Samsung Galaxy S26 vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S26

US models get Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5; global models get Samsung's Exynos 2600. Both are powerful chips, but the Exynos split's return is a sore point. 12GB RAM and 256GB base storage are the standard.

• The Exynos/Snapdragon split returns after the S25 was Snapdragon-only globally — a disappointing regression for non-US buyers
• 12GB RAM and 256GB base storage are adequate, and the storage doubling from 128GB is a genuine positive

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 powers the S26 Ultra globally — no Exynos split for the Ultra model. Geekbench scores of ~3,724 single-core and ~11,738 multi-core represent a meaningful generational leap. Samsung's custom "for Galaxy" variant is clocked at 4.74GHz on the prime core.

• Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 delivers ~3,724 single-core and ~11,738 multi-core in Geekbench 6 — a significant generational improvement
• Samsung mercifully keeps the Snapdragon chip in all regions for the Ultra — no Exynos lottery for the top-tier model
• 12GB RAM on the 256GB and 512GB models; only the 1TB variant gets 16GB — may feel stingy for a $1,300+ phone in 2026

Samsung Galaxy S26

The S26 adopts more angular, Ultra-like corners for a unified family design. The Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provide solid durability. At ~7.3mm and ~162g, it's pocketable and lightweight.

• The unified design language across the S26 family gives even the base model a premium, Ultra-like aesthetic
• At 162g it remains one of the lightest flagships available — ideal for users who prioritize pocketability

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The S26 Ultra is the thinnest (7.9mm) and lightest (214g) Ultra ever, ditching the titanium frame in favor of Armor Aluminum. Rounder corners improve the hand feel significantly. Gorilla Glass Armor 2 protects the display. The design change from titanium to aluminum is divisive — some see it as a downgrade, others say it doesn't matter in real use.

• At 7.9mm thin and 214g, this is the thinnest and lightest Galaxy Ultra ever — noticeably more comfortable to hold than the S25 Ultra
• Rounder corners give the S26 Ultra a more comfortable grip — a welcome departure from the sharp-edged Ultra design language of recent years
• Switching from titanium to Armor Aluminum may disappoint those who valued the premium feel, though Samsung argues the weight savings justify the change

Samsung Galaxy S26

The 4,300 mAh battery, 25W wired charging, and 15W wireless charging are all unchanged from the S25. At $900, the lack of any charging upgrade feels particularly stingy — the S26 is the only model in the lineup that doesn't get Qi2.

• 25W wired and 15W wireless charging are unchanged — at $900, Samsung is asking more money for the exact same charging experience
• No Qi2 wireless charging — the S26 is the only model in the lineup left out of the new standard

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The 5,000 mAh battery remains the same capacity, but charging speeds jump dramatically: 60W wired (from 45W) and 25W Qi2 wireless (from 15W). Samsung claims 0-75% in approximately 30 minutes. Real-world battery life and charging speed tests will come with full reviews.

• 60W wired charging is a long-overdue upgrade — Samsung finally closes the gap with Chinese competitors, promising 0-75% in about 30 minutes
• Qi2 wireless charging at 25W (up from 15W) is a major improvement — and confirms Samsung's commitment to the Qi2 standard
• Battery capacity remains at 5,000 mAh — no increase, though the more efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 may help endurance