hSamsung aims for a sleeker, lighter design with the specialized edge version of the premium Galaxy S25 Android.
The S25 edge measures 5.8mm in thickness, making it remarkably thin—if you disregard the camera bump, it is a whole 1.5mm slimmer than its S25+ counterparts, equating to roughly the thickness of a stack of seven credit cards. Its weight of just 168g adds to the illusion of slimness, making it feel lighter than the specifications may imply.
The ultra-thin model sits between the £999 S25+ and the £1,249 S25 Ultra, being around £100 pricier compared to other 6.7-inch models from Samsung.
Despite its ultra-slim build, the S25 edge maintains a similar appearance to other prominent Samsung models on the screen side. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The expansive, high-quality 6.7-inch OLED display is vibrant, sharp, and fluid, featuring a quick fingerprint scanner integrated into the screen. The lightweight design allows for comfortable handling, though using it typically requires both hands. Adding a case can eliminate the slimness advantage, making it advisable to use it without one.
The device shares many traits with the other Samsung models, powered by Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ample RAM, and a minimum of 256GB storage. It swiftly navigates through apps and games, thanks to Samsung’s Android 15 (One UI 7), which offers numerous customization options, though some default settings mirror Apple’s iOS more closely than one might expect.
Packed with advanced AI tools from Google and Samsung, some features, like image editing, shine, while others can be overlooked. The notification bar and live notifications displaying ongoing tasks, such as playing music via Spotify, prove to be extremely handy, appearing prominently on lock and home screens.
Samsung will extend software updates for the Edge until May 31, 2032, ranking it among the longest-supported mobile devices on the market.
The camera array protrudes from the back of the S25 edge, increasing the overall thickness of the device. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Specifications
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Screen: 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz
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Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Galaxy Elite
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RAM: 12GB
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Storage: 256 or 512GB
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Operating System: One UI 7 (Android 15)
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Camera: 200MP + 12MP 0.6x; 12MP front
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Connectivity: 5G, USB-C, WiFi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, GNSS
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Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes)
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Size: 158.2 x 75.6 x 5.8mm
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Weight: 163g
Charging the S25 Edge to full takes about 80 minutes, reaching 50% in just 26 minutes with a USB-C power adapter of 25W or more (not included). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Edge’s remarkably thin form comes with certain compromises, the most notable being its smaller battery, which has a capacity slightly less than that of the regular S25. Consequently, the Edge’s battery life is somewhat short for a large device. It can last about a day and a half with light usage, meaning daily monitoring is advisable, though it falls behind the S25 Ultra by approximately a day.
Additionally, it may run warmer than other Samsung devices during gaming sessions, potentially affecting battery performance when playing demanding titles like Fortnite.
Camera
The Samsung Camera App is user-friendly, and the lightweight S25 edge facilitates one-handed photography. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Another significant trade-off for the slim design is in the camera setup. The rear features only two cameras, lacking the telephoto sensor found in the other S25 series models.
The primary camera is a stellar 200 megapixel unit closely resembling the one on the S25 Ultra. It offers superior performance compared to the 50MP main sensors of the S25 and S25+, capturing excellent images across various conditions, and compensating for the absence of a dedicated telephoto sensor with its capable digital zoom. The 12MP Ultra Wide Camera is robust and suitable for close-up shots, complemented by a commendable selfie camera.
The camera app features the same extensive mode array as other S25 variants, delivering impressive video quality and ease of use. Overall, the main camera stands out excellently; if you don’t require true zoom capabilities, it may well suffice for your imaging needs.
Sustainability
The titanium chassis and hardened glass exude sturdiness despite the phone’s considerable dimensions. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
While Samsung does not specify the battery’s expected lifespan, it is designed to endure more than 500 full charge cycles while retaining at least 80% of its original capacity.
The device is generally repairable; screen replacement at an authorized service center costs £259 and includes battery replacement. Samsung also offers a self-healing program.
The phone integrates recycled materials, and Samsung runs a trade-in, recycling scheme for older devices. The company publishes annual sustainability reports and impact assessments for select products.
Price
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is priced from £1,099 (€1,259/$1,099/A$1,849).
In comparison, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is £1,249, the S25+ is £999, and the S25 is £799. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at £799, OnePlus 13 at £899, while Apple’s iPhone 16 Plus is also £899.
Despite its lightweight and design, the S25 Edge remains a large device, challenging to maneuver with one hand without grips or handles. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Verdict
The S25 Edge represents a fascinating direction for Samsung. Many users might wish for slimmer, longer-lasting devices with better cameras. Most tend to use cases, quickly negating slight differences in thickness that premium models boast.
However, using the Edge brought attention to just how bulky modern large phones can feel. It offers a remarkably light experience, whether cradled in hand or stashed in a pocket, all while featuring a substantial high-resolution display. The battery life isn’t stellar, but it isn’t a complete dealbreaker for extended days of typical use.
While the main camera performs admirably, the absence of a versatile telephoto lens may disappoint some users. I felt its lack. Additionally, while the titanium frame seems robust, subjecting it to stress tests is something I wouldn’t recommend if it’s placed in my back pocket.
The S25 Edge boasts high-quality hardware. If you’re seeking a lighter, thinner phone with a larger display, this could be your pick. However, for those who prioritize other features, better alternatives from Samsung and competitors abound at this price point.
Pros: Stunning large display, ultra-lightweight design, exceptionally thin, outstanding main camera, quick fingerprint reader, superb software with 7 years of support, high-end Android chipset, and advanced AI features.
Cons: Lacks telephoto lens, relatively short battery life, premium price, and its benefits diminish with a case.
Source: www.theguardian.com
