# Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus vs. iPhone 16 Plus: Which One Should You Choose?
The smartphone landscape is characterized by intense rivalry, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus along with the iPhone 16 Plus stand out as the latest competitors drawing your attention. Both smartphones target individuals looking for a top-tier experience without diving into the high-end costs of their flagship counterparts. With comparable pricing and overlapping features, making a decision between these devices can be daunting. Let’s dissect the critical elements to guide you in determining which one is the right choice for you.
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## **Design and Durability**
### **Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus**
The Galaxy S25 Plus preserves much of the aesthetic appeal from its forerunner, the S24 Plus, albeit with some updates. It boasts flat glass panels on both front and back, a slim profile at 7.3mm, and a lightweight design weighing merely 190g. The sturdy Armor Aluminum frame combined with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 reinforces its durability, while the IP68 certification guards it against dust and moisture. Offered in eye-catching colors such as Icyblue and Mint, the S25 Plus embodies both style and utility.
The 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display features a refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and stunning visuals. Nevertheless, the absence of significant enhancements in display technology may leave some users seeking more.
### **iPhone 16 Plus**
Apple’s iPhone 16 Plus adheres to its classic design ethos, showcasing small updates such as a new camera layout. Its aluminum side edges and frosted glass back provide an upscale feel, while pastel color choices introduce a playful flair. Measuring 7.8mm in thickness and weighing 199g, it is marginally thicker than the S25 Plus but still comfortable to handle.
The 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, achieving a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. However, the 60Hz refresh rate feels outdated next to the 120Hz of the Galaxy S25 Plus, particularly for users used to more fluid displays.
**Winner: Galaxy S25 Plus**
Samsung’s lighter weight, enhanced refresh rate, and sleek profile give it an advantage in design.
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## **Performance and Specifications**
### **Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus**
Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, the S25 Plus proves to be a powerhouse of performance. With a robust 12GB of RAM and storage options starting at 256GB, it is well-equipped for multitasking and gaming demands. Samsung’s upgraded vapor chamber cooling system supports consistent performance during demanding tasks.
The 4,900mAh battery accommodates fast wired and wireless charging, although the charging speeds remain consistent with the S24 Plus. Its triple-camera arrangement includes a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens, catering to the needs of photography lovers.
### **iPhone 16 Plus**
Apple’s A18 chipsets offer remarkable performance, featuring a 5-core GPU and a 16-core NPU for AI operations. While the 8GB of RAM may appear limited, Apple’s optimization of iOS ensures smooth functionality. Storage options begin at 128GB, but the 256GB model is advisable for most users.
Battery longevity is another strong aspect for the iPhone 16 Plus, with Apple claiming up to 24 hours of video playback. Its dual-camera setup, which includes a 48MP primary sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens, yields excellent results but lacks the versatility of a telephoto lens.
**Winner: Galaxy S25 Plus**
The S25 Plus surpasses the iPhone with its greater RAM, telephoto lens, and superior display refresh rate.
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## **Software and User Experience**
### **Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus**
Operating on One UI 7 built on Android 15, the Galaxy S25 Plus unveils a variety of AI-driven features. Samsung’s Gemini AI assistant is capable of video summarization, executing cross-app commands, and delivering personalized insights based on user habits. With seven years of software support, Samsung guarantees long-lasting usability.
### **iPhone 16 Plus**
The iPhone 16 Plus comes pre-loaded with iOS 18, featuring Apple Intelligence, a sophisticated AI assistant integrated with ChatGPT for enhanced inquiries. Attributes like app locking, customizable app icons, and an upgraded Control Center improve user interaction. The advantages of Apple’s ecosystem, including smooth integration with other Apple devices, remain a notable benefit.
**Winner: Tie**
Both smartphones deliver distinctive software experiences that are tailored to their ecosystems. Your decision will be influenced by your preference for Android’s adaptability or Apple’s ecosystem cohesion.
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## **Cost and Worth**
Both the Galaxy S25 Plus and iPhone 16 Plus are priced starting at $999 for the 256GB version, with the 512GB variant priced at $1,199. While the iPhone provides a more affordable initial option with its 128GB model
