Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not seem like the most thrilling tech to splurge on, but they're indispensable for everyday tasks like messaging, watching videos, scrolling through social media, and taking photos. However, the latest models can be pricey, which is why we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer the best 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 smartphones. Some might prioritize excellent photo quality, others might need top-tier performance for gaming, and some might want a stunning display for watching movies and TV shows. We've tested a wide range of phones to ensure we cover all these needs.

Here, you'll find smartphones that excel in various areas, from the best Android phones to iPhone alternatives and the latest from Apple. Each phone may have its strengths, but none are compromised for the sake of a lower price. We've included both new releases and older models, as sometimes the price reduction on an older model can offer better value than newer alternatives. Consider what you need most from a smartphone, and explore the best options available 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 the power of a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen with a processor robust enough to handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stunning 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 due to its versatility and top-notch performance. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we found it to be a powerhouse, driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly runs the latest games at a smooth 60fps in Genshin Impact with max settings. Its ample memory allows seamless multitasking, keeping games running smoothly in the background.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display, with a refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz, delivers stunning visuals and fluid motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. Although 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 stylus for notes, drawings, and annotations, a feature few phones can match.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is equally impressive. The S24 Ultra boasts a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto sensor, offering extensive photographic capabilities. The back sensors capture exceptional images, and the 12MP front-facing camera delivers solid selfies.

Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra offers tremendous value with its comprehensive capabilities and refined design.

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 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)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 triple-camera system, offering versatility and quality across different shooting scenarios. Whether zooming in on distant subjects or capturing wide landscapes, the sensors deliver outstanding results. The selfie camera also captures sharp and vibrant images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesGoogle has refined the Pixel line's design, resulting in an elegant phone that's compact yet stylish. The 6.3-inch display is surrounded by thin bezels, providing a manageable size without sacrificing screen quality. The OLED panel is bright, with a smooth refresh rate and vibrant colors.

While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's efficient for everyday use and performs well with AI applications. It can handle gaming adequately and benefits from Google's commitment to long-term software support, outlasting many Android competitors.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more affordable starting price and compact design without compromising on camera capabilities and 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 setup, price, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro's cameras might be slightly more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent quality with some adjustments, particularly for the ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

This year, both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max feature the same camera system, allowing users to enjoy top-tier photography in a smaller form factor. The iPhone 16 Pro's 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, is perfect for those with smaller hands, while the Pro Max offers a larger 6.9-inch screen.

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro handles everyday tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves with ease. Its 120Hz OLED display enhances gaming performance. However, the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting for users who want to store games and high-resolution media. Fortunately, 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 bright 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 modelThough not the newest model in 2025, the Pixel 8 remains a compelling choice. 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.

With its price reduced to $500, the Pixel 8 is an excellent mid-range option. It boasts a superior design with Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and better cameras compared to the Pixel 8a. The 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide sensor struggles in low light. The selfie camera offers a sharp, wide-angle view.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1Offering 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, the Poco X5 5G is an ultra-cheap option, though the cameras and gaming performance 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 softwareFor those on a tight budget, the Poco X5 5G offers impressive value at $220. Launched in 2023, it has received updates to Android 14, though future updates are uncertain.

The standout feature is its 6.67-inch AMOLED display, which offers a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. While not as bright as flagship models, it's excellent for the price. The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and light gaming, like Call of Duty Mobile, with adequate performance and multitasking capabilities.

However, the cameras are a weak point. The main sensor performs decently in bright light, but the ultra-wide sensor falls short, and the selfie camera is satisfactory.

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 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, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and its active cooling system. This combination allows for sustained high performance without thermal throttling, making it ideal for gaming.

In benchmarks, the RedMagic 10 Pro achieved some of the fastest results, especially in gaming. Its 7,050mAh battery further supports long gaming sessions. The 6.85-inch OLED display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, offers an uninterrupted view, as the selfie camera is hidden beneath the screen.

Additional gaming features include enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation in select games. The phone's design is both sturdy and elegant, complete with quality stereo speakers, a headphone jack, and a protective case. While the cameras are not top-tier and network support may be limited, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers incredible value at $649 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 visuals, though its unique aspect ratio when unfolded can be challenging. 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 weirdFor those seeking the best foldable smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a top contender. When folded, it features a 6.2-inch AMOLED display, and when unfolded, it reveals a large 7.6-inch AMOLED screen. Both displays offer vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the Z Fold 6 handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves effortlessly, offering up to 22% better performance than its predecessor. Its camera system captures detailed photos, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The unique 4:3 aspect ratio of the unfolded screen can be a drawback, as it may affect the viewing experience for certain content, potentially cropping or leaving blank spaces.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models with promises of new features. While these features can be appealing, many may not be necessary for everyone. We selected smartphones across various price points that offer the best value, focusing on durability, long-term software support, and features that matter most to users.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality, feature-rich premium phones. The choice between the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max depends on your familiarity with their operating systems: Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones are very similar to premium Android phones, with both offering similar functionalities and yearly updates. The decision between them should be based on your current device ecosystem, as iPhones integrate well with other Apple products, while Android phones work better with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

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