Samsung Galaxy S25 Review: The Best Android Phone of 2026?
Our full review of the Samsung Galaxy S25. Is it the best Android phone of 2026? We test the camera, performance, battery life and more.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 arrives as Samsung's most refined flagship yet. After two weeks of daily use, here is our comprehensive review of what might be the best Android phone of 2026.
Design and Build Quality
Samsung has refined the Galaxy S25's design with slimmer bezels and a more comfortable in-hand feel. The titanium frame feels premium and the Gorilla Glass Armor 2 display is noticeably more scratch resistant than previous generations. At 162g it's lighter than you'd expect for a phone this capable.
Display
The 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is simply stunning. With a peak brightness of 2600 nits it's easily readable in direct Australian sunlight. The 120Hz adaptive refresh rate is smooth and responsive. This is one of the best smartphone displays available at any price.
Camera Performance
The triple camera system — 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto — produces excellent results across all scenarios. Low light photography has improved significantly over the S24. The 3x optical zoom is sharp and detailed. Video recording at 8K is impressive though most users will be perfectly happy with 4K.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the Galaxy S25 is the fastest Android phone we've tested. App loading is instant, gaming is smooth even at maximum settings, and multitasking is effortless. Thermal performance is also improved — extended gaming sessions no longer cause noticeable throttling.
Battery Life
The 4000mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day with moderate use. Heavy users may need a top-up by evening. The 25W wired charging is adequate but competitors offer faster charging at this price point. Wireless charging at 15W is convenient for overnight charging.
Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S25 is an exceptional phone that refines everything that made its predecessor great. The Snapdragon 8 Elite performance, stunning display, and improved cameras make it a compelling choice. At AUD $1,449 it's not cheap but it's one of the best Android phones money can buy in 2026.
Score: 9/10