Deal: the Samsung Galaxy S25+ is 30% off right now on Amazon US
Is the Samsung Galaxy S25+ Still the Smarter Buy?
In the world of tech, we’re often told that newer is always better. But when you pit the Samsung Galaxy S25+ against its successor, the S26+, that logic starts to feel a bit thin—especially once you look at the price tag. While these two phones definitely trade blows, the “blows” are more like light taps when you consider how similar their real-world performance actually is.
The Massive Price Gap
Right now, the value proposition is heavily leaning toward the S25+. Over at Amazon US, you can snag the 256GB Galaxy S25+ for $700. That is a massive $300 drop from its original launch price. Compare that to the S26+, which saw a price hike this year; it normally retails for $1,100, though you might find it on sale for around $925 if you’re lucky. Paying an extra $225 for marginal gains is a tough pill to swallow for most of us.
Software Parity and the Long Game
One of the biggest reasons to go “new” is usually software, but Samsung has been closing that gap. Both the S25+ and the S26+ are now officially running One UI 8.5. While the newer model gets the shiny perks first—like the current One UI 9 beta—the S25+ is hardly a legacy device. Samsung has committed to supporting the Galaxy S25+ until 2032. Let’s be honest: by the time that support ends, we’ll probably be eyeing the Galaxy S33.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the differences are subtle for the average user. In the US, the S26+ features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, while the S25+ runs on the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite globally. While the Gen 5 is technically faster on paper, the S25+ remains a powerhouse that handles gaming, multitasking, and heavy apps without breaking a sweat. Unless you’re a hardcore power user obsessed with benchmark scores, you’re unlikely to notice a day-to-day difference.
The Verdict
If you want the absolute latest and greatest and don’t mind the premium, the S26+ is a fantastic machine. However, for anyone looking for flagship performance without the four-figure price tag, the Galaxy S25+ at $700 is arguably the best deal in the Samsung lineup right now. It’s powerful, it’s supported for the next eight years, and it leaves an extra $300 in your pocket.