Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Galaxy S25 Ultra: Is It Really Worth Upgrading in 2026?

2. Display Upgrade: Smoother 144Hz Refresh Rate

One of the most noticeable upgrades on the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the move to a 144Hz high refresh rate display.

In everyday use, this translates to:

• Smoother scrolling when browsing websites or social feeds

• More fluid animations when switching apps

• A generally more responsive feel compared to 120Hz

While this won’t change what you do on your phone, it does make the experience feel more polished—especially if you spend a lot of time reading, scrolling, or multitasking.

S26U Kevlar® Phone Case

3. Privacy Display: Better Screen Privacy in Public

A standout new feature on the S26 Ultra is Privacy Display.

This feature limits screen visibility from side angles, making it harder for people nearby to see your content. It’s especially useful when:

• Using your phone on public transport

• Working in cafés or shared spaces

• Viewing sensitive messages or information

Unlike traditional screen protectors, Privacy Display is built into the display experience, allowing better clarity when viewed straight on.

4. Faster 60W Wired Charging (Charger Sold Separately)

The Galaxy S26 Ultra upgrades wired charging to 60W, offering faster top-ups compared to the S25 Ultra.

However, it’s important to note:

• You’ll need to buy a compatible 60W fast charger separately

• Using older adapters will not unlock the full charging speed

This is a practical improvement, especially for users who charge during short breaks, but it does come with an extra accessory cost.

S26U GlassWarrior AR Screen Protector

5. Camera Improvements Focus on Low-Light Performance

Samsung keeps the familiar 200MP main camera but introduces meaningful refinements:

• Main camera with f/1.4 variable aperture
  This allows the camera to adapt better to different lighting conditions, improving exposure control.

• 50MP ultra-wide camera with f/1.9 aperture
  A brighter lens helps capture cleaner images in darker environments.

These upgrades are particularly useful for:

• Low-light product photography

• Indoor shots

• Night scenes where detail matters

Daylight photos remain excellent on both models, but the S26 Ultra gains an edge in challenging lighting.

6. S Pen: Still No Bluetooth Support

Despite ongoing user requests, the S Pen on the Galaxy S26 Ultra still does not include Bluetooth functionality.

This means:

• No remote camera control

• No media playback control

• S Pen remains focused on writing and drawing only

For users who hoped for expanded S Pen features, this remains a missed opportunity.

7. Design Changes: Oval Camera Module and Softer Edges

The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a refreshed look with:

• A new oval-shaped camera module

• More rounded edges for a softer in-hand feel

These changes don’t affect performance but do improve:

• Visual balance

• Grip comfort

• Overall design cohesion

It’s a noticeable aesthetic shift rather than a functional one.

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8. Summary

If your Galaxy S25 Ultra is still running great, upgrading to the Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t a smart move for most people.

While the S26 Ultra brings visible upgrades like a smoother 144Hz display, faster 60W wired charging, and improved low-light camera performance, these changes mainly refine the experience rather than redefine it.

In day-to-day use, the difference between the two phones remains subtle. Unless you care strongly about smoother scrolling, quicker charging, or shoot a lot in low-light environments, the S25 Ultra still holds up very well in 2026.