Samsung recently unveiled its latest flagship, the Galaxy S25, a compact, feature-packed smartphone designed to offer high-end performance in a pocket-sized package. While it shares a similar design with its predecessor, numerous upgrades and internal changes make it stand out in 2025. On the other side, Apple has introduced the iPhone 16, which, despite being cheaper than the Galaxy S25, brings several hardware enhancements and design tweaks, making it a strong contender in the high-end smartphone market.
If you find yourself torn between the fastest Android compact phone and the latest iPhone, we’ve created a detailed comparison to help you decide which device suits your needs and budget.
Design: Subtle Differences, Major Impact
Both the Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Apple iPhone 16 feature a premium design, with rounded corners, aluminum frames, and a glass back. However, there are some key differences that give each phone its unique character.
- Galaxy S25: The design is almost identical to its predecessor. The phone features a punch-hole display that offers a sleeker look and minimizes distractions on the screen. This display is complemented by three buttons on the right side, with a clean, minimalistic front.
- iPhone 16: The iPhone 16, while also sporting rounded edges, has a more angular look compared to the Galaxy S25. The most noticeable feature here is the Dynamic Island, which houses the front camera and Face ID technology, creating a more visually distinct design. In addition, the iPhone 16 includes two additional buttons: the Camera Control and the Action Button, which provide more customizable functions for users.
Both devices are rated IP68, which means they can withstand water immersion and dust exposure—ideal for users who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Display: Refresh Rate vs. Smooth Visuals
- Galaxy S25: The 6.2-inch LTPO AMOLED screen offers a 120Hz refresh rate, making it smoother and more responsive for tasks like scrolling through social media, gaming, or watching videos. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensuring durability.
- iPhone 16: The 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 16 is slightly smaller, with a 60Hz refresh rate. It is protected by Ceramic Shield Glass, which is tough and resistant to scratches and drops but does not match the refresh rate of Samsung’s offering.
While both screens are excellent for viewing content, if you prefer a more fluid scrolling experience or play games that benefit from higher refresh rates, the Galaxy S25 is likely to appeal more to you.
Performance and Software: Power Meets Efficiency
- Samsung Galaxy S25: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, this chipset promises blazing-fast performance. On the software front, the Galaxy S25 runs on One UI 7 based on Android 15. Samsung’s One UI is known for its deep integration with AI, and the addition of Gemini Advanced AI allows users to control certain Samsung apps with a chatbot, which could significantly enhance your user experience.
- iPhone 16: Apple’s latest device comes equipped with the A18 chip, known for its efficiency and raw processing power. iOS 18, combined with Apple’s software optimizations, ensures a smooth and responsive user experience. While the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Galaxy S25 is technically faster, Apple’s ecosystem and software work so seamlessly together that most users will likely find little to no performance difference between the two devices in everyday use.
Both phones can easily handle demanding apps and games, multitask effortlessly, and support fast charging options. The Galaxy S25 comes with a 4,000mAh battery, while the iPhone 16 has a slightly smaller battery. However, both devices support 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, ensuring quick top-ups.
Camera: A Tale of Two Lenses vs. Three
- Samsung Galaxy S25: The camera system in the Galaxy S25 is where it stands apart from the iPhone 16. It features a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens that offers 3x optical zoom. This makes the Galaxy S25 a more versatile option, especially for users who want to zoom in without losing image quality.
- iPhone 16: The iPhone 16, on the other hand, maintains a dual camera setup with a 48MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens. While the iPhone 16 doesn’t have a telephoto lens, it’s still an excellent choice for photography, especially in good lighting conditions. Additionally, Apple’s superior video recording capabilities and color science tend to give the iPhone an edge when it comes to videography.
If you’re someone who values zooming capabilities for close-up shots or wildlife photography, the Galaxy S25 is the clear winner. However, if you record a lot of videos and prefer Apple’s color tones and cinematic quality, the iPhone 16 might be more up your alley.
Price and Value: Which One Is Worth the Investment?
- Samsung Galaxy S25: Starting at ₹80,999, the Galaxy S25 offers robust features, including a powerful Snapdragon chipset, a versatile camera system, and a premium display, making it a strong competitor in the premium smartphone market.
- Apple iPhone 16: The iPhone 16, priced at ₹71,900, is a more affordable option with solid performance, an excellent camera, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
If you’re looking for a telephoto lens and higher refresh rates, the Galaxy S25 may justify the higher price tag. However, if you’re invested in the Apple ecosystem or prefer the iOS experience, the iPhone 16 offers great value at a lower price.
Which One Should You Buy?
In the battle between the Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Apple iPhone 16, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences:
- Go for the Galaxy S25 if you prefer Android, want a higher refresh rate, and need a telephoto lens for photography.
- Go for the iPhone 16 if you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem, enjoy Apple’s software optimizations, and prioritize video recording over camera zoom functionality.
Ultimately, both devices represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology, offering a premium experience in their respective categories. Whichever you choose, you can be assured that you’re investing in a top-tier device designed for efficiency, style, and long-term usage.
This comparison should help you weigh the pros and cons of each device to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and needs.