Apple’s iPhone 17 and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 represent the latest battleground in the smartphone market. Both devices aim to deliver flagship-level performance, but with distinct approaches to hardware, software, and features. This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you decide which device best fits your needs.
Display: Smoothness and Brightness
The iPhone 17 finally brings a 120Hz ProMotion display to its base model, matching the smoothness previously exclusive to Pro iPhones. This variable refresh rate offers a fluid experience for gaming and scrolling, alongside an always-on display for at-a-glance notifications. The 6.3-inch OLED screen boasts a resolution of 2,622×1,206 pixels and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 has long featured a 120Hz display, and the S25 continues this trend. While its 6.2-inch AMOLED screen is slightly less sharp at 2,340×1,080 pixels and peaks at 2,600 nits, it still provides a vibrant visual experience. The Samsung phone also supports an always-on display configurable to suit user preferences.
Cameras: Versatility vs. Resolution
The Galaxy S25 edges out the iPhone 17 in camera versatility with a triple-lens setup: 50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, and 10-megapixel telephoto. This allows for a 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 17 features a dual-camera system with a 48-megapixel wide and a 48-megapixel ultrawide, offering flexibility in framing shots.
The iPhone’s 48-megapixel ultrawide lens is a standout feature, providing detailed images and flexibility. The iPhone 17 also boasts a 2x optical zoom. For selfies, the Galaxy S25 has a 12-megapixel front camera, while the iPhone 17 features an 18-megapixel lens with a new Center Stage mode for landscape selfies without rotating the phone. Video recording capabilities include 8K at 30fps for the S25 and 4K at 30/60fps for the iPhone 17.
Battery Life: Comparable Endurance
Apple doesn’t disclose exact battery specs but claims up to 30 hours of video playback on the iPhone 17, aided by an AI-powered Adaptive Power feature in iOS 26. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 packs a 4,000-mAh battery, with the company estimating up to 29 hours of video playback.
Testing shows that both phones offer similar real-world endurance. The Galaxy S25 lasts roughly a day and a half with typical use, while the iPhone 17 delivers a little over a day with around 30% battery remaining after 24 hours.
Price: Entry-Level Competition
The iPhone 17 and Galaxy S25 are priced competitively, starting around $800. The iPhone 17 begins at $799 for the 256GB model, while the Galaxy S25 starts at $800 for the 128GB version. Upgrading to the 256GB Galaxy S25 adds $60 to the price.
In conclusion, both the iPhone 17 and Galaxy S25 are strong contenders in the flagship smartphone market. The iPhone delivers a refined user experience with a now-standard 120Hz display and powerful camera system. The Galaxy S25 offers versatility with its triple-camera setup and AI-powered features, making it a compelling alternative for Android enthusiasts.
