Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Camera Review: Incremental Changes or Game-Changer?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is here, and while the camera hardware changes might seem minimal at first glance, Samsung promises improved performance through optimized software and advanced AI capabilities. Let’s dive into the early reviews and comparisons to see how this flagship device stacks up against its predecessor and Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max.

A Subtle Camera Hardware Update

The most notable change in the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s camera system is the upgrade of the ultra-wide-angle lens. The older 12-megapixel sensor with an f/2.2 aperture has been replaced by a 50-megapixel sensor with a brighter f/1.9 aperture, likely the ISOCELL JN3. This promises better performance in low-light conditions. Other enhancements include Samsung’s “ProVisual Engine,” improved image signal processing (ISP) from the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, and features like Night Video and default 10-bit HDR.

For advanced users, new additions to the ExpertRAW app, including Virtual Aperture and LOG video, offer tools to elevate photography and videography. However, are these updates enough to warrant an upgrade?

If you’re considering upgrading to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, ensuring a seamless data transition is essential. Smart Transfer, a third-party clone phone app, simplifies this process. With its intuitive interface and share large files capabilities, you can effortlessly move photos, videos, contacts, and other files between devices. Its high-speed transfers, bookmark manager feature and secure functionality make it an indispensable tool for users switching to new phones.

Camera Performance: Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra

Initial hands-on tests reveal that while there are some improvements, the differences are subtle:

• Daytime Photography: The Galaxy S24 Ultra occasionally outperforms its successor in sharpness, though the S25 Ultra tends to produce warmer tones.
• Night Photography: Night shots look slightly cleaner with reduced noise and better color accuracy on the S25 Ultra.
• Zoom Performance: Improvements are noticeable, especially at 10x zoom, thanks to tweaks in Samsung’s zoom algorithm.
• Ultra-Wide Lens: Despite the upgraded hardware, improvements are marginal. The older sensor occasionally captures more detail but introduces more noise in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Recording: Small Gains in Night Videos

Samsung’s promotional material emphasizes improved night video capabilities, but early samples reveal only minor differences. In 4K30 recordings, the night sky appears slightly cleaner, and light sources look more realistic. However, these changes might not justify an upgrade for most users.

Galaxy S25 Ultra vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max

In the battle of flagship smartphones, deciding between Samsung and Apple often comes down to personal preference. Early comparisons show the following:

• Zoom Performance: Samsung excels in 3x to 5x zoom shots, but Apple’s zoom algorithm produces sharper night images.
• Portrait Video: The iPhone leads with its Cinematic Video mode, while Samsung shines with AI tools like Audio Eraser.
• AI Editing and Skin Tones: Samsung edges out Apple in editing features, selfies, and skin tone accuracy.
• Social Media Optimization: Samsung shows noticeable improvements in content optimized for platforms like Instagram.

Overall, the iPhone 16 Pro Max retains a slight edge, but the gap is narrower than last year.

Final Thoughts

The Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers incremental improvements in camera performance, primarily through software enhancements and AI. While the hardware changes might not justify an upgrade for S24 Ultra users, new buyers and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the subtle refinements.

Before making the leap, ensure your data transfer is hassle-free with Smart Transfer, and enjoy exploring the S25 Ultra’s potential. Let us know your thoughts — are the camera upgrades enough to tempt you?