response, speakers) — very pleasing colors and responsive interaction — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature can be useful in crowded/public situations and can be enabled for certain screen areas — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Excellent low brightness mode that makes the screen easier on the eyes at night — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Reduced banding (better gradients than previous S25 Ultra) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Brand new privacy display that hides screen from side viewers while remaining readable straight on; customizable for pins, passwords, notifications, or specific apps — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Large, bright, smooth display; looks great and supports up to 120 Hz for gaming — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature helps reduce screen brightness visibility to others (useful in bed) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Privacy display works well to hide screen from side views and can be automated — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Large 6.9-inch display is excellent for media and gaming; vibrant and smooth despite being 8-bit simulated 10-bit — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Privacy display is very useful in real life (e.g., using in bed without bothering others); used more than expected. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
One of the best displays available on any phone — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
New privacy display that effectively shields notifications and PIN/password entry while remaining usable head-on — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Privacy display has automatic and per-app modes (useful for banking, documents) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Display still Super AMOLED 2X, 120 Hz variable refresh and overall good-looking — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Good dithering/colour rendering despite being 8-bit (appears nicer in practice) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Very bright display (up to ~2600 nits max) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Privacy screen (Flex Magic Pixel) works as advertised, can be toggled per app/notifications and added as a Quick Panel widget with smart conditions — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be applied at pixel level to sensitive apps and set to auto-enable for Secure Folder or when entering passcode — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature (helps prevent people beside you from easily seeing your screen) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Excellent anti-reflective coating — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Privacy display to hide screen from shoulder‑surfers and block specific portions (notifications), no need for special protector — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Galaxy Ultra displays historically best in Android for brightness and clarity (though caveated by privacy display) — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Privacy Display works well—blocks side viewing and can be enabled per-app (useful for UPI/banking/YouTube) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Explanation of dual-LED implementation for privacy (good engineering detail) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Option to enable privacy display only for selected apps (preserves brightness when off) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
No blue tint when compared corner-to-corner with S25 Ultra (S26 shows less blue shade) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Still among the best anti-reflective displays and display specs: 6.9" QHD LTPO, ~2600 nits peak, excellent outdoor visibility and color/content viewing — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Top-notch display hardware overall — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Large 6.9-inch dynamic LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh and very high max brightness (2,600 nits) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
New privacy display feature (can be useful to protect viewing) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
High-quality 6.9-inch LTPO 120-Hz AMOLED display great for videos, photo editing, and gaming — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflective coating helps outdoor visibility — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature (useful for some people) — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Display has a privacy mode (Privacy Display) that limits side viewing and can be enabled per-app or per-notification — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Hardware-level implementation of privacy display with two kinds of pixels producing targeted light for better full-view and privacy — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
10-bit panel improves color depth compared with previous model — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Improved sharpness and better-looking images at edges compared to S25 Ultra (less softness) — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Gorgeous 6.9-inch AMOLED display with very slim bezels — great for content consumption and shows less banding versus Pixel 11 — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Privacy screen that effectively narrows viewing angle (cuts visibility roughly in half) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
High-resolution display (1440p when privacy mode off) with up to 2600 nits brightness (when privacy off) and 120 Hz refresh — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Excellent display quality — very bright and great for media/gaming — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Excellent 6.9in Dynamic AMOLED display with punchy colors, Quad HD+ resolution and HDR10+ support — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
New hardware privacy display that narrows viewing angles (useful for privacy) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with 1–120 Hz (and available 1440p resolution) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Privacy Display feature (per-app/customizable) that dims and prevents side viewing of notifications — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Large high-quality displays (up to 6.9") with high screen-to-body ratio and slim symmetric design. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Privacy Display feature that limits side-angle visibility (toggleable per app and notifications). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Very high peak brightness (maximum mode) for front-facing visibility. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Large 6.9" 1440p 120Hz AMOLED display with anti-reflective coating — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
New privacy screen feature that dims/blocks side view and can be app‑specific — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
New privacy display feature that limits viewing angles and prevents shoulder-surfing; can be toggled on/off and applied per-app or to notifications. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Privacy display is a genuine, special hardware innovation not common in smartphones. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Display remains a really good 6.9" OLED, 1440p, 1–120 Hz when not in privacy mode. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
When privacy display is off, full-pixel quality and brightness preserved. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Excellent display — among the best smartphone screens — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Display looks incredible: very bright, vibrant, improved over last year — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Includes a privacy display mode (built-in privacy feature) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflective and display improvements are minor differences vs S25 Ultra; still best-in-class display — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Special privacy display that limits side viewing and can be enabled per app or for sensitive info — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Privacy display effective in maximum mode and maintains text sharpness compared to last year — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Anti-glare coating helps visibility outdoors even with reduced brightness in privacy mode — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Very bright display with nearly 1500 nits in auto mode and up to 2800 nits on smaller areas — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
6.9 in QHD LTPO OLED with 120 Hz adaptive refresh down to 1 Hz and stylus support — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature gives extra privacy in public and can be toggled quickly — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Privacy display provides peace of mind and reduces self-consciousness in public use — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
New Privacy Display — first mobile privacy display allowing blocking of screen when viewed side-on, adjustable/selective privacy for notifications — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Display and privacy-focused upgrades are main improvements — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
6.9-inch dynamic LTPO AMOLED display with 120 Hz and up to 2,600 nits peak brightness plus anti-reflective coating — very smooth and bright — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Unique privacy display feature to hide specific content or make screen hard to see from the side — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Excellent real-world display quality — looks incredible in daily use despite 8-bit FRC emulation — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Privacy display built into the panel — useful for sensitive apps and notifications; feature everyone can use — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Privacy display trade-offs are marginal and largely unnoticeable in normal use — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
One of the best anti-reflective coatings/viewing experiences on the market — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Privacy display option works well (useful for privacy without a tempered glass protector) — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Privacy display feature (useful outdoors when adjusted) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Really great screen with minimal bezels and excellent outdoor visibility — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Buttery smooth display and good display protection (no scratches seen) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch

Battery Life (59)

