Specifications
| Feature | Xiaomi 15 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | August 2025 (Expected) | Early 2025 (Expected) |
| Build & Protection | Xiaomi Nano-Tech Vegan Leather, IP68, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Titanium Frame, IP68, Gorilla Glass Armor |
| Display | 6.73″ AMOLED LTPO, WQHD+, 1–120Hz, 3000 nits peak | 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, QHD+, 120Hz, 2800 nits peak |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (4nm, AI Boost) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (or Exynos 2500 in some markets) |
| RAM & Storage | 16GB LPDDR5X, 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 | 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X, 256GB–1TB UFS 4.0 |
| Main Cameras | 50MP 1-inch LYT-900 + 50MP Ultra-wide + 50MP 3.2x + 50MP 5x Telephoto | 200MP Wide + 12MP Ultra-wide + 50MP 5x + 50MP 3x Telephoto |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, 4K@30fps | 12MP, 4K@60fps |
| Battery | 5300mAh, 90W wired, 80W wireless | 5000mAh, 45W wired, 25W wireless |
| OS & Updates | HyperOS (Android 15), 4 yrs OS / 5 yrs security | One UI 7.0, 7 yrs OS + security |
| Performance (AnTuTu) | 2,300,000+ (estimated) | 2,250,000+ (expected) |
| Extra Features | In-display FP, Surge P2 chip, Leica optics | S Pen, DeX, AI Generative Features |
| Price (Expected) | $899 / ₹74,999 (base) | $1,299 / ₹1,24,999 (base) |
Review
In today’s smartphone world, flashy features and cutting-edge specs are everywhere but how do they actually feel in your hand? That’s what we’re exploring with the latest giants: the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Both phones are flagship powerhouses that promise pro-level photography, blistering speed, and premium build quality. But when you look beyond the spec sheet, which one really stands out?
Let’s dive into a human-first breakdown of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra vs S25 Ultra.
Design & Build
Holding the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a bit like gripping a camera wrapped in a flagship. It’s solid, a bit heavier due to its camera module, but beautifully crafted. With its vegan leather back and titanium frame, it feels warm and premium. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Ultra sticks to the classic Ultra design, a boxy, minimal slab with Gorilla Glass Armor on both sides and a brushed titanium frame. It feels a tad more industrial.
Xiaomi wins on texture and uniqueness, while Samsung appeals with its refined, symmetrical aesthetic.
Display
You can’t go wrong with either here. Xiaomi’s 6.73-inch QHD+ AMOLED is tuned by TCL C8, reaches up to 3000 nits peak brightness, and supports 1–120Hz LTPO refresh. It’s slightly curved, vivid, and extremely responsive. Samsung’s 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel is flatter this year, with 2600 nits brightness and a similar LTPO 120Hz refresh.
Samsung’s flatter display is better for those who prefer minimal edge distortion, but Xiaomi’s screen feels just a bit richer, especially under direct sun.
Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Power
Both phones are built on the brand-new Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, yes, the same beast. Xiaomi pairs it with up to 16GB LPDDR5T RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage, while Samsung offers similar configurations.
The difference? Xiaomi seems to be pushing more sustained performance with its large vapor chamber cooling system. Heavy gaming or 4K video editing feels slightly more stable over time. But Samsung holds its own too and is better optimized for battery efficiency.
Cameras: The Battle of Ultra Photography
This is where things get personal. Xiaomi’s 15 Ultra offers:
- Four 50MP sensors (wide, ultra-wide, 3.2x telephoto, 5x telephoto)
- 1-inch LYT-900 main sensor with f/1.6–f/4.0 variable aperture
- Leica color tuning and pro-level RAW support
Samsung comes in with:
- 200MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide
- 50MP 3x and 50MP 5x telephoto
- Samsung’s usual punchy image processing
Xiaomi’s photos are more natural, almost DSLR-like in daylight and low light alike. If you love photography, you’ll notice the difference. Samsung, on the other hand, produces vibrant, social-media-ready shots right out of the camera.
Video? Both are excellent with 8K support, but Xiaomi takes the edge in cinematic control.
Battery & Charging
Xiaomi 15 Ultra has a 5300mAh battery, 90W wired and 80W wireless charging fast, even by 2025 standards. Samsung’s 5000mAh battery is no slouch, but still sticks to 45W wired and 15W wireless. It’s efficient, but not lightning-fast.
If fast charging matters to you, Xiaomi takes this round comfortably.
Software: ColorOS vs One UI
This one’s a matter of preference. Xiaomi runs HyperOS based on Android 15, with tons of customization and AI features like real-time translation and dynamic memory optimization. Samsung counters with One UI 7.1, also Android 15, with a more polished, mature interface.
Samsung wins for long-term updates and ecosystem integration. Xiaomi, however, is more fun to tweak and explore.
Other Features: AI, Connectivity, and Extras
Both phones are fully loaded: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, USB 3.2, in-display fingerprint sensors, and stereo speakers. Xiaomi has a built-in IR blaster and satellite messaging, while Samsung offers DeX for turning your phone into a desktop.
Samsung may win for productivity, but Xiaomi gives you more toys to play with.
Price and Availability
As of now, Xiaomi 15 Ultra has launched in China and select global markets, with pricing starting at around $899 for the base model. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra starts around $1199, with wide global availability and carrier support.
Final Verdict
If you want sheer photography brilliance, bleeding-edge charging, and a design that breaks the mold, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers. It’s a phone for creators, power users, and anyone who doesn’t mind being a bit different.
If you prefer consistency, ecosystem perks, flatter display, and longer update support, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the safer bet and still among the best Android phones you can buy.
Both are flagships, but their personalities differ. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra feels bold and expressive. The S25 Ultra feels refined and reliable.
So, in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra vs S25 Ultra showdown, your best pick depends on what kind of experience you want in your pocket.
FAQs
Which phone has the better camera setup, Xiaomi 15 Ultra or S25 Ultra?
Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers a more natural, DSLR-like photography experience with its Leica-tuned quad 50MP setup and a 1-inch main sensor. The S25 Ultra is better for vibrant, social-ready images.
Is the Xiaomi 15 Ultra available globally?
Yes, Xiaomi 15 Ultra is available in China and selected global markets, though availability may vary depending on region.
Does the Galaxy S25 Ultra still support fast charging?
Yes, but it’s limited to 45W wired and 15W wireless charging, which is slower compared to Xiaomi’s 90W wired and 80W wireless speeds.
Which phone is better for gaming and heavy usage?
Both perform well with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, but Xiaomi 15 Ultra handles sustained performance slightly better due to its enhanced cooling system.
What operating systems do they use?
Xiaomi 15 Ultra runs HyperOS based on Android 15, while the S25 Ultra uses Samsung’s One UI 7.1, also based on Android 15.
Which phone has a longer update policy?
Samsung typically provides more consistent and longer Android updates compared to Xiaomi.
Does the Xiaomi 15 Ultra support satellite communication?
Yes, it includes satellite messaging, adding an extra layer of connectivity for emergencies.
Is DeX mode available on Xiaomi phones?
No, DeX is a Samsung-exclusive feature that turns the S25 Ultra into a desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor.
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