Home / Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung
$1,299 - $1,799Samsung
$1,199 - $1,599The S26 Ultra starts at $1,299 while the S25 Ultra launched at $1,299 but is now available for less. The S26 Ultra brings faster charging, a faster processor, and a new privacy feature making it the better choice for those wanting cutting-edge features.
AI Verdict
The S26 Ultra is slimmer and lighter with faster charging and improved camera apertures, but the S25 Ultra remains excellent value at a lower price point.
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Score Overview
Score comparison
Strengths & Weaknesses
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Samsung · $1,299 - $1,799
Strengths
+World's first Privacy Display feature
+60W fast charging (up from 45W)
+Wider F1.4 main camera aperture for better low-light
+Thinner and lighter design (7.9mm, 214g)
Weaknesses
−Aluminum frame instead of titanium
−Modest upgrades for the price
−Privacy Display reduces brightness when active
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung · $1,199 - $1,599
Strengths
+Premium titanium frame construction
+Excellent camera system with proven performance
+Strong battery life and performance
+Lower price point with frequent deals
Weaknesses
−Slower 45W charging vs S26 Ultra
−Thicker and heavier than S26 Ultra
−No Privacy Display feature
Detailed Analysis
The S26 Ultra has a wider F1.4 aperture (vs F1.7) for 47% better light intake and improved low-light photos. However, both phones share very similar camera hardware with the 200MP main lens offering brilliant overall performance.
The devices have about a $200 price gap, and with the modest upgrades this year, the S26 Ultra is at a disadvantage. The S25 Ultra remains brilliant with excellent cameras and performance, making it arguably the better pick if you find a strong deal.
The S26 Ultra supports 60W fast wired charging versus the S25 Ultra's 45W charging, and the results show the upgrade is far from trivial. The S26 Ultra also improved wireless charging from 15W to 25W.
The S26 Ultra's frame is made of Armor aluminum, which can be seen as a step back from the titanium frame on the S25 Ultra. However, aluminum is actually better suited for thermal performance, as titanium has a tendency to get too hot in use.
The key difference is the new Privacy Display feature that makes it difficult for people to see the contents on your screen from an angle. The Privacy Display can cut off the view from side angles and obscure sensitive information with the touch of a button.
Samsung says the S26 Ultra has a 19% faster CPU, 24% stronger GPU, and 39% improved NPU compared to the S25 Ultra, with focus on improving AI-related functions. The S25 Ultra remains at the top of its class in performance with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy.
If you're already using an S25 Ultra, there's not a whole lot that truly justifies upgrading. The Privacy Display and faster charging are the main differentiators.
The S26 Ultra shows notable improvement in web browsing and video streaming battery tests despite having the same 5,000 mAh battery. Both offer excellent all-day performance.
The S26 Ultra is thinner at 7.9mm (vs 8.2mm) and lighter at 214 grams (vs 218 grams), plus it has a new camera island design versus floating cameras.
Both have bright 6.9-inch LTPO OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rate and score similarly in brightness tests above 1400 nits. The S26 Ultra adds the unique Privacy Display feature.
This comparison was generated using AI-powered analysis of the latest specifications, reviews, and pricing data available on the web. Last updated: April 1, 2026. Results are for informational purposes — verify details before purchasing. Learn about our methodology
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