Very fast wired charging (up to 60W) — 0 to ~45% in 15 minutes, 80% in ~30 minutes, basically full in ~45 minutes; faster wireless charging too — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Battery efficiency improved significantly vs S25 Ultra (about 16.7% more efficient in video playback test) and S26 Ultra lasts more than a day for the reviewer. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Respectable charging speeds — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Good battery life—still 75% after heavy use the previous day; plenty of battery left at end of day — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Fast wired charging up to 60W — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Generally solid battery life and optimization (reliable full-day use, ~6–8 hours screen on time) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Battery life remains fantastic after ~2 months and updates; easily an all-day phone for social media, gaming, etc. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Strong battery life — gets through a very long day without nightly charging — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Faster charging makes short top-ups throughout the day very effective — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Quicker/faster 66W charging — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Battery easily lasts a full day with normal use — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
5,000 mAh battery plus efficient chipset provides a full day of use — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Excellent battery life; can last up to 2 days for this reviewer and stays in mid-50s to mid-60s by day's end depending on use — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Excellent battery life (5,000 mAh — easily a full day of use) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Much faster charging / higher top charging speed (bigger battery charges to 50% in about half the time) — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Charging upgraded to 60W—full charge ~40 minutes from 5%, ~17 minutes faster than S25 Ultra — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Overall, initial concerns (battery degradation, privacy display usefulness, aluminum durability) were unfounded after extended use. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Good battery life that reliably gets through a full day — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Reverse wireless charging — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
60W fast wired charging support and large 5000 mAh battery — ~75% charge in ~30 minutes — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
25W wireless charging supported and magnetic accessory-compatible wireless charging cases — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Impressive battery endurance — lasts the whole day for moderate users; up to ~7 hours screen-on time observed — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Faster charging (60 W) compared with Pixel phones — noticeably improved charging speed — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Solid battery life and efficiency; typically lasts all day (6.5–7 hours SOT) — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
60W fast charging support — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Upgraded wired charging to 60W and wireless charging to 25W — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Solid battery life on Snapdragon model (typical days ending ~30% remaining; up to ~8 hours SOT on heavy day) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Improved charging speeds (60W wired charging, ~75% in 30 minutes) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
5,000 mAh battery (large capacity) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Largest battery on Ultra: 5,000 mAh (bigger batteries across the lineup). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Ultra has faster wired charging (60W) and faster wireless charging (25W on Ultra). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Wireless PowerShare supported across devices. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Type-C port now supports 60W wired charging (Super Fast Charging 3.0) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Excellent battery life in testing: nearly 8 hours SOT with heavy use (120Hz, 1440p, gaming, camera, editing) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Fast 60W charging: 0–100% in ~52 minutes (notably faster than previous Samsung phones) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Faster wireless charging option (Magnet Wireless Charger G2 25W) when used with magnetic case — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Redesigned vapor chamber and efficiency improvements yield slightly better battery life despite same 5,000 mAh capacity. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Charges slightly faster with a peak 60W charging rate. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Battery: 5000 mAh with slightly improved battery life (rated an extra hour to 1.5 hours); very good battery life in practice — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Slightly faster wired and wireless charging than last year — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Battery life is very good in real-world use (author reports ~8 hours screen-on time) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Battery life competitive with phones that have larger batteries; better than iPhone in tests — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Faster charging speeds this year — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Battery life improved over predecessor (about 16.5 hours active use) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Upgraded 60 W wired charging (81% in 30 minutes, full charge ~45 minutes) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Upgraded 25 W wireless charging (Magnetic accessories supported with magnetic case) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Battery life is more than enough to last a day and improved over last year — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Improved efficiency from a more efficient chip and display leading to long battery runtime — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Beats last year's Samsung, iPhone, and Xiaomi in the reviewer's battery test and thermals — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Faster charging up to 60W feels like real fast charging — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Battery capacity remains large at 5000 mAh — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Charging reportedly faster in practice despite same 45 W spec — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
5,000 mAh battery with 60 W wired charging — charges 10%→100% in ~45 minutes — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Excellent battery life (around 9–11 hours screen on time); best battery life the reviewer experienced on a Samsung flagship — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Solid battery life and efficiency despite a 5,000 mAh cell — improved battery life through software and optimization — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Phone lasts surprisingly close to much larger-capacity competitors in real-world tests — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Very good battery life so far (after ~4 months reviewer reports solid battery) — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
60W fast charging and good battery optimization for the 5000mAh battery — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Large 5,000 mAh battery with excellent endurance (almost 29 hours video playback) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Performance (55)

Spec‑stacked and very performant with customized Qualcomm silicon and improved thermal management — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Overall a great smartphone for power users/gamers who care about raw chipset performance and camera capability — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
New processor (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy) is noticeably faster with improved GPU (~9% faster) and better NPU features (on-device capabilities). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Larger vapor chamber improves thermal performance; sustained performance holds better over long workloads. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Gaming performance is faster (about 22% faster at end of 40-minute test) due to better cooling, even if it uses slightly more battery. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Overall package (battery, performance, durability, software, S Pen, cameras) makes it a compelling daily driver and hard to replace — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Overall the phone is very reliable and is a 'safe' flagship choice for most people — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 performance—fast, handles on-device editing and gaming without getting warm — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Best Android phone I've used; feels like a complete all-around flagship — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Faster NPU and on-device AI features (enhanced Circle to Search, editing in Samsung Gallery) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Very good thermals; handles heat extremely well (larger vapor chamber, armor aluminum frame) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Strong performance: fast snappy experience with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 12–16 GB RAM; excellent multitasking and gaming — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Improved thermals (runs cooler) due to armor aluminum 2.0 frame and bigger vapor chamber, which helps battery health and overall experience. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Excellent performance from Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 — very smooth, great for multitasking, gaming, filming, editing, and remains snappy after 6 months — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Overall: great phone for average upgraders; takes lovely pictures and has a cool privacy feature — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Top-tier performance; strong benchmarks and good for graphics-intensive tasks and gaming with large vapor chamber for thermal management — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Reliable day-to-day performance (photos, app switching, media) with no issues over 6 months — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Class-leading in areas like performance, UI customization, battery life, and (arguably) camera compared to most Android phones — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Acceptable thermals (okay, not terrible) and aluminum helps heat conduction — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Raw horsepower from Snapdragon—much more powerful than Google Tensor (enables tasks Pixel can't do) — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Can run Snapdragon‑locked games like Grid Legends and performs very well — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Faster video rendering (4K render much quicker than on Pixel) — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (Zen 4/Zen5 family referenced) offers improved performance and benchmarks (higher scores, stable under stress tests) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Real-world performance improvements (games like COD get ultra settings, better graphics); generally capable for heavy tasks — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Good overall performance and multitasking; powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (for Samsung) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Very good gaming performance (stable 60 FPS, strong touch response) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Split-screen multitasking (two apps simultaneously) is incredibly useful — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (or flagship processor) with expected ~20% power/performance boost and ~21% efficiency improvement over last gen — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Strong real-world/gaming performance; thermal and average FPS monitoring possible — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Excellent performance powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 — great for gaming and intensive apps — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Doesn't get very warm under use (better thermal behavior versus some Pixel phones) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Overall superior hardware and raw performance compared with current Pixel phones (display, charging, battery, processor/GPU) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Strong processing performance (potent processing) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Upgraded cooling (larger vapor chamber) helps sustained performance — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Great gaming and media performance (FIFA, Call of Duty, Clash of Clans) — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Strong performance from Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy and 12 GB RAM — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Strong performance from Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 for Galaxy; smooth multitasking and gaming — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset provides smooth, snappy performance with no observed slowness — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Latest chip: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (top-tier performance). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Strong performance with overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite; smooth gaming and controller/S Pen support — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Performance is excellent with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy; smooth animations, handles multitasking and gaming. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Fantastic phone; one of the best phones I've used in a long time — stable, consistent, reliable — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Has 12 GB RAM and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 — capable of running upcoming AI/Gemini features — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Great haptics and typing experience; very fast and zippy performance — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Top-tier performance in US variant thanks to Samsung-tuned Snapdragon — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Top-tier performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5; excellent for gaming and heavy use — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 '4 Galaxy' chipset delivering class-leading benchmark performance — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Phone is very fast (performance) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Overall a well-rounded 'all-rounder' phone suitable for most people — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Upgraded chipset in Ultra variant: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (referred to as Snapdragon 88 Gen 5 / improved chipset) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy — excellent performance for photo/video editing and gaming — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Strong overall experience: great display, versatile camera, good battery, fast charging, strong performance, and reliable software — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset: smooth performance, no lag, good multitasking, and no heating issues reported — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
High-end chipset (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy) with strong multi-core and GPU performance — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Performs well in stress tests vs competitors (up to 34% better than iPhone 17 Pro in some tests) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Other (19)

