Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Durability Under Scrutiny: Tests Reveal Potential Weaknesses
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra arrives with expected cutting-edge tech and svelte design. However, recent durability tests suggest potential cracks in its armor. Suspicions are raised that build quality may have taken a backseat in the pursuit of innovation.
Key Issues from Durability Tests
- Scratch-Prone Display: Scratches at level 6 and deeper grooves at level 7. Resistance appears less than the S24 Ultra.
- Detachable Camera Rings: Camera rings detach easily, raising questions about dust ingress and design integrity.
- Misaligned Logo: The Samsung logo on the back appears misaligned on the tested device.
- S Pen without Bluetooth: The S Pen lacks Bluetooth, losing remote camera shutter control and other features.
Scratch Resistance of Display: A Possible Step Backwards
The Galaxy S24 Ultra demonstrated strong scratch resistance. The Galaxy S25 Ultra in JerryRigEverything's test scratches at Mohs level 6 with deeper grooves at level 7. This is arguably a step down from its predecessor. The effectiveness of Gorilla Armor 2 is now questioned.
Misaligned Logo: A Detail Indicating Quality Concerns
A misaligned Samsung logo on the Galaxy S25 Ultra is noted. While not a functional problem, it suggests potential quality control issues or a less-than-perfect finish for a premium device. This could be an isolated incident or a broader issue. The extent is currently unknown.
Detachable Camera Rings: Form Over Function
The Galaxy S25 Ultra's camera rings, presented as a design feature, are revealed to be glued-on cosmetic pieces. They detach easily with a sharp tool. The raised rings create slight gaps, potentially inviting dust and debris and detracting from the phone's clean aesthetic. This design choice raises questions about prioritizing style over practical function.
Bluetooth-less S-Pen: Functional Downgrade
The S-Pen experiences an unexpected downgrade, losing Bluetooth functionality. This removes features like remote camera shutter control. While not critical for all users, it is a notable change. Speculation suggests this might encourage users to adopt the Galaxy Ring for such features. For S Pen users, this represents a step backward.
Final Assessment: A Mixed Picture
The Galaxy S25 Ultra includes powerful features like the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and Galaxy AI. However, recent durability tests highlight significant concerns. Potential buyers must consider if these durability compromises are acceptable for a flagship device.