The Launch of the Galaxy S25 Edge
Samsung introduced the Galaxy S25 Edge shortly after the release of its three main Galaxy S25 models. Touted as an ultra-thin competitor to the iPhone Air, the Galaxy S25 Edge offered impressive specifications but ultimately struggled to stand out. A year later, it remains unaccompanied by a successor and is often regarded as Samsung’s least successful phone of 2025.
My Year with the Galaxy S25 Edge
I purchased the Galaxy S25 Edge without any discounts or promotions and relied on it as my primary device for an entire year, except when testing other Android phones. While I appreciated the concept of a slim phone, the issues with Samsung's implementation made it difficult to continue using it.
Battery Life Woes
The primary flaw of the Galaxy S25 Edge lies in its battery performance. Despite my efforts to optimize its settings, the 3,900mAh battery frequently fell short, requiring multiple charges throughout the day. This situation contrasts sharply with other models in the Galaxy lineup, like the Galaxy S25 Plus, which has a larger battery that provides all-day usage.
Even with flagship specifications, the mismatch between the power-hungry Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and the smaller battery capacity made it challenging to enjoy the phone fully. The device’s large AMOLED display, while stunning, demands significant energy, leading to quicker battery depletion.
Comparing to the iPhone Air
My experience with the Galaxy S25 Edge led me to compare it with Apple’s iPhone Air, which I also purchased. The iPhone Air, despite having a smaller 3,149mAh battery, consistently delivered strong battery life. Apple’s effective hardware optimization and a more suitable component selection allowed it to outperform the Galaxy S25 Edge in terms of longevity.
Charging the iPhone Air is convenient, thanks to MagSafe technology, which lets users replenish the battery quickly. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 Edge lacks such features, making on-the-go recharging less practical.
Making the Switch
Ultimately, I decided to trade in my Galaxy S25 Edge for a Galaxy Z Fold 8 after AT&T offered a compelling deal. While I was initially reluctant to let go of the sleek design of the S25 Edge, the trade-in opportunity for a more capable device was too attractive to ignore.
Transitioning to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 has proven beneficial, as it offers better battery life with a 4,800mAh capacity and faster charging options. Although the Z Fold 8 is not as thin, it provides a more versatile experience with its folding display and enhanced camera capabilities.
In retrospect, my time with the Galaxy S25 Edge was marked by its potential rather than its performance. I hope Samsung can create a truly impressive thin phone in the future, but my experience with the S25 Edge has shown the pitfalls of prioritizing design over functionality.
Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/galaxy-s25-edge-one-year-later-3703679/