World's first privacy display on mobile — privacy mode effectively blocks side views (~45°) making screen content hard for others to see — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Display supports 1 Hz–120 Hz refresh rate (1 Hz helps save battery at idle) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Very bright screen (Samsung claims 2600 nits; lab measured ~2900 nits) — excellent outdoor visibility — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Very stable software experience (One UI) — fast-feeling, smooth animations, reliable in daily use — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Performance is excellent with Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy — fast and stays cooler than many other flagships — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Top-tier performance — still very fast after 6 months — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Overall a very complete Ultra phone — consistent and reliable experience — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
New Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with vapor chamber — noticeably fast, strong multi-core performance — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Faster wired (65 W) and wireless (25 W) charging standards — significantly faster wired charging (0–75% in ~30 min) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Fast charging — up to ~75% in 30 minutes — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Minimal bezels — near edge-to-edge screen — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Privacy display (screen visibility reduction from angles) — useful for travel and public work — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Price did not increase compared to last year’s model (S25 Ultra) at launch — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Design improved — slightly lighter, thinner, more comfortable (rounded corners, aluminum) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Cameras improved — some sensors let in more light; noticeably better low-light photos and overall photo/video quality — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Reliable, versatile camera system with very good photo and video quality — video quality now comparable to iPhone when using native camera app — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
More rounded design and corners compared to previous model — improved ergonomics and feel — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Strong overall hardware — still a magnificent piece of hardware — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Fast charging: 0–100% in 67 minutes; 0–50% in ~18 minutes — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Audio (17)

Audio Eraser feature that suppresses background noise and enhances vocals on the fly (works well with streaming apps) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Comes with improved Galaxy Buds 4 Pro pairing: great noise cancellation, excellent microphone/ call performance and comfortable listening — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
System-wide audio eraser works on-device to clean background noise in media. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Speakers are clear and immersive (one of the best speaker setups on a smartphone) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Hidden Buds menu in Quick Settings for ANC and quick adjustments when earbuds connected — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Audio erase / voice focus in Quick Settings to boost voice clarity when watching videos — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Excellent speakers (physically powerful sound) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Fantastic speakers (massive improvement) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Fantastic, improved speakers vs S25 Ultra (major improvement) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Audio Eraser expanded to work across Instagram and YouTube and performs well reducing background noise — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Stereo speakers and flagship-level sound (slightly improved over S25 Ultra) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Speakers are punchy, loud, and maintain good sound clarity — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Audio Eraser removes background noise from recorded videos effectively — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Very loud, bassy and good-quality stereo speakers — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Speakers are good — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Improved sound quality with more balanced mids and vocals (stereo speakers) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Improved audio eraser now supports third‑party apps (YouTube, Netflix, IG) via AI — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch

Value for Money (15)

Samsung didn’t raise the price this year and made the phone lighter and thinner — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Very strong sales/popularity (bestselling Android phone in its quarter) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Offers familiar storage/RAM variants and previous promotional trade-up/pricing offers continue — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Early-bird promotions include freebies (magnetic case, power bank, 25W charging brick) and trade-in options — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Overall a very good flagship device; worthwhile upgrade for users of much older models (S22/S21 Ultra) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Overall a recommendable, refined flagship — 9/10; incremental but meaningful improvements — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Currently available $350 off (no trade-in) — good deal; can buy unlocked and use immediately — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Well-tested in the field with positive user feedback — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Good option for longtime Samsung users or those switching from other platforms — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Overall a really good phone and one of the best phones you can buy in the United States — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Meaningful incremental improvements (processor, display, charging, design) making it a comfortable upgrade over S25 Ultra — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Overall worthwhile successor: better battery, faster charging, slimmer, and useful privacy display — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Good value proposition after launch (sales available) — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Got a great launch deal (half off through Google Fi) making the phone much more affordable — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Overall recommended if budget allows; brings new features like privacy display — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch

Connectivity (9)

Excellent connectivity and call performance, even in low-signal areas — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Call screening / auto screen calls feature answers unknown calls and transcribes interactions so you can decide to pick up — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Quick Share now transfers files between Galaxy phones and iPhones reliably — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Extensive Samsung hardware ecosystem and strong integration with other Samsung devices — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Quick Share now works with Apple devices (AirDrop interoperability) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Type-C 3.2 port for faster data transfer — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Flawless Bluetooth streaming (high-res support with Galaxy Buds) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Dedicated MagSafe power bank support and MagSafe-compatible cases — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Hidden/moved 5G antenna but still very good service/reception — J. Williams · ▶ Watch

Security (9)

Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner works very well — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Super fast ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Under-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner still works even with deep scratches — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor that is generally responsive — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is very accurate, quick and has good haptic feedback — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Ultrasonic fingerprint sensors and DeX support across the lineup. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Fast and convenient biometric unlocking: ultrasonic fingerprint and face recognition — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Excellent, fast, and reliable ultrasonic fingerprint reader — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Fingerprint and Face ID perform really well — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch

Storage (7)

Up to 1 TB storage option — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Multiple storage configurations up to 1 TB — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Uses fast UFS 4.1 storage and LPDDR5X RAM — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Available in multiple RAM/storage variants (12GB/256GB, 12GB/512GB, 16GB/1TB) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Multiple storage variants available (256GB, 512GB) to choose from — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Up to 1 TB storage and up to 16 GB RAM on Ultra (flagship configuration). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Multiple storage/RAM configurations up to 1 TB and 16 GB RAM — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch

Cons (343)

Camera (67)

