Samsung S10 Ultra: Is it Still a Good Buy in 2025?

The Samsung S10 Ultra once dazzled the tech world with its sleek design and powerful features. Released in 2019, it was celebrated for its vibrant display, versatile cameras, and robust performance. Fast forward to 2025, and the smartphone landscape has evolved significantly, with newer models boasting even more advanced technologies. However, the question remains: does the S10 Ultra still hold its ground as a worthy purchase today? In this article, we’ll explore the S10 Ultra’s enduring appeal, assess its capabilities in the current tech environment, and help you decide if it’s a smart investment or a nostalgic relic.
Exploring the Samsung S10 Ultra in 2025: Is it Worth Your Investment?
The Samsung S10 Ultra was once a flagship device, lauded for its features and performance. But as we move into 2025, it's important to evaluate whether this older model still holds its ground in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
1. Performance and Specifications
When discussing the performance of a smartphone, we often look at the processor, RAM, and storage. The Samsung S10 Ultra was equipped with a high-end processor back in its release, making it quite powerful for its time. It features a Snapdragon 855 chipset and up to 12GB of RAM, sufficient for most daily tasks and moderate gaming even today. However, compared to modern devices in 2025, newer models will have more updated chipsets and RAM capabilities, potentially offering faster performance and better battery efficiency.
2. Camera Quality in 2025
The camera is often a major selling point for Samsung's smartphones. The S10 Ultra boasts a triple camera setup, which was top-of-the-line at its release. It includes a wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens, capable of capturing high-quality photos. In 2025, while this camera array still performs adequately, newer models may offer improved image processing and features like advanced night mode or AI enhancements that the S10 Ultra lacks.
3. Software Updates and Support
Software updates are crucial for both security and performance. Samsung offers several years of major Android updates and security patches for its devices. As the S10 Ultra was released in early 2019, it will likely still receive some security updates but may no longer get the latest Android version updates. This could impact its longevity and make it less optimal compared to newer devices that will benefit from longer update support.
4. Battery Life and Charging
The battery life of a smartphone is pivotal for a device's practicality. The Samsung S10 Ultra was praised for its substantial battery, accompanied by fast charging capabilities. Over time, however, battery health can degrade, affecting how long it lasts on a single charge. By 2025, the S10 Ultra's battery might not perform as well as it did brand new unless it's replaced. Additionally, newer models might offer faster or even wireless charging advancements.
5. Pricing and Value Proposition
The cost of the Samsung S10 Ultra in 2025 is likely to be significantly reduced compared to its release price, making it attractive for those looking for a premium device at a lower cost. However, users must consider if the price reduction justifies the trade-offs in missing out on the latest technological advancements and features found in newer models.
Specification | Samsung S10 Ultra | Modern Equivalent |
---|---|---|
Processor | Snapdragon 855 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
RAM | Up to 12GB | Up to 16GB |
Camera Setup | Triple Camera | Quad or Penta Camera |
Battery Life | 4,500mAh | 5,000mAh+ |
Software Support | Limited | Extended |
In summary, while the Samsung S10 Ultra was a stellar device in its prime, several factors in 2025 might impact its appeal. Each prospective buyer must weigh the benefits and limitations based on current needs and priorities.
How long is the Samsung S10 going to be supported?

The Samsung S10, launched in March 2019, has a specific period during which it will receive software updates from Samsung. Typically, Samsung offers support for its flagship devices for a few years, but the exact duration may vary. Let's explore how long the Samsung S10 is likely to be supported.
Software Updates for Samsung S10
Samsung provides software updates to improve the performance and security of its devices. The schedule for these updates typically includes:
- Major Android Updates: Samsung usually delivers major Android OS updates for about two to three years from the release date of a flagship device. For the Samsung S10, this means it started with Android 9 and may receive updates up to Android 11 or 12, depending on Samsung's support strategy.
- Security Patches: After the major Android updates cease, Samsung continues to provide security patches. These updates are crucial to keeping the device secure and protected from vulnerabilities. The S10 can expect to receive security updates for at least one more year after the major updates stop.
- Custom UI Updates: Samsung's One UI, their custom interface layer, also receives updates. These updates often accompany major Android updates and sometimes occur independently, adding new features and improvements to the user experience.
Factors Affecting Longevity of Support
The length of support a device receives can be influenced by several factors:
- Hardware Limitations: As new Android versions are released, they demand more advanced hardware. Older devices like the S10 might not have sufficient hardware capabilities to handle the latest updates effectively.
- Market Strategy: Samsung's strategy regarding software support can change over time. Newer models may take priority, possibly affecting the support duration of older models like the S10.
- User Demand: Samsung considers user demand when determining the continuation of support. If a large user base still actively uses the S10, Samsung may extend its support period.
Tips for Maximizing Samsung S10 Lifespan
There are several ways users can maximize the lifespan of their Samsung S10 while it's still supported and beyond:
- Regular Updates: Always keep your device updated with the latest patches and updates released by Samsung to ensure it remains secure and efficient.
- Protective Measures: Use screen protectors and cases to physically protect the device, reducing the likelihood of hardware damage that could affect performance.
- Battery Care: Keep the battery healthy by avoiding extreme temperatures and ensuring the charging habits prevent overcharging or deep discharging.
Is it worth upgrading from S10 to S23?

