You Can’t Go Wrong with Any of These Top Picks
With new smartphones launching seemingly every week, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to buy. If you’re an iPhone user, your options are relatively straightforward since Apple only releases a few models each year. However, if you’re open to exploring the vast world of Android devices, the decision-making process becomes much more complex. That’s where this guide comes in.
We review hundreds of phones each year and narrow down the absolute best to feature in our top ten. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge AI features, high-quality cameras, gaming performance, extended battery life, or just the best value for your money, there’s something here for you.
This list includes the top phones from leading brands such as Samsung, Google, Apple, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Honor, Motorola, and Nothing (via sub-brand CMF). If you’re interested in Nokia, Realme, Asus, Huawei, Vivo, or Sony devices, you’ll find them in other buying guides.
For those on a budget, check out our best budget phones and best mid-range phones guides. And if you’re looking for deals, be sure to explore our best phone deals, best Samsung Galaxy deals, and best Google Pixel deals.
The Best Phones of 2025
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Best Overall
Pros:
✅ Top-tier performance
✅ Impressive cameras
✅ Gorgeous anti-reflective screen
✅ The most advanced AI features
✅ Slick software experience
Cons:
❌ Very similar to S24 Ultra
❌ S Pen has no Bluetooth
❌ Expensive
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best smartphone money can buy. While it looks nearly identical to its predecessor, small but impactful upgrades make it a standout choice. You’ll enjoy an improved processor, slight camera enhancements, and a new anti-reflective screen that elevates the already stunning 6.9-inch OLED display.
Samsung’s AI-powered software suite is among the most advanced, and the seven-year update support ensures longevity. However, the removal of Bluetooth from the S Pen and the phone’s bulkiness may not appeal to everyone. Despite this, the S25 Ultra remains the ultimate smartphone in 2025.
2. OnePlus 13 – Superb All-Rounder
Pros:
✅ Stellar performance
✅ Excellent user experience with AI enhancements
✅ Incredible battery life
✅ Super-fast charging
Cons:
❌ Some camera limitations
❌ Magnetic accessories require a case
The OnePlus 13 builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering a well-rounded experience with top-tier hardware and software. With the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 6.82-inch OLED display, and class-leading battery life (with 100W fast charging), this phone is an excellent alternative to more expensive flagships.
Although its cameras are good, they fall short compared to the best in the industry. If photography is your top priority, you might want to look elsewhere. However, at a price that significantly undercuts competitors, the OnePlus 13 is hard to ignore.
3. Xiaomi 14 Ultra – Best Camera Phone
Pros:
✅ Incredible photography capabilities
✅ Stunning vegan leather design
✅ Gorgeous curved screen
✅ Flawless performance
✅ 90W fast charging
Cons:
❌ Expensive (Photography Kit sold separately)
❌ Mixed software experience
❌ Not available in the US
If camera quality is your top priority, look no further than the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Featuring four 50MP rear cameras and an advanced photography kit (sold separately), this phone is as close as you can get to a DSLR in a smartphone.
Beyond its cameras, it offers a beautiful design, excellent performance, and impressive battery life. However, its premium price and software quirks may not make it the best choice for everyone.
4. Oppo Find X8 Pro – Excellent All-Rounder
Pros:
✅ Awesome camera system
✅ Great battery life
✅ Powerful hardware
✅ New camera control button
✅ Useful AI features
Cons:
❌ Smaller camera sensors than the Find X7 Ultra
❌ No autofocus on the selfie camera
❌ Limited availability in the US
Oppo’s return to the global market with the Find X8 Pro is a strong one. The device offers impressive performance, an excellent display, and one of the best camera setups on the market.
While it doesn’t match Xiaomi’s camera excellence, it remains a solid contender with its balanced feature set.
5. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL – A Great Alternative
Pros:
✅ Excellent cameras
✅ Superb display
✅ Clean software experience
✅ Seven years of updates
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Generic design
❌ Battery life could be better
If you prefer Google’s clean and AI-powered software experience, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a strong choice. With its powerful Tensor G4 chipset and a camera system that excels in low-light conditions, it’s a great alternative to Samsung and Apple flagships.
However, its price and slightly average battery life hold it back from being the best overall choice.
6. Apple iPhone 16 Plus – Best iPhone
Pros:
✅ Large Super Retina XDR display
✅ Smooth performance
✅ Excellent battery life
✅ New Camera Control button
Cons:
❌ No 120Hz refresh rate
❌ AI features incomplete at launch
❌ Base model starts at 128GB
From the 2024 iPhone lineup, the iPhone 16 Plus strikes the best balance between price, features, and battery life.
While Apple Intelligence isn’t fully available at launch, this phone ensures longevity with AI features coming soon. It lacks Pro features like a telephoto lens and a 120Hz refresh rate, but it remains the best iPhone for most users.
How to Choose the Right Phone
When selecting a smartphone, consider these factors:
🔹 Build Quality & Design: Choose between glass, metal, and plastic builds based on durability and aesthetics. 🔹 Display: Look for high refresh rates (120Hz or higher) and OLED/AMOLED technology for vibrant colors. 🔹 Performance: Flagships use top-tier chipsets like Snapdragon 8 Elite or Apple’s A18 series. 🔹 Cameras: If photography is crucial, prioritize phones with versatile camera setups and high megapixels. 🔹 Battery Life: Look for long-lasting batteries (4,500mAh or more) and fast charging capabilities. 🔹 Software & Updates: Ensure long-term software support for better security and new features. 🔹 Value for Money: Expensive isn’t always better—some mid-range phones offer excellent performance at a lower price.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after the ultimate flagship experience or the best value for money, this list highlights the top smartphones available in 2025. Choose wisely based on your needs, and enjoy your next phone!
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