Video quality lags behind iPhone in low-light video; Samsung a bit behind for low-light video performance — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Photo Assist / some AI photo features feel unnecessary, sloppy, or gimmicky — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Some camera areas still lose to iPhone 17 Pro (more true‑to‑life colors, better night detail, better selfie rendering) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Camera hardware arguably behind some competitors — not the best in pixel-peeping comparisons — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
100x zoom is largely impractical for keepable photos (borderline useless for real photo use) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Some S26 Ultra units experienced camera fogging (affects certain devices) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Night mode can over-sharpen in some scenarios, producing unnatural results — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Ultra-wide isn't the widest and lags behind some competitors (e.g., Vivo X300 Ultra) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
10 MP 3x telephoto is the weakest camera link and needs a better sensor — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Still problematic motion capture — moving subjects can be blurrier compared with some competition — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Cameras lacked massive upgrades; missing a true 10x optical telephoto for long-range shots — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Samsung tends to over-process images (oversaturated/overbrightened colors, less natural color in low light) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Portrait/night edge detection inconsistent; subject separation struggles at night — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Occasional camera viewfinder glitch: brief warping/ stretching effect when focusing — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Horizon lock reduces resolution and low-light quality when enabled (trade-off) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Camera improvements are minor compared to S25 Ultra; not a significant upgrade in many scenarios — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Indoor/low-light photos can sometimes be softer with less detail — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
3x telephoto remains low-resolution and lower quality (hazy compared to 5x); effectively neglected. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Most cameras use same sensors as last gen; lens limits performance in some cases and high-resolution cameras default to 12MP wasting potential detail. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Faster main lens reduces depth of field causing less of the scene to be in focus and worse minimum focusing distance (can't get as close). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
5x lens improvements are modest; doesn’t show large gains in sharpness over previous gen. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
High-resolution cameras default to 12MP; 50MP mode looks better but isn't default, leading to wasted detail. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Horizon lock mode sacrifices quality: uses a quarter of sensor, limits to 1440p, is noisier and struggles in dark, and has digital stabilization artifacts. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
APV 8K codec makes regular 8K look soft and file sizes are huge (256GB can only store ~10 minutes), limiting practical 8K use. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
AI stickers/editing tools have low resolution and can produce unrealistic edits (e.g., adding objects that never happened). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Zoom performance has fallen behind competitors; 3x telephoto is poor (washed skin tones, grain, bad exposure), Samsung no longer leads in zoom — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Current telephoto lens setup (3x + 5x) limits flexibility; 3x cannot do macro and ultra-wide macro perspective is not ideal for flagship — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Lens switching still shows a small jerk when changing lenses (especially in video) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Videography still lags behind competitors like iPhone — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Camera lacks 'fun' features and creativity compared with some Chinese competitors (fewer film simulations/unique modes) — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Night video Nightography improvements are modest; still visible sensor noise and not as impressive as marketing suggests — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
3x dedicated camera (10 MP) is the weakest camera and rarely used by reviewer — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Selfie camera lags behind Apple: lacks Center Stage-like framing/zoom and iPhone coloring in apps like Snapchat — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Photographs: prefers Pixel color science; Galaxy photos not clearly better despite extra hardware — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
S26 Ultra slightly thinner which increased minimum focusing distance on the 5x telephoto—can't get as close to subjects at 5x — TechBar · ▶ Watch
To shoot at 24MP you must download Camera Assistant from Galaxy Store (extra step) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Camera produces inconsistent results; post-processing doesn't always produce the best results, especially in low light — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Noticeable differences between lenses leading to inconsistent image look — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Overall camera processing not as good as expected for a high-end device; reviewer prefers iPhone photo look — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
In harsh direct sunlight images can show increased saturation and processing can be a bit aggressive — needs a small update/improvement — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Some scenes in very high-light conditions show slightly boosted saturation/processing that could benefit from tuning — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Night shots with increased light show that noise isn't eliminated entirely (though improved), and very low-light still shows limits — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Certain bright direct-sun scenarios produce over-processed backgrounds and slightly exaggerated saturation on subjects — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
100x zoom remains blurry at extremes (though improved), so extreme zoom is not perfectly clean — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Camera detail and cropping performance behind some Chinese rivals (e.g., Vivo) and struggles with motion (blurry moving subjects) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Ultra wide camera performs poorly in low light / best avoided at night — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
100x zoom is digital and therefore limited in true detail (digital zoom only at extreme levels) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
At extreme zoom (100x crop) resolution is lost (loss of detail at highest zoom levels). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
100x zoom shows not a ton of improvement; long-range zoom still limited — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Not many hardware camera upgrades compared to previous models — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Cameras: minimum focus distance on the main camera got worse (reduced macro capability). — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Horizon lock sacrifices some camera quality (cannot record 8K with horizon lock enabled) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Doesn't include some bleeding-edge camera sensors and innovations found in certain international phones — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Three times telephoto has a smaller sensor and produces grainy/sharpened results; five times telephoto is no longer a periscope which increases minimum focus distance (no good for macro) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Five times telephoto and 10x zoom produce good but not great / only okay results — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Ultrawide and many zoom shots show softer detail and grain (especially in low light) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Night mode only activates automatically when dark enough; users cannot force it on — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Short telephoto in night shots suffers from desaturation and so-so detail (not flagship worthy) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
General noise and softness in low-light video and photos across cameras — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
If camera performance is the main priority, little reason to upgrade from previous model — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Cameras haven't materially changed; Samsung falling behind competitors in sensor size and detail — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Image quality slightly behind some Chinese ultra phones — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Some camera improvements are 'numbers on paper' and still need real-world testing — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Some consumers may feel frustrated that Samsung didn't push more radical camera hardware innovations compared to international/Chinese flagships — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Samsung video HDR for regular content can be overblown compared to iPhone (reviewer prefers iPhone HDR for video) — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Video stabilization produced a 'jello' effect in one instance (weird artifact) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Certain camera UI/features (e.g., horizontal lock) limited to rear camera only (not selfie) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Design and Build (65)