Performance Enhancements from S10 to S23
The upgrade from the Samsung Galaxy S10 to the S23 comes with several performance improvements that might catch your interest:
- Processor: The S23 features a more advanced processor compared to the S10, which translates into faster performance, quicker app launches, and better gaming experiences.
- RAM: While the S10 offered up to 8GB of RAM, the S23 typically provides more, allowing for smoother multitasking and more seamless app transitions.
- Battery Life: The S23 is equipped with a larger battery capacity, leading to longer usage time without needing to recharge as frequently as the S10.
Camera Improvements in S23 Over S10
The camera system in the S23 has seen significant upgrades compared to the S10, which are important for photography enthusiasts:
- Main Camera: The S23 offers a higher megapixel count, which translates to more detailed photos.
- Features: Advanced features such as improved night mode, better optical zoom, and AI enhancements help in capturing superior images.
- Video Quality: With advancements in video technology, the S23 supports higher resolution video recording, making your videos clearer and more professional-looking.
Design and Display Differences Between S10 and S23
The design and display of the S23 reflect modern enhancements over the S10, which are noticeable:
- Display Quality: The S23 offers a higher resolution and refresh rate, resulting in a smoother and more vivid viewing experience.
- Design Evolution: The S23 sports a more contemporary design with thinner bezels and a more durable build quality.
- Materials: The materials used in the S23 are of a higher quality, providing a more premium feel and enhanced durability.
Will a Galaxy S10 still work on 5G?

The Samsung Galaxy S10 does not support 5G. It was designed to work with 4G LTE networks, which were the standard at the time of its release. The Galaxy S10 series does have a variant specifically for 5G, known as the Galaxy S10 5G, but the standard S10 model does not have this capability.
Features of the Galaxy S10 Related to Network Capabilities
The Galaxy S10 is equipped with several features, but when discussing its network capabilities, it's important to understand what it offers:
- 4G LTE Support: The Galaxy S10 supports 4G LTE, which provides fast internet speed suitable for most daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and email.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: It supports Wi-Fi networks, allowing users to connect to the internet via wireless connections, which can offer faster speeds than mobile networks depending on the setup.
- No Native 5G Support: The standard Galaxy S10 model does not support 5G. For 5G connectivity, Samsung released a separate model, the Galaxy S10 5G.
Differences Between Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10 5G
While both phones are part of the same series, they have differences, especially concerning network support:
- 5G Capability: The Galaxy S10 5G model supports 5G networks, allowing for faster downloads and smoother streaming compared to the 4G-only Galaxy S10.
- Size and Features: The S10 5G is slightly larger and includes additional features such as a bigger battery and advanced camera technology.
- Cost Impact: Naturally, the Galaxy S10 5G was more expensive at launch due to the added technology and capabilities.
Considerations for Users Looking to Upgrade
For those considering upgrading their phone for better network support, here are some key considerations:
- Network Availability: Check if 5G service is available in your area. If not, a 5G phone might not be immediately beneficial.
- Usage Needs: Assess whether your current phone meets your needs. If activities like high-speed streaming or gaming are important, a 5G phone may be helpful.
- Budget: Consider the cost of upgrading to a 5G phone. There are many models available, and prices can vary significantly.
Is the Galaxy S10 being phased out?

