Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to invest in, but they're indispensable for everyday life. They're often used for messaging, watching YouTube videos, scrolling through social media, and capturing photos. However, the latest models can be pricey. That's why we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer excellent value for 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 desire a stunning display for watching media. We've tested smartphones that cater to all these needs, ensuring you find a device that can handle a variety of tasks effectively.

Our list includes the best Android phones, iPhone alternatives, and the latest from Apple. Each phone may focus on certain features, but none compromise quality or functionality just to keep the price low. We've also included older models that offer great value due to price reductions, making them competitive against newer releases. Consider what you need from a smartphone and explore the best options available on 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 the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, featuring a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen and a robust processor capable of handling multiple apps, video editing, 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 a wide range of tasks. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlights its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly handles the latest games, maintaining a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact even at maximum settings. The phone's ample memory allows seamless multitasking, enabling you to switch between apps without interrupting your games.

The S24 Ultra's display is a highlight, boasting a 6.8-inch Super AMOLED panel with a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth motion. A new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While the large screen contributes to the phone's size and weight, the titanium frame ensures durability and an attractive design. The expansive screen also enhances the utility of the S Pen stylus, offering a superior platform for note-taking and drawing.

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. This setup allows for versatile and high-quality photography. The 12MP front-facing camera also delivers solid selfies. Given its capabilities and sleek design, the S24 Ultra justifies its high price with exceptional value.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2The Google Pixel 9 Pro stands out with its elegant design, outstanding cameras, quality display, and extensive software support. 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 versatile triple-camera system, capturing high-quality images across various scenarios. Whether zooming in on distant subjects or capturing wide landscapes, each sensor performs exceptionally well. The selfie camera also delivers vibrant, sharp images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesBeyond its camera prowess, the Pixel 9 Pro boasts a refined design with a sleek aluminum and glass build. Its 6.3-inch display offers thin bezels and a bright OLED panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making it a compact yet powerful device. Although the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the latest Snapdragon or Apple processors, it's more than adequate for everyday tasks and AI applications. Google's commitment to long-term software support further enhances the Pixel 9 Pro's appeal.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact design compared to the Pro Max, yet retains the same powerful performance and camera capabilities. 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, shares many similarities with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including screen size, camera setup, price, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro may have a slight edge in camera reliability, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent photo quality with minor adjustments, especially with its ultra-wide and selfie cameras.

This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making the Pro an excellent choice for those who prefer a smaller device without sacrificing capabilities. Its compact size, thanks to slim bezels, still accommodates a 6.3-inch display. The new A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance, easily handling demanding games like Wuthering Waves. The 120Hz OLED display enhances the gaming experience.

While the base model's 128GB storage might feel limited, the iPhone 16 Pro's 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

0The Google Pixel 8 offers solid performance, 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 may not be the newest model, but it still offers significant value. The Tensor G3 chip provides improved performance and better thermal management, ensuring longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates means the Pixel 8 will remain relevant for years to come.

Now available at a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 is an excellent mid-range option. It features a superior design with Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and enhanced cameras compared to the Pixel 8a. The 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras offer solid performance.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1The Poco X5 5G is an ultra-affordable option that offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display. 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 provides a surprisingly good smartphone experience for just $220. Launched in 2023, it has received updates to Android 14, ensuring ongoing support. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display stands out, offering a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor delivers competent performance for everyday tasks and even some gaming. With 6GB of base memory, the Poco X5 5G is well-equipped for multitasking. However, its camera system is a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately only in bright conditions, and the ultra-wide and macro sensors underperforming.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro excels in gaming performance and sustain, making it the top choice for gamers. 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 powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan that minimizes thermal throttling. This combination allows for sustained high performance, making it ideal for gaming. My review found it to be one of the fastest phones for gaming, with the ability to maintain performance over long sessions.

The phone's 6.85-inch OLED display runs at a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay without any visual interruptions from a selfie camera cutout. Additional gaming features include boosted touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation. Despite its focus on gaming, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers a solid build and design, quality stereo speakers, and a headphone jack, all at a competitive price of $649.

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 a unique foldable design with powerful performance, though its aspect ratio can be unconventional. 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 tablet-like experience when unfolded. It features a 6.2-inch AMOLED cover display and a large 7.6-inch AMOLED main display, both delivering 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 with ease. Its camera system, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, captures detailed photos. However, the front-facing cameras are less impressive.

The unique aspect ratio of the unfolded display can sometimes make content appear distorted, which is the main drawback of this otherwise powerful and versatile device.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone industry often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or opt for premium versions with extra features. While these features can be beneficial, many users may not need them. We selected smartphones across various price points that offer the best value for money. Our choices prioritize durability, ongoing software support, and features that cater to everyday needs, ensuring long-term satisfaction.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

It depends on your needs. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality premium phones with excellent cameras and software support. The choice often comes down to familiarity with their respective operating systems, Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are very similar in terms of functionality and updates. The decision should be based on your current ecosystem and familiarity with either iOS or Android, as iPhones integrate better with other Apple devices and Android phones with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 offers excellent value at $500, boasting solid performance, a great design, and long-term software support. It's hard to find a better deal at this price point without sacrificing significant features.