The Best Smartphones for 2025

Smartphones aren't exactly thrilling purchases. Glass rectangles primarily used for messaging, YouTube, social media, and photos – essential, yes, but expensive if you want the latest models. We've selected the best smartphones based on value for money.

TL;DR – Best Smartphones:

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Our top pick)

1. See it at AmazonGoogle Pixel 9 Pro

2. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyApple iPhone 16 Pro

3. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleGoogle Pixel 8

4. See it at AmazonPoco X5 5G

5. See it at AmazonRedMagic 10 Pro

6. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

7. See it at Amazon

Value is subjective. Some prioritize photography, others gaming performance, or display quality. We've tested phones across all categories. This list includes top Android and iPhone options, along with older models offering exceptional value due to price drops.

Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

Detailed Reviews:

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best Overall Smartphone

• Highlights: 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, exceptional camera system (200MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto, 50MP 5x telephoto), S Pen support.
• Pros: Incredible performance, exceptional camera.
• Cons: Large and heavy due to titanium frame.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro – Best Camera Phone

• Highlights: Elegant design, exceptional triple-camera system, quality display, long-term software support.
• Pros: Elegant and compact, excellent camera system, long software support.
• Cons: Gaming performance lags, base storage could be larger.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro – Best iPhone

• Highlights: Lower starting price than Pro Max, compact form factor, excellent camera capabilities, potent performance.
• Pros: Powerful performance, elegant design, robust camera system.
• Cons: Camera settings could use some tweaks.

4. Google Pixel 8 – Best Mid-Range Smartphone

• Highlights: Tensor G3 chip, solid cameras, smart AI functions, bright OLED display, affordable price, seven years of updates.
• Pros: Responsive screen, long software support, impressive camera.
• Cons: RAM upgrade reserved for Pro model.

5. Poco X5 5G – Best Budget Smartphone

• Highlights: Affordable, 5G, smooth performance, crisp display.
• Pros: Feels good, great display, snappy.
• Cons: Weak cameras, somewhat bloated software.

6. RedMagic 10 Pro – Best Gaming Smartphone

• Highlights: Exceptional performance, sustained performance due to active cooling, stunning display (144Hz), convenient shoulder buttons.
• Pros: Excellent gaming performance, great display.
• Cons: Underwhelming cameras, shorter software support.

7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Best Foldable Phone

• Highlights: Gorgeous 7.6-inch main and 6.2-inch cover AMOLED displays, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
• Pros: Stunning displays, extremely powerful.
• Cons: Unusual aspect ratio when unfolded.

Selection Methodology & FAQ:

The phone market heavily relies on upselling. We focused on value, selecting phones that offer the best features for their price without unnecessary extras. Durability and long-term software support were also key factors. The FAQ section addresses common questions regarding Samsung vs. Apple, iPhones vs. Android, and best Android value options.