When it comes to premium smartphones, two giants dominate the conversation: Apple and Samsung. The iPhone 16 Pro and Galaxy S25 Ultra represent the best each company has to offer in 2025. After spending two weeks with both devices, I’ve got a clear picture of which one deserves your hard-earned cash.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones have evolved their designs, but in different directions. The iPhone 16 Pro introduces a new titanium frame with a brushed finish that feels incredibly premium. It’s slightly lighter than its predecessor, making one-handed use more comfortable. The new Camera Control button is a welcome addition for photography enthusiasts.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra takes a bolder approach with its sharp, angular design language. The S Pen integration remains unique in the flagship space, and the phone feels substantial in hand. However, the sharp edges can dig into your palm during extended use.
Display Comparison
| Specification | iPhone 16 Pro | Galaxy S25 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.3 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Resolution | 2622 x 1206 | 3120 x 1440 |
| Refresh Rate | 1-120Hz ProMotion | 1-120Hz LTPO |
| Peak Brightness | 2000 nits | 2600 nits |
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display is marginally brighter and larger, but the iPhone’s color accuracy and True Tone technology make content look more natural. Both displays are excellent for HDR content, with the Samsung having a slight edge in outdoor visibility.
Camera Systems
This is where things get interesting. Apple has upgraded the main sensor to 48MP while Samsung sticks with its 200MP main camera. In good lighting, both produce impressive images with excellent detail retention.
However, computational photography gives the iPhone 16 Pro an edge in challenging conditions. The new Photographic Engine produces more natural skin tones and better dynamic range in backlit scenarios. Samsung’s images tend to be oversaturated, though some users prefer this look.
Video Performance
For video creators, the choice is clear: iPhone 16 Pro wins. The ability to shoot 4K ProRes at 120fps, combined with improved stabilization, makes it the definitive choice for mobile videography. Samsung’s video quality has improved but still falls short of Apple’s consistency.
Performance and Battery Life
Both phones feature custom silicon designed for AI workloads. The A18 Pro chip in the iPhone and Snapdragon 8 Elite in the S25 Ultra handle everything from casual browsing to demanding games with ease.
In our battery tests, the Galaxy S25 Ultra lasted 7 hours 45 minutes of screen-on time, while the iPhone 16 Pro managed 8 hours 15 minutes. Both support fast charging, with Samsung’s 45W wired charging being faster than Apple’s 30W.
Software and Ecosystem
iOS 19 and One UI 7 represent mature platforms with different philosophies. iOS offers tighter integration with Apple’s ecosystem. AirPods, Apple Watch, and Mac work seamlessly together. Samsung’s DeX mode and S Pen functionality provide productivity capabilities iOS can’t match.
Samsung promises 7 years of OS updates, matching Apple’s track record. Both platforms will serve you well for years to come.
The Verdict
After thorough testing, the iPhone 16 Pro emerges as the better overall choice for most users. Its superior video capabilities, more consistent camera performance, and seamless ecosystem integration make it the definitive flagship.
However, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains the better choice for power users who value the S Pen, larger display, and Samsung’s productivity features. If you’re already invested in the Samsung ecosystem or need stylus input, the S25 Ultra won’t disappoint.