S-Pen design/slot requires specific orientation when inserting or it looks wrong — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
No MagSafe‑style magnetic charging ecosystem — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
S Pen hardware hasn't seen real innovation recently and missing Bluetooth functionality is missed — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Design is considered boring compared to previous Ultra models and color options this year are poor — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
No built-in magnets / no MagSafe-equivalent — inconvenient for magnetic accessories and wireless ecosystem — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Some Samsung decisions this year are puzzling (display step back, lack of S Pen improvements, no built-in magnets), making parts of the phone frustrating — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Samsung reverted from a titanium frame to an aluminum frame, which scuffs/dents more easily (visible damage from ~1 m drop) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
S Pen has no Bluetooth/remote features (removed in prior generation) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Samsung returned to aluminum from titanium (some saw as downgrade), though reviewer downplays this — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Edges are somewhat chiseled — could be more comfortable with more rounded edges — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Haptics are good but not best-in-class (could be improved) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Device is very large and 'too big' for some users — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Phone has a massive camera bump causing it to lean and making magnetic accessories ineffective — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Phone feels bigger despite being slightly thinner; camera bump is taller causing more wobble when laid flat. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
More rounded corners reduce visual personality and new camera bump accentuates neglected small 3x telephoto. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
S Pen is thinner and now has a wrong-way-to-insert design leaving an edge sticking out; still awkward to hold like a real pen. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Titanium frame was removed in favor of aluminum (loss of premium material). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Back of phone is fingerprinty and shows scuffs/heavier wear — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Design feels stale and largely unchanged from earlier Ultras — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Very little physical redesign vs. previous generation (looks almost identical) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Extremely wobbly on flat surfaces, making S Pen note-taking experience poor; S Pen feels deprioritized (Bluetooth removed earlier) — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Phone not the most comfortable to hold long-term; corners dig into the palm (could use smoother edges) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Massive camera bump that protrudes and causes wobble on flat surfaces, hindering S Pen use when phone is flat — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
No built-in MagSafe/G2 magnets for easy snapping to chargers/docks — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Phone is very large and enormous—uncomfortable in pockets, to hold for long periods, and hard to use one‑handed — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Lack of built‑in Pixel Snap‑style magnets/accessory ecosystem causes some accessories (magnetic battery pack) not to fit flush — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
S26 Ultra uses aluminum frame instead of titanium (reason unclear)—possible perceived downgrade in materials — TechBar · ▶ Watch
S Pen lacks Bluetooth (limits remote functions like camera capture) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Dropped titanium in favor of armor aluminum 2.0 may be seen as a downgrade by some (titanium is objectively tougher). — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
S Pen only inserts in one direction and can look awkward when seated; user rarely uses the S Pen. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Lack of MagSafe-style magnets is annoying for users who don't use a case and want magnetic accessories. — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Corners are still a bit rounded; edges/extra bend feel may not suit everyone (some may prefer less curvature) — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Long-term effects of the privacy display (on durability/visual artifacts) still need extended testing — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
S Pen is thinner and has lost wireless charging and Bluetooth features compared with prior generation — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Samsung ditched titanium in favor of aluminum this year (some may see as downgrade) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Display scratch test behavior different: level six scratches are extremely difficult to find (implying change in glass but also uncertainty) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
S Pen must be inserted a specific way; end can stick out if inserted incorrectly — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
S Pen lacks Bluetooth support — cannot be used as a dedicated shutter remote — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Small area of paint scuffing at frame above screen (shows wear) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Camera array lacks a proper bump/finger shelf, making the phone jiggly and cumbersome to hold — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
S Pen lacks wireless features (no Bluetooth/remote shutter) compared to some competitors — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
S Pen sits slightly proud if inserted upside-down due to more rounded corners (must insert a certain way) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Camera bump still present (not huge but noticeable in one corner) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
S Pen lacks Bluetooth and appears deprioritized (fewer S Pen-focused upgrades) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Ultra is heavy / larger (weights scale up to 214 g), can be tippy with big camera module. — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
S Pen can be inserted the wrong way but still stays in the silo (minor usability quirk). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
S Pen lacks Bluetooth functionality (same as S25 Ultra) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
S Pen is slimmer/smaller this year (may be a negative for some users) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Phone is still relatively heavy (~214 g) despite small change from previous gen — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Design changes cause practical downsides: rounded corners mean the S Pen only inserts one way (less convenient). — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Larger camera plateau plus thinner body causes the phone to rock on a table when typing without a case. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Lacks a few high-end hardware upgrades: no super-fast charging, no improved silicon-carbon battery, no built-in S Pen Bluetooth. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Phone wobbles on flat surfaces due to stacked camera module in the corner (causes instability when laid down) — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Color finish (cobalt/purple) can appear grayish or change with light — not consistently as purple as desired — TechOdyssey · ▶ Watch
Return to aluminum (from titanium) — may scratch easier and feel less premium — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
S Pen is flimsier than last year and only fits flush one way in the silo — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Overall hardware is largely the same as predecessor; few groundbreaking changes — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Frame made of aluminum instead of titanium (changed from previous model) — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Reviewer wanted better hardware improvements (cameras, batteries) rather than software tweaks — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Camera island is larger and raised, causing notable wobble on flat surfaces — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Wobble/instability on flat surfaces (requires a case to fix) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Aluminum frame instead of titanium like previous S25 Ultra (downgrade in materials) — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
No built-in MagSafe-style magnetic support (requires aftermarket magnetic ring) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Very short included cable (~3 ft) compared with some phones — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Large, protruding camera bump causes rocking when laid flat (design dislike) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Display (63)

