If the cellphone launches throughout the first half of 2025 are something to go by, we’re in for a wild journey to finish the yr. The OnePlus 13 set the tone early, adopted by the Galaxy S25 series and, extra not too long ago, Apple launched the public beta of iOS 26, which introduces a recent software program design. In only a few extra weeks, we’ll study extra about Google’s Pixel 10 series, which is anticipated to function a whopping 5 cellphone fashions, so keep tuned.
Reality of the matter is, there are tons of telephones shouting in your consideration. While you’re selecting one, actually take into consideration what you want day-to-day. One of the best choices in the marketplace function shows that may beat the outside solar, cameras that seize nice photographs in essentially the most troublesome lighting environments, and software program options that really improve your communication and productiveness.
What’s the finest smartphone proper now?
After extensive testing of dozens of devices, our decide for one of the best cellphone general is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, due to its immersive and vibrant show, reliable battery life, and wealth of particular options, a few of that are powered by the corporate’s newest generative synthetic intelligence (AI) mannequin.
It is not low-cost at a beginning value of $1,299, however our testing discovered it to be definitely worth the cash, particularly in case you can snag a provider deal or trade-in promotion. Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max is an in depth second, with a thinner and bigger design, a Digicam Management key for precision capturing, and a collection of ever-improving Apple Intelligence options.
After all, our decide for one of the best cellphone general is probably not one of the best for you. Irrespective of which possibility on this checklist you determine to spend money on, anticipate it to be high-performing, have a show that’s shiny sufficient to make use of outdoor, and have a digital camera system that can fulfill your images wants.
Additionally: The best Android phones to buy in 2025
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Why we prefer it: The Galaxy S25 Extremely stands out because the premier handset up to now in 2025 with its subtle integration of Galaxy AI and arsenal of {hardware} options. The most recent Galaxy AI suite brings sensible and helpful options like real-time name translation, voice instructions that work throughout a number of apps, and picture modifying capabilities. Actual-world testing suggests these AI features surpass these on competing Android units in velocity, dependability, and general usefulness.
Past the AI, the cellphone has impressed us with its giant 6.9-inch, anti-reflective, AMOLED show and sturdy 5,000mAh battery. Efficiency is bolstered by the upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset and 12GB of RAM, additional enhanced by a bigger cooling chamber splendid for multimedia and gaming. The smartphone additionally excels in sturdiness with its light-weight titanium body and new resilient Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass.
Moreover, the digital camera system is considerably upgraded with a 50MP ultrawide lens that captures panorama and macro pictures with higher element and vibrancy. We have run a number of digital camera exams between the S25 Extremely and competing telephones just like the iPhone 16 Professional Max and Google Pixel 9 Professional XL and located the Samsung mannequin to ship the sharpest and vibrant imagery.
Evaluation: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Who it is for: The Galaxy S25 Extremely is primarily focused in direction of customers who demand one of the best smartphone expertise Samsung can present and are eager to discover the most recent consumer-facing AI options. It represents a very compelling improve for people holding onto three to four-year-old units, providing vital developments throughout the board.
The sturdy construct makes it a wonderful selection for individuals who prioritize system safety towards on a regular basis mishaps. Multimedia fanatics will recognize the massive, anti-reflective, 6.9-inch display screen mixed with enhanced cooling know-how. Moreover, images lovers in search of improved element and coloration in wide-angle and close-up macro pictures will discover the brand new 50MP ultrawide digital camera useful.
Who ought to look elsewhere: Regardless of its strengths, the Galaxy S25 Extremely’s $1,300 value level makes it out of attain for budget-conscious shoppers. As well as, customers who ceaselessly make the most of the S Pen’s Bluetooth gestures for actions like remotely triggering the digital camera could also be disillusioned, because the performance has been eliminated.
Moreover, people preferring a much less angular or “boxy” cellphone design would possibly discover the usual Galaxy S25 or S25 Plus fashions extra aesthetically pleasing and cozy to carry. For those who choose a much less bloated software program expertise, contemplate the Google Pixel 9 Professional XL or OnePlus 13, each of which additionally value lower than the Extremely.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Show dimension: 6.9 inches | Storage choices: As much as 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP principal, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom | Entrance digital camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Worth: Beginning at $1,300
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Why we prefer it: The iPhone 16 Professional Max cements its place as Apple’s pinnacle smartphone providing during the last yr, delivering a complete package deal for the premium consumer. Its standout function is arguably the expansive and sensible 6.9-inch AMOLED show, splendid for immersive media consumption and cellular productiveness alike.
