The very best smartphones to purchase in 2025
You may have already got a good suggestion of which smartphone you wish to be your subsequent one. However there are extra strong choices out there now than ever earlier than, making the choice not as cut-and-dry because it was. Whereas the choice is a bit simpler if you already know you need an iPhone, there’s even sufficient variation between these new fashions that you will have to consider it longer than you anticipated. In the event you’re an Android individual, you might have much more choices to select from — together with foldables — and extra inquiries to reply earlier than you spend any cash.
At Engadget, we evaluation telephones repeatedly and have examined dozens through the years. Whether or not you’ve had your eye on one in every of our present prime picks, one in every of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 telephones, a low-cost telephone or one other system, we’re right here that will help you resolve which is the very best telephone to purchase this yr.
Android or iOS?
Once you’re looking for the very best smartphone, it turns into clear that every OS has its execs and cons. Apple’s tight-knit ecosystem makes it tremendous simple to share knowledge between iPhones, iPads and Macs or seamlessly hand-off telephone calls or music from one system to a different. On the identical time, you’re successfully locked in, as providers like Apple Messages aren’t out there on different platforms.
As for Android, there’s a a lot wider vary of handsets from corporations like Google, Samsung, Sony and extra. Nonetheless, Android telephones don’t take pleasure in that very same size of software program assist and sometimes have decrease trade-in values. Briefly, there’s no fallacious reply. Nonetheless, you’ll want to think about how your telephone will slot in with the remainder of your gadgets. So until you’re actually fed up with one OS and prepared to study one other, it in all probability doesn’t make numerous sense to change from an iPhone to an Android telephone (or vice versa) – particularly if everybody else in your family is utilizing the identical platform.
Cameras
Since your cellular phone usually pulls double obligation as your main digicam, determining what sort of picture instruments you need is vital. These days, virtually each cell phone can take an important image in brilliant mild. However in order for you an extended optical zoom, you’ll in all probability need to improve to a costlier system.
Mid-range telephones usually solely have two rear cameras (a main wide-angle lens and a secondary ultra-wide digicam) and might typically battle in low-light conditions. Every telephone maker additionally has numerous options that could be a greater match in your fashion, with Apple providing 4 totally different coloration presets on the most recent iPhones, whereas Google’s Pixel 9 Professional comes with neat instruments like devoted lengthy publicity and Motion Pan modes.
Will you get mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7?
The excellent news is that in 2025, most telephones have at the very least Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6e and assist for some type of 5G connectivity. Nonetheless, in order for you the quickest wi-fi speeds potential, it’s going to value you a bit further. For instance, on sure networks, mmWave 5G gives as much as gigabit obtain speeds, much less latency and higher bandwidth. However mmWave 5G additionally requires extra refined (and pricier) modems, which implies assist for it’s usually lacking on inexpensive gadgets.
On the brilliant facet, mmWave 5G isn’t as extensively out there as different variations of 5G, so relying on the place you reside and what community you’re on, you will not be lacking out on a lot proper now for those who purchase a telephone that doesn’t assist it. It’s an analogous state of affairs for Wi-Fi 7, which is obtainable on some high-end handsets just like the Galaxy S25, however more durable to seek out on cheaper gadgets. Wi-Fi 7 additionally requires you to have a suitable router, so until you already know you want it or have a particular use case in thoughts, the shortage of assist for mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7 shouldn’t be a dealbreaker when in search of a brand new telephone.
Different options to contemplate
As a result of not everybody agrees on what makes the very best telephone, it’s best to take into consideration another specs that could be further necessary for you. Cellular players will nearly actually recognize the 120Hz refresh charges you get on telephones just like the Samsung Galaxy S25 or the Apple iPhone 16 Professional. Alternatively, if lengthy battery life is necessary, you’ll in all probability wish to go together with a bigger iPhone or an Android telephone with a battery that’s between 4,000 and 5,000 mAh in dimension. In the meantime, if you end up juggling numerous gadgets, it may be very nice to have a telephone that helps reverse wi-fi charging, which on Samsung telephones even enables you to recharge the corporate’s Galaxy Watches.
Photograph by Cherlynn Low / Engadget
Learn our full iPhone 16 Professional and iPhone 16 Professional Max evaluation
Display screen dimension: 6.3-inch | Storage capability: As much as 1TB | SIM assist: Twin eSim | Battery Life: About in the future
Similar to final yr, in order for you the very best iPhone expertise, it’s best to get an iPhone 16 Professional or iPhone 16 Professional Max. Not solely is there not a lot of a leap between the 2 in relation to digicam array or normal efficiency, however these handsets will get all the advantages of Apple Intelligence — on prime of the useful customizations that comes with iOS 18.
