Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Buy?

When you're in the market for a new iPhone, the sheer number of models can feel overwhelming. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro in 2024, followed by the more recent iPhone 16e, which adds another layer of choice. While the latest models might seem appealing, it's important to consider all your options to find the best fit for your needs.

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16e

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 13

0See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusNo matter which iPhone you choose, they all run on iOS 18, which was introduced at WWDC 2024. This update brings a host of AI features and a revamped Photos app that's much more organized. To fully leverage Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or later.

For the best iPhone accessories, including screen protectors for your new device, check out our comprehensive guide. We've also reviewed the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compare favorably to the AirPods 2 in several aspects, making them a worthwhile investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2The iPhone 16 Pro strikes the perfect balance between size and power. It features a compact design, robust internals, a stunning display, and versatile cameras.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18 Pro
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS

• Powerful performance
• Elegant design
• Robust camera system

CONS

• Camera settings could use some tweaks

The iPhone 16 Pro fills the gap between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its more manageable size makes it ideal for one-handed use, without sacrificing any features or camera sensors. If you prefer a larger screen, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max for a similar experience.

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro excels in everyday operations and gaming. It achieved the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score I've seen in any phone or laptop. The GPU also performs exceptionally well, ensuring smooth gameplay at high settings.

Apple's build quality feels luxurious, though the color options could be more vibrant. The screen offers high brightness, contrast, and fluid motion with its 120Hz refresh rate. While the Ceramic Shield glass is touted for its durability, it still needs additional protection to prevent scratches.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is impressive. The main sensor excels in low-light conditions, while the ultra-wide captures more in the frame, though it can be soft and noisy. The 5x telephoto sensor is perfect for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature enhances usability, though Apple could refine it in future updates.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16

2The iPhone 16 offers excellent performance at a more affordable price than its Pro counterparts, making it an attractive mid-range option.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS

• Excellent performance
• Fun colors

CONS

• Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft

The iPhone 16 stands out as a compelling mid-range option, thanks to the inclusion of the A18 chip, which delivers robust performance akin to the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It outperforms Android devices with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets in Geekbench 6 CPU tests.

The iPhone 16 handles everyday tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves effortlessly, remaining comfortable to hold even during extended use. It offers a variety of colorful options, alongside classic black and white designs, and includes Ceramic Shield for protection, though additional safeguards are recommended.

While the iPhone 16 lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, its OLED display is sharp and vibrant, complemented by powerful speakers that enhance your viewing experience. The main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, but the ultra-wide and selfie cameras can be soft due to focus issues, which may be resolved in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e offers a budget-friendly entry into Apple's latest lineup, though with some compromises.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 4,005mAh
• Weight: 167g (0.39lb)

PROS

• Fast chip
• Lower price than main iPhone lineup

CONS

• Trims a handful of common iPhone features

The iPhone 16e is Apple's most affordable new option, starting at $599. While it features the potent A18 chip and access to Apple Intelligence, it lacks several features found in other models, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera.

The iPhone 16e offers a modern design with a larger 6.1-inch OLED display and an aluminum frame with Ceramic Shield glass. The base storage is a respectable 128GB. However, the omissions might be significant for some users. If you're looking for a simple phone and want the latest iPhone, the 16e could work. But if you're not sold on its limitations, consider refurbished options like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available for under $500 on Amazon.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 13

0The OnePlus 13 is a compelling alternative to the iPhone, offering excellent performance, cameras, and design at a competitive price.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 6,000mAh
• Weight: 210g (0.46lb)

PROS

• Great value
• Fast performance

CONS

• Software support a little shorter than rivals

The OnePlus 13, priced at $899, competes directly with the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto sensor, a 50MP main sensor, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, delivering impressive photos and videos. The 32MP front camera is also noteworthy.

Its 6.82-inch OLED display boasts a high resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and can drop to 1Hz to save power. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance, exceeds it in multi-core tests, and excels in graphics benchmarks, making it ideal for gaming. The large 6,000mAh battery supports all-day use and can be quickly recharged with 80W wired or 50W wireless charging.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish options, including a silver and white colorway, a blue vegan leather back, and a blacked-out wood grain pattern. It also features an alert slider similar to older iPhones and offers IP68 and IP69 water resistance.

If you're open to alternatives beyond the iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth considering.

Upcoming iPhones

Apple introduced several new models in 2024, including the iPhone 16 series, which offers significant improvements and performance. They also adjusted the prices of earlier models. The iPhone 16e was introduced as a more affordable option, replacing the iPhone SE. Leaked information suggests the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may include an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

The user experience across iPhone models is largely consistent, which is a major draw for Apple's devices. However, the differences between models can impact your decision. Here's what to consider when choosing an Apple iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

The size of the iPhone can significantly affect usability. For one-handed use, consider the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. For larger hands, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max offer larger displays and more comfortable handling.

Storage Capacity

If you plan to store many high-resolution photos or use numerous apps, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is ideal. Most other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual use.

Price

The iPhone range spans from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the top-tier iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, all iPhones run on iOS and receive updates for five to six years, ensuring a consistent software experience.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage. The iPhone 16 Pro is often the best choice for its balanced features, including a fast processor, excellent camera system, appealing design, and various storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones are dominant in the smartphone market, several Android phones offer comparable features. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide competitive options that cater to iOS users' expectations.