When purchasing a new Android phone, several essential factors must be considered. Do you prefer a large screen for watching videos and playing games? How important is camera performance, especially if you enjoy taking high-quality photos? Are you someone who enjoys gaming on your phone and requires a device with excellent performance? Or do you need long-lasting battery life to keep up with your busy schedule?
This article aims to help you find the best Android phone that meets your specific needs in 2025. We have compiled a comprehensive list of Android phones catering to every type of requirement, including screen size, camera quality, gaming performance, and battery life.
If you're also open to non-Android devices, check out our list of the best phones. Otherwise, keep reading for our best Android phone picks for 2025.
The best Android phone overall
OnePlus 13
- Great design, colors, and balance
- Excellent cameras
- Long battery life
- Slick, feature-packed software
- Durable
- Alert Slider
- Unreliable notifications
- No proprietary charger in the box
- Screen is highly sensitive
Why you should buy this: The flagship killer has become a flagship, but it's still delivering incredible specs for the price.
Who is it for?: Anyone who wants the very best Android phone money can buy.
Why we picked the OnePlus 13:
Formerly known as the "flagship killer" for offering killer specs at a lower price, OnePlus has since shifted its products up the price scale. But it hasn't lost sight of what made its phones great to begin with, and as a result, the OnePlus 13 is a flagship smartphone that can take on much more expensive smartphones at their own game.
The OnePlus 13 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the latest processor from Qualcomm, which is likely to find itself at the heart of most Android flagships in the coming year (assuming something better doesn't come along.) It's a monster of a chip, and it's happily trounced any test we've put it through. Even the most demanding 3D games can barely faze it, and it's backed up by some other impressive specs too. RAM starts at 12GB and rises to 16GB. That's more than a smartphone needs in 2025, and shows just how committed OnePlus is to making sure its phones are some of the most powerful around.
That drive is also evident in the display and design. The OnePlus 13 is a striking phone. It's similar-looking to OnePlus' previous phones, but its identity is so distinct from every other phone brand, and it just looks fabulous. The display is a huge 6.82-inch AMOLED display with a 1Hz to 120Hz dynamic refresh rate, 1440p resolution, and a crazily bright maximum brightness of 4,500 nits. Again, that peak brightness is way beyond anything you'll ever need, but it really highlights OnePlus' philosophy.
The camera setup has similar high numbers, with a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP wide-angle camera. There's also a 32MP selfie lens around the front. The camera gives consistent results between lenses, though you should beware using zoom in low light.
The 6,000mAh battery is capable of going for two days on a single charge, and wired charging of 100 watts also means it won't sit on the charger for long when it finally does run down. There's also 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse wireless charging that go far beyond what the competition is offering.
At a price of just $900, there's no doubt the OnePlus 12 offers an enormous amount of bang for your buck, with performance that's more than able to duke it out with the $1,300 Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra -- and come out on top. It's the best Android phone you can buy in 2025.
The best big Android phone
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Google's best Pixel hardware yet
- Excellent display
- 16GB of RAM!
- Really fantastic cameras
- Helpful AI tools
- Much better battery life
- Seven years of updates
- Pixel Studio is a mess
- Slow charging speeds
- 128GB of base storage
Why you should buy this: You want a capable phone with plenty of screen real estate.
Who it's for: Anyone who wants a great phone that's also on the larger side.
Why we picked the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL:
After a four-year hiatus, Google dusted off the XL title for the Pixel 9 Pro XL. And it's safe to say it's worth the wait. This device isn't just an upgrade; it’s a game-changer that sets a new benchmark for what a premium smartphone should be.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL's sleek, flat frame, refined camera bar, and impeccable build quality make it a true design triumph. But it's not all about looks. Under the hood, this powerhouse boasts the Tensor G4 chip, an impressive 16GB of RAM, and Google's renowned camera technology. It captures breathtaking low-light photos to crisp ultrawide landscapes and powerful zooms. AI-powered features like Auto Frame and Add Me further elevate your photography, ensuring every shot is frame-worthy.
