Top Android Phones to Consider as iPhone Alternatives in 2025

The iPhone 16 series is here, and while it boasts plenty of upgrades over past generations, the year-to-year changes may not feel as exciting. It's natural to explore other options, and I assure you, there are many compelling alternatives. With nearly a decade of experience testing smartphones, I've encountered numerous devices that not only rival Apple's iPhones but also introduce innovative features that Apple has yet to adopt, such as folding phones. My firsthand experience with iPhones allows me to appreciate their enduring appeal while also recognizing where alternatives can shine.

For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the entry-level iPhone 16e, positioned as the budget option, starts at a hefty $599, while the rest of the 16 series begins at $799. Fortunately, many of the qualities that make iPhones great, aside from iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, can be found in other devices. The Android market is brimming with high-quality alternatives that offer competitive features.

TL;DR – These Are the Best iPhone Alternatives in 2025:

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### OnePlus 12R

2See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

3See it at Amazon### RedMagic 10 Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicBy expanding your horizons, you'll discover cutting-edge camera systems, designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors that Apple has yet to explore, more budget-friendly options, and specialized models tailored for gaming. Instead of choosing which iPhone model suits you, consider which combination of features, build quality, performance, and price best meets your needs. Whether you're seeking a top-tier smartphone that's not an iPhone or a device that matches Apple's photographic capabilities, you'll find a suitable alternative here.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. OnePlus 13

Best All-Around iPhone Alternative

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7A stellar design, outstanding display, superior performance, and impressive cameras all come together in a discounted flagship that deserves your attention. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel SelfieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)PROSExceptional valueSuperb performanceCONSShorted software support compared to competitorsWhen I mention OnePlus to iPhone users, they often look puzzled. However, for those curious about what lies beyond iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands out as a formidable challenger to the iPhone.

The OnePlus 13 has made significant strides this generation. With only a few tweaks over its predecessor, these enhancements have propelled it to new heights. It's equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, an eight-core CPU that nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tasks. In 3DMark's gaming benchmarks, the OnePlus 13 leads the iPhone 16 Pro Max, making it an excellent choice for gaming and ensuring smooth daily operations.

OnePlus has encased this powerhouse in an elegant chassis. The flatter sides and rounded corners give it a familiar iPhone-like feel, yet the large camera ring and distinctive back designs set it apart. OnePlus's first-party cases support Qi2/MagSafe charging, and the phone features a three-way alert slider, offering a slight edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. It's also water-resistant, capable of withstanding submersion and hot water jets.

The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's with a triple-sensor array, including ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto cameras, all at 50MP resolutions. It captures stunning photos and delivers impressive video quality.

What's more, the OnePlus 13 offers incredible value. Starting at $900, it's slightly more than the iPhone 16 but competes directly with the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max, where it stands out as a bargain. With 256GB of storage standard, compared to Apple's 128GB default, and a vibrant 6.82-inch OLED display with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, the OnePlus 13 truly excels. It's not just my top iPhone alternative; it's one of the best smartphones available right now.

Pixel 9 Pro – Photos

9 Images2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5An elegant design, exceptional cameras, a high-quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a standout 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 designSuperior camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance slightly behindBase storage could be largerGoogle's Pixel line has always excelled in photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of their efforts. It's a visually appealing phone with a versatile three-camera array on the back, offering flexibility in capturing subjects.

Unlike many phones where one camera dominates, the Pixel 9 Pro's three powerful sensors work harmoniously. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail with a wide angle. The 50MP ultra-wide expands your field of view while maintaining color consistency with the main sensor. The 48MP telephoto sensor provides a 5x optical zoom, allowing you to get up close without moving. This camera system is a worthy alternative to the iPhone's.

The Pixel 9 Pro runs on the new Tensor G4 SoC, an upgrade that boosts speed and reduces heat issues from previous models. It performs well for most tasks and handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero at 60fps. While it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw performance, Google's focus on AI capabilities with the Tensor G4 enables advanced AI features, including a natural conversational virtual assistant.

Google has set a new standard for Android phones with seven years of OS updates and security patches for the Pixel 9 Pro, aligning it more closely with Apple's long-term support.

The design is both functional and beautiful. The display is sharp at 1280x2856 and reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits with a 120Hz refresh rate. For those who prefer a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch display.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images3. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 12R

2A large, vibrant display and a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip form the core of this value-focused Android phone. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,500mAhWeight207g (0.46lb)PROSLarge, vibrant displayStrong battery lifeGood main cameraCONSNo wireless chargingOnly IP64 water and dust resistanceWith the discontinuation of the 2022 iPhone SE after the 16e's reveal, no iPhone model is available for under $500. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R on the Android side offers features closer to those of a modern flagship.

