👍 Pros
- High-resolution 1440p display with 2600 nits peak brightness for excellent outdoor visibility
- Long software support with 7 major Android upgrades, ensuring longevity
- Versatile camera system with OIS on wide and telephoto lenses, and 8K video recording
- Robust build quality with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on front and back
- Competitive performance for its original launch year, adequate for most 2026 tasks
👎 Cons
- No expandable storage via microSD card slot
- Only 12GB RAM option, potentially limiting for future-proofing advanced multitasking
- 45W wired charging is not class-leading compared to some 2026 mid-range devices
- Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) chipset, while capable, is now two generations behind the latest flagships
- Telephoto camera is limited to 3x optical zoom, which may be insufficient for distant subjects
Expert Review & Rating
Market Position in 2026
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ positions itself as a compelling option in the upper-midrange or value flagship segment of the used and refurbished market. While its hardware is no longer cutting-edge, it retains sufficient capability to compete favorably against many new budget and mid-range alternatives.
Performance & Daily Usage
Based on the Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) chipset, the Galaxy S25+ offers robust performance for everyday applications and moderately demanding games. UI responsiveness, supported by the 120Hz display and 12GB RAM, should remain fluid for general navigation and multitasking. Given its 3nm process, thermal management is likely efficient under typical loads.
The Compromises
The most significant compromise is the lack of expandable storage, which can be a limitation for users with extensive media libraries. While its 45W wired charging was competitive at launch, it falls behind the faster charging speeds now common in some 2026 mid-range devices. Additionally, the 3x optical zoom on the telephoto lens, while functional, is less versatile than the extended zoom capabilities found on newer flagships.
The Best Features
The 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display is a standout feature, offering a sharp 1440p resolution, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 2600 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent visibility and an immersive viewing experience. The camera system, with its 50 MP main sensor and OIS on both wide and telephoto lenses, provides a versatile and capable photography experience, further enhanced by 8K video recording. Furthermore, the commitment to 7 major Android upgrades from its Android 15 launch ensures prolonged software support and security updates, extending its usable lifespan significantly.
Buying Advice
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ in 2026 is an excellent choice for users seeking a feature-rich, high-performance device on the used market without the premium price tag of current flagships. However, those prioritizing the absolute latest chipset, fastest charging, or extensive optical zoom capabilities might consider newer mid-range or current-generation options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ remains a viable purchase in 2026, especially on the used or refurbished market, offering a premium display, capable camera system, and long software support that outperforms many new mid-range devices.
Based on the 50 MP main sensor with a wide f/1.8 aperture and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), the Galaxy S25+ camera system should perform adequately in low-light conditions, capturing a reasonable amount of detail and managing noise, though it may not match the advanced computational photography of 2026 flagship cameras.