Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones, while essential for everyday tasks like messaging, watching videos, and snapping photos, can be a significant investment when aiming for the latest and greatest models. However, you don’t need to break the bank to get a top-notch device. We’ve carefully selected the best smartphones by balancing value and price, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.

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 features in a smartphone. Whether you prioritize stunning photography, top-notch gaming performance, or a vibrant display for watching movies, we've tested phones that cater to all these needs. Here, you'll find a range of options from the best Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest from Apple. These devices strike a balance between functionality and affordability, ensuring you won't be stuck with a subpar phone or one that sacrifices too much for a lower price. We've also included some older models that offer great value due to price reductions, making them competitive against newer alternatives. 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 a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone that effortlessly handles multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stunning camera work. 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 versatility and performance. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlights its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which effortlessly runs the latest games at a smooth 60fps, even with settings maxed out. The phone's ample memory allows for seamless multitasking, keeping games running in the background without a hitch.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion. Its new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions, though the large display does make the phone somewhat bulky and heavy, even with its titanium frame. The expansive screen is perfect for using 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 ensures exceptional photography across various scenarios, complemented by a reliable 12MP front-facing camera for selfies.

Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra offers a comprehensive package that justifies its cost, 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, exceptional cameras, 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)dPROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerThe Google Pixel 9 Pro excels in photography, offering a versatile triple-camera system that captures high-quality images across different focal lengths. The 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto sensors, along with a 42MP selfie camera, ensure vibrant and sharp photos.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is refined and elegant, featuring thin bezels around a 6.3-inch OLED display that offers a bright and smooth viewing experience. While 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, with decent gaming capabilities.

Google's commitment to long-term software support further enhances the Pixel 9 Pro's appeal, ensuring it remains up-to-date and secure for years to come.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact form factor and a lower starting price than the Pro Max, 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 Apple iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, is a powerhouse that shares many similarities with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro's cameras may be more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent photo quality with some adjustments, particularly for the ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

This year, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making the Pro a great choice for those who prefer a smaller device. Its 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, offers a compact yet immersive viewing experience. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance, even with demanding games like Wuthering Waves.

While the base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, 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

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 may not be the newest model, but it offers significant value. The Tensor G3 chip improves performance and thermal management, enhancing the device's longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures the Pixel 8 remains relevant for years.

At a mid-range price of $500, the Pixel 8 provides a premium experience with Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and superior cameras compared to the Pixel 8a. Its 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras perform well in daylight.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1The Poco X5 5G offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display at an ultra-affordable price, 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 those on a tight budget, offering a lot for just $220. It has been updated to Android 14, showcasing commendable support for a budget device. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth and vibrant viewing experience.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695 5G, the Poco X5 5G handles everyday tasks and light gaming well, with sufficient memory for multitasking. However, its camera system is a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions, while the ultra-wide and macro sensors fall short. The selfie camera, however, 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 designed for gamers, featuring the 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. Benchmarking results show it as one of the fastest phones for gaming, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery.

The 6.85-inch OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate is perfect for gaming, with no visible selfie camera cutout thanks to its under-display technology. The phone also includes enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and supports upscaling and frame interpolation for select games.

While the cameras are not the best, and software support is shorter than some competitors, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers incredible value at $649 for dedicated 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 displays, though its unfolded aspect ratio 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 those seeking a foldable smartphone that transforms into a tablet. It features a 6.2-inch AMOLED cover display and a 7.6-inch main display, both delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves with ease.

The camera system, with a 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 make some content appear unusual, but overall, the Z Fold 6 offers a powerful and versatile experience.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone market often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models, emphasizing the allure of new 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 for money, focusing on durability, ongoing software support, and features that cater to different needs, ensuring you find a device that suits your requirements without unnecessary extras.

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 their respective operating systems: Android versus iOS.

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 often depends on your familiarity with the operating system. 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. It provides strong performance, an elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a smart choice for those looking to balance cost and quality.