Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones may seem like just another glass rectangle in your pocket, but they are indispensable for everyday tasks like messaging, watching videos, scrolling through social media, and taking photos. However, buying the latest model can be a costly affair. That's why we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer great 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 values different aspects of a smartphone. Some prioritize high-quality photography, others seek top-notch gaming performance, and many look for a stunning display for media consumption. We've tested a range of phones to meet these diverse needs.

Here, you’ll find smartphones that excel in various areas, from the best Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest offerings from Apple. Each phone offers a balanced approach without compromising too much on quality or affordability. We also consider older models that, thanks to price reductions, provide excellent value and often outperform newer, more expensive 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 spacious 6.8-inch AMOLED screen powered by a robust processor capable of running multiple apps, editing videos, gaming, and powering its 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 overall smartphone, excelling in versatility and performance. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we were impressed by its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly handles the latest games, achieving a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact at max settings. Its ample memory allows for seamless multitasking, even when switching between apps.

The S24 Ultra's 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 the large display contributes to the phone's size and weight, the titanium frame adds durability and elegance. The expansive screen is perfect for using the S Pen for sketching, note-taking, and more, a feature few other phones can match.

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. These cameras capture exceptional images, and the 12MP front-facing camera ensures high-quality selfies.

Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra justifies its cost with top-tier performance and features, making it a standout choice.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With an elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro excels 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)dPROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerThe Google Pixel 9 Pro is renowned for its photography capabilities, featuring a versatile triple-camera system that delivers high-quality photos across various scenarios. Whether you're capturing distant subjects or wide landscapes, each sensor performs exceptionally. The front-facing camera also captures vibrant, sharp selfies.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is both elegant and functional, featuring slim aluminum and glass construction. The 6.3-inch OLED display is a highlight, offering a bright and vivid viewing experience without making the phone unwieldy. For those who prefer a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is an option.

While the Tensor G4 chip doesn't lead in raw performance, it's more than sufficient for daily tasks and AI applications. It also handles gaming well, though not at the level of top-tier competitors. Google's commitment to long-term software support is another major advantage, ensuring the phone remains up-to-date and secure for years.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a lower starting price and a more compact form factor while maintaining the camera capabilities and performance of 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 is a well-rounded powerhouse, starting at $999. It shares many similarities with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro might have an edge in camera performance, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent quality with some adjustments, especially for its ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera systems, making the Pro an excellent choice for those who prefer a smaller phone. The slim bezels allow for a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max offers a larger 6.9-inch screen.

The A18 Pro chip ensures top-notch performance, smoothly running demanding games like Wuthering Waves. The 120Hz OLED display enhances the gaming experience. However, the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, 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

0Powered by the G3 Tensor chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI functions, 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 modelThe Pixel 8 may not be the newest model, but it offers significant value. The Tensor G3 chip improves upon its predecessor with better performance and thermals, enhancing the device's longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures long-term viability.

At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 is an attractive mid-range option. It features a superior design with Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and better cameras compared to the Pixel 8a. The 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras perform well for their price point.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1This ultra-affordable phone offers 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 a surprising gem for budget-conscious buyers. Launched in 2023, it's still a solid choice at $220, with updates to Android 14 ensuring ongoing support. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers impressive visuals for the price.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and some gaming, like Call of Duty Mobile, with 6GB of base memory for multitasking. However, the cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing well in bright conditions but the ultra-wide struggling. The selfie camera is decent but not outstanding.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance and endurance 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 designed for gamers, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan to sustain high performance. It offers some of the fastest gaming benchmarks, with a large 7,050mAh battery for extended play.

The 6.85-inch OLED display runs at 144Hz and has no visible selfie camera cutout, enhancing the gaming experience. Additional gaming features include boosted touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation.

While the cameras are not the best and software support is limited, the RedMagic 10 Pro's gaming prowess at $649 makes it a compelling 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 offers incredible speed and stunning displays, 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 is the top choice for a foldable smartphone, offering a 6.2-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch main display when unfolded. Both screens feature vibrant AMOLED technology.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves with ease. The camera system captures detailed photos, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The unique 4:3 aspect ratio of the unfolded display can make some content appear odd, but the overall performance and design make the Z Fold 6 a strong contender in the foldable market.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or premium versions. While these devices offer advanced features, many users may not need them all. We selected smartphones across various price points that provide the best value for money, focusing on durability, software support, and suitability for different needs.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. 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 or iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones are very similar to premium Android phones, with both operating systems offering similar functions and yearly updates. The choice depends more on your familiarity with the ecosystem, with iPhones integrating better with other Apple devices and Android phones syncing well with Windows.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 offers great value at $500, with strong performance, elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a top pick for budget-conscious buyers.