The 2024 mannequin introduce a noticeable design change with thinner bezels that improve the bigger display screen really feel, alongside the addition of the brand new Digicam Management button. This bodily swap permits for fast digital camera entry and picture capturing with out display screen interplay, a function ZDNET Editor-in-Chief Jason Hiner advised “goes to be tremendous useful for individuals who take a ton of photographs with the iPhone.”
The most recent A18 Professional chip drives the cellphone’s efficiency, which our testing discovered to yield considerably quicker and extra environment friendly on-device AI processing. This can be a key functionality setting the stage for the assorted Apple Intelligence instruments. This AI suite guarantees superior instruments like picture era, a extra succesful Siri, and notification summaries, positioning the 16 Professional Max as Apple’s most “future-proof” system for the AI period. Digicam capabilities are additionally additional enhanced with 4K video recording at 120fps, enabling high-detail slow-motion modifying, and Audio Combine know-how to isolate and make clear voices in recordings.
An improved battery life, rated by Apple for 33 hours of video playback — up from 29 hours, and newly added help for 25W MagSafe wi-fi charging spherical out the numerous {hardware} upgrades.
Evaluation: iPhone 16 Pro Max
Who it is for: The iPhone 16 Professional Max is squarely geared toward customers demanding essentially the most superior options and capabilities obtainable inside the Apple ecosystem. It represents a compelling selection for people desirous to discover Apple Intelligence options, which require a extra modernized and highly effective chipset just like the A18 Professional. Images and videography fanatics will discover vital worth within the new Digicam Management button for fast captures, the high-frame-rate 4K video for artistic flexibility, and the Audio Combine function for clearer sound.
Moreover, energy customers who rely closely on their system all through the day will recognize the substantial battery life enchancment. The massive, high-quality 6.9-inch show makes it splendid for individuals who eat a number of video content material, play graphics-intensive video games, or use their cellphone extensively for productiveness duties. It is also the go-to for customers upgrading from older iPhone fashions — notably pre-Professional Max generations — looking for the most important leaps in display screen dimension, efficiency, and digital camera tech.
Who ought to look elsewhere: The iPhone 16 Professional Max’s $1,200 beginning value may deter budget-conscious shoppers, who would possibly discover higher worth in the usual iPhone 16 fashions or aggressive Android choices. Customers who aren’t closely invested within the Apple ecosystem or choose the customization and file administration flexibility of Android ought to contemplate alternate options just like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely or Google Pixel 9 Professional XL.
Moreover, people who discover giant telephones unwieldy would possibly choose a smaller system, even inside Apple’s personal lineup.
Additionally: Best password manager for iPhone
iPhone 16 Professional Max tech specs: Processor: A18 Professional | Show dimension: 6.9 inches | Storage choices: As much as 1TB | Rear cameras: 48MP principal, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto (2x), 12MP telephoto (5x) | Entrance digital camera: 12MP
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Why we prefer it: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is one of the best foldable cellphone going into the remainder of 2025, due to its ultra-thin kind issue and market-leading digital camera system, which captures extra lifelike pictures than competing fashions from OnePlus and Google, primarily based on our exams.
Samsung took the normal smartphone route when refining the outer show of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, choosing a wider, extra common facet ratio panel than final yr’s narrower Galaxy Z Fold 6. That makes a notable distinction in hand-feel and ergonomics, although the 2 telephones are solely $100 aside. In comparison with the usual slab-style cellphone, you are merely getting extra display screen with the Z Fold 7, with a bigger 8-inch show when unfolded. For reference, most modern-day telephones vary from 6 to six.8 inches.
Naturally, all of the content material I have been consuming on the cellphone, like video streaming, social media feeds, and Google Maps, is portrayed in a extremely consumable method; nothing feels disorienting or cropped out. Whereas the foldable would not match its Extremely sibling spec-for-spec, the Z Fold 7 really shines and greater than makes up for the “inferior” 200MP digital camera system in lengthy publicity pictures and selfies, due to its self-standing nature.
Evaluation: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Who it is for: I typically advocate the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold over different foldables due to Samsung’s feature-rich method to software program. Operating on the OneUI launcher (over Android 16) means you may anticipate a easy but customizable consumer interface, with help for as much as seven years of working system and safety updates. I am unable to say the identical for the OnePlus Open or Motorola Razr.
This ultra-slim kind issue can also be splendid for multitaskers and different customers who wish to see as a lot data without delay as potential with out reaching for a pill or laptop computer. You merely will not discover a foldable with higher ergonomics proper now than this.
Who ought to look elsewhere: With a beginning price ticket of $1,999, you are principally paying for the innovation issue with this cellphone. So in case you’re extra considering a protected and dependable handset that is arguably a lot simpler to restore, then I might advocate a standard slab cellphone just like the Samsung Galaxy S25 collection as a substitute.
