Samsung's Galaxy lineup offers diverse storage options across its series, with significant differences in expandability depending on the model tier. Flagship devices like the Galaxy S25 and S23 series provide generous internal storage (128GB to 512GB) but lack microSD expansion, while mid-range and budget models like the Galaxy A series and older flagships (Galaxy S20) retain expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD. The Galaxy A15 5G, A25 5G, and A35 5G exemplify this flexibility, combining 64GB-128GB base storage with 1TB microSD support, catering to users needing cost-effective storage solutions. Foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 follow the premium trend with no expandable storage, focusing instead on high internal capacities.

Key findings include:

• Galaxy S25/S25+: 128GB-512GB internal storage, no microSD expansion ^[9][10]
• Galaxy A series (A15/A25/A35): 64GB-128GB base storage, expandable to 1TB via microSD ^[3]
• Legacy flagships (S20 series): 128GB+ base storage, microSD expansion up to 1TB ^[5][8]
• Galaxy Z series (Fold6/Flip6): No microSD slots, relies on 256GB-1TB internal options ^[4]

Galaxy Storage Options and Expansion Capabilities

Flagship and Premium Models: High Capacity Without Expansion

Samsung's premium Galaxy S and Z series prioritize internal storage solutions, eliminating microSD slots in recent generations. The Galaxy S25 and S25+ offer 128GB or 256GB for the base model and 256GB or 512GB for the S25+, respectively ^[9][10]. This pattern mirrors the Galaxy S23 series, which provided 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options without expandable memory ^[6][7]. The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 similarly lack microSD support, though their internal storage starts at 256GB ^[4].

This design choice reflects industry trends favoring:

• Faster internal storage: UFS 3.1/4.0 technology in newer models delivers read/write speeds up to 2100MB/s ^[7]
• Cloud integration: Samsung promotes OneDrive and Google Drive alternatives for storage expansion
• Sleeker designs: Removing SD slots allows for thinner profiles and improved water resistance (IP68 rating) ^[9]
• Security benefits: Internal storage offers better encryption and protection against physical data theft

The trade-off means users must carefully select their storage tier at purchase, as no post-purchase expansion exists. For the Galaxy S25 Ultra (when released), expectations suggest a 1TB internal option may return, following the S23 Ultra's configuration ^[6].

Mid-Range and Budget Models: Expandable Storage Flexibility

Samsung's Galaxy A series and select older flagships maintain microSD support, addressing cost-conscious users and those needing extensive storage. The Galaxy A15 5G, A25 5G, and A35 5G all feature:

• Base storage: 64GB (A15) or 128GB (A25/A35) with 4GB-6GB RAM configurations ^[3]
• Expansion: Up to 1TB via microSD card (dedicated slot preserves dual-SIM functionality)
• Performance balance: Super AMOLED displays and 5,000mAh batteries complement the storage flexibility ^[3]

Other notable expandable models include:

• Galaxy S20 series: All three models (S20, S20+, S20 Ultra) support microSD expansion alongside their 128GB base storage ^[5][8]
• Galaxy Note 20 Ultra: Offers 128GB/256GB internal storage with microSD expansion ^[2][8]
• Galaxy A54/A53: Mid-range options with 128GB base storage and 1TB expandability ^[2]

The microSD implementation in these models supports:

• UHS-I standard: Theoretical transfer speeds up to 104MB/s (actual performance varies by card quality)
• Adoptable storage: Android's feature allowing SD cards to function as internal storage (with performance limitations)
• Dual-SIM compatibility: Most A-series models maintain two nano-SIM slots plus microSD via a hybrid tray

This expandable approach particularly benefits:

• Media professionals: Photographers/videographers needing raw file storage
• Gamers: Users installing large game files (e.g., Call of Duty Mobile at ~2GB)
• Budget-conscious buyers: Those opting for lower base storage to reduce upfront costs
• Developing markets: Regions where cloud infrastructure remains limited

The storage strategy creates clear segmentation: premium users pay for high internal capacities, while budget/mid-range users gain expansion flexibility. Samsung's 2025 lineup continues this pattern, with no indications of returning microSD slots to flagship models.