The smartphone landscape in 2025 is more exciting and competitive than ever, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of camera technology, processing power, display brilliance, and innovative form factors. Whether you’re an Android loyalist, an Apple devotee, or looking for something unique, there’s a flagship phone designed to meet your needs. We’ve rigorously tested the latest releases to bring you our top picks for the best smartphones of the year.

THE QUICK LIST

In a hurry? Here’s our rapid rundown of the best smartphones of 2025. Click through for in-depth reviews and the latest deals.

Best Overall Android

1. SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra

The ultimate Android flagship with a phenomenal camera.

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Best iPhone Overall

2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

Unmatched performance and pro-level camera system.

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Best Google Pixel

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro

AI smarts and exceptional camera software.

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Best Foldable Phone

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Productivity powerhouse with a refined foldable design.

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Best Unique Design

5. CMF Phone (2a / by Nothing)

Distinctive style meets solid mid-range performance.

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Best Gaming Phone

6. ASUS ROG Phone 9

Unleash peak gaming performance on the go.

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Our Top Smartphone Picks for 2025

THE BEST OVERALL ANDROID SMARTPHONE

1. SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra ★★★★★

The pinnacle of Android innovation with an unparalleled camera system and S Pen versatility.

Specifications

• Display: ~6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, QHD+
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 for Galaxy / Next-Gen Exynos (region dependent)
• RAM: 12GB/16GB Options
• Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
• Cameras: Quad-camera system: ~200MP Wide, Ultra-Wide, 3x Telephoto, 10x Telephoto (or improved periscope)
• Battery: ~5000 mAh with Super Fast Charging
• Key Features: Integrated S Pen, Advanced AI Features, Titanium Frame, Improved Durability (Gorilla Glass Armor)

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Reasons to Buy

• Industry-leading camera versatility and zoom
• Stunning, bright, and smooth display
• Blazing-fast performance with latest chipset
• Integrated S Pen for productivity and creativity
• Premium build quality and enhanced durability
• Extensive AI-powered features

Reasons to Avoid

• Very expensive
• Large and can be unwieldy for some
• Charging brick often not included

What you need to know

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to continue Samsung’s tradition of packing the absolute best technology into its flagship smartphone. Building on the S24 Ultra, expect further refinements in camera capabilities, processing power with the latest Snapdragon or Exynos chips, and an even more polished user experience with advanced AI integrations. The S Pen remains a key differentiator for productivity.

Performance & Cameras

Performance will undoubtedly be top-tier, capable of handling the most demanding apps and games with ease. The camera system is where the S25 Ultra will likely shine brightest, with potential sensor upgrades and improved AI processing for even better photos and videos across all lighting conditions. The zoom capabilities are expected to remain class-leading, offering incredible versatility for photographers.

Design & Display

The S25 Ultra will likely retain a similar design language to its predecessor, featuring a premium titanium frame and a large, vibrant Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with an adaptive refresh rate for smooth scrolling and power efficiency. Expect further improvements in screen brightness and potentially even better anti-reflective properties for outdoor visibility.

Value

As Samsung’s ultimate flagship, the S25 Ultra will command a premium price. However, for users who demand the absolute best in terms of camera performance, display quality, processing power, and productivity features like the S Pen, the investment is often justified. It’s a device that aims to do everything exceptionally well.

BUY IT IF…

• You want the most versatile and powerful camera system on an Android phone.
• The S Pen is a crucial tool for your workflow or creativity.
• You demand peak performance and a stunning display.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• You’re on a tight budget.
• You prefer a smaller, more compact smartphone.
• You don’t need the advanced features of the S Pen.

THE BEST IPHONE OVERALL

2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max ★★★★★

The ultimate iPhone experience with cutting-edge performance and camera prowess.

