Galaxy s25+: the smarter buy than the new flagship?

Samsung’s Galaxy S26+ arrived with a fanfare of AI promises, but a sharp-eyed consumer might find a more compelling proposition lurking in its predecessor. The Galaxy S25+ – often overlooked in the shadow of its newer sibling – is now available for a significant discount, and the value proposition is surprisingly strong.

A $200 savings on a premium android experience

Amazon is currently offering the Galaxy S25+ for $200 off its original price, bringing select 256GB variants under the $800 mark. This deal, while recurring, remains particularly attractive given the S26+'s debut – a moment when many anticipated a steeper price drop for last year's model. Waiting for the S26+ to depreciate might prove a longer, and ultimately more expensive, game.

Let’s be clear: the S26+ boasts incremental improvements, particularly in its AI capabilities. But does the marginal gain in processing power and slightly more sophisticated algorithms truly justify the price difference? The S25+ delivers a robust and compelling experience.

Consider this: you’re getting a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, a powerhouse that handles demanding tasks with ease. The display alone is a reason to pause and reconsider. The 6.7-inch screen, boasting a QHD+ resolution and LTPO Technology, renders colors with remarkable vibrancy and ensures a fluid scrolling experience without compromising battery life. It's a visual feast.

And while it shares the same camera system as its predecessor (a 50MP main sensor paired with a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto), the S25+ captures images with a noticeably more realistic and natural color palette – a detail our full review highlights.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to choose the S25+ is its impending software update. The rollout of One UI 8.5 is imminent, promising further refinements and enhancements to the user experience. Why chase the latest when a near-identical experience is available for considerably less?

The current Amazon deal isn't likely to last. This isn't just a discount; it's a chance to acquire a flagship-caliber Android phone at a price that defies logic. For Galaxy enthusiasts seeking maximum value, the S25+ is a clear winner – and the $200 savings only sweetens the deal.