The Best Smartphones for 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to splurge on, but they're indispensable for daily life. These sleek glass rectangles are used for messaging, watching videos, scrolling through social media, and snapping photos, yet they can cost a fortune if you're after the latest model. That's why 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 AmazonWhat's valuable to one person might not be to another. Some prioritize high-quality photos, others seek top-tier gaming performance, and some look for a stunning display for watching movies and TV. Fortunately, our list covers all these needs with thoroughly tested smartphones.

Here, we present phones that excel in various aspects, from top Android models and iPhone alternatives to the latest from Apple. While some phones might prioritize specific features, none are subpar or overly compromised for price. Our selection includes not just the newest releases but also older models that offer great value due to price reductions, ensuring you get the best options across the market.

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 vast 6.8-inch AMOLED screen paired with a processor powerful enough to handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and exceptional 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 excels in versatility, performing well across various tasks. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlighted its robust Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly runs the latest games like Genshin Impact at a steady 60fps on max settings. With ample memory, it can seamlessly switch between apps and games.

The S24 Ultra's brilliant 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion. Its new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While its large size and titanium frame add weight, the phone's durability and the S Pen stylus feature make it stand out.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is equally impressive, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP 5x telephoto, ensuring versatility in photography. The 12MP front-facing camera captures solid selfies. Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra offers exceptional value for its capabilities.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With its elegant design, outstanding cameras, high-quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro is a standout smartphone. 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)dPROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerThe Google Pixel 9 Pro shines in photography with its triple-camera system, offering flexibility and quality across different shooting scenarios. The selfie camera also delivers vibrant, sharp images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts sleek design combines aluminum and glass, making it visually appealing without the titanium of other flagships. The 6.3" OLED display is bright and smooth, enhancing the user experience without making the phone unwieldy.

While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's sufficient for everyday use and AI applications, and handles games well. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds to its appeal.

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 all the camera capabilities and powerful 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 iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, shares many features with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, price, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro's cameras may be more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent image quality with some adjustments.

This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making the Pro a great choice for those who prefer a smaller device. Its 6.3" display, thanks to slim bezels, is perfect for smaller hands. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance in demanding games like Wuthering Waves, complemented by a 120Hz OLED display.

Although the base model's 128GB storage might be limited, 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 G3 Tensor chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a vibrant OLED display at a budget-friendly 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 newest model in 2025, the Pixel 8 remains a strong contender. The Tensor G3 chip offers improved performance and better thermal management, enhancing the phone's longevity.

Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures a long lifespan. At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 offers superior design with Gorilla Glass Victus, better water resistance, and excellent cameras compared to the Pixel 8a.

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

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1This ultra-affordable phone provides 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming capabilities 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 softwareThe Poco X5 5G is an excellent option for those on a tight budget. Launched in 2023, it still offers value at $220, with updates to Android 14. Its 6.67" Super AMOLED display provides a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, impressive for its price.

The Snapdragon 695 5G chip handles everyday tasks and some gaming well, supported by a 6GB base memory. However, its cameras, while okay in bright conditions, are a weak point, with the ultra-wide camera particularly underwhelming.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance and sustainability in an elegant 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, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan that minimizes thermal throttling. My testing revealed its superior sustained performance, ideal for long gaming sessions, complemented by a massive 7,050mAh battery.

Its 6.85-inch OLED display is large, high-resolution, and runs at 144Hz, with no visible selfie camera cutout, ensuring an immersive gaming experience. The phone also features enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and supports upscaling and frame interpolation for select games.

While its cameras are not the best, and network support might not match mainstream phones, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers incredible value for gamers 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 combines speed and stunning displays, though its aspect ratio when unfolded can be unconventional. 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 a unique experience with its foldable design. Its 7.6-inch main AMOLED display and 6.2-inch cover display both deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves with ease, showing a 22% performance boost over its predecessor.

The camera system is robust, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive. The main drawback is its 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, which can distort content.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The mobile phone industry often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or premium versions. While these devices offer advanced features, many users may not need them. I selected smartphones across different budgets that provide the best value, ensuring they are durable, receive ongoing software support, and meet various user needs without unnecessary extras.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple offer high-quality, feature-rich premium phones. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are fast, sleek, and have excellent cameras, with guaranteed software updates. The choice often depends on familiarity with Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are closely matched in performance and features. The choice between them often comes down to familiarity with the operating system. iPhones integrate well with other Apple products, while Android phones pair better with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 is a superb choice for its price. At $500, it offers potent performance, an elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a hard-to-beat option for budget-conscious buyers.