Samsung Galaxy S25 (Unlocked)

Amazon · Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S25 (Unlocked)

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Samsung's flagship for people who want a sharper screen, a smarter camera, and Android done at the highest level. Unlocked and ready for any carrier — the do-everything Android phone.

Why we picked it

  • Brilliant, ultra-smooth display
  • Versatile high-res camera system
  • Unlocked, all-day power

Our verdict

Buy it if you want a top-tier Android phone in a compact body and you'd rather not pay up for the Ultra's larger screen and built-in pen. It's the right pick when you care about a long run of software updates, a dependable camera, and a size that's easy to use one-handed.

What we like

  • Bright, fast screen that stays smooth while scrolling or gaming and is readable in sunlight
  • Camera handles daylight and lower light well, with usable zoom for everyday shots
  • Samsung promises one of the longest update windows in Android, so it should stay current for years
  • Unlocked, so it works across the major carriers and is easy to resell or move a SIM/eSIM into

Worth knowing

  • The smaller battery and body mean shorter runtime than the Plus or Ultra; heavy users may reach for a charger by evening
  • Zoom tops out well short of the Ultra's reach, so anything beyond a few steps of optical crop gets soft
  • One UI ships with extra Samsung apps and the occasional promotional prompt you'll want to turn off

Who it's for: Someone who wants a flagship Android experience in a phone that fits one hand and doesn't need the biggest screen or a stylus.

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the longest telephoto reach, a big screen, or pen support (get the Ultra), or if you're settled in Apple's ecosystem.

Frequently asked

Is the base S25 worth it over the Ultra?

For most people, yes. You get the same core speed and a clean, fast display in a lighter phone that's easier to hold. Step up to the Ultra only if you specifically want the bigger screen, the built-in stylus, or the longer-reach zoom.

How long will it get software updates?

Samsung has committed to a long window of major Android upgrades plus security patches on its recent flagships, which is among the best in the Android world. In practice that means it should keep getting updates well after most rivals stop. Check Samsung's current policy for the exact number of years.

Will buying unlocked cause carrier problems?

Usually not. The unlocked model is built to work across the major US networks, so you can bring your own SIM or eSIM and switch later. It's still worth confirming your carrier's bands are supported, but for the big networks it's typically straightforward.

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