Galaxy S24 vs Galaxy S25+

Galaxy S24
Galaxy S24
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$622.00

Versus A$1,841.10 new

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Galaxy S25+
Galaxy S25+
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$919.00

Versus A$1,699.00 new

See options

The Samsung Galaxy S24, released in early 2024, represents a compact yet powerful Android smartphone, while the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, expected in early 2025, is anticipated to be its larger, next-generation counterpart. Both devices operate on the Android platform with Samsung's One UI, offering a consistent software experience. The primary distinctions between these two models lie in their physical size, display resolution, battery capacity, and the generational advancements in their internal components, catering to different user preferences for portability versus immersive viewing and extended usage.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, both the Galaxy S24 and the anticipated Galaxy S25 Plus offer substantial software support, a key factor in device longevity.

  • Software Updates: The Galaxy S24, launched in January 2024, is guaranteed to receive seven years of major Android operating system upgrades and security patches, extending its software support through Android 21. The Galaxy S25 Plus, expected to launch approximately one year later, is also projected to receive a similar seven-year update policy, meaning it would benefit from software support for an additional year compared to the S24.
  • Build Materials: The Galaxy S24 features an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for display protection, contributing to its durability. The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to utilize similar premium materials, ensuring a robust build quality.
  • Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, Samsung's flagship devices generally offer a consistent level of repair accessibility. The extended software support for both models means users can expect a prolonged period of secure and functional operation, making them suitable for long-term use.

Release year

2024

2025

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a core aspect where generational improvements are often most noticeable, and the Galaxy S24 and the upcoming Galaxy S25 Plus are expected to reflect this.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S24 is equipped with a current-generation processor, enabling smooth handling of demanding applications, efficient multitasking, and responsive gaming experiences. The Galaxy S25 Plus is anticipated to feature the next-generation processor, which is expected to offer enhanced raw performance and improved power efficiency, leading to even smoother operation and greater headroom for future software and applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S24 typically comes with 8GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for most users' multitasking needs. The Galaxy S25 Plus is rumored to feature 12GB of RAM, which would further enhance its ability to manage numerous applications simultaneously without slowdowns. Both devices offer various internal storage options, with the S25 Plus likely starting at a higher base storage.
  • Battery Endurance: The Galaxy S24 houses a 4000 mAh battery, providing a full day of use for many users, though heavy usage might require more frequent charging. The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to retain a larger battery capacity, similar to its predecessor (the S24 Plus), at an advertised 4900 mAh. This larger capacity, combined with the anticipated power efficiency improvements of its newer processor, suggests the S25 Plus could offer notably longer battery life, potentially extending to two days for moderate users.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is a significant differentiator, with both models offering high-quality displays tailored to their respective form factors.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S24 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels), delivering sharp images and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to feature a larger display, likely around 6.7 inches, and is anticipated to offer a Quad HD+ resolution, providing a noticeably sharper and more detailed viewing experience, especially for text and high-resolution content.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices are equipped with adaptive refresh rate technology, scaling from 1Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and efficient power consumption. The Galaxy S24 boasts a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The S25 Plus is expected to maintain or slightly exceed this high brightness level, ensuring a similarly clear viewing experience outdoors.
  • Viewing Experience: The S24's smaller screen size makes it ideal for one-handed use and portability, while the S25 Plus's larger display offers a more expansive canvas for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks, enhancing immersion.

Resolution

1080x2340

1440x3120

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both the Galaxy S24 and the anticipated Galaxy S25 Plus are designed to capture high-quality images and videos, though the S25 Plus may introduce subtle refinements.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. This configuration delivers detailed photos with natural colors and capable zoom capabilities. Rumors suggest the Galaxy S25 Plus may retain similar camera hardware specifications to the S24 and S24 Plus, including a 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP 3x telephoto lens. However, there is speculation about a potential switch to new sensor types, such as Sony sensors, which could lead to improved image processing and overall quality.
  • Front Camera and Video: Both models are expected to feature a 12MP front-facing camera, capable of capturing detailed selfies and supporting high-quality video calls. For video recording, the Galaxy S24 supports up to 8K resolution at 24/30fps, along with various other modes and stabilization features. The S25 Plus is expected to offer similar or enhanced video capabilities, potentially with further software optimizations for improved stability and low-light performance.
  • Photography Performance: User reviews for the S24 indicate its camera system performs well in various conditions, producing vibrant and detailed images, though some note that while it is highly capable, it may not always surpass competitors in specific scenarios like extreme low light. The S25 Plus, even with similar hardware, could benefit from a newer processor and refined image processing algorithms to deliver a more polished output.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features and design elements differentiate these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Connectivity: The Galaxy S24 supports modern connectivity standards, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6E (with some sources indicating Wi-Fi 7 capability), and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections. The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to incorporate the latest advancements, likely including Wi-Fi 7 and a newer Bluetooth standard, offering potentially faster speeds and improved efficiency.
  • Ports and Biometrics: Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, with the S24 supporting USB 3.2. The S25 Plus may feature an updated USB-C standard for even quicker data transfer. Both models utilize an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for secure and convenient unlocking.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S24 is designed as a compact device, measuring 147 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and weighing 168g, making it comfortable for one-handed use and easy to carry. The Galaxy S25 Plus, as a 'Plus' model, will be significantly larger and heavier, offering a more expansive screen but requiring a two-handed grip for most interactions. Renders suggest the S25 Plus will maintain a design similar to its predecessor, the S24 Plus, with potentially thicker camera rings.

Weight

167 oz

190 oz

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and the anticipated Galaxy S25 Plus cater to distinct user needs, with each offering a compelling set of features. The Galaxy S24 is often praised for its compact form factor, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize one-handed usability and portability without compromising on flagship performance. Its camera system is generally well-regarded for producing vibrant and detailed photos, though some users note that while capable, it may not always lead the pack in specific challenging conditions. The battery life of the S24 is considered good for a compact device, often lasting a full day, but heavy users might find themselves seeking a charger before day's end.

Conversely, the Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to appeal to users who desire a larger display for immersive media consumption, gaming, and productivity. Its anticipated larger battery capacity is a significant advantage, likely offering extended usage times that could comfortably last through a full day and beyond for many. While camera hardware rumors suggest continuity with the previous generation, the newer processor and potential software optimizations could still lead to subtle improvements in image processing. The larger size, however, means it will be less pocketable and require a two-handed approach for most interactions.

Users prioritizing a compact device with strong performance and a long software support window will find the Galaxy S24 well-suited to their needs. Those who value a larger screen, extended battery life, and the very latest generational performance enhancements, and are comfortable with a larger device, will likely lean towards the anticipated Galaxy S25 Plus. Both models represent robust choices within the Android ecosystem, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either device can be an eco-friendly alternative for making an informed and sustainable choice.

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