Customers searching for a foldable cellphone ought to contemplate the Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold if they like a handset with much less bloatware and a stubbier design, or final yr’s Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 if they need S Pen stylus help, which the Z Fold 7 omits.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Show sizes: 6.5-inch exterior and 8-inch inside | Storage choices: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP extensive, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto | Entrance cameras: 10MP entrance | Battery: 4,400mAh | Worth: Beginning at $1,999
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Why we prefer it: The CMF Telephone 2 Professional is a high contender for one of the best low-cost cellphone obtainable at this time, providing exceptional worth at simply $279. It distinguishes itself from opponents, even these costing considerably extra, with distinctive design options targeted on consumer management and customization. Amongst these is the power to simply swap again covers, connect screw-in equipment like kickstands or wallets, and increase storage by way of a MicroSD card — a function more and more uncommon in fashionable smartphones.
Impressively, the Telephone 2 Professional avoids main compromises on important specs typically seen at this value level. Our testing discovered the three,000-nit OLED show to be notably shiny, guaranteeing comfy outside visibility. This additionally represents a big improve from the earlier mannequin with improved distinction and coloration replica splendid for media.
The massive 5,000mAh battery delivers stable endurance for many customers, sufficient to comfortably final our reviewers a day of utilization. Moreover, Nothing’s streamlined interpretation of Android is a spotlight, providing a considerate, bloatware-light expertise enriched with distinctive widgets that improve usability with out pointless litter.
Evaluation: CMF Phone 2 Pro
Who it is for: This system primarily targets budget-conscious consumers looking for the very best options and expertise with out breaking the financial institution. Its distinctive customization choices, together with the swappable backs and accent system, make it good for customers who get pleasure from personalizing their tech. The MicroSD card slot is a serious draw for anybody needing ample, reasonably priced storage enlargement on high of the bottom 256GB configuration.
The CMF Telephone 2 Professional can also be a wonderful selection for customers who prioritize a clear software program expertise and recognize the distinctive design parts of Nothing OS. For people whose major cellphone utilization entails looking, social media, messaging, and media consumption, the intense show, dependable battery life, and satisfactory efficiency ship a satisfying every day expertise nicely past what its price ticket would possibly recommend.
Who ought to look elsewhere: Customers who have interaction in frequent, graphics-intensive gaming or heavy multitasking could discover the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Professional processor underpowered. A tool with a stronger chipset can be extra appropriate.
Whereas the digital camera system is competent for the worth and features a telephoto lens, its efficiency in low-light circumstances lags behind opponents, making it much less splendid for these prioritizing images in difficult environments. The Google Pixel 9a is perhaps a greater match right here.
Most significantly, potential consumers should pay attention to its community limitations. The CMF Telephone 2 Professional lacks the required band help to be used on the Verizon community within the US.. For these needing Verizon compatibility, stronger efficiency, or higher low-light digital camera capabilities inside the funds phase, alternate options just like the Motorola Moto G Energy 2025 or the Google Pixel 9a needs to be thought-about.
CMF Telephone 2 Professional by Nothing tech specs: Show dimension: 6.77 inches | Show kind: OLED | Decision: 2780 x 1264 | Refresh price: 120Hz | Battery life: 5,000mAh | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB | Rear digital camera: 50MP principal, 8MP ultra-wide, 50MP telephoto | Entrance digital camera: 16MP | Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Professional | Worth: Beginning at $279
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Why we prefer it: Deciding on one of the best flip-style foldable cellphone got here all the way down to the wire, with Motorola’s Razr Extremely simply scraping by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7. I went hands-on with the brand new Razr Extremely mannequin earlier this yr, and was totally impressed by the improved hinge system (learn: the cellphone feels sturdier to flip open and shut), in addition to the efficiency, which is underpinned by an up to date Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 12GB of RAM.
Motorola’s outer show nonetheless helps nearly any app you throw at it, which means you may browse the online, play video games, scroll TikTok, and do different cellular duties with out ever needing to flip open the system. Samsung’s platform is extra restricted on this regard, which at all times felt like a missed alternative when testing.
It additionally helps that the Razr Extremely has a textured backing, together with new Alcantara and Wooden finishes, which I’ve discovered to be simpler to carry and grip than competing flip telephones. Contemplating how fragile these foldable units could be — something with so many shifting components usually are — the improved grip is straightforward to understand.
Evaluation: Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)
Who it is for: At $1,299, the Razr Extremely is just not an affordable flip cellphone by any means. That is why its extra reasonably priced siblings, the Razr and Razr Plus exist. However if you would like essentially the most full, sturdy, and visually-stimulating flip cellphone in the marketplace proper now, you may should pay to play with the Razr Extremely.