Specifications

• Display: ~6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (Adaptive 120Hz)
• Processor: A18 Pro Bionic chip (expected)
• RAM: 8GB (expected)
• Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB Options
• Cameras: Advanced Pro camera system: ~48MP Main, Ultra-Wide, Telephoto with improved optical zoom
• Battery: All-day battery life, potential for slight increase
• Key Features: Titanium design, Action Button, USB-C with faster data transfer, Advanced AI features in iOS 18

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Reasons to Buy

• Exceptional performance with new A18 Pro chip
• Pro-grade camera system with potential upgrades
• Beautiful and smooth ProMotion display
• Premium titanium build and refined design
• Seamless iOS ecosystem and long-term software support
• Potentially larger display and improved battery

Reasons to Avoid

• Very high price tag
• Large size may not suit everyone
• iOS can be less customizable than Android

What you need to know

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is anticipated to be Apple’s most advanced smartphone yet, building upon the strengths of the 15 Pro Max. Expect a new, more powerful A18 Pro chip, potential camera sensor upgrades, and refinements to the already premium titanium design. iOS 18 is also expected to bring significant AI-powered features, further enhancing the user experience.

Performance & Cameras

With the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max will likely set new benchmarks for mobile performance, handling everything from intensive gaming to complex video editing with ease. The Pro camera system is a major focus, with rumors suggesting larger sensors, improved low-light performance, and potentially enhanced optical zoom capabilities for the telephoto lens. Apple’s computational photography will continue to deliver stunning photos and videos with minimal effort.

Design & Display

The iPhone 16 Pro Max may feature a slightly larger display than its predecessor, possibly around 6.9 inches, while retaining the durable and lightweight titanium frame. The Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology will offer exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The Action Button is expected to return, offering customizable shortcuts.

Value

As Apple’s top-tier offering, the iPhone 16 Pro Max will be one of the most expensive smartphones on the market. Its value lies in its combination of cutting-edge performance, a best-in-class camera system, premium build quality, and the tightly integrated iOS ecosystem with long-term software updates. It’s an investment for those who want the best that Apple has to offer.

BUY IT IF…

• You want the most powerful and feature-rich iPhone available.
• Mobile photography and videography are top priorities.
• You are invested in the Apple ecosystem.
• You desire a large, immersive display and long battery life.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• You’re on a budget.
• You prefer a smaller phone.
• You favor the customization and openness of Android.

THE BEST GOOGLE PIXEL PHONE

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro ★★★★☆

Cutting-edge AI features and an exceptional camera experience, powered by Google.

Specifications

• Display: ~6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate
• Processor: Google Tensor G4 (expected)
• RAM: 12GB (expected)
• Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
• Cameras: Advanced triple camera system: Wide, Ultrawide, Telephoto with enhanced AI processing
• Battery: All-day battery with potential improvements
• Key Features: Deep AI integration, Best-in-class computational photography, Clean Android experience, Fast updates

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Reasons to Buy

• Exceptional camera performance with AI magic
• Clean and intuitive Android software with timely updates
• Unique AI-powered features
• Excellent display quality
• Distinctive design

Reasons to Avoid

• Tensor chip may not match raw power of latest Snapdragon/Apple chips
• Battery life can sometimes be a step behind competitors
• Video recording features, while good, may trail iPhone

What you need to know

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is set to continue Google’s focus on AI-driven software and computational photography. Powered by the next-generation Tensor G4 chip, it will likely introduce even more intelligent features and further refine its already stellar camera capabilities. Expect a clean Android experience with prompt updates directly from Google.

Performance & Cameras

While the Tensor G4 might not top benchmark charts for raw processing power, its strength lies in AI and machine learning tasks, which directly benefit the camera and other smart features. The Pixel 9 Pro’s camera system will undoubtedly be a highlight, leveraging Google’s software prowess to capture stunning photos with excellent dynamic range, color accuracy, and detail. Features like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and new AI editing tools are expected to be even more powerful.

Design & Display

Google is likely to refine the Pixel’s distinctive design, perhaps with new materials or a tweaked camera bar. The LTPO OLED display will offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, making for a pleasant viewing experience whether scrolling through feeds or watching videos.

Value

The Pixel 9 Pro typically offers strong value for those who prioritize camera quality and a smart, clean software experience. It often undercuts the top-tier flagships from Samsung and Apple in price while delivering a comparable or even superior camera experience in many scenarios. The unique AI features also add significant value for users looking for intelligent assistance.