OnePlus crafts a sophisticated phone with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front, a durable material used in higher-end phones. The OnePlus 12R boasts a 6.78-inch display that's sharp at 1264x2780, supports a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and offers high brightness and per-pixel dimming.

The phone's performance is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and 8GB of memory, ensuring smooth operation and capable gaming. It comes with 128GB of base storage.

While OnePlus doesn't match Apple's long-term support, it promises three major Android updates and four years of security updates, extending the phone's value. For a sleek, high-performing phone with a display rivaling Apple's best at a price competing with Apple's cheapest, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice. For more alternatives, check our overall Android phone recommendations.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 – Photos

6 Images4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Best Foldable iPhone Alternative

### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

3The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is an incredibly powerful smartphone despite its compact size. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDisplay6.7-inch 2650 x 1080 AMOLED (inner); 3.4-inch 720 x 748 AMOLED (cover screen)CPUQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3RAM12GBStorage256GB – 512GBRear camera50MP + 12MPFront camera10MPOSAndroid 14PROSSnapdragon 8 Gen 3 is highly powerfulStunning displaysCONSFoldable design less durable than traditional phonesSo far, iPhones don't fold. The closest they came was bending one year, but if they did fold, they'd face competition from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. This device is designed to rival Apple's offerings. Whether open or closed, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 looks stylish. It features a flat-edged aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back. When closed, it offers a 3.4-inch AMOLED display for quick access to notifications, shortcuts, widgets, and apps, making it pocket-friendly.

When you need a larger screen, simply unfold the Z Flip 6 to reveal its 6.7-inch internal AMOLED display with vibrant colors and rich contrast. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth interactions and gameplay. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, it handles demanding games and AI tasks with ease.

While not equipped with Samsung's top-tier cameras, the Z Flip 6 features a capable setup with wide and ultra-wide sensors. The internal selfie camera is handy for video calls, but you can also use the main rear cameras for selfies, with the external display serving as a viewfinder.

The Z Flip 6 offers unique features and competes well with the iPhone, thanks to its compact folding design.

5. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### RedMagic 10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional game performance, a sleek design, and long battery life at a surprising value. 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 SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSOutstanding gaming performanceExcellent displayCONSLess impressive camerasShorter software supportIf gaming is your top priority, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a revelation. Priced at just $649, it offers incredible performance without significant compromises. Even the base model comes with 256GB of storage and 12GB of memory.

Its performance is remarkable, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip delivering near-iPhone 16 Pro Max single-core performance and surpassing it in multi-core tasks. In 3DMark's gaming benchmarks, it outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Active cooling helps maintain high performance during extended gaming sessions, and a 7,050mAh battery supports long playtimes.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's display is a 6.85-inch OLED, bright, sharp, and fast with a 144Hz refresh rate. The hidden selfie camera maximizes screen space, making it ideal for gaming and movies. Its design is sleek and elegant, distinguishing it from other gaming phones.

However, the RedMagic 10 Pro has some drawbacks. Its Android skin can be overwhelming, software support isn't as long as top-tier brands, and cellular network support may be limited in some regions. If you prioritize performance, can manage without the fastest 5G, and tend to upgrade every couple of years, the RedMagic 10 Pro won't disappoint.

What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025

While the iPhone is the most popular smartphone brand, more than half of the world's phones run on Android. People appreciate Android's open platform, which offers customization through themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps.

The Google Play Store offers more apps than the Apple App Store, and you're not limited to it; other stores like the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, and Aptoide provide diverse app experiences.

As more people turn to Android, selecting a great iPhone alternative can be challenging. Here are key factors to consider.

Phone Size and Design

One of the advantages of iPhone alternatives is their variety in size and design. While Apple sticks to around 6-inch phones, Android devices range from 4 to 7 inches. Foldable smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series, offer compact designs that expand into full-sized screens, a feature iPhones don't have.

Storage Capacity

Most Android smartphones start with 128GB of storage, similar to the iPhone 16, but many include a microSD slot for up to an additional 1TB. Android often provides more features for less money, including larger storage, more memory, better cameras, and additional capabilities.

Price

Android smartphones are generally more affordable than iPhones, with entry-level models starting as low as $50, like the BLU C5L. Quality budget options, such as the Poco X5 5G, start at $220, compared to the iPhone 16e's $599. High-end models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB of storage cost $2,160, offering more features for the price.

Overall, the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as top iPhone alternatives. Samsung excels in design and speed, while Google offers superior camera performance.

How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?

New Android phones are released annually, but upgrading every year isn't necessary. With smartphones becoming increasingly advanced, upgrading every two to three years keeps you current in terms of processing power and battery life. If your current phone meets your needs, there's no rush to upgrade.