side-by-side photo of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and ThinBorne S25 Ultra case

Will the Galaxy S26 Ultra Case Fit the S25 Ultra?

Écrit par : Mary

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Temps de lecture 5 min

So, you're excited about your new Galaxy S26 Ultra and have a big question:will your old Galaxy S25 Ultra case fit?


The answer is a clear NO.


Samsung made some really cool changes to the phone's design. While these new tweaks make the phone better to use, they also mean your old case won't work.


Let's jump in and see why you’ll need a brand new Galaxy S26 Ultra case for your new phone.

🔑 Key Takeaways

The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a new raised camera island that changes how cases fit.

Curvier edges and a thinner frame make S25 Ultra cases incompatible.

Qi2 magnetic charging and a new S Pen slot require redesigned cutouts.

Even small size differences cause loose edges and misaligned openings.

Always choose a case made specifically for the Galaxy S26 Ultra to ensure proper fit.

Key Design Differences Between Galaxy S26 Ultra and S25 Ultra

Galaxy S25 Ulttra aramid fiber case fitting well in the device while man holds the phone

Recent leaks from  sources like PhoneArena show Samsung focused on comfort and camera upgrades with the S26 Ultra.


The camera bump is bigger and the phone’s shape is more curved, making a big difference in how you hold it. These changes mean cases need to be made specifically for each model.


Feature

Galaxy S25 Ultra

Galaxy S26 Ultra

Camera Module

Floating rings, 2.4 mm thick

Raised island, 4.5 mm thick

Body Design

Flatter, sharper corners

More rounded, softer curves

Dimensions

Smaller height and width

Slightly taller and wider

S Pen Shape

Squarer edge

Rounder edge

Frame Material

Metal and glass, subtle curves

Same materials, more curved frame

Wireless Charging

Qi2 ready, no magnets

Qi2 with built-in magnets

🔍What the Research Says: Recent leaks hint that Samsung is refining the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a larger camera island, smoother curves, and built-in Qi2 magnets. Here’s our full guide on what we know so far about the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Why a Galaxy S25 Ultra Case Will Not Perfectly Fit the S26 Ultra

A man holding ThinBorne S25 Ultra Case

Even if you’re tempted to reuse your trusty case, the differences add up quickly. The changes in module size, curvature, dimensions, and internal layout mean a snug fit and full feature compatibility are unlikely.


According to multiple leaks, including case-manufacturer listings, the design shifts are real and significant.

1. Camera Module Redesign

To start, the biggest change is the camera. The new design is a major reason old cases won't fit, as the camera area is entirely different.



Galaxy S26 Ultra

Galaxy S25 Ultra

Raised camera island

Floating camera rings

~4.5 mm camera bump

~2.4 mm bump

Wider, rectangular opening

Separate round cutouts

Case needs deeper, wider cut

Old case holes don’t align

2. Physical Dimensions and Frame Curvature

Next up, the phone's actual shape and size have been updated. This means a case made for the boxier S25 Ultra won't be able to stretch or bend to fit the new phone's curves.



Galaxy S26 Ultra

Galaxy S25 Ultra

Taller and slightly wider

Standard Ultra size

Rounded corners

Squared corners

7.9 mm thin

8.2 mm thick

Smooth ergonomic feel

Flatter, sharp-edged design

Old cases feel loose or uneven

Old cases fit its boxy body

3. Button and Port Layout Adjustments

On top of that, even though the buttons and ports appear to be in the same spot, some minor internal changes were made that affect how a case fits.



Galaxy S26 Ultra

Galaxy S25 Ultra

Same layout, but adjusted internally

Standard layout

Redesigned for Qi2 magnets

No magnetic hardware

Slight S Pen slot reposition

Squared S Pen slot

May block wireless charging

Works fine with S25 cases

4. Material and Edge Design Updates

Lastly, even minor updates to the phone's materials and edges make a difference. The S26 Ultra has a more refined feel that needs a case made just for it.



Galaxy S26 Ultra

Galaxy S25 Ultra

Curvier aluminum frame

Straighter frame lines

Less-reflective Gorilla Armor glass

Standard Gorilla Glass

Softer edges and smoother corners

Sharper edges

Better grip

Slightly slippery feel

Needs rounded-edge case design

Old flat-edge cases won’t align

You can check this YouTube review for the Galaxy S26 Ultra:

How to Choose the Right Galaxy S26 Ultra Case

man thinking about the right case for S26 Ultra

Since your old case won't work, it's time to pick out a new one. Choosing the right case can seem tricky with so many options, but don't worry. We've got you covered with a few simple tips to help you find the perfect case for your new phone.

1. Check Verified Compatibility

Always look for labels like “Compatible with Galaxy S26 Ultra” rather than assuming older Ultra cases fit. Even models from the same series can differ just enough to matter. Verified listings from the case maker or trusted retailers reduce risk.

2. Match Your Protection Level

Decide what you need: drop protection, scratch resistance, camera bump coverage, or wireless charging compatibility. A review-style case may look sleek, but it won’t help much if you drop your phone. Choose one that suits how you use your phone daily.

3. Prioritize Material and Grip

With its greater curvature and larger camera island on the S26 Ultra, a case with good grip and edge protection is helpful. Materials like textured TPU, rubberized back, or aerospace-grade composites (yes, like what we use) maintain feel and comfort.

4. Consider Daily Use and Features

Do you use wireless charging often? Do you carry a stylus (S Pen)? Do you use your phone one-handed, or do you often use it in the car? The right case will accommodate these habits — e.g., one that doesn’t block Qi2 magnets or interfere with the stylus.

💡Did You Know?The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature MagSafe-style wireless charging thanks to built-in magnets that support the new Qi2 standard.

5. Balance Style, Protection, and Comfort

A case can look amazing but feel bulky, or feel great to hold but offer little protection. We recommend picking three features you care most about (style, drop protection, wireless charging) and finding a case that hits at least two strongly.

Conclusion

If you’re upgrading or prepping for the next flagship, know this: you’ll want a new case for the S26 Ultra. The changes in the camera module, curvature, materials, and internals mean the older S25 Ultra case simply won’t cut it.


For a sleek, minimalist fit, consider our favorite: the ThinBorne thin phone case — designed with precision  using aramid fiber to accommodate the latest design shifts and intended to deliver both form and function. Make sure your phone is protected and looks good while it is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stretch my Galaxy S25 Ultra case to fit the S26 Ultra?

No. The S26 Ultra has different dimensions and curvature, so stretching an old case can cause damage or poor protection.

Will Galaxy S25 Ultra screen protectors fit the S26 Ultra?

Not perfectly. The curved edges and slightly larger display area of the S26 Ultra make older screen protectors misaligned.

Are S25 Ultra camera lens protectors compatible with the S26 Ultra?

No. The raised camera island has a new shape and sensor placement, so older lens protectors won’t stick correctly.

Can I use S25 Ultra MagSafe or Qi chargers with the S26 Ultra?

Yes, but to fully enjoy Qi2 magnetic charging, use compatible chargers and cases designed for the S26 Ultra.

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Written by Mary

"Passionate about creating content that can spark change or make someone’s day a little easier– help, guide, improve, or inspire. Otherwise, why write it?"

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