I applauded Motorola for exploring new coloration and materials finishes with this yr’s Razr, and that is one thing fashion-forward customers will probably favor too. The battery on this yr’s mannequin — 4,700mAh, up from 4,000mAh — can also be a lot bigger, which you’ll by no means actually complain about.
Who ought to look elsewhere: When shopping for the Razr Extremely, you must also contemplate facets like Motorola’s comparatively brief software program replace cadence, which ranges from 2 to three years, versus Google and Samsung’s 7 years. For those who’re in search of a cellphone that is much more forgiving when dropped, I might spend money on a standard slab handset as a substitute, just like the Samsung Galaxy S25 collection or iPhone 16 Professional collection.
Motorola Razr Extremely (2025) tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Show sizes: 4-inch exterior and 7-inch inside | Storage choices: 512GB, 1TB | Cameras: 50MP extensive, 50MP ultrawide, 32MP entrance | Battery: 4,700mAh | Worth: $1,299
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Why we prefer it: The Google Pixel 9 Professional collection — comprising the $800 Pixel 9 Professional and $900 Professional XL — persistently units the usual for computational images within the smartphone market. Whereas flagship cameras from Apple and Samsung are spectacular, we have discovered Google’s system ceaselessly excels, notably demonstrating superior shutter velocity for capturing quick motion, nuanced post-processing, and natural-looking coloration accuracy in comparison with rivals just like the Galaxy S25 Extremely and iPhone 16 Professional Max. This leads to photographs which might be balanced in coloration and customarily satisfying to view.
Each Professional fashions function the identical, extremely succesful and dependable triple-lens setup — 50MP principal, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP 5x telephoto — adept at capturing all the pieces from extensive vistas to distant topics like statues and buildings with readability. I’ve taken the Professional XL with me to a number of product occasions throughout the nation, and the digital camera system has been very dependable.
This {hardware} is additional enhanced by intelligent software program options like Google’s Tremendous Res Zoom –offering usable pictures as much as 30x, 8K video upscaling, and the newer “Add Me” function for merging two photographs — good for group pictures with no need another person to take the image. The telephones are powered by the most recent Tensor G4 chip, which powers options like Magic Editor, Picture Unblur, and Greatest Take, to permit customers to effortlessly rescue or creatively improve practically any shot, making post-processing extremely versatile.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Who it is for: The Pixel 9 Professional and Professional XL are primarily designed for customers who prioritize a best-in-class cellular images expertise, valuing dependable point-and-shoot outcomes, correct coloration illustration, and the power to cleanly seize difficult, fast-moving topics. It is the perfect selection for people eager on using cutting-edge AI instruments to simply edit and excellent their photographs after seize.
Worth-conscious consumers in search of flagship digital camera efficiency with out absolutely the top-tier pricing of Apple or Samsung’s highest fashions will discover the Pixel 9 Professional collection notably interesting. Moreover, customers who ceaselessly make the most of zoom capabilities for distant objects or recognize the clear software program expertise and distinctive AI options synonymous with the Google ecosystem are prime candidates for these units.
Who ought to look elsewhere: Regardless of its photographic strengths, the Pixel 9 Professional collection is probably not the right match for everybody. Customers whose major focus is videography, requiring the best possible picture stabilization and movement smoothing capabilities, ought to contemplate the iPhone 16 Professional Max, which I nonetheless fall again on for recording content material. Those that need the utmost {hardware} customization, intensive guide digital camera controls, or particular {hardware} options like built-in stylus help would possibly discover the Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely extra aligned with their wants.
Google Pixel 9 Professional tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show dimension: 6.3 and 6.7 inches | Storage choices: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP principal, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto | Entrance digital camera: 42MP | Battery: 4,700mAh/5,060mAh | Worth: Beginning at $800 (Professional) and $900 (Professional XL)
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Why we prefer it: The OnePlus 13 delivers distinctive efficiency, class-leading battery life, and memorable sturdiness, all whereas sustaining a extremely aggressive value level. Beginning at $900, it affords excellent worth in comparison with rivals just like the $1,000 Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus and $900 Google Pixel 9 Professional, with worth additional enhanced by potential trade-in affords.
Beneath the hood, it boasts the highly effective Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, beneficiant RAM configurations as much as 16GB, and a shocking 6.82-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED show with a 120Hz refresh price and unimaginable peak brightness as much as 4,500 nits.
Its huge 6,000mAh battery scored excessive rankings with ZDNET’s endurance exams. It is complemented by market-leading 80W wired charging able to a full cost in underneath 30-40 minutes and fast 50W wi-fi charging.