BUY IT IF…

• You want one of the best point-and-shoot camera experiences on a smartphone.
• You value a clean Android interface with fast updates and unique AI features.
• You appreciate Google’s design aesthetic.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• You need the absolute highest raw gaming performance.
• You require the longest possible battery life without compromise.
• You prefer more extensive hardware customization options found on other Androids.

THE BEST FOLDABLE PHONE

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 ★★★★☆

The ultimate foldable for productivity and multitasking, further refined.

Specifications

• Main Display: ~7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X Foldable, 120Hz
• Cover Display: ~6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 for Galaxy (expected)
• RAM: 12GB
• Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
• Cameras: Triple rear camera system; Under-display camera on main screen
• Battery: ~4400 mAh (or similar to predecessor)
• Key Features: S Pen support (potentially integrated or improved), Enhanced multitasking, More durable hinge and display, Lighter design

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Reasons to Buy

• Unmatched multitasking capabilities on a large foldable screen
• Potentially thinner, lighter, and more durable design
• S Pen support enhances productivity
• Powerful flagship performance
• Unique and impressive form factor

Reasons to Avoid

• Extremely expensive
• Inner display is still more delicate than traditional screens
• Bulkier than standard smartphones when folded
• Camera system may not match top-tier non-foldables

What you need to know

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series continues to define the large-format foldable market, and the Z Fold 6 is expected to bring key refinements to the design, durability, and user experience. Anticipate a potentially wider cover screen, a less noticeable crease on the main display, and the latest Snapdragon processor for top-tier performance, all while aiming for a thinner and lighter build.

Performance & Cameras

Powered by the latest Snapdragon for Galaxy chip, the Z Fold 6 will offer flagship-level performance, effortlessly handling demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming on its expansive inner display. While the camera system is usually very capable, it might not quite match the absolute best from Samsung’s S Ultra series, as the focus is often on balancing camera tech with the complexities of the foldable form factor.

Design & Display

The main draw is, of course, the large, immersive foldable display that transforms the device from a phone into a small tablet. Samsung is expected to continue improving the hinge mechanism for better durability and a less prominent crease. A wider cover display would enhance usability when the device is closed. S Pen support is a key feature for productivity, and there are hopes for an integrated S Pen slot or a slimmer S Pen design.

Value

Foldable phones remain a premium category, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 will undoubtedly be one of the most expensive smartphones available. Its value lies in its unique ability to combine the portability of a phone with the productivity and immersion of a tablet. For power users, multitaskers, and tech enthusiasts who can leverage its unique form factor, the high price can be justified.

BUY IT IF…

• You want a device that’s both a phone and a tablet.
• Multitasking and productivity on the go are paramount.
• You’re an early adopter who appreciates cutting-edge technology.
• S Pen functionality on a large screen is appealing.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• Budget is a major concern.
• You need the absolute best camera system available on any phone.
• You prefer a slim, lightweight, and conventional smartphone design.

THE BEST FOR UNIQUE DESIGN ON A BUDGET

5. CMF Phone (2a / by Nothing) ★★★★☆

Standout transparent design and a clean software experience at an attractive price.

Specifications

• Display: ~6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz Refresh Rate
• Processor: Mid-range chipset (e.g., MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra or similar)
• RAM: 8GB/12GB
• Storage: 128GB/256GB
• Cameras: Dual camera system, likely 50MP Main + Ultrawide
• Battery: ~5000 mAh with fast charging
• Key Features: Unique transparent/semi-transparent design elements, Glyph Interface (simplified), Clean Android experience (Nothing OS based)

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Reasons to Buy

• Eye-catching and unique design
• Clean and bloatware-free software experience
• Smooth 120Hz AMOLED display
• Good battery life
• Competitive pricing for its features

Reasons to Avoid

• Camera performance may not match flagships
• Processor is mid-range, not for heavy gaming
• Glyph Interface might be more limited than on Nothing phones
• Availability might be restricted in some regions

What you need to know

CMF by Nothing aims to bring distinctive design and a focused user experience to more accessible price points. The CMF Phone (potentially named Phone 2a or similar) is expected to inherit some of the design DNA of Nothing phones, such as transparent elements and a simplified version of the Glyph Interface, while offering solid mid-range specifications.

