Samsung’s 60W Galaxy S26 Ultra finally charges fast, but only because it lags on battery size

Samsung’s 60W Galaxy S26 Ultra finally charges fast, but only because it lags on battery size

Samsung has long been known for its sleek design and advanced features in its Galaxy line, but one area where the company has lagged behind its competitors has been fast charging. However, with the recent release of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Samsung has finally made a significant leap forward, introducing a 60W fast wired USB-C charging capability. This marks a major improvement for the company and brings the handset into line with the capabilities of its best Android rivals, which have been offering similar features for years.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 60W fast charging is a significant upgrade from previous models, which struggled to match the charging speeds of devices like the OnePlus and Xiaomi flagships. This new charging technology allows users to quickly replenish their battery, making it easier to keep up with their busy schedules without worrying about running out of power. To achieve this impressive charging speed, Samsung has had to make some compromises, most notably in terms of battery size.

While the Galaxy S26 Ultra boasts a powerful 60W fast charging system, it comes at the cost of a smaller battery compared to some of its competitors. The device is equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery, which is smaller than the 5,500 mAh battery found in some of its rivals. This reduction in battery size is necessary to accommodate the high charging power, as larger batteries can struggle to handle such rapid charging rates.

Samsung’s decision to prioritize fast charging over battery size is a strategic move that reflects the changing needs of consumers. In today’s fast-paced world, users expect their devices to be able to charge quickly, even if it means sacrificing some battery life. By offering a 60W fast charging system, Samsung is catering to this demand and positioning the Galaxy S26 Ultra as a top-tier device for power-hungry users.

However, not all Samsung devices are getting this fast charging upgrade. The company has chosen to limit the charging power to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, with the S26 Plus model being capped at 45W and the regular Galaxy S26 remaining at a modest 25W. This decision to reserve the fastest charging for the flagship model is not surprising, as it allows Samsung to differentiate its product line and create a clear hierarchy among its devices.

To take full advantage of the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 60W fast charging, users will need to invest in the right charging accessories. Samsung has developed a dedicated 60W charger that is designed to work with the device, ensuring safe and efficient charging. This charger is not included with the phone, so users will have to purchase it separately if they want to experience the full benefits of the fast charging technology.

In conclusion, Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra represents a significant step forward for the company in terms of fast charging capabilities. With its 60W wired USB-C charging system, the device is now on par with its Android rivals and offers users a quick and efficient way to charge their phones. However, this advancement comes at the cost of a smaller battery, reflecting Samsung’s strategic decision to prioritize charging speed over battery life. As more consumers demand faster charging, it will be interesting to see how Samsung and other manufacturers balance these competing priorities in the years to come.