Sturdiness is one other power, that includes a formidable IP69 ranking for resistance towards high-pressure, high-temperature water jets and humidity, together with Ceramic Guard display screen safety.
Additions like an improved ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, distinctive design choices together with vegan leather-based backs, useful display screen options like Glove Mode, and the signature Alert Slider spherical out a compelling {hardware} package deal supporting a succesful triple 50MP digital camera system.
Evaluation: OnePlus 13
Who it is for: The OnePlus 13 is tailored for customers looking for flagship-level efficiency, notably in battery life and charging speeds, with out the worth tag. Its distinctive endurance and fast charging make it splendid for heavy customers and people at all times on the go. The sturdy IP69 ranking appeals to people needing a cellphone that may face up to extra demanding environments than typical IP68-rated units.
Efficiency fanatics will recognize the graceful operation pushed by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and an ample 16GB of RAM. It is also an awesome match for customers preferring a much less AI-saturated software program expertise in comparison with some opponents, or those that recognize OnePlus’s distinct design philosophy and the tactile comfort of the Alert Slider, although that function is reportedly being revamped soon.
Who ought to look elsewhere: Regardless of its quite a few strengths, the OnePlus 13 is probably not the right selection for everybody. Customers who prioritize buying via main U.S. provider shops would possibly discover availability much less handy in comparison with Samsung or Google units. Whereas OnePlus affords a stable replace coverage of 4 years of OS updates as much as Android 19 and 6 years of safety, these looking for longer software program help ought to strive Google or Samsung flagships. These typically promise seven years.
Though the triple 50MP digital camera system is extremely succesful, customers demanding the utmost consistency in computational images, notably in difficult zoom or low-light situations, would possibly nonetheless choose the specialised output from Google Pixel or high-end Samsung fashions. Moreover, customers closely reliant on MagSafe or Qi2 equipment ought to be aware that native magnetic attachment requires a selected OnePlus case.
OnePlus 13 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Show dimension: 6.8 inches | Storage choices: 256GB/512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP principal, 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP telephoto | Entrance digital camera: 32MP | Battery: 6,000mAh | Worth: Beginning at $900
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Our decide for one of the best cellphone general is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely. It options all the pieces you can need from a smartphone, together with a big show, 4 cameras that may shoot 200MP photographs and 8K video, as much as 1TB of storage, a built-in S Pen for writing and drawing, and a 5,000mAh battery powering the system. Here is how the S24 Extremely fares with the remainder of our high picks.
Greatest cellphone mannequin | Worth | Storage | Display dimension | Battery dimension | Processor |
Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely | $1,300 | As much as 1TB | 6.9 inches | 5,000mAh | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy |
iPhone 16 Professional Max | $1,200 | As much as 1TB | 6.9 inches | 4,323mAh (est.) | A18 Professional Bionic |
Google Pixel 9 Professional XL | $900 | As much as 1TB | 6.7 inches | 5,060mAh | Google Tensor G4 |
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | $2,000 | As much as 1TB | 6.5 inches and eight inches | 4,400mAh | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite |
Motorola Razr Extremely | $1,300 | As much as 512GB | 7 inches | 4,700mAh | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite |
CMF Telephone 2 Professional | $279 | As much as 256GB | 6.77 inches | 5,000mAh | MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Professional 5G |
OnePlus 13 | $900 | As much as 512GB | 6.8 inches | 6,000mAh | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite |
*MSRP on the time of writing
Having a listing of your must-have smartphone options can go a good distance towards narrowing down your choices. For those who’re a cellular skilled or journey lots for work, you may wish to select a cellphone that may offer you no less than a full day of use on a full battery and each LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity.
For those who’re in search of your teen’s first smartphone, a budget-friendly and fewer feature-heavy possibility could also be higher to forestall overspending and misuse. For those who’re a content material creator or different artistic skilled, you may desire a cellphone with a wonderful entrance and rear digital camera to seize photographs and movies in your social media feed.
