Top Smartphones to Watch in 2025

Smartphones may seem like just another glass rectangle, but they're indispensable for everyday tasks like messaging, watching videos, scrolling through social media, and capturing photos. While the latest models can be pricey, we've carefully selected the best smartphones that offer great value for your 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 features in a smartphone. Some prioritize photography, while others seek top performance for gaming or a stunning display for media consumption. Fortunately, our testing covers all these needs, ensuring you find a device that excels in your preferred areas.

Here, you’ll discover smartphones that offer versatility, from top Android models to the latest iPhones. We focus on devices that balance cost and performance without compromising on quality. We also include older models that, thanks to price reductions, provide excellent value compared to newer alternatives. Consider your needs and explore the best options available across 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 massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, paired with a processor that effortlessly handles multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and powers its stunning cameras. 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 excels in versatility, delivering top-notch performance across various tasks. Our Galaxy S24 Ultra review highlights its prowess, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which effortlessly runs the latest games at a smooth 60fps in Genshin Impact, even with maxed-out settings. The phone's ample memory ensures seamless multitasking.

The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth motion clarity. Its anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While the titanium frame adds weight, it ensures durability and a premium feel. The expansive screen is perfect for using the S Pen stylus, offering a unique advantage over most other smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesIts camera system is a standout, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP 5x telephoto, offering extensive photographic capabilities. The 12MP front-facing camera delivers impressive selfies. Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra justifies its cost with exceptional performance and features.

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Camera Phone

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

2Its elegant design, exceptional cameras, quality display, and long-term software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a standout choice. 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 stunning images in various conditions. The selfie camera also delivers sharp, vibrant shots.

Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples

22 ImagesIts design is sleek and refined, using aluminum and glass for a sophisticated look. The 6.3-inch display is bright and vivid, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Although the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple’s A18 Pro, it handles daily tasks well and supports AI applications effectively. Google's commitment to long-term software updates adds to its appeal.

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Best iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

4The iPhone 16 Pro offers a compact form factor with the same powerful camera system as the Pro Max, starting at a more affordable 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 Apple iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, 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 offers excellent quality with some adjustments, especially for ultra-wide and selfie shots.

Both 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 form factor. Its 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, provides a comfortable viewing experience. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance, even with demanding games like Wuthering Waves.

While the base model's 128GB storage might feel 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

0The Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI features, and a bright OLED display at an affordable price, powered by the G3 Tensor chip. 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 in 2025, but it remains a strong contender. 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 long-term value.

At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 is an excellent mid-range option. It offers superior design elements like Gorilla Glass Victus and better water resistance compared to the Pixel 8a. The 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide struggles in low light. The selfie camera offers sharp images 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 softwareThe Poco X5 5G is a great budget option, offering excellent value at just $220. It's 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 sharp and vibrant visuals, impressive for its price point.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695 5G, the Poco X5 5G handles daily tasks well and can manage some gaming, like Call of Duty Mobile. Its 6GB base memory supports multitasking, which is crucial for longevity. However, the cameras are a weak point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright conditions, but the ultra-wide struggling. The selfie camera is decent, offering a reasonable compromise for the price.

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images6. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Smartphone

### RedMagic10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance with sustained power and a stunning display. 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 stands out as a top gaming smartphone, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and its active cooling fan. This combination allows for sustained high performance, minimizing thermal throttling during long gaming sessions.

Benchmarking results show the RedMagic 10 Pro as one of the fastest gaming phones, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery. The 6.85-inch OLED display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, offers an uninterrupted gaming experience as the selfie camera is hidden under the display.

Gaming-specific enhancements include boosted touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and support for upscaling and frame interpolation, making games look sharper and smoother. Despite its gaming focus, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers a sturdy build and includes useful features like stereo speakers and a headphone jack. At $649, it's a remarkable value for 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 stunning displays and powerful performance, though its aspect ratio when unfolded is unconventional. 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-like device. Its 6.2-inch cover display and expansive 7.6-inch main display, both AMOLED, deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles heavy gaming effortlessly. The camera system, featuring 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 of the unfolded display can affect content viewing, potentially causing cropping or black bars. Despite this, the Z Fold 6 remains a powerful and visually impressive foldable option.

How We Picked the Best Smartphones

The smartphone industry often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models with premium features. However, many of these features may be unnecessary for the average user. We selected smartphones across various budgets that offer the best value for money, focusing on durability, long-term software support, and suitability for different needs, whether it's photography, gaming, or media consumption.

Best Smartphones FAQ

Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?

Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple produce high-quality, feature-rich premium phones, each with their strengths. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer similar performance, excellent cameras, and long-term software support. The choice often comes down to familiarity with Android or iOS.

Are iPhones better than Android phones?

Modern iPhones and premium Android phones are very similar in terms of features and capabilities. The choice between them is more about which operating system you're accustomed to. iPhones integrate well with other Apple devices, while Android phones work better with Windows.

Which Android phone is the best value for money?

The Google Pixel 8 stands out as an excellent value for money. Despite being an older model, it offers strong performance, elegant design, and long-term software support at a competitive price of $500. Lower-priced options often require significant compromises.