Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge could spell end for 'Plus' model
Back in February, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 lineup, which included the standard Galaxy S25, the high-end Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the mid-tier Galaxy S25 Plus. While this three-tier structure wasn’t new, the surprise announcement of the Galaxy S25 Edge at a recent Galaxy Unpacked event raised some interesting questions about the future of Samsung’s smartphone lineup.
At first, it wasn’t clear where the S25 Edge would slot in. Would it lean toward the Plus as a refined alternative, or carve out a new premium category beside the Ultra?
Now, with the S25 Edge nearing release, the answer seems to be a bit of both. It joins the lineup without replacing any existing models—but it might just be signaling the slow fade-out of the Galaxy S25 Plus.
A Redundant Middle Child?
Let’s look at the numbers. According to WCCFTech, global sales in the first month show clear consumer preferences:
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: 2.55 million units
- Galaxy S25: 1.17 million units
- Galaxy S25 Plus: 840,000 units
Clearly, the Plus model is lagging—and the S25 Edge isn’t helping its case. Priced at $1,099 for the 256GB model, the Edge sits uncomfortably close to the Plus’ $999 starting price. With its sleek design, it arguably offers more appeal for just a bit more cash.
Meanwhile, Apple may be preparing to drop its own “Plus” variant, with leaks hinting that the rumored iPhone 17 Air will replace the iPhone 17 Plus. And where Apple leads, the rest of the industry often follows.
The Edge Has… the Edge
Here’s the thing: everything I enjoy about the Galaxy S25 Plus—the size, the lightweight build, the large display—exists in the Galaxy S25 Edge, but better executed.
After spending months with the Plus model while testing One UI 7, I’ve come to appreciate its minimal design and fluid performance. Its charm lies in how it balances size and portability. But having now used the S25 Edge as well, I can confidently say it refines that balance further. It’s more ergonomic, easier to handle, and still delivers a stellar screen experience.
Sure, the Plus has some advantages—a triple-camera setup with a telephoto lens and a bigger battery—but I’m not convinced those features are driving sales. If users were after performance, they likely skipped the Plus entirely in favor of the Ultra, which outsold it 3 to 1.
That leaves the Plus in an awkward spot. For those drawn to its size and weight, the Galaxy S25 Edge is poised to become the more attractive choice.
We’ll find out for sure when the S25 Edge launches globally on May 30. Until then, these thoughts are based on personal use and observations. What do you think about the evolving Galaxy S lineup? Let us know in the comments.