Select this finest cellphone… | In order for you… |
Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely | A no-compromise smartphone that nearly any kind of consumer can reap the benefits of. It is the one 2025 smartphone with a built-in stylus. |
iPhone 16 Professional Max | One of the best iPhone cash can purchase. It has a big display screen, the longest-lasting battery out of all of the fashions, and a toolbox of a digital camera system. |
Google Pixel 9 Professional XL | A flagship digital camera expertise at your fingertips. The Pixel 9 Professional XL differentiates itself with a slew of AI-powered and one of the best selfie digital camera in the marketplace. |
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | One of the best phone-to-tablet foldable that cash can purchase at this time. And in case you’re an influence consumer, the multitasking and AI options will serve you particularly nicely. |
Motorola Razr Extremely | A flip-style foldable that is each compact and performant. With a big 4-inch exterior show and improved battery life, that is the foldable to purchase for most individuals. |
CMF Telephone 2 Professional | A extra budget-friendly smartphone that does not compromise on efficiency and software program expertise. The CMF Telephone 2 Professional additionally has a novel detachable again cowl that opens up a world of 3D-printed customizations. |
OnePlus 13 | A cellphone that lasts lengthy and expenses from 0% to 100% in simply half-hour. The OnePlus 13 is quietly good worth, too, beginning at $900. |
Android:
Google’s working system has at all times been about personalization, app freedom, and versatile use instances. For instance, dozens of Android producers launch telephones yearly, whereas iOS runs solely on Apple’s iPhone, which releases two fashions yearly. Naturally, there are extra Android app builders, area of interest software program and companies, and kind elements that transcend the glass slab.
Professionals:
- Customization: Whereas the most recent iPhone software program, iOS 26, is essentially the most customizable model but, Android remains to be forward in modifying settings, appears to be like and look, and extra. You possibly can alter settings on a per-app foundation, set up third-party launchers, icon packs, and different companies, and even tweak system animations to make the working system quicker.
- App selection: In line with AppExperts, there are over 3.5 million Android apps on the Google Play Retailer and greater than 1.8 million apps on the iOS App Retailer. That is an enormous distinction in quantity that in the end impacts customers who need extra area of interest and particular apps for work and play. For instance, whereas each platforms will carry companies like WhatsApp and Instagram, Android often has the higher hand with companion apps for shopper merchandise, unreleased APKs, and extra. There’s additionally free entry to sideload apps from third-party shops — that course of is exclusive to European users so far as iOS is worried.
- Worth and availability: Each Android and iOS are supplied throughout the mid-to-high value tiers, however the former goes a step additional with choices that cater to budget-oriented consumers. For those who’re searching for a smartphone for lower than $300, except you are keen to purchase a second-hand iPhone that is already just a few generations previous, Android handsets are your only option. Android phones additionally are available foldable form factors, from clamshell-style units just like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 to book-style ones just like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Cons:
- Safety and privateness: The abundance of Android telephones and app makers means there are extra alternatives for cybercriminals to entry your private data and/or set up malware. How these assaults are prevented and managed additionally varies throughout producers, with some OEMs like Google doing a greater job than others like Xiaomi.
- Inconsistency with high quality: Like safety and privateness, you have to at all times contemplate which Android maker you are shopping for a cellphone from and what it affords throughout totally different value ranges. Bigger legacy manufacturers like Samsung have a higher fame for high quality assurance and worth. In distinction, smaller, newer manufacturers like Nothing and OnePlus should show themselves, typically taking dangers that backfire within the course of.
iOS:
The iPhone’s working system stays probably the most sturdy and closed in in the marketplace, with distinctive options that solely amplify the Apple {hardware} expertise. Whether or not you are utilizing an older or newer iPhone, iOS affords superior function parity throughout generations than Android, with prolonged software program help being one in all its greatest advantages.
Professionals:
- Unique, ecosystem-based companies: Power in numbers is the secret for iOS, with the working system infamous for its unique apps and companies, similar to iMessage and FaceTime, which make switching away from the iPhone tougher than it needs to be. It helps that Apple has surrounded the iPhone with {hardware} and software program that work harmoniously with iOS, together with AirDropping information right into a MacBook, pulling well being information from an Apple Watch, and, only recently, supporting hearing aid tests via AirPods Pro 2.
- High quality of apps: Past the first-party apps, US builders typically spend extra time creating and optimizing iOS apps than Android apps because of the percentage of users. Naturally, companies like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok operate extra fluidly on iOS than on Android.
- Longevity: While you purchase a brand new iPhone, anticipate upwards of seven years of software program help. Whereas Android makers like Google and Samsung have begun to match Apple’s software program replace coverage, the Cupertino tech big stays essentially the most constant and dependable, whatever the mannequin. For reference, Samsung has a greater monitor report of updating its flagship telephones than its midrange telephones.
Cons:
- Restrictive expertise: Apple has loosened its grip on customizability through the years, with final yr’s iOS 18 update lastly permitting customers to freely place apps and widgets anyplace on the house display screen grid. Nonetheless, in comparison with Android, the iPhone software program nonetheless has a methods to go. For instance, you continue to cannot customise notification varieties at a per-app degree, set navigation gestures past swiping from the left facet to return, or obtain third-party app icons.