Privacy display has limitations: need to toggle maximum privacy mode for strongest effect which causes a gray pall and isn’t perfect — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Display feels worse than S25 Ultra — perceived lower brightness and vibrancy — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflective coating is a step back and causes frustration — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Privacy display compromises (brightness/visibility trade-offs) — novelty wears off and can be annoying (hides notifications when needed) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Reports of red patches/red tint on some displays (software fix was issued) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
PWM flicker concern for sensitive users (genuine concern though reviewer personally unaffected) — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Display uses an 8-bit panel (no 10/12-bit) and lacks Dolby Vision support — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Brightness is slightly dimmer than the S25 Ultra (privacy display may impact peak brightness) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Reddish/warm tint visible in center of display (software calibration issue reported by Samsung) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Display color shifts strongly when tilting the phone (poor viewing angles), likely due to privacy-display hardware trade-off — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Privacy display hardware compromises overall display quality even when privacy mode is off — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Maximum privacy mode significantly reduces brightness and degrades display appearance — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Some text can appear fuzzy/shimmering (small text in settings), requiring zoom/QHD/vivid adjustments to improve — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Privacy display's maximum privacy protection dims the screen slightly (reduces brightness/readability) — Hayls World · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflective performance slightly worse than previous model (very minor) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Privacy display makes the screen look worse from certain angles even when privacy mode is off because privacy pixels remain dim and more reflective than S25 Ultra. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
With privacy mode on the screen is noticeably dimmer, less sharp, and looks worse (similar to or worse than 1080p); maximum filter ruins video contrast and blacks become gray. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Regular privacy mode isn't very private at some angles (readable sitting side-by-side); only maximum mode is potent but degrades visual content. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Privacy maximum mode significantly degrades visual quality for videos and images (contrast, color, and sharpness loss). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Privacy display reduces screen quality and is mostly a gimmick — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Display is only 8-bit (16 million colors) rather than 10-bit, which enthusiasts notice — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Some reports/users feel display text/sharpness may be worse than S25 Ultra (though reviewer did not observe issue) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Privacy display default mode still allows rough side-view visibility unless set to maximum (which reduces brightness/clarity) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
PWM dimming rate may cause more eye strain during long sessions, especially at low brightness, compared to some competitors — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Privacy display dims the screen noticeably and overall display quality/brightness suffers when it's active — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Overall display this year isn't as bright/clear as older Ultra displays if you don't use privacy display — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Privacy display reduces overall brightness when left on (so not recommended permanently) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be bypassed if someone is directly at eye level above/below the screen (up/down viewing limitation) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Some reports say anti-reflective coating might be slightly weaker vs S25 Ultra, though difference seems minor — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be counterproductive (introduces blue tint and affects viewing for some users) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Display is only 8-bit (not true 10-bit), described as 8-bit disguised as 10-bit — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Privacy display sacrifices some anti-reflective properties compared to S25 Ultra (more visible bulbs/reflectivity). — Mark's Tech · ▶ Watch
Privacy display makes it easier to notice individual pixels up close — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
When privacy display is on, resolution is slightly worse and display becomes noticeably dimmer — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Display privacy mode reduces effective resolution/brightness from side views — full viewing experience can lose pixels (half pixels off) which may slightly reduce display quality — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Privacy-display approach may make full-display viewing slightly dimmer or lower effective pixel count (intentional compromise) — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Privacy screen significantly dims the display at maximum privacy, reducing brightness and usability — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Privacy mode reduces effective pixel count (loses about half the pixels when enabled) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
Privacy display whole-mode not used by reviewer; default notification blurring may be unwanted for some — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Privacy display reduces resolution, colors and contrast when active and has limited third-party app support — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Some users report migraines/headaches with privacy display (reported online), though reviewer didn't experience it — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
No Dolby Vision support for streaming (only HDR10+) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Privacy Display dims the screen (reduces brightness/visibility) and may require adjustments; maximum mode makes screen darker — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Privacy Display disables extra max brightness (trade-off between privacy and peak brightness). — Unbox Therapy · ▶ Watch
Many features are trade-offs; privacy display implementation reduces resolution when enabled because half the pixels are turned off. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Privacy mode cuts effective resolution in half and produces visibly blockier text, lower detail and somewhat lower peak brightness when active. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Display has permanently worse viewing angles and a different coating that is less effective at anti-reflection compared to S25 Ultra. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Display is still 8-bit (simulating 10-bit) rather than a native 10-bit panel, which may disappoint pixel peepers. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Out of the box the phone defaults to 1080p, requiring manual change to 1440p to see full resolution. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Controversy/mistake: Samsung marketed the display as 10-bit when it is actually an 8-bit panel that simulates 10-bit — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Privacy mode slightly dims the screen and can reduce resolution; not ideal to leave on all the time — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Privacy display in default mode still allows some side visibility; maximum mode required to fully block view — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Privacy display reduces pixel density and cuts screen brightness roughly in half when enabled — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Still an 8-bit panel despite software improvements — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Privacy display reduced effectiveness of Samsung's anti-reflective coating, worsening display reflections — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Privacy display can be bypassed or still readable from some angles; not fully effective unless at maximum (which distorts view) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Privacy display 'maximum privacy' mode significantly reduces display quality from the front (looks like low-quality LCD) — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
Display controversy: panel is actually 8-bit FRC emulating 10-bit (misleading messaging/marketing) — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Some users claim the privacy display makes the screen worse overall (brighter/sharpness concerns compared to S25 Ultra) — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Anti-reflective coating perceived by some as not as good as the S25 Ultra — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Privacy display (when enabled) dims screen and reduces perceived resolution — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Privacy display needs manual toggling and the reviewer rarely uses max protection — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Privacy mode can cause color shift and a gray/washout tint (worse at maximum privacy), degrading color accuracy for viewing content — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Other (40)

Battery life is mediocre — smaller battery leading to ~7–8 hours screen-on time and running low by evening for heavy users — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Main 1x camera sensor feels a bit old — less detail compared to newer Chinese ultra phones — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Storage uses UFS 4.0 (not 4.1) and RAM unchanged (no 16 GB option) — spec bumps missing for enthusiasts — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Aluminum frame instead of titanium — lighter but dents more easily (cost saving) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
PWM (OLED flicker) reported by some users — can cause headaches/eye strain for sensitive people — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Max brightness unchanged from last generation (2600 nits) — overall display specs mostly same — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
No G2/CH2 magnets (MagSafe-like accessories) built into the phone — misses convenience without a case — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Overall the phone is not exciting — small iterative upgrades mean it feels less compelling — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Not much changed from S25 Ultra — enthusiasts disappointed — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Cameras largely unchanged from last year (no major camera upgrades) — enthusiasts may be let down — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Digital zoom beyond ~10x produces over-processed, water-colour/over-sharpened results — 100x not practical — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Privacy screen is situational — mostly useful in public transit/airports; less useful for suburban drivers — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
AI-enhanced moon photos feel processed — reviewer feels they aren't the 'real' photo compared to a dedicated camera — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Weather app opens in-app browser to external sites (weather.com) — feels lazy compared to competitors — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
No built-in magnets for Qi2 (MagSafe-style) charging on the phone itself — only in some cases, limiting caseless accessory use — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
High price (retails $1,300 US, though often on sale closer to $1,000) — may not be the phone for everyone due to cost — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Extremely expensive price — starts around £1,300 and rises to £1,700 for top model — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Large, heavy and slippery design (214 g, ~8 mm thick) — hard to grip and prone to being dropped — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Lost titanium option — frame is aluminium instead of titanium — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
PWM dimming basic — may bother users sensitive to OLED flicker — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Battery capacity unchanged at 5,000 mAh — smaller than many rivals (some exceed 6,000 mAh) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Charging magnets for wireless magnetic charging (MagSafe-style) not built into phone — need a compatible case — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Front selfie contrast can be lightened and requires steady hand — not ideal for shaky/drunken shots — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Out of the box display resolution set to 1080p — must manually switch to 1440p to use full resolution (which will reduce battery life) — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
No magnets built into the phone — requires a case for magnetic accessory use — Tim Schofield · ▶ Watch
Some users may miss the more 'ultra' angular design — described as 'least ultra feeling phone' — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Switched from titanium to aluminum sides (less premium) — aesthetic/backlash downside. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
No CH2 magnets (magnetic accessories) — omission that limits magnetic accessories like MagSafe-style functionality. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
No silicon carbon battery (more advanced battery tech) — limiting peak battery improvements compared to competitors. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
No dramatic hardware spec changes overall — mostly software and privacy/display tweaks — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Non‑Ultra S26 and S26 Plus may get Exynos (2600) in many regions — chipset fragmentation (Ultra gets Snapdragon) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Frame changed from titanium to aluminum — feels like a cost-cutting move and is more prone to scratches/damage if used without a case — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Still largely same as previous generation — not a compelling upgrade if you already have S25 Ultra — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Boxy design remains to some extent (though more rounded) — reviewer still notes large size concerns — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Reviewer wishes for a smaller/thinner 'powerhouse' variant — current device may be too large for some users — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Privacy display at maximum protection ruins contrast, brightness and color — degrades content viewing experience — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
S-Pen lost Bluetooth connectivity — limited usefulness (can't act as remote/shutter) — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
S Pen only inserts one way due to curved tip — feels unintuitive — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Some photos (ultrawide/rear) appear washed out or color-shifted — possible processing issues — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Unclear/possibly misleading display bit-depth claim (Samsung saying 10-bit while evidence suggests 8-bit) — feels sketchy — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Software (39)

