Samsung Galaxy A25 5G Review: A Solid Mid-Range Option with Room for Improvement

The Samsung Galaxy A25 5G positions itself as a capable mid-range option, building on the successes of last year's A24 series. Priced at NPR 40,999 for the 8GB/128GB variant, with an additional NPR 4,000 for double the storage, it targets users seeking a balanced combination of features without breaking the bank.

Starting with design, the A25 retains Samsung's classic aesthetic, featuring a minimalist rear with a subtle pattern and a wedged frame edge for improved grip. Available in Blue Black, Blue, Light Blue, and Yellow, the plastic build feels solid despite the absence of an IP67 rating. Notably, it includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a headphone jack, and FM radio, alongside a generous 5,000 mAh battery that delivers consistent one-day usage. Charging, however, remains slow at 25W, though a free charger is included.

The display stands out as a key strength, offering a 6.5-inch FullHD+ Super AMOLED panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1000 nits, making it ideal for outdoor use and media consumption. Stereo speakers further enhance the experience for streaming and gaming.

Under the hood, the Exynos 1280 chipset, now two years old, struggles to keep up with modern demands. Power users will notice lag and choppiness, with gaming limited to around 30fps for most AAA titles. Samsung could have opted for a more capable processor such as the Exynos 1380, Dimensity 1080, or Snapdragon 778G. That said, for light users, the phone performs adequately, especially with its smooth 120Hz display and stable multitasking.

Software-wise, the A25 runs Android 14 with OneUI 6.0, offering a clean interface free from bloatware and ads. Samsung promises four OS updates and five years of security patches, a significant plus for long-term usability.

Cameras see a mixed performance. The 50MP primary sensor produces vibrant, well-balanced images during the day but struggles with indoor lighting and detail consistency. The 8MP ultra-wide lens falls short in dynamic range and sharpness, making it largely impractical. Video recording caps at 4K 30fps without stabilization, resulting in average footage quality.

Ultimately, the Galaxy A25 5G feels like a modest upgrade over the A24, offering a better display, 5G support, and a free charger. However, for budget-conscious buyers around NPR 30,000, the A24 remains a compelling alternative. Those willing to spend slightly more might find the Galaxy A34 a more satisfying experience with its in-display fingerprint sensor, improved camera, premium design, and IP67 rating.