Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to invest in, but they're crucial for everyday life. Most people use them to text friends, watch YouTube, scroll through social media, and take photos. However, the latest and greatest models can be expensive. 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 their smartphones. Some prioritize photography, others seek high performance for gaming, while some look for a stunning display for watching media. We've tested a range of phones to cater to these needs, ensuring you find a device that's versatile and doesn't compromise on quality or price. Our list includes top Android and iPhone models, as well as older devices 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 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone that can handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stunning camera work effortlessly. 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. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we were impressed by its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which easily runs the latest games at a steady 60fps, even with maxed-out settings in Genshin Impact. The phone's ample memory ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to switch between apps without losing performance.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display, with a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivers stunning visuals and smooth motion clarity. Its new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While the titanium frame makes the phone large and heavy, it adds to its durability and elegance. The large screen is perfect for using the S Pen stylus, a feature few phones can match.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung's commitment to the Ultra line is evident in its camera system. The S24 Ultra features a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto sensor, offering versatile photography options. The 12MP front-facing camera also delivers solid selfie performance. Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra provides exceptional value and performance.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With its elegant design, exceptional cameras, and quality display, the Pixel 9 Pro excels in photography. 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 shines in photography with its triple-camera system, offering flexibility and high-quality shots across different scenarios. The 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto lenses, along with a 42MP selfie camera, capture vibrant, sharp images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesGoogle has refined the Pixel line's design, resulting in an elegant look with aluminum and glass. The 6.3-inch display, wrapped in thin bezels, is bright and vibrant, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, 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 value.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a compact form factor with all the camera capabilities and performance of the Pro Max at a lower starting price. 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, offers a well-rounded experience with powerful performance and a robust camera system. It shares many similarities with the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, price, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro might have more reliable cameras, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers excellent quality with some adjustments.

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 iPhone 16 Pro's 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, is perfect for those with smaller hands who still want top capabilities. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth operation and can handle demanding games like Wuthering Waves. A 120Hz OLED display enhances the gaming experience.

While the base model's 128GB storage might be limited, the 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 bright, beautiful 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 a lot for its price. 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 adds to its appeal. At a mid-range price of $500, the Pixel 8 offers superior design, including Gorilla Glass Victus and improved water resistance, along with excellent cameras.

The Pixel 8's 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide sensor struggles in low light. The sharp, wide-angle selfie camera is another highlight. For the price, the Pixel 8's camera system is impressive.

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 are underwhelming. 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 is a surprising choice. Launched in 2023, it offers a lot for just $220, including updates to Android 14. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is a standout feature at this price point, offering sharp visuals and smooth performance.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and some gaming well, with enough memory for multitasking. However, the cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions but the ultra-wide lacking. The selfie camera is decent, though.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro offers exceptional gaming performance and sustain in an elegant 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 gaming enthusiasts, offering exceptional performance with its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling fan. This combination allows for sustained high performance, making it ideal for gaming. The phone's 6.85-inch OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate is perfect for gaming, with no visible selfie camera cutout to interrupt the view.

Enhancements like boosted touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation make the RedMagic 10 Pro a top choice for gamers. Despite its focus on gaming, the phone offers a sturdy build, quality stereo speakers, a headphone jack, and a case included in the package. At $649, it's a great value for gaming-focused users.

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 aspect ratio when unfolded 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 unfolds into a tablet-like device. Its 6.2-inch cover display and 7.6-inch main display, both AMOLED, offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles heavy gaming and multitasking with ease.

The camera system, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom, captures detailed photos. However, the front-facing cameras are less impressive. The only drawback is the 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, which can make content appear unusual.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The mobile phone industry often pushes for upgrades to the latest models or higher-end versions, but many features may be unnecessary for most users. I selected smartphones across various budgets that offer the best value for money. These phones are durable, receive ongoing software support, and cater to different needs without unnecessary features.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality premium phones, each with excellent cameras and long-term software updates. The choice between them often comes down to familiarity with their operating systems: Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones offer similar features and performance. The choice often depends on your current familiarity with the operating systems. iPhones integrate better with other Apple devices, while Android phones pair well with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 is a superb choice for its price, offering strong performance, elegant design, and long-term software support. At $500, it's hard to find a better value, and going lower often means significant compromises.