Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. S26: which one should you choose?

Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S26: key differences

The Samsung Galaxy S26 is the direct successor to the Galaxy S25 series. But what difference does that one year actually make? On paper, the Galaxy S25 and S26 look very similar, so it's important to look closely at the details. In this article, we'll only look at the standard model. We're leaving the S25+ and S25 Ultra out of this comparison.

The key upgrades on the S26:

• Larger screen: 6.3 inches on the S26 versus 6.2 inches on the S25
• New chipset: Exynos 2600 vs. Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Larger battery: 4,300 mAh vs. 4,000 mAh
• Newer software: Android 16 versus Android 15
• Both: 7 years of OS and security updates (2032 for the S25, 2033 for the S26)

Both phones are premium smartphones, but the S26 is a bit more future proof thanks to the more efficient chip, the better screen, and the longer battery life.

Comparison table: Galaxy S25 vs. Galaxy S26

Design and screen: Galaxy S25 and S26

In design, both phones share the familiar Samsung DNA: sleek and premium. Still, there are subtle differences. At 6.3 inches, the Samsung Galaxy S26 screen is just a bit larger than the 6.2-inch screen of the S25. At 167 grams, the S26 weighs a fraction more than its predecessor. The aluminum casing with recycled lithium and tantalum does make the S26 a bit more sustainable.

Screen comparison: Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. S26

The screen is what you look at most every day, so the details definitely count:

Samsung Galaxy S25 vs. Galaxy S26: performance and speed

A smartphone's performance comes down to three factors: the chip, the RAM, and software optimizations. Apart from the same 12 GB of RAM, we see a clear difference between the S25 and S26.

Galaxy S25: proven power

The Galaxy S25 runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, a powerful Qualcomm processor that performs well with:

• Gaming and graphically intensive apps
• AI features like Galaxy AI
• Multitasking with multiple apps
• Editing of photo's and video's

With 12 GB of RAM and storage from 128 GB, you'll have plenty of room for all your apps and files.

Galaxy S26: more efficient and smoother

The Galaxy S26 makes the jump to the Samsung Exynos 2600 and offers:

• Lower energy use
• Better AI processing
• Less heat buildup
• Faster storage performance

The more efficient chip makes the S26 run smoother and use less energy, especially during intensive tasks. In daily use, you'll notice:

• Faster app switching: a bit less waiting during multitasking
• Less heat: longer gaming sessions without throttling
• Better battery life: the more efficient chip saves energy
• Faster AI features: tools like Note Assist and Chat Assist respond more quickly
• Smoother video recording: especially noticeable at 8K

Cameras: S25 vs. S26

For many buyers, the camera is the deciding factor. Good news: both Galaxy phones have strong camera systems. The S25's setup is almost unchanged. The S26's main camera uses the same Samsung GN3 sensor as the S25, but with improved software algorithms.

Which camera is better for whom?

• Social media and everyday photos: both equally suitable
• Night photography: S26, thanks to improved HDR processing
• Zoom photos: a tie (both 3x optical, 10x digital)
• Video: S26, thanks to better stabilization

Galaxy S25 vs. Galaxy S26: battery and charging

The S26's larger battery, 300 mAh more may sound modest, but combined with the more efficient chip and the adaptive 1 to 120 Hz refresh rate, you'll notice the difference over your day. Faster charging isn't in the cards, unfortunately: both phones charge at up to 25 W wired. A full charge therefore takes a little over an hour.

Software and updates: Galaxy S25 and S26

Galaxy S25: Android 15 with One UI 7

The Galaxy S25 shipped with Android 15 and One UI 7 (specific to Samsung phones). You get:

• 7 years of OS updates, with 6 still to go
• 7 years of security updates, with 6 still to go
• Galaxy AI features (Circle to Search, Note Assist, Chat Assist, Live Translation)
• Now Brief for daily AI summaries
• Improved Bixby integration

Galaxy S26: Android 16 and beyond

The newest addition to the Galaxy family starts with Android 16 and the latest One UI version. Here's what you can expect:

• 7 years of OS updates (until 2033)
• 7 years of security updates
• Expanded Galaxy AI with improved generative tools
• Better on-device AI processing
• Deeper integration with the Galaxy ecosystem

Because the S26 launches a year later, it effectively stays up to date a year longer. Samsung's long software support makes both phones a good long-term choice.

When should you choose the Samsung Galaxy S25?

The Galaxy S25 is an excellent choice if you don't necessarily need the very latest phone. As you've read, the Galaxy S26 doesn't make big leaps. That means the Galaxy S25 is still completely up to date. With the option of 128 GB storage and the fact that it's a year older, you still get a premium phone at a competitive price. The Galaxy S25 is a good choice for you if:

• You don't need the very newest model
• You want to benefit from the competitive price
• You prefer the smaller screen
• You don't need maximum battery capacity
• Updates for the next 6 years are enough for you

When should you choose the Samsung Galaxy S26?

The Galaxy S26 is a logical choice if you really want maximum future-proofing and are willing to pay for it. The newer chipset, larger battery, and improved camera software make all the difference during heavy use. The Galaxy S26 is therefore a good choice for you if:

• You want the newest generation of chipset (Exynos 2600).
• You'd like a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen.
• A larger battery (4,300 mAh) matters to you.
• You want the maximum number of updates for your new phone.
• Sustainability and recycled materials appeal to you.

Summary: which phone wins where?

Made your choice? The Galaxy S26 isn't available at Simyo yet, but you can already get the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 FE . You buy the phone combined with a plan. You choose your own bundles and can adjust them every month, including downward. Alongside your new phone, you also get a plan that fits you. Already have a Simyo plan ? Then you can add a phone with a plan through Mijn Simyo , even if your current contract hasn't ended yet.

Questions? We've got answers