The Galaxy S10 series, which includes the Galaxy S10, Galaxy S10e, and Galaxy S10 Plus, has been a popular line of smartphones since its release in 2019. However, with the relentless pace of technology and new launches from Samsung, questions have arisen regarding whether this line is being phased out. Let's explore this topic further.
Is Samsung Still Supporting the Galaxy S10?
Initially, when a new phone like the Galaxy S10 is launched, it comes with promises of software updates and support. Over time, this support tends to diminish as newer models are introduced. Here's a look at the current situation:
- Software Updates: Samsung pledged to provide three major Android updates for its flagship devices like the Galaxy S10. As of 2023, most of the Galaxy S10 models have received these promised updates, meaning future major updates might not be guaranteed.
- Security Patches: These updates are essential for maintaining phone security. Samsung usually provides security patches for slightly longer than major OS updates. However, over time, these too become less frequent.
- Customer Support: As devices age, official support through customer service might not prioritize older models like the Galaxy S10, focusing instead on newer devices.
Why Would Samsung Phase Out the Galaxy S10?
Phasing out older models is a common practice in the tech industry for several reasons:
- Advancement in Technology: Newer models often come with cutting-edge technology, better performance, and new features, making older models like the Galaxy S10 seem outdated.
- Business Strategy: To drive sales of the latest products, companies might reduce the focus on older models, directing customer interest towards the new releases.
- Cost of Production: Continuing to produce and support older models can be more expensive than creating new ones that take advantage of advances in manufacturing and materials.
Can You Still Buy the Galaxy S10?
While the Galaxy S10 might not be available directly from Samsung, it can still be found through various other channels:
- Third-Party Retailers: Many retailers may still have the Galaxy S10 in stock. They might sell remaining inventory at reduced prices, making it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality phone at a lower cost.
- Refurbished Markets: Online platforms often list refurbished Galaxy S10 models. These phones have been tested and restored to good condition, offering a cost-effective choice.
- Second-Hand Sellers: Platforms where individuals sell personal items can also be a source for purchasing a Galaxy S10, though the condition and price will vary greatly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Samsung S10 Ultra still worth buying in 2025?
The Samsung S10 Ultra remains a compelling choice even in 2025 for several reasons. First, its design and build quality are still on par with many modern smartphones. The S10 Ultra features a sleek body, a high-resolution AMOLED screen, and a durable build that can withstand daily usage. Although newer models may boast the latest technology, the S10 Ultra still offers exceptional performance with its powerful processor and ample RAM, making it a worthy option for those who don't necessarily need the latest features. However, it's important to consider the availability of software updates, as older models might not receive the most recent Android versions, which could affect security and functionality.
How does the camera of the Samsung S10 Ultra perform in 2025?
The camera system of the Samsung S10 Ultra was a standout feature at its launch, and it continues to perform well even in 2025. The device is equipped with a versatile set of lenses, including wide-angle and telephoto options that give users flexibility in capturing various types of shots. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in the latest flagship devices like enhanced night mode or AI-driven photography enhancements, the S10 Ultra still produces sharp, detailed images and offers a reliable photography experience. Users who prioritize photography might miss the latest innovations but can still capture high-quality photos and videos with this device.
Is the battery life of the Samsung S10 Ultra sufficient for daily use in 2025?
The battery life of the Samsung S10 Ultra remains capable of supporting daily activities in 2025. Originally equipped with a substantial battery capacity, it still manages to provide decent endurance, allowing users to comfortably use their phones throughout the day for standard tasks such as browsing, streaming, and communication. However, due to the natural degradation of batteries over time, some users may notice a decline in performance. Regular maintenance and proper battery management—such as reducing screen brightness and closing unused apps—can help preserve its longevity. For those experiencing significant battery issues, replacing the battery might be a feasible option to extend the device's usability.
What are the possible drawbacks of buying a Samsung S10 Ultra in 2025?
Purchasing a Samsung S10 Ultra in 2025 does come with some potential drawbacks. One significant concern is the possibility of limited software updates. As manufacturers typically focus on newer models for updates, the S10 Ultra might not receive the latest OS enhancements and security patches, which can impact the device's functionality and security. Another consideration is the lack of newer technological features found in recent smartphones, such as advanced AI capabilities or improved 5G support. Additionally, while the initial performance of the S10 Ultra is commendable, aging hardware might not keep up with more demanding apps and games in the future. Potential buyers should weigh these factors against their personal needs and expectations before making a decision.
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