Top Smartphones to Buy in 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to spend money on, but they're essential for everyday tasks like messaging, watching videos, scrolling social media, and taking photos. While the latest models can be expensive, we've carefully selected the best smartphones by balancing their value against their price.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Smartphones:

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

1See it at Amazon### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Google Pixel 8

0See it at Amazon### PocoX5 5G

1See it at Amazon### RedMagic10 Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### SamsungGalaxy Z Fold 6

0See it at AmazonEveryone values different aspects of a smartphone. Some prioritize camera quality, others need high performance for gaming, while some look for a stunning display for watching movies and TV shows. Fortunately, we've tested phones that cater to all these preferences.

Here, you'll find a variety of smartphones that excel in different areas, from top Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest from Apple. While some models may focus on specific features, none are impractical or overly compromised for a lower price. We've included not just the newest models but also older ones that offer great value due to price reductions, making them competitive with newer alternatives. So, consider what you want from your smartphone and explore the best options available.

Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

1Experience a large 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone with a powerful processor that effortlessly handles multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and powers the stunning cameras. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavyThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as the best smartphone, offering versatility and top-notch performance. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlighted its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which excels at running the latest games, achieving a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact with maxed-out settings. It also manages multitasking with ease, maintaining background apps without a hitch.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion clarity. A new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. However, its large size and titanium frame make it somewhat heavy. Despite this, the phone's design is sleek and durable, and its expansive screen is perfect for using the S Pen for note-taking and creative tasks.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is equally impressive, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto sensor. This setup allows for exceptional photography across various scenarios, with the 12MP front-facing camera delivering solid selfies.

Despite its high cost, the S24 Ultra justifies its price with its comprehensive feature set and refined design.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With its elegant design, outstanding cameras, quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro stands out among smartphones. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1280x2856, 495 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G4Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 48-Megapixel Telephoto, 42-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,700mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerThe Google Pixel 9 Pro excels in photography, offering a versatile triple-camera system that captures high-quality photos, whether you're zooming in on a distant subject or capturing wide landscapes. The selfie camera also delivers vibrant, sharp images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is refined, featuring sleek aluminum and glass, though it opts for a more understated look compared to the titanium frames of some competitors. The 6.3-inch display is surrounded by thin bezels, making it more manageable than larger models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max or Galaxy S24 Ultra. The OLED panel is bright and smooth, offering excellent color reproduction.

While the Tensor G4 chip doesn't lead in raw performance against the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's efficient for daily use and handles AI applications well. It also performs adequately for gaming. Google's commitment to long-term software support ensures the Pixel 9 Pro remains current for years.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a lower starting price than the Pro Max and a more compact design, yet retains the same powerful camera capabilities and performance. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSPowerful performanceElegant designRobust camera systemCONSCamera settings could use some tweaksThe Apple iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, is a well-rounded device with performance and features that closely resemble those of the Google Pixel 9 Pro. While the Pixel's cameras may be more reliable out of the box, the iPhone 16 Pro can produce excellent results with some adjustments, especially for its ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

This model shares the same camera system as the iPhone 16 Pro Max, allowing users to enjoy top-tier photography in a smaller form factor, which is more comfortable for those with smaller hands. The 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, provides a great viewing experience, while the Pro Max offers a larger 6.9-inch screen.

The iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip delivers exceptional performance, easily handling demanding games like Wuthering Waves. Its 120Hz OLED display enhances the gaming experience. However, the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, especially for gamers and photographers. Thankfully, the USB 3.0 Type-C port allows for quick backups to free up space.

4. Google Pixel 8

Best Mid-Range Smartphone

### Google Pixel 8

0Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI features, and a bright, beautiful OLED display at an affordable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.2-inch OLED, 1080x2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G3 Camera50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10.5-megapixel selfieBattery4,575 mAhWeight187g (0.41lb)PROSWonderfully responsive screenSeven years of updates and OS supportImpressive cameraCONSRAM upgrade reserved for Pro modelThough not the latest model in 2025, the Pixel 8 still delivers impressive value. The Tensor G3 chip provides better performance and improved thermal management compared to its predecessor, contributing to the device's longevity.

Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures the Pixel 8 remains relevant for a long time. Its reduced price of $500 makes it an attractive mid-range option. While the Pixel 8a might seem like a good choice, the full-featured Pixel 8 offers superior design, including Gorilla Glass Victus, better water resistance, and enhanced cameras for just $100 more.

The Pixel 8's 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide sensor struggles in low light. The selfie camera is sharp and offers a wide field of view, making it great for its price point.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1This ultra-affordable phone delivers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming performance are modest. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.67-inch Super AMOLED, 1080x2400, 395 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 695 5GCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 13-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,000mAhWeight189g (0.42lb)PROSFeels good in the hand Great-looking displayPhone is fairly snappyCONSWeak camerasSomewhat bloated softwareFor those on a tight budget, the Poco X5 5G offers a lot for just $220. Launched in 2023, it still receives updates to Android 14, which is rare for budget devices. Its standout feature is the large 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth and vibrant visuals.

The Snapdragon 695 5G chip handles everyday tasks and light gaming well, with enough memory for multitasking. However, the cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions but the ultra-wide falling short. The selfie camera is decent, though.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro offers exceptional gaming performance and sustained power in an attractive package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportThe RedMagic 10 Pro stands out for its gaming prowess, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan that minimizes thermal throttling. This allows for sustained high performance, making it ideal for gaming. Benchmark tests showed it as one of the fastest phones, particularly for gaming, with its large 7,050mAh battery supporting extended playtime.

The 6.85-inch OLED display runs at 144Hz and features no visible selfie camera cutout, enhancing the gaming experience. The hidden under-display selfie camera sacrifices some quality but prioritizes gaming. Additional gaming features include enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation.

Despite its gaming focus, the RedMagic 10 Pro maintains a solid build and design, complete with stereo speakers and a headphone jack. The cameras and network support are not as advanced as mainstream phones, but for gamers, it offers incredible value at $649.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 Images7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Phone

### SamsungGalaxy Z Fold 6

0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers incredible speed and stunning visuals, though its unique aspect ratio when unfolded can be a challenge. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the top choice for foldable smartphones, transforming into a tablet-like device when unfolded. It features a narrow 968x2376 AMOLED cover display and a large 7.6-inch 2160x1856 AMOLED main display, both delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves effortlessly. Its camera system, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, captures detailed photos, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The only drawback is its 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, which can affect content viewing and gaming. Despite this, the Z Fold 6 remains a powerful and visually stunning device.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or opt for premium versions like the Pro or Max. While these models offer advanced features, many users may not need them. We selected smartphones across various budgets that provide the best value for money. Our picks cater to different needs, from photography and gaming to durability and long-term software support, ensuring that you get a device that meets your requirements without unnecessary extras.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality, feature-rich premium phones. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are fast, sleek, and have excellent cameras with long-term software support. The choice often comes down to familiarity with their operating systems: Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are very similar in terms of functionality and performance. The choice between iOS and Android depends more on your familiarity with each system. iPhones integrate better with other Apple devices, while Android phones work more seamlessly with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 offers excellent value at $500. Despite being an older model, it provides strong performance, an elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.