The Edge, with its measly 3,900-mAh battery, is the smallest of the Galaxy S25 series, even smaller than the compact Galaxy S25. Despite Samsung’s efforts to optimize battery life, it falls short for a $1,100 phone. Traveling with the Edge for Google I/O, I had to charge it most afternoons and limit usage to conserve battery. With only about 4 hours of screen-on time before hitting 15 percent, the Edge struggles to keep up. While it can last a day with light use, it leaves much to be desired for a flagship device.
Battery Woes and Size Dilemma
In a world where thinner phones with smaller batteries are becoming the norm, the S25 Edge tries to find its place. However, its larger size doesn’t translate to a bigger battery, leaving users questioning its purpose. Who is this phone really for? For those who share the sentiment, folding flip phones like the Motorola Razr Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip6 offer similar or better battery life in a more compact form factor. Alternatively, the Galaxy S25 provides a longer battery life than the Edge for a lower cost.
Compromises and Capabilities
Samsung markets the Galaxy S25 Edge to power users seeking features of the S25 Ultra without the bulk. But beyond its poor battery life, the Edge falls short with slower charging, no S Pen stylus, and no telephoto zoom camera. While it boasts 4K video at 120 frames per second, it lacks essential features found in other premium smartphones. The primary and ultrawide cameras deliver sharp images, but the lack of optical zoom is a notable drawback in a phone of this caliber. Despite a few advantages over cheaper models, the Edge’s compromises may not justify its high price tag.
In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphones, the Galaxy S25 Edge struggles to find its place among power users. With a small battery, slow charging, and missing features, it leaves consumers questioning its value. Perhaps a folding flip phone or a more affordable Galaxy S25 would be a better fit for those seeking a balance of performance and functionality. As the market continues to shift towards thinner devices with smaller batteries, manufacturers must find innovative solutions to meet consumer demands for longer battery life without sacrificing essential features.