- Poor file administration: For those who’ve ever downloaded a picture from the online on an iPhone, you may know simply how cumbersome it may be to find that file afterward. Generally, downloaded photographs and movies will likely be directed into the file supervisor app first, requiring additional motion to totally migrate them into the Images app.
The method of creating our cellphone alternatives consists of real-world testing and researching concerning the telephones for weeks, consulting with colleagues, trade consultants, and analysts who even have hands-on expertise with the smartphones, after which choosing the right from the entire obtainable decisions.
Finally, we weigh within the following facets when curating this checklist:
- Design: There’s solely a lot you are able to do with a slab design, however dimension variations, materials decisions, coloration choices, and even the power to bend a display screen in half give consumers sufficient variety to have a desire. That is why we’ve a advice for each kind issue.
- Efficiency: For a lot of, smartphones are the middle of our lives, which suggests one of the best ones are performant and might deal with most, if not all, duties you throw at them.
- Digicam: Arguably essentially the most useful function of a smartphone; the consistency and reliability of a digital camera system could make or break the general cellular expertise. We check each system in broad daylight and within the darkest of nights when finalizing this checklist.
- Battery: Each possibility on this information ought to final you no less than a day of reasonable use. We additionally contemplate what units help quick charging and/or wi-fi charging.
- Worth: Worth factors are famous, however an important factor with shopping for a cellphone is getting your cash’s price. With these picks, you may relaxation assured that you just’re getting one of the best bang in your buck.
ZDNET’s overview workforce spends upwards of a yr testing the ins and outs of each main cellphone launch, evaluating the day-to-day efficiency, digital camera high quality, battery life and endurance, and particular options. Here is a breakdown of each issue we contemplate earlier than we make suggestions:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a cellphone appears to be like and feels performs an enormous position in lots of customers’ shopping for journeys, so we contemplate these facets closely when testing.
- Efficiency: A number of elements have an effect on a cellphone’s efficiency, together with LTE/5G sign, battery life, and background duties. Subsequently, we usually start our evaluations with a totally charged handset, with all background duties closed, and with as steady of a cellular connection as potential.
- Digicam high quality: ZDNET exams cellphone cameras by capturing a whole lot of photographs and movies of assorted topics and in numerous lighting circumstances. We additionally examine the output to that of older fashions.
- Battery life and charging: It is also vital for us to judge how lengthy telephones final underneath gentle, reasonable, and heavy utilization, how lengthy they take to recharge, and the way they do it — wired, wi-fi, or each.
- Particular options: These options distinguish examined units from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully convey added worth to customers, not the alternative.
- Pricing and availability: Past funds concerns, we additionally be aware if a cellphone is accessible within the US or solely internationally.
For a extra intensive breakdown, take a look at our complete phone testing methodology page.
I’ve used dozens of smartphones prior to now yr alone, studying the ins and outs — the ideas and methods — to take advantage of out of my handset. Listed here are my three greatest tips on caring for your smartphone proper now:
Dashing up your smartphone
One thing I at all times do when establishing a brand new Android cellphone is dialing up animation and transition speeds. You are able to do this by turning on Developer Choices, a backend catalog of system settings meant for builders to entry, however guidelines had been meant to be damaged, proper?
To activate Developer Choices, go into your About Telephone web page within the settings and search for the Construct Quantity. Faucet on that seven occasions and you must see a pop-up indicating that Developer Choices has been turned on. Now, the activated tab will seem in the principle settings checklist. From inside, scroll down till you discover Home windows, Transition, and Animator length scale. Faucet into every and swap from the 1x default setting to .5x to double the velocity of your cellphone’s animations.
Optimizing your battery well being
To protect your cellphone’s battery life, it is best to cost it between 20% and 80% and by no means let it drop to 0% or cost absolutely to 100%. It is because the warmth generated from overcharging the cellphone can burn — or degrade — the battery, lowering its variety of cost cycles. This phenomenon is the rationale why you shouldn’t charge your phone overnight or depart it plugged in for an prolonged time frame.
When doubtful, after a yr or two of utilization, contemplate getting your cellphone’s battery swapped to refresh its cost cycles. You may be amazed at how nicely it features once more.
Learn how to preserve your cellphone clear
Until you are invested in a repairs and guarantee plan like Apple Care, contemplate suiting your cellphone with a protecting case and/or tempered glass display screen protector. Past drop safety, the 2 equipment will stop the cellphone from getting scratches, scuffs, and different blemishes and might significantly scale back the possibility of water injury. For what it is price, if a producer claims its cellphone is rated IP68, meaning the system can face up to mud ingress and be submerged in water for as much as half-hour at one meter deep.
