Top Smartphones to Buy in 2025

Smartphones may seem like just another glass rectangle, but they're much more than tools for messaging, watching YouTube, scrolling through social media, or snapping photos. They're essential for daily life, yet the latest and greatest models can be quite pricey. That's why we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer exceptional value for your money, balancing cost with performance and features.

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### Poco X5 5G

1See it at Amazon### RedMagic 10 Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

0See it at AmazonEveryone values different aspects of their smartphone. Some prioritize stunning photography, others crave top-notch gaming performance, and some need a screen perfect for movies and TV shows. We've tested smartphones that excel in various areas, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Here, you'll find a range of options, from top Android phones to the latest iPhones, each designed to handle a variety of tasks without compromising quality. We've included phones that may not be the newest but offer significant value due to price reductions. Consider your needs and explore the best smartphones on 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 spacious 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a device powered by a robust processor, perfect for multitasking, video editing, gaming, and utilizing its impressive camera capabilities. 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 overall smartphone, excelling in every category. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we were impressed by its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly handles the latest games, including maintaining a smooth 60fps in Genshin Impact at max settings. Its ample memory ensures seamless multitasking.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display, with a variable refresh rate of 1-120Hz, delivers stunning visuals and smooth motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility even in bright conditions. Although the large screen and titanium frame make the phone hefty, it's durable and ideal for use with the S Pen stylus, offering unique capabilities for note-taking and drawing.

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 lens. The S24 Ultra captures exceptional photos across various conditions, with the 12MP front-facing camera delivering excellent selfies. Despite its high cost, the S24 Ultra offers unparalleled value.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2The Google Pixel 9 Pro combines elegant design, exceptional cameras, a vibrant display, and robust software support, making it a standout choice for photography enthusiasts. 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 with its versatile triple-camera system, capable of capturing high-quality images in various scenarios. Whether you're zooming in on distant subjects or capturing wide landscapes, the Pixel 9 Pro delivers.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts refined design, featuring aluminum and glass, is both elegant and durable. The 6.3-inch OLED display offers vibrant colors and a smooth refresh rate, making it a joy to use without being too large. While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of competitors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's more than adequate for daily tasks and AI applications. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds to its appeal.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The Apple iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact form factor at a lower starting price than the Pro Max, yet retains all the advanced camera capabilities and potent 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 is a powerhouse starting at $999, sharing many features with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro might edge out in camera performance, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent quality with minor adjustments, especially for the ultra-wide and selfie cameras.

This year, both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera systems, offering the same capabilities in different sizes. The iPhone 16 Pro's compact design, thanks to slim bezels, still houses a 6.3-inch display, perfect for those with smaller hands. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance, whether you're multitasking or playing demanding games like Wuthering Waves. A 120Hz OLED display enhances the gaming experience.

While the base model's 128GB storage might be tight for some, 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

0The Google Pixel 8, powered by the G3 Tensor chip, offers 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 in 2025, but it remains a strong contender in the mid-range market. The Tensor G3 chip offers improved performance and better thermal management, enhancing the device's longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures long-term usability.

At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 offers premium features like Gorilla Glass Victus and improved water resistance, making it a compelling choice over the Pixel 8a. Its 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras are solid performers for the price.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1The Poco X5 5G is an ultra-affordable option that offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though it compromises on camera quality and gaming capabilities. 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 impressive value at just $220. Launched in 2023, it continues to receive updates to Android 14, showcasing good support for a budget device. Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a vibrant and smooth viewing experience.

The Snapdragon 695 5G chip handles everyday tasks and light gaming well, with sufficient memory for multitasking. However, the cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions, while the ultra-wide and macro sensors lag behind. The selfie camera, however, is decent for its price range.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance and sustained power in an elegantly designed 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 designed for gamers, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling system that minimizes thermal throttling. In our tests, it achieved top-tier performance in gaming benchmarks, maintaining high speeds over extended periods.

Its 6.85-inch OLED display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, is perfect for gaming, offering a seamless experience without any camera cutouts. The phone includes features like enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation, enhancing the gaming experience.

Despite its gaming focus, the RedMagic 10 Pro has a sleek design, quality stereo speakers, and a headphone jack. While its cameras and network support may not match mainstream phones, its gaming capabilities at $649 make it a standout choice for gamers.

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 and beautiful foldable smartphone, though its unique aspect ratio when unfolded can be a slight drawback. 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 a foldable smartphone that transforms into a tablet-like device. It features a 6.2-inch AMOLED cover display and a massive 7.6-inch AMOLED main display, both offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles any mobile game with ease, showing significant improvement over its predecessor. The camera system, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, captures detailed photos, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The unique 4:3 aspect ratio of the unfolded display can sometimes distort content, but overall, the Galaxy Z Fold 6's performance and design make it a leading foldable option.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The mobile phone industry often pushes for upgrades, suggesting that the latest model or the Pro version is necessary. While these models do offer advanced features, many users may not need them. We've selected smartphones across various price points that provide the best value, ensuring durability, ongoing software support, and features that meet diverse user needs.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality premium phones with excellent features and cameras. The choice between them 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 functionality and updates. The decision often depends on your current ecosystem, with iPhones syncing better with other Apple products and Android phones integrating more seamlessly with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

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