The iPhone 16 Professional and 16 Professional Max have barely totally different sizes this time round: 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively. Other than that which means you’ll need to shell out cash for a brand new case for those who improve, it received’t make an excessive amount of of a distinction in common use. The largest {hardware} variations that you simply’ll completely discover are the Digital camera Management button and the Fusion Digital camera. The previous is a brand new facet button that has contact and strain sensors, making it simpler to not solely launch the Digital camera app however management issues like publicity if you’re truly taking images. As we found in our testing for the iPhone 16 Professional evaluation, it’ll take a little bit of getting used to at first. However general, the Digital camera Management button is a web constructive that shutterbugs will recognize.
The brand new Fusion Digital camera sports activities a sooner quad-pixel sensor, amongst different enhancements, and permits for 4K video at 120 fps in Dolby Imaginative and prescient and “zero shutter lag.” The latter means you’ll be capable of truly seize the second if you press the button, moderately than the second proper after it. The Fusion Digital camera additionally helps new options like Photographic Types, that are enjoyable enhancements which are much more customizable than common filters.
Elsewhere, the brand new A18 Professional chipset offers wonderful efficiency for each the iPhone 16 Professional and 16 Professional Max, plus assist for Apple Intelligence. Whereas in years previous, there would have been a big distinction within the Professional and Professional Max digicam arrays, this yr that hole isn’t as noticeable. The place you will notice main good points with the Professional Max is battery life — it’ll final two days (like its 15 predecessor), whereas the usual 16 Professional has simply full-day battery life. Solely you possibly can resolve if that’s value ponying up the additional $200 for the Max, however regardless, each the Professional and Professional Max handsets supply stellar efficiency, wonderful images chops, enhanced customization with iOS 18 and (quickly) the total host of Apple Intelligence options. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor
- Quick digicam with top quality video seize
- Photographic types are efficient and fairly
- Good customizations out there all through
- Comparatively quick battery life
- Digital camera Management is not excellent
Learn our full Google Pixel 9 Professional and Pixel 9 Professional XL evaluation
(Pixel 9 Professional) Display screen dimension: 6.3-inch | Storage capability: As much as 1TB | SIM assist: 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | Battery Life: 24+ hours
Lastly, a smaller Pixel Professional. Google’s Pixel sequence has lengthy been among the finest Android telephones round, with the Professional mannequin being the superior model. However it was at all times a bit too huge and too cumbersome for these of us who’ve smaller arms or need our telephones to slot in our pockets. Cue the Pixel 9 Professional, which is the littler model of the Pixel 9 Professional XL. As a substitute of a comparatively massive 6.8-inch display screen like that on its greater sibling, the usual Professional has a 6.3-inch show that’s simple to maneuver. No extra worrying about dropping your Pixel Professional simply since you fumbled whereas making an attempt to achieve the highest of the display screen!
Higher but, with the Pixel 9 Professional, Google hasn’t sacrificed any key characteristic to get to the smaller dimension, which means you will discover the identical digicam setup and efficiency in each handsets. The one actual variations are the display screen dimension, battery and charging speeds, because the non-XL mannequin recharges at a barely slower fee. However the Pixel 9 Professional can also be a lot longer-lasting than the XL, notching nearly 25 hours on our battery take a look at.
These distinctions apart, the Pixel 9 Professional lineup is our favourite Android telephone due to its top-notch digicam efficiency, intriguing AI options and a normal grown-up vibe. Whereas earlier Pixel flagships had a colourful, blocky design that felt recent, this yr’s gadgets really feel strong and refined. And, dare we are saying it, nearly like iPhones. With out the digicam bars, they’d be fairly exhausting to inform aside from Apple’s telephones.
Probably as a result of it is grown up a lot through the years, however the Pixel telephones now value the identical as iPhones. The Pixel 9 Professional and iPhone 16 Professional each begin at $999, and although a few of us have come to think about Google’s handsets because the extra competitively priced possibility, this yr’s mannequin could be adequate to justify a premium value. In the event you nonetheless need one thing from the Pixel 9 household however do not wish to pay $1,000, the bottom Pixel 9 remains to be a strong handset for most individuals. However because it stands, the Pixel 9 Professional is the very best Android handset cash should buy. — Cherlynn Low, Managing Editor
- Nice digicam options and improved telephoto digicam
- A yr of Gemini Superior without spending a dime
- Unimaginable battery life
- A phenomenal, brilliant display screen that’s simple to make use of outdoor
- Tensor G4 runs cooler than its predecessor
- Slower charging speeds than the XL
- Not the very best telephone for gaming
Cherlynn Low for Engadget
Learn our full iPhone 16e evaluation
Display screen dimension: 6.1-inch | Storage capability: As much as 512GB | SIM assist: Twin eSim | Battery Life: Greater than 24 hours
The iPhone 16e is nearer in specs to the iPhone 16 than the iPhone SE was to the iPhone 13. And that makes selecting which iPhone to purchase more durable than ever. Must you save $200 and quit a twin digicam, Dynamic Island, Digital camera Management and MagSafe? That relies upon largely in your priorities and price range.
