Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to splurge on, but they're crucial for our daily lives. From messaging friends to capturing memories, these devices are indispensable, yet they can be pricey when you're aiming for the latest models. That's why we've curated a list of the best smartphones, balancing value and cost to help you make a smart investment.

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. Whether you're looking for a camera that captures life's moments perfectly, a device that delivers top-notch gaming performance, or a screen that enhances your viewing experience, our list covers all these needs. We've included a range of Android phones, iPhone alternatives, and the latest from Apple. While some phones might focus on specific features, none are compromised just to keep costs low. We've also included 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 the power of a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone that's equipped with a processor capable of running multiple apps, editing videos, gaming, and powering 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 ultimate smartphone, excelling in versatility. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review revealed its prowess, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which effortlessly handles the latest games, maintaining a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact even at max settings. Its ample memory allows for smooth multitasking, keeping apps running in the background.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions, though the phone's size and weight are a trade-off due to its titanium frame. However, the large screen is perfect for using the S Pen stylus, offering functionality that few phones can match.

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. This setup allows for exceptional photography across various scenarios, with the 12MP front-facing camera delivering solid selfies.

Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra justifies the cost with its comprehensive capabilities and refined design.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2Experience an elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support with the Pixel 9 Pro, making it 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)dPROSElegant 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, capturing high-quality images in various conditions, from distant subjects to expansive landscapes. The selfie camera also delivers vibrant, sharp photos.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is both functional and attractive, featuring thin bezels around a 6.3-inch OLED display that offers bright visuals and smooth performance. While its Tensor G4 chip may not match the speed of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's efficient for daily use and AI applications, and it handles gaming well. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds to its appeal.

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 same camera capabilities and performance as 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 iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, shares many features with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, and weight. While the Pixel's cameras are more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent quality with minor adjustments, particularly for its ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making them essentially the same phone in different sizes. The smaller iPhone 16 Pro is easier to handle, especially for those with smaller hands, and still features a 6.3-inch display thanks to slim bezels.

Performance is top-notch with the A18 Pro chip, effortlessly handling daily tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves. The 120Hz OLED display enhances gaming and viewing experiences. However, the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, though the USB 3.0 Type-C port helps with quick backups.

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 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, while not the newest model in 2025, remains a strong contender in the mid-range category. The Tensor G3 chip offers improved performance and better thermals, contributing to the phone's longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates extends its lifespan, and its reduced price of $500 makes it a compelling choice.

The Pixel 8 features an excellent 50MP main camera, performing well in various lighting conditions. The ultra-wide sensor is good in daylight but struggles in low light, while the selfie camera is sharp with a wide field of view. Despite not having the best cameras on the market, the Pixel 8 offers great value for its price.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1Discover an ultra-affordable phone with 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though be aware of its underwhelming cameras and modest 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 softwareThe Poco X5 5G is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. Launched in 2023, it continues to impress at just $220, even receiving updates to Android 14. Its standout feature is the 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display, offering sharp visuals and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695 5G, the Poco X5 5G handles everyday tasks well and supports some gaming, such as Call of Duty Mobile. With 6GB of base memory, it manages multitasking effectively. However, its cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions but the ultra-wide falling short. The selfie camera, though, is decent.

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 impressive 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 a gaming powerhouse, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan that minimizes thermal throttling. In my review, it achieved some of the fastest gaming benchmarks, making it ideal for sustained gameplay. Its 7,050mAh battery further enhances its gaming endurance.

The 6.85-inch OLED display runs at a 144Hz refresh rate, offering an uninterrupted view without a selfie camera cutout. The phone also includes enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and supports upscaling and frame interpolation for select games. Despite its gaming focus, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers a solid build and includes a case, though its cameras and network support are not as advanced as those in mainstream phones. At $649, it's a remarkable value for gamers.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 Images7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Phone

### SamsungGalaxy Z Fold 6

0Experience the speed and beauty of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, a foldable smartphone with stunning displays and powerful performance, despite its unique aspect ratio. 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 those seeking a foldable smartphone that doubles as a tablet. Its folded display is a narrow 968x2376 AMOLED, but when unfolded, it reveals a large 7.6-inch 2160x1856 AMOLED screen, both delivering vibrant visuals.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the Z Fold 6 handles any mobile game with ease, offering a significant performance boost over its predecessor. Its camera system captures detailed photos with a 30x digital zoom and 50MP main sensor, though the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The only drawback is its unique 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, which can affect content viewing and gaming.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models, emphasizing the allure of premium features. While these features can be beneficial, they're not always necessary for everyone. We selected smartphones across various budgets that offer the best value, focusing on durability, long-term software support, and features that cater to different needs, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. 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 updates. The choice often comes down to familiarity with Android or iOS operating systems.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are quite similar in terms of features and performance. The choice between them should be based on your familiarity with their respective operating systems and how well they integrate with your existing devices, such as Apple products with iPhones or Windows devices with Android phones.

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 solid performance, an elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for quality.