Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not seem like the most thrilling gadgets to splurge on, but they're indispensable tools for daily communication, entertainment, and more. With their high costs, especially for the latest models, it's crucial to find the best value. We've carefully selected the top smartphones, balancing their features against their price tags.

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 AmazonValue means different things to different people. Some prioritize top-notch photography, while others seek high-performance gaming or a stunning display for watching media. We've tested a range of phones to suit various needs, ensuring you find options that excel in their respective categories.

Here, you'll find a selection of smartphones that offer versatility, from the best Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest from Apple. These phones may focus on specific strengths but avoid being impractical or overly compromised for the sake of a lower price. We've included not just the newest releases but also older models that offer great value due to price reductions.

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 large 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone powered by a processor robust 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 stands out as the best overall smartphone, offering versatility and excellence across the board. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlighted its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly runs demanding games like Genshin Impact at a steady 60fps with maximum settings. Its generous memory ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to switch between apps without losing your place in games.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display supports a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. Although the phone is large and heavy due to its titanium frame, its durability and spacious screen are ideal for tasks like drawing or annotating with the S Pen, a feature few phones can match.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is equally impressive, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto, providing a wide range for photography. The S24 Ultra captures exceptional images with its rear sensors, and the 12MP front-facing camera ensures high-quality selfies.

Despite its high price, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra delivers unparalleled value, making it a top choice for those seeking the best in smartphone technology.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With its elegant design, outstanding cameras, vibrant display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro stands out as a top-tier 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 high-quality images across various scenarios. Whether you're zooming in on a distant subject or capturing wide landscapes, the Pixel 9 Pro delivers crisp, vibrant photos, and its selfie camera is equally impressive.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesBeyond its photography prowess, the Pixel 9 Pro boasts a refined design with a sleek aluminum and glass build. Its 6.3-inch OLED display, with its super-bright panel and smooth refresh rate, offers vivid colors and sharp visuals without being unwieldy.

While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the speed of the latest Snapdragon or Apple processors, it handles everyday tasks and AI applications efficiently. The Pixel 9 Pro also offers longer-term software support, making it a future-proof choice.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact design than the Pro Max while maintaining the same powerful camera system 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 Apple iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, offers a well-rounded experience with a design and camera system similar to the Google Pixel 9 Pro. While the Pixel's cameras might be more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent results with some adjustments, particularly with its ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

Sharing the same camera system as the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone 16 Pro is perfect for those who prefer a smaller, more manageable device. Its 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, provides a compact yet immersive viewing experience.

The iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance for everyday use and demanding games like Wuthering Waves. The 120Hz OLED display enhances gaming and general use. Although the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, 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 Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI features, 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, though not the newest model, remains a compelling mid-range option with its improved Tensor G3 chip. This upgrade not only boosts performance but also enhances thermal management, ensuring the phone's longevity.

Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates adds significant value, especially as the price has dropped to a mid-range level of $500. Compared to the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 8 offers superior design with Gorilla Glass Victus on both sides, better water resistance, and enhanced cameras.

The 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide sensor is decent in daylight but struggles in low light. The selfie camera provides sharp images with a wide field of view, making the Pixel 8 a great choice for those seeking value without compromising too much on features.

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 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 softwareThe Poco X5 5G is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers, offering impressive features for just $220. It's been updated to Android 14, ensuring it remains current despite its budget status.

Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display stands out with a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and vibrant visuals. The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and light gaming like Call of Duty Mobile, while 6GB of base memory supports multitasking.

The cameras, however, are a weak point. The main sensor performs adequately in bright conditions, but the ultra-wide struggles, and the selfie camera is decent but not exceptional.

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 an appealing 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 excels in gaming thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling fan, which minimizes thermal throttling and sustains high performance. In my testing, it achieved some of the fastest gaming benchmarks, making it ideal for demanding titles.

The 6.85-inch OLED display, with its 144Hz refresh rate and uninterrupted viewing experience, enhances the gaming experience. The phone's touch responsiveness and remappable shoulder buttons add to its gaming prowess, while features like upscaling and frame interpolation improve game visuals and performance.

Despite its focus on gaming, the RedMagic 10 Pro has a solid build and design, including stereo speakers and a headphone jack. While its cameras are not the best and network support may lag behind mainstream models, its gaming capabilities and $649 price make it an excellent 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 performance and stunning displays, though its aspect ratio when unfolded 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 foldable smartphones, offering a tablet-like experience when unfolded. Its 7.6-inch main display and 6.2-inch cover display are both AMOLED panels with vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, it handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves with ease. The camera system, with its 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, captures detailed photos, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The unique 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded can sometimes make content appear odd, but the Galaxy Z Fold 6's performance and displays make it a compelling choice for those interested in foldable technology.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or premium versions, but not everyone needs all the advanced features. I selected smartphones across various budgets that provide the best value for money, focusing on durability, ongoing software support, and features that cater to different needs, whether it's photography, gaming, or media consumption.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

It depends on your needs. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality, feature-rich premium phones. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer similar performance, excellent cameras, and long-term software support. The choice 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. The distinction between them has narrowed significantly. The choice between iOS and Android often depends on your existing ecosystem; 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 stands out as a great value at $500. Despite being an older model, it offers strong performance, a sleek design, and long-term software support, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking quality.