Many Samsung AI features feel weak or like shovelware (Now suite is largely unhelpful and omnipresent without useful context) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Now Brief/Now Bar often provides irrelevant content and feels like a worse version of Google Now — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Now Nudge tied to Samsung Keyboard (inferior input) and not enabled on review units — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Task automation (Gemini feature) not exclusive to Samsung and will arrive on Pixel phones too—so not a unique Galaxy advantage — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Phone software has small UX rough edges (audio interrupts when recording video, camera framing resets between modes, timers persist) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
AI narrative overemphasized while hardware is the real strength — AI features often underdeliver — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Lack of practical integrated AI features (no screenshot/voice memo organization and Gemini linkage like some competitors) — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Software update reportedly meant to fix red tint did not fully resolve it for the reviewer — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
APV footage codec incompatibility with Final Cut Pro (workflow friction for some creators) — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Samsung ships the device with a lot of preinstalled bloatware — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
AI features feel gimmicky and the reviewer won't use them — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Some AI features limited or gimmicky (Now Nudge only works with Samsung keyboard and can be inaccurate) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Software improvements are not substantial despite hardware upgrades — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Using privacy features can be cumbersome without shortcuts; quick settings toggle required unless customized (though workarounds exist). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
On-device AI features are limited by smaller models and can feel less capable than cloud AI (responses can be robotic or nonsensical). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Galaxy AI features feel underused and not very useful in practice — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Many Galaxy AI features are unused/hidden and don't integrate into daily life — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Camera filters are useful but buried in the UI and hard to find — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Samsung's default keyboard underperforms compared to Google's Gboard (speech dictation, corrections, typing accuracy) — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Not all Google/Pixel-first AI features (Rambler, Pause Point, live-call translation, Now Playing-like detection) are available or arrive later — 6 Months Later · ▶ Watch
Not a huge upgrade over S24/S25 Ultra for owners of recent models; many features may be backported — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Missing several exclusive Pixel software features the reviewer uses daily (e.g., Maps on AOD, Pixel screenshots app, Now Playing app, advanced voice typing in Gboard) — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
Inconsistent experience across Android apps — switching between native Samsung apps and third-party apps can feel like switching operating systems (font sizes, animation speeds, UI elements out of sync) — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Reviewer’s deep investment in the Apple ecosystem makes switching difficult (ecosystem lock-in) — Zineddine · ▶ Watch
Review is a first-look done in partnership with Samsung, so it's not an independent critical review — limits critical findings — Tamil Tech - MrTT · ▶ Watch
Voice detect/transcription slightly less accurate than Pixel's enhanced voice detection — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
One UI software updates can be slow and rollout gradual compared with Pixel (updates may take longer to reach all regions) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Some Galaxy AI features feel gimmicky and not particularly useful in daily use — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Samsung is playing it safe with incremental, non-flashy yearly updates — not a major leap over predecessor — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Some of Samsung's AI features feel like fluff (Now Nudge not very helpful and requires Samsung keyboard) — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Some AI features are unreliable (e.g., Now Nudge didn't work for the reviewer) and many software features may not be compelling purchase reasons. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Many AI features feel gimmicky, unnecessary, or unlikely to be used by most people — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
AI assistant (Bixby) and 'Nudge' features are unreliable and have annoying limitations — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
On-device AI is limited by hardware; cloud AI is limited by cost—many AI features feel like toys — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Some AI-generated outputs have poor resolution/aspect ratio (e.g., 1024x1024 wallpaper) and quality loss — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Image edits/merges lose about 30% resolution — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Many AI features don't change core phone usage and are not yet compelling enough — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Many AI features will likely be unused after the first week (feature fatigue) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Some innovative features (horizontal lock, privacy display) were already on other brands earlier — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch

Battery Life (30)

Battery capacity unchanged for years — only manages about a day; not best-in-class endurance compared to competitors (e.g., OnePlus 15) — MrMobile [Michael Fisher] · ▶ Watch
Battery durability rating (1,200 cycles) appears lower than previous model on paper, causing concern — though context reduces alarm — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
Phone does not inspire confidence at very low battery (around 5%) compared to iPhone — GadgetByte · ▶ Watch
Long-term battery health rated lower (1,200 charge cycles to 80% vs S25 Ultra's ~2,000), indicating reduced longevity — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Gaming uses slightly more battery because phone maintains higher sustained performance, reducing battery efficiency during heavy use. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Battery can struggle on heavy use (travel, 5G, maps, lots of media); battery capacity feels small vs some competitors — Android Authority · ▶ Watch
Wireless charging requires magnet case (magnets not built into phone), reducing convenience — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Battery capacity remains 5,000 mAh (average), not larger — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Battery capacity stagnant at 5,000 mAh (same since S20 Ultra); battery life ok but not class-leading — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Charging speeds could be faster—wired 60W and wireless 25W are decent but not best-in-class (would prefer ~80W wired, 50W wireless) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Battery remains 5000 mAh due to global regulatory/consistency reasons (limits larger battery capacity) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
No battery capacity improvement (still 5,000 mAh) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
No official bump in wired charging speed (still limited; no charging brick included) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Wireless charging only 25W and reverse wireless 4.5W (not very fast) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
60 W charging is improved over Pixel but still behind fastest Chinese flagships (Oppo/Xiaomi/OnePlus) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Battery is not a 2-day device for heavy users (may not suffice for very heavy daily use) — MTG Productions · ▶ Watch
Charging speeds/charging behavior can be inconsistent when using a case — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
Battery capacity unchanged at 5,000 mAh (some people disappointed it's not larger) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Wireless 25W magnetic charging requires a special magnetic case because the phone lacks built-in magnets (due to S Pen) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Last few percent of wired charge took noticeably longer to reach 100% (final top-up slow) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch
Standby battery life not quite as good as some competitors; overall battery could have been improved further. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Samsung played it safe in some areas (e.g., didn’t adopt silicon carbon batteries) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Battery chemistry not silicon carbon — some competitors have larger/better batteries (though real-world life is good) — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
5,000 mAh battery size not particularly large compared to competitors — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
60 W wired charging not very high compared to market leaders — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Magnetic wireless charging requires a magnetic case because there are no magnets inside the phone — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Battery size not increased (felt like no hardware progress) — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
Battery charging spec unchanged on paper (still 45 W) despite claims of faster charging — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
5,000 mAh battery capacity feels conservative in 2026 compared with competitors offering much larger cells — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch
Samsung hasn't adopted silicon-carbon battery tech yet (opportunity missed for bigger jump in battery life) — TechnicallyAlex · ▶ Watch

Value for Money (12)

