Top Smartphones to Buy in 2025

Smartphones may seem like just another glass rectangle, but they're crucial for staying connected, capturing life's moments, and keeping entertained. Yet, the latest models can be a costly investment. That's why we've carefully selected the best smartphones by balancing their features and price to ensure you get the most value for your money.

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 has different priorities when it comes to their smartphone. Whether you're focused on capturing stunning photos, seeking top-notch gaming performance, or craving a screen perfect for watching movies, we've tested a variety of phones to meet these needs. Our list includes the best Android phones, iPhone alternatives, and the latest from Apple, ensuring you find a device that excels in your preferred areas without compromising on quality or value. We've also considered older models that offer great value due to price reductions, so you can make an informed decision based on what you want most from your phone.

Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

1Experience the power of a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen with a processor robust enough to handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stellar camera performance. 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 is a versatile powerhouse that excels in all areas. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we were impressed by its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which easily handles the latest games at a smooth 60fps in Genshin Impact with maxed-out settings. Its multitasking capabilities are also commendable, allowing you to switch between apps without slowing down.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display is a visual delight, featuring a 1-120Hz refresh rate for crisp visuals and smooth motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While the large screen and titanium frame contribute to its heft, they also offer durability and a spacious canvas for using the S Pen stylus, a feature few phones can match.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is equally impressive, with a 200MP wide sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP 5x telephoto, offering extensive photography capabilities. The 12MP front-facing camera ensures your selfies are just as sharp. Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra delivers exceptional value and performance.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With an elegant design, outstanding cameras, a 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 shines in photography with its versatile triple-camera system, delivering high-quality photos across various scenarios. The 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto sensors ensure you can capture everything from distant subjects to wide landscapes, while the 42MP selfie camera produces vibrant, sharp selfies.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesGoogle's refined design enhances the Pixel 9 Pro's appeal, featuring a sleek aluminum and glass build. The 6.3-inch display is a standout, offering a bright OLED panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and vibrant colors. Although its Tensor G4 chip doesn't lead in raw performance, it's well-suited for daily tasks and AI applications, with good gaming performance. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds significant value to the device.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact form factor with the same potent performance and camera capabilities as the Pro Max. 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 powerhouse that shares many similarities with the Google Pixel 9 Pro. While the Pixel excels in camera reliability, the iPhone 16 Pro offers excellent photo quality with some adjustments, particularly for the ultra-wide and selfie sensors. This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making the Pro an ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller form factor.

The iPhone 16 Pro's 6.3-inch display benefits from slim bezels, and its A18 Pro chip ensures smooth operation and gaming performance. The base model's 128GB storage might be limiting for some, but the USB 3.0 Type-C port facilitates quick backups to free up space.

4. Google Pixel 8

Best Mid-Range Smartphone

### Google Pixel 8

0With a G3 Tensor chip, enjoy solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a vibrant 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 modelThe Pixel 8 may not be the newest model, but it offers excellent value. The Tensor G3 chip enhances performance and thermal management, ensuring longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates extends its life significantly. At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 is a smart mid-range option, especially when compared to the Pixel 8a, offering superior design, Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and better cameras.

The 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide struggles in low light. The selfie camera is sharp with a wide field of view, making the Pixel 8 a great choice for its price.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras are underwhelming. 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 is a fantastic choice at just $220. It's received updates to Android 14, which is rare for budget devices. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display is a highlight, offering a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and some 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 and macro sensors falling short. The selfie camera is decent for the price.

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 a sleek 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 is a gaming powerhouse, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling fan, which minimizes thermal throttling and sustains high performance. It delivered top results in gaming benchmarks, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery for extended play.

The 6.85-inch OLED display, with a 144Hz refresh rate and no visible selfie camera cutout, enhances the gaming experience. The phone also features boosted touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and supports upscaling and frame interpolation for select games. While the cameras and network support aren't the best, the RedMagic 10 Pro's gaming focus and $649 price make it a standout choice.

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 is a fast, beautiful foldable smartphone, though its unfolded aspect ratio can be unusual. 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 offers the best foldable experience with a 7.6-inch AMOLED main display and a 6.2-inch cover display, both delivering vibrant visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding games effortlessly.

The camera system excels with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive. The unique 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded can affect content viewing, but overall, the Z Fold 6 is a powerful and versatile device.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models, but not everyone needs the newest features. We selected smartphones across various budgets that offer the best value for money, focusing on durability, long-term software support, and features that matter most to users. Whether you're into photography, gaming, or just need a reliable daily driver, our picks ensure you get the best bang for your buck.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

It depends on your needs. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality premium phones with excellent cameras and long-term software updates. The choice often comes down to familiarity with Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

iPhones and premium Android phones are quite similar in functionality and performance. The choice between them should be based on your existing ecosystem and familiarity with the operating system.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 offers great value at $500, with strong performance, an elegant design, and long-term software support, making it hard to beat at this price point.