Performance & Cameras

Performance will be geared towards smooth everyday use, powered by a capable mid-range processor. It should handle social media, browsing, streaming, and light gaming without issues. The camera system will likely feature a competent main sensor and an ultrawide, aiming for good quality photos in decent lighting conditions, though it won’t compete with the advanced systems of flagship devices.

Design & Display

Design is a key selling point for CMF. Expect a visually interesting phone that stands out from the crowd, possibly with unique textures or semi-transparent components. The display will likely be a large, vibrant AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. The software experience will be a highlight, offering a clean, near-stock Android feel with Nothing’s thoughtful design touches.

Value

The CMF Phone is all about offering a unique design and a refined software experience at a competitive mid-range price. It’s for users who want a phone that looks different and feels good to use, without necessarily needing the absolute cutting-edge in processing power or camera technology. It provides good value for those who appreciate aesthetics and a bloat-free OS.

BUY IT IF…

• You want a smartphone with a unique and stylish design.
• A clean, bloatware-free Android experience is important to you.
• You’re looking for a good AMOLED display and solid battery life in the mid-range.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• You need flagship-level camera performance.
• You’re a heavy gamer requiring the most powerful processor.
• You prefer a more conventional smartphone design.

THE BEST GAMING PHONE

6. ASUS ROG Phone 9 ★★★★★

Uncompromised gaming performance with innovative cooling and gamer-centric features.

Specifications

• Display: ~6.78-inch AMOLED, 165Hz+ Refresh Rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 for Gaming (or overclocked variant)
• RAM: 16GB/18GB/24GB Options
• Storage: 512GB/1TB UFS 4.0+
• Cameras: Capable triple camera system, focus on main sensor quality
• Battery: ~6000 mAh with ultra-fast charging (e.g., 65W+)
• Key Features: Advanced cooling system (AeroActive Cooler accessory), AirTrigger shoulder buttons, Customizable gaming software, High-fidelity audio, Side-mounted charging port

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Reasons to Buy

• Unmatched gaming performance and cooling
• Ultra-smooth high refresh rate display
• Innovative AirTrigger controls for enhanced gameplay
• Massive battery with very fast charging
• Gamer-focused software and accessories
• Excellent audio quality for immersive gaming

Reasons to Avoid

• Very expensive and niche
• Bulky and heavy design
• Camera system is good but not its primary focus
• Design aesthetic is aggressively “gamer”

What you need to know

The ASUS ROG Phone series is the undisputed king of gaming smartphones, and the ROG Phone 9 is expected to push the boundaries even further. It’s designed from the ground up for an unparalleled mobile gaming experience, featuring the most powerful available processor, an ultra-high refresh rate display, innovative cooling solutions, and a suite of gamer-centric hardware and software features.

Performance & Cameras

Expect nothing less than chart-topping performance from the ROG Phone 9, likely featuring a specially binned or overclocked version of the latest Snapdragon flagship chipset. This, combined with ample RAM and an advanced cooling system (often including the attachable AeroActive Cooler), ensures sustained peak performance during long gaming sessions. While the cameras are usually capable, they are not the primary focus compared to the gaming hardware.

Design & Display

The ROG Phone 9 will likely sport a bold, gamer-oriented design with customizable RGB lighting elements. The AMOLED display will feature an exceptionally high refresh rate (165Hz or even higher) and a high touch sampling rate for incredibly smooth and responsive visuals. Key design elements include the AirTrigger ultrasonic shoulder buttons, providing console-like controls, and often a side-mounted USB-C port for comfortable gaming while charging.

Value

The ROG Phone 9 is a premium, specialized device aimed squarely at serious mobile gamers. Its value lies in its uncompromising gaming performance and unique features that directly enhance the gaming experience. If mobile gaming is your passion and you want the best possible hardware, the ROG Phone 9 is the ultimate choice, though it comes at a significant cost.

BUY IT IF…

• Mobile gaming is your top priority.
• You want the absolute best performance and cooling for gaming.
• You appreciate physical gaming controls like shoulder buttons.
• You need a massive battery and ultra-fast charging.

DON’T BUY IT IF…

• You’re looking for a mainstream, all-around smartphone.
• Camera quality is more important to you than gaming features.
• You prefer a slim, lightweight, and understated phone design.
• You’re on a tight budget.

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