Samsung Galaxy S26 vs Galaxy S25: What’s different between the two compact flagships

Samsung has introduced the Galaxy S26 as the next step in its compact flagship lineup, succeeding the Galaxy S25 with incremental hardware and software refinements. While both phones share a familiar foundation, several upgrades shape the newer model’s positioning. This comparison looks at how the Galaxy S26 differs from the Galaxy S25 and whether the changes matter for potential buyers.

Design language remains familiar

The Samsung Galaxy S26 retains the compact form factor that defined the Galaxy S25, featuring flat edges, a minimal camera layout and premium build quality. The newer device is slightly thicker and heavier, reflecting internal adjustments rather than a dramatic design shift. In hand, the overall experience remains close to what users expect from Samsung’s smaller flagship phones.

Display size sees a minor increase

Samsung has increased the display size slightly, moving from a 6.2-inch panel on the Galaxy S25 to a 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display on the Galaxy S26. Both phones support adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, meaning scrolling and animations should feel equally smooth. Resolution and overall viewing characteristics remain largely similar, so the upgrade focuses more on refinement than transformation.

Performance upgrades and chipset changes

One of the clearer differences lies under the hood. The Galaxy S26 is powered by newer 2nm Exynos 2600, offering improved efficiency and enhanced AI processing. The Galaxy S25 uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy platform, which still delivers strong flagship-level performance. Everyday usage differences may be subtle, but the newer chip helps future-proof the device.

Software and AI capabilities

The Galaxy S26 ships with Android 16 and One UI 8.5 out of the box, introducing expanded Galaxy AI features and deeper system intelligence. Improvements include smarter search, proactive suggestions and enhanced privacy functions designed to simplify everyday tasks.

The Galaxy S25 launched with Android 15 and One UI 7, and while it will continue receiving updates, the S26 begins one generation ahead in Samsung’s software lifecycle. Both phones are entitled to get seven years of Android OS upgrades and security updates.

Camera hardware remains consistent

Samsung has maintained the same triple-camera arrangement on both models, consisting of a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera, along with a 12-megapixel front camera. Because the hardware remains unchanged, photography improvements are expected to come mainly from image processing and AI enhancements rather than sensor upgrades.

Battery capacity and charging

Battery capacity increases modestly on the Galaxy S26, moving from 4,000mAh on the Galaxy S25 to 4,300mAh. Charging speeds remain broadly similar, but efficiency gains from the new chipset and software could result in slightly longer endurance during daily use.

Pricing comparison

The Galaxy S26 is priced at Rs 87,999 for the 12GB+256GB variant and Rs 1,07,999 for the 12GB+512GB model. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 has received price revisions following the newer launch and is currently available at Rs 74,999 for the 12GB+256GB version and Rs 86,999 for the 12GB+512GB variant.

For existing S25 users, the upgrade may feel incremental, but new buyers may prefer the Galaxy S26 for its newer software foundation and updated internals.

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