Overall not a big enough upgrade over S25 Ultra to justify buying if you already own S25 Ultra — Tech It Easy · ▶ Watch
No charger included in the box — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Very expensive starting at $1,300 — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
High price (listed prices are substantial), so value may be limited without significant upgrades over previous model — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
High price (starting $1,300) and expensive higher-capacity models ($1,500 for 512 GB, $1,800 for 1 TB) — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
Vanilla Galaxy S26 (smaller alternative) lacks flagship specs: weaker camera hardware, less bright/less dense display, less RAM, smaller battery, slightly slower charging — C. Scott Brown · ▶ Watch
If you already own the S25 Ultra, there's likely little reason to upgrade (few meaningful changes) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Price-to-value is questionable compared with rivals offering bigger batteries or better camera tech — Tech Spurt · ▶ Watch
High starting price ($1,300) — pricey for what feels like iterative upgrades. — Marques Brownlee · ▶ Watch
Not the best value at launch ($1,300 retail); expensive and not recommended to buy at launch for value seekers — Android Digest · ▶ Watch
Prices are higher this year (price increases compared to S25 Ultra) — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch
Phone is expensive if you don't have trade-ins or promotions; 256 GB feels insufficient for the price (should offer 512 GB) — J. Williams · ▶ Watch

Performance (8)

Thermals: phone gets pretty warm during extended photography, video, or gaming sessions (~30 minutes of gaming noticeable) — Matthew Moniz · ▶ Watch
Sustained gaming can cause throttling/temperature rise (reached ~44°C) and occasional frame drops down to ~57 FPS after extended play — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Not the absolute fastest phone (iPhone 17 Pro Max slightly faster on intensive tasks) — HowToMen · ▶ Watch
Gaming: some heavy games currently limited (e.g., Genshin Impact capped at 60fps, 120fps not available yet) — TechBar · ▶ Watch
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in this device performs worse in benchmarks than some competitors (e.g., iQOO 15 Ultra) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Experienced heavy thermal throttling under stress tests with CPU performance dropping below 50% — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Device runs hot under load, thermally throttles (performance drops and occasional hitches in gaming) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch
Overall impression: flagship 'Ultra' feels underwhelming compared to past 'Note' series and not compelling enough to switch from iPhone — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Security (6)

Fingerprint scanner isn't the fastest — MinimalisTech · ▶ Watch
Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor unchanged and still problematic (small sensing area, struggles with moisture, requires multiple taps). — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Camera unlock struggles in poor lighting. — Created by Ella · ▶ Watch
Fingerprint sensor struggles to work reliably with screen protectors (unlocking issues reported with Spigen protector) — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
No class‑3 face unlock — relying on fingerprint for things like banking — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner performance with deep grooves not as good as previous years (less responsive to picks) — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch

Connectivity (5)

Some spam calls still get through despite Samsung call screening — Team VRY · ▶ Watch
Signal quality problems (reviewer on zero bars), suggests cellular reception not improved — Mrwhosetheboss · ▶ Watch
S Pen still lacks Bluetooth functionality — DaddyBrotherTV · ▶ Watch
S Pen quality has deteriorated over generations (more fragile); removed Bluetooth functionality and overall poorer quality for price — J. Williams · ▶ Watch
Stylus reportedly removed Bluetooth functionality this year (no remote/air actions) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Storage (4)

8K video consumes too much storage, impractical for regular use — Techtuber Simba · ▶ Watch
Still DDR5X (not DDR6) RAM — MobileTechReview · ▶ Watch
No expandable storage (no microSD), which is annoying for long-term keepers — JerryRigEverything · ▶ Watch
No microSD expansion (single SIM tray, no expandable storage) — Shane Symonds · ▶ Watch

Audio (3)

Speakers improvement is marginal (only a little better or similar to S25 Ultra) — Gadget Sidekick · ▶ Watch
Speakers tested quieter than last year's model — GSMArena Official · ▶ Watch
Speakers perform poorly (distorted, 'sand in the speaker' sound at full volume; bottom speaker particularly weak) — ShortCircuit · ▶ Watch

Overall (1)

This review unit is a dummy — impressions limited until hands-on with real device — Mary Bautista · ▶ Watch

Review sources

Created by Ella — 18 pros, 21 cons · ▶ Watch review
GSMArena Official — 20 pros, 17 cons · ▶ Watch review
Tech Spurt — 17 pros, 18 cons · ▶ Watch review
Tamil Tech - MrTT — 25 pros, 9 cons · ▶ Watch review
Mrwhosetheboss — 20 pros, 14 cons · ▶ Watch review
Matthew Moniz — 18 pros, 14 cons · ▶ Watch review
HowToMen — 16 pros, 16 cons · ▶ Watch review
MobileTechReview — 17 pros, 14 cons · ▶ Watch review
Gadget Sidekick — 18 pros, 13 cons · ▶ Watch review
TechBar — 22 pros, 9 cons · ▶ Watch review
Shane Symonds — 21 pros, 9 cons · ▶ Watch review
Tech It Easy — 15 pros, 14 cons · ▶ Watch review
ShortCircuit — 16 pros, 12 cons · ▶ Watch review
Marques Brownlee — 13 pros, 15 cons · ▶ Watch review
Android Digest — 16 pros, 10 cons · ▶ Watch review
GadgetByte — 12 pros, 13 cons · ▶ Watch review
6 Months Later — 13 pros, 11 cons · ▶ Watch review
MTG Productions — 17 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
MrMobile [Michael Fisher] — 12 pros, 11 cons · ▶ Watch review
Hayls World — 22 pros, 1 cons · ▶ Watch review
Mary Bautista — 15 pros, 8 cons · ▶ Watch review
Android Authority — 12 pros, 10 cons · ▶ Watch review
Tim Schofield — 15 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
Techtuber Simba — 14 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
Zineddine — 14 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
TechOdyssey — 19 pros, 2 cons · ▶ Watch review
J. Williams — 14 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
MinimalisTech — 13 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
JerryRigEverything — 13 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
DaddyBrotherTV — 15 pros, 5 cons · ▶ Watch review
Team VRY — 12 pros, 6 cons · ▶ Watch review
TechnicallyAlex — 11 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review
Unbox Therapy — 13 pros, 4 cons · ▶ Watch review
Mark's Tech — 12 pros, 4 cons · ▶ Watch review
C. Scott Brown — 9 pros, 7 cons · ▶ Watch review

Frequently asked questions

Is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra worth buying?

Based on 35 independent YouTube reviews, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra scores 3.5/5 with 549 positive and 343 negative points mentioned by reviewers, placing it #111 in the Smartphones category.

What do reviewers like most about the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?

The most praised aspects are camera, design and build, software — Camera (103 mentions), Design and Build (89 mentions), Software (84 mentions).

What are the most common complaints about the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?

Reviewers most frequently criticize camera, design and build — Camera (67 mentions), Design and Build (65 mentions).

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