Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets, but they're indispensable for daily life, offering functions from messaging friends to capturing photos. Yet, the cost of the latest models can be steep. That's why we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer excellent value for money, 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. Some prioritize exceptional camera quality, others seek top-notch gaming performance, and some focus on a stunning display for entertainment. Fortunately, our comprehensive testing covers all these bases, ensuring you find the perfect phone for your needs.

Here, you’ll discover smartphones that excel in various aspects, from the best Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest from Apple. We've included devices that offer a balance of features without compromising on quality or making unnecessary sacrifices to keep costs down. We've also considered older models that offer great value due to price reductions, ensuring you get the best deal possible.

Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

1Experience a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone powered by a processor that effortlessly handles multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stunning camera operations. 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 ultimate all-around smartphone. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we discovered its impressive capabilities. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles the latest games with ease, maintaining a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact at max settings. Its ample memory ensures smooth multitasking.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering stunning visuals and smooth motion. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions, although the large size and titanium frame make it somewhat heavy. However, the expansive screen is perfect for using the S Pen stylus, offering unmatched versatility.

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. These cameras capture exceptional images, and the 12MP front-facing camera ensures high-quality selfies. Despite its premium price, the S24 Ultra justifies its cost with its comprehensive feature set.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2With an elegant design, outstanding cameras, a high-quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro excels among smartphones. 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, offering a versatile triple-camera system that captures stunning photos in various conditions. The 50MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto sensors provide flexibility, while the 42MP selfie camera delivers vibrant, sharp images.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is sleek, with a 6.3-inch OLED display that's bright and colorful, encased in an elegant aluminum and glass body. While the Tensor G4 chip may not be the fastest, it performs well for everyday use and AI applications, with decent gaming capabilities. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds to its appeal.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more compact form factor at a lower starting price than the Pro Max, yet retains all the camera capabilities and robust 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 is a powerhouse starting at $999. It shares many features 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 quality with some adjustments, particularly for its ultra-wide and selfie sensors.

Sharing the same camera system as the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone 16 Pro is ideal for those who prefer a smaller device. Its 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, provides a comfortable viewing experience. The A18 Pro chip ensures top-notch performance, effortlessly running demanding games like Wuthering Waves on its 120Hz OLED display.

Although the base model's 128GB storage could be larger, 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 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 latest model, but it offers substantial value at a mid-range price of $500. The Tensor G3 chip improves performance and thermal management, ensuring longevity. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates makes it a long-term investment.

Its 50MP main camera performs well in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide struggles in low light. The selfie camera is sharp with a wide field of view, making it a great choice for its price.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 Images5. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Smartphone

### PocoX5 5G

1This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, 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 softwareFor those on a tight budget, the Poco X5 5G offers surprising value at just $220. Launched in 2023, it has been updated to Android 14, ensuring continued support. Its 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth and vibrant visuals.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and some gaming, like Call of Duty Mobile, with 6GB of base memory for multitasking. While the cameras are not the best, the main sensor performs adequately in bright conditions, and the selfie camera 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 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 excels in gaming performance, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an active cooling fan that minimizes thermal throttling. My benchmarking showed it as one of the fastest phones for gaming, with its 7,050mAh battery ensuring long play sessions.

Its 6.85-inch OLED display runs at 144Hz, offering an uninterrupted viewing experience, with the selfie camera cleverly hidden beneath the screen. Additional gaming features include enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation.

While its cameras are not the best, and software support is shorter, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers incredible value at $649 for gaming enthusiasts.

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 incredibly fast performance 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 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. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor ensures smooth performance, even with demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves.

Its camera system captures detailed photos, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom. The only drawback is the unusual 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, which may affect content viewing.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The mobile phone industry often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models with new features. However, many of these features may be unnecessary for most users. We selected smartphones across various budgets that offer the best value for money, focusing on durability, ongoing software support, and features that matter most to users.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality premium phones with excellent cameras and long-term software support. The choice often comes down to familiarity with their operating systems: Android versus iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are very similar in functionality. The choice between them should be based on which operating system you're more familiar with, as iPhones sync better with other Apple products, while Android phones pair well with Windows devices.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 offers superb value at $500. Despite being an older model, it provides potent performance, elegant design, and long-term software support, making it a hard-to-beat choice at this price point.