Whereas I feel that anybody who can afford the worth distinction ought to go for the iPhone 16 over the iPhone 16e, I can’t deny that that is Apple’s greatest entry-level iPhone so far. It has an Motion button, USB-C, a bigger, brighter display screen and an A18 chip that allows Apple Intelligence. My greatest considerations with it are limitations introduced on by its single rear digicam setup — issues like not having the ability to seize ultrawide photographs or Portrait mode not working if there isn’t a face within the scene. In the event you’re coming from an iPhone 11 or newer, it’s best to think about whether or not the improved digicam sensor is value giving up an ultrawide digicam for. Whether it is, and for those who can reside with out snapping portraits of objects and faceless gadgets, the iPhone 16e’s digicam can be satisfying.
There are different elements to contemplate, like whether or not you repeatedly use MagSafe equipment or wi-fi charging. In the event you do, then the iPhone 16e will frustrate you because it doesn’t work with the magnetic attachment system (you will get a MagSafe case to treatment this) and prices at a slower velocity than the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 (however there’s no repair for this). You’ll be able to think about the $699 iPhone 15 for a greater digicam and wi-fi charging expertise, however you’ll be giving up Apple Intelligence and an Motion button. — C.L.
- Stable efficiency
- Lengthy battery life
- Clear, sturdy design
- Brilliant, vibrant display screen
- Just one rear digicam, resulting in many limitations
- Costly in comparison with earlier iPhone SE
- No MagSafe
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Learn our full Google Pixel 9a evaluation
Display screen dimension: 6.3-inch | Storage capability: As much as 256GB | SIM assist: 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | Battery Life: As much as 28 hours
The Pixel 9a is not particularly flashy and it would not have any particular options that are not already out there on its costlier siblings. In truth, it truly has slower charging and it is lacking assist for a few of Google’s homegrown software program just like the Screenshots app. However for everybody who simply needs a easy telephone with a strong design, a pleasant display screen, wonderful cameras and robust battery life, the Pixel 9a is actually exhausting to beat. So whereas it is not tremendous fancy, the telephone has all of its most necessary bases coated (after which some). However most significantly, beginning at simply $499, this telephone seems like an unbelievable deal that punches nicely above its value. — Sam Rutherford, Senior Reporter
- Modern design
- Superior battery life
- Good show
- Nice cameras
- IP68 score for mud and water resistance
- Charging may very well be sooner
- No Pixel Screenshot app
- Macro Focus mode generally is a bit finicky
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Learn our full Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 evaluation
Display screen dimension: 8-inch (essential) 6.5-inch (folded) | Storage capability: As much as 1TB | SIM assist: 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | Battery life: As much as 24 hours
One of many greatest points with foldable telephones is the added dimension and weight that always comes with the inclusion of a versatile show. Samsung has made {that a} factor of the previous on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which sports activities bigger screens — each inside and outside — whereas being 26 p.c thinner than earlier than. And as if that wasn’t sufficient, the Z Fold 7 additionally options improved sturdiness, elevated efficiency and a brand new 200MP essential digicam, matching or exceeding what you get from conventional flagship smartphones. The primary downsides are that at $2,000, it is nonetheless removed from inexpensive and for long-time Samsung followers, the lack of S Pen assist could also be a dealbreaker. However for individuals who wish to expertise new heights in foldable telephone design, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a masterpiece of contemporary gadget design. — S.R.
- Exquisitely skinny design
- Sleeker hinge
- Huge 200MP essential digicam
- Bigger shows
- Prime-tier efficiency
- Very costly
- No S Pen assist
- Mediocre charging speeds
Photograph by Mat Smith / Engadget
Learn our full Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 evaluation
Display screen dimension: 6.7-inch (essential) 3.4-inch (entrance) | Storage capability: As much as 1TB | SIM assist: 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | Battery life: As much as 23 hours
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 has an upgraded digicam and a bigger battery than its predecessor. These two specs alone make the most recent Galaxy flip-phone a extra tempting possibility, within the face of rival flagship telephones. The leap from a 12-megapixel to 50MP digicam means you possibly can select to seize extra element, or crop in for, successfully, a digital zoom. The entrance display screen has loads of area for framing your selfie photographs, and a brand new Auto-Zoom characteristic means it may possibly even body unsupervised group photographs for you. Pictures is augmented by Samsung’s improved AI picture modifying instruments, which is way simpler to make use of.