Sometimes, take an alcohol pad and provides your cellphone a wipe-down. If you concentrate on it, your cellphone is simply as more likely to accumulate germs as your fingers, so do not forget to scrub it.
Whereas the yr simply began, we will take a look at previous trade traits to know when new telephones will likely be launched. Under is a listing of anticipated launch dates/timeframe for main telephones in 2025.
- Samsung Galaxy S25 collection: January
- OnePlus 13 collection: January
- Apple iPhone 16e: February
- Google Pixel 9a: March
- Motorola Razr Extremely: Could
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: Could
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7: July
- Google Pixel 10 collection: August
- Apple iPhone 17 collection: September
Google not too long ago confirmed that its subsequent “Made by Google” {hardware} occasion, which showcases the corporate’s newest Pixel, Nest, and different merchandise, will happen on August 20, 2025 in New York.
At this summer season’s product occasion, we’re anticipating the corporate to debut the brand new Pixel 10 Sequence, that includes the usual Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Professional, Pixel 10 Professional XL, and Pixel 10 Professional Fold, alongside new Pixel Watches and earbuds.
For those who’re an iPhone consumer, the upcoming software program model, iOS 26, introduces a slew of latest options and design modifications to be enthusiastic about. In actual fact, in case you’re open to testing Apple’s public beta model, you may join that (with an eligible iPhone mannequin) proper now.
Additionally: The iOS 26 public beta is out now – how to install (and which iPhones support it)
With iOS 26, the most important function is arguably Apple’s Liquid Glass design language, which applies a degree of transparency and fluidness throughout buttons, settings menus, and different interfaces. Apple says the brand new UI is impressed by VisionOS, which powers the model’s XR headset and may invoke a way of pure movement and smoothness.
Some extra sensible iOS options embrace Hold Assist within the revamped Telephone app, extra customizations in Messages, a extra useful CarPlay expertise, and Live Translation throughout numerous widespread apps.
Moreover those listed above, the OnePlus 13R is one other nice decide for the cash. At $600, the system options a big 6.7-inch show with 120Hz refresh price, a 50MP principal digital camera system, a 6,000mAh battery that beats that of higher-cost units, and 80W wired charging. The actual kicker is OnePlus’ aggressive trade-in supply, with the corporate discounting $100 while you flip in any cellphone in any situation, successfully bringing the 13R’s value all the way down to $500.
Whether or not the iPhone 16 Professional Max, Google Pixel 9 Professional, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely are one of the best is debatable. For long-distance pictures, Samsung’s 200MP rear digital camera with 100x House Zoom can seize topics as far out because the moon. Google’s Pixel telephones have at all times been on the high for point-and-shoot footage and a fairly simplified, however efficient, digital camera expertise. For those who’re a videographer at coronary heart, then the iPhone 16 Professional Max, with the power to report 4K movies at 120 frames per second and a brand new Camera Control button, is a wonderful instrument to get the pictures you want.
The common cellphone battery lasts about 22 hours on a full cost, which is nice for staying related on commutes, work flights, and evenings at residence. However that is simply the common. Precise use time varies by cellphone mannequin, battery capability, the facility effectivity of its processor, and what you are utilizing your cellphone for.
For instance, the most recent iPhone 16 Professional Max boasts a 32-hour battery life. However you may get lower than that in case you habitually scroll via social media or stream video and music.
Most smartphones have a base storage capability of 128GB, which is loads of house for common customers to obtain apps and music, take photographs, and shoot movies. Nonetheless, in case you’re a cellular or artistic skilled, you may want more room. Many smartphones have expanded storage choices as much as 512GB and even 1TB, and you may at all times sync your cellphone to your most popular cloud storage service to release native space for storing.
Newest updates
- In our July replace, we changed the Google Pixel 9 Professional with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 for “Greatest foldable Android cellphone.” Extra data has additionally been added concerning Google’s upcoming Pixel {hardware} occasion.
- In our June replace, we added data concerning confirmed data concerning the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, in addition to changed the Z Flip 6 for the Motorola Razr Extremely for “finest flip-style foldable cellphone.”
- In our Could replace, we added data concerning what different telephones customers can anticipate later this yr, together with the Galaxy S25 Edge, Z Flip 7, and Z Fold 7. The CMF Telephone 1 has additionally been changed by the CMF Telephone 2 Professional for “finest low-cost cellphone.”
- In our April replace, we added data concerning Cellular World Congress (MWC). The OnePlus Open was additionally changed by the Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold for “finest foldable cellphone.”
Different telephones we examined
Whether or not you are seeking to improve or get your first smartphone, Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus have nice decisions that ZDNET’s examined and recommends.
Smartphones Reviewed & In contrast