The Z Flip 6 now has a strong Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, so it’s simply as highly effective because the S24 Extremely and Z Fold 6. Unfold the principle display screen and also you’ll discover one which’s brighter than ever (as much as 2,600 nits). Samsung says that is its brightest foldable show but, making it simpler to make use of and skim outdoor.
The design hasn’t modified a lot and a concentrate on new AI software program and tips comes at the price of restricted cowl display screen utility, but it surely’s nonetheless as pocketable as ever and remains to be probably the most mainstream foldable but. — Mat Smith, Editor, UK Bureau Chief, Publication
- Higher cameras
- Longer battery life
- Enjoyable generative AI tips
- Dearer than its predecessor
- Design is nearly equivalent to final yr
- Restricted front-screen utility
- Sluggish charging
Different smartphones we have examined
Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely
Like its predecessor, the S25 Extremely is an extremely versatile telephone. It’s one of many few handsets that include an included stylus and premium options like a beautiful 6.9-inch AMOLED show, titanium body and a 5x telephoto digicam. It additionally has wonderful efficiency and robust battery life. The problem is that, apart from improved AI, this yr’s telephone doesn’t supply that rather more than the earlier mannequin (or the one earlier than that), and with costs beginning at $1,300, we really feel it must do extra to earn a prime decide spot.
OnePlus 13
Whereas the OnePlus 13 options some fundamental AI options like Google’s Circle to Search and Gemini assistant, it’s actually simply an old style flagship in all the very best methods. That’s as a result of as an alternative of specializing in machine studying, OnePlus crammed the telephone with tons of top-notch {hardware}. It sports activities a 6.8-inch OLED show with an unbelievable peak brightness of as much as 4,500 nits. The OP13 additionally gives wonderful efficiency because of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, together with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. There are additionally three 50-MP rear cameras together with one with a 3x telephoto zoom and an enormous 6,000 mAh battery that’s greater than what you get in virtually all of its rivals.
OnePlus didn’t skimp on the telephone’s design both, because the OP13 nonetheless comes with the corporate’s signature Alert Slider. Plus, for those who go for the blue or white variants, you’ll get a sturdy and really touchable vegan leather-based again that helps the telephone stand out amongst all its glass brick rivals. However the very best half is that beginning at $900, it prices lower than an equal Galaxy S25+ too.
FAQs
How do I do know which smartphone is the very best for me?
Whereas selecting the very best smartphone might be difficult, it principally comes right down to how you propose on utilizing the system. All the greatest telephones out there now get the fundamentals proper — you’ll be capable of make calls, textual content and entry the web with out many hiccups. In case your smartphone is your most used gadget, chances are you’ll wish to think about paying for a tool on the upper finish of the worth spectrum. That may get you higher general efficiency, higher-quality cameras and a telephone that may final for a few years. In the event you don’t use your telephone for every part, you could possibly compromise on efficiency and further perks and spend much less on a still-capable handset.
How a lot is a smartphone?
Smartphones vary in value from $300 to over $1,500. The very best price range telephones out there now will normally compromise on general efficiency, design, digicam prowess and further options to maintain prices down. On the flip facet, the costliest telephones may have highly effective processors, triple-camera arrays and even flip or fold designs. Most individuals will discover a telephone that matches their wants someplace in the course of that extensive value vary — we’ve discovered that a lot of the greatest smartphones out there proper now value between $500 and $1,000.
What are you able to do on a smartphone?
Smartphones are basically small, transportable computer systems that allow you to do issues like test electronic mail, browse social media, comply with map instructions, make contactless funds and extra. That is all on prime of the fundamentals like making telephone calls and texting, which we’ve come to count on in all trendy cell telephones. Smartphones have additionally principally changed compact cameras because of their high-quality, built-in shooters, and the truth that most smartphones as we speak as simply as transportable, if no more so, as compact cameras.
How lengthy do smartphones final?
Smartphones can final years and individuals are holding on to their telephones longer now than ever earlier than. Software program updates and battery life are two of the largest elements that may have an effect on telephone longevity. Apple guarantees 5 years value of software program updates for its newest iPhones, and Google guarantees the identical for its Pixel telephones. Samsung telephones will get 4 years value of Android updates from the time they launch. As for charging speeds and battery life, your telephone can deteriorate over time as you utilize and recharge your telephone regularly.
Current updates
July 2025: Up to date to incorporate the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
April 2025: Up to date to incorporate the Google Pixel 9a.
February 2025: Up to date to incorporate the iPhone 16e.
January 2025: Up to date to incorporate particulars about Samsung’s newest Galaxy S-series telephones.
September 2024: Up to date to incorporate the most recent iPhone 16 fashions and a brand new midrange iPhone prime decide.