And the brilliance doesn't stop there. The Pixel 9 Pro XL's 6.8-inch Super Actua Display has vibrant colors and incredibly smooth visuals. Whether you're gaming or streaming, the experience is truly immersive. Plus, with exceptional battery life and rapid charging, you can power through your day without worry.
While we're primarily impressed, we did have a few minor concerns. We found the Pixel Studio app to be somewhat disorganized. Additionally, the charging speed, while decent, needed to match our expectations based on the specs. Lastly, the base storage option of 128GB is limited today. We'd love to see Google and other manufacturers move toward a minimum of 256GB.
Overall, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a masterclass in smartphone innovation. It's sleek, powerful, and has features that redefine the flagship experience.
The best small Android phone
Google Pixel 9
- Excellent design and build quality
- Super camera
- Tactile haptics
- Fast and reliable security
- Improved efficiency and battery life
- Long software update commitment
- Screen isn't always bright enough
- Slow charging
- More expensive than last year
Why you should buy this: It's a smaller version of everything that makes the Pixel 9 series awesome.
Who is it for?: Anyone who wants a small but exceedingly powerful smartphone.
Why we picked the Pixel 9:
The entry-level Google Pixel 9 packs a powerful punch, offering an impressive Android experience at a price point that's easier on the wallet than many competitors.
Our reviewer was genuinely impressed, praising the Pixel 9's stunning design and exceptional camera quality. While Google initially highlighted the phone's AI features, the hardware truly shines. The combination of elegance and functionality makes this device a standout.
The sleek metal frame and vibrant glass back make the Pixel 9 a visual treat, but it's more than just a pretty face. The exceptional build quality adds a premium feel. Beyond aesthetics, the Pixel 9 boasts impressive battery life and lightning-fast performance, thanks to its Tensor G4 processor. It easily handles multitasking and demanding apps.
As ever with a Pixel phone, the camera is a true highlight, capturing vibrant photos that elevate your social media game. Whether you're shooting landscapes or portraits, the Pixel 9 delivers outstanding results.
While the AI features are noteworthy, the core functionality truly sets the Pixel 9 apart. It's a beautifully designed smartphone that excels at the essentials. Priced at $799, it's an attractive option for those seeking a high-end Android experience in a compact package.
The best value Android phone
OnePlus 13R
- Polished and practical hardware
- Fantastic, non-curved display quality
- Two (or more) days of battery life
- Surprisingly good cameras
- OxygenOS 15 is excellent
- Seriously incredible value
- Slower charge speeds compared to 12R
- $100 price increase
Why you should buy this: It's not often you come across a phone this good for just $500.
Who it's for: Anyone who appreciates a real cut-price king.
Why we picked the OnePlus 12R:
We've already highlighted how the OnePlus 13 isn't really a flagship killer anymore since it's actually a flagship now. But there's another OnePlus smartphone on the prowl, and it really is a flagship killer. The OnePlus 133R is basically a 2024 flagship smartphone, but priced at $600, and that makes it an unmissable bargain.
The root of this lies, as ever with OnePlus, in the spec sheet. Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 can be found inside the 13R — and it's the very same processor you'll find in the Samsung Galaxy S24, Motorola Razr+, and other flagship phones from last year. Combine that with a very respectable 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and the OnePlus 13R flies through tasks and games alike. Performance looks even faster thanks to the 1Hz to 120Hz refresh rate on the 6.78-inch AMOLED display, and the resolution is clean and crisp with 450 pixels per inch.
It's not let down with a bad design either. The 13R evokes the same design spirit as the OnePlus 13 and the OnePlus 12 before it, and it looks great as a result. It even has an alert slider and an IR blaster, which are things you'd be hard-pressed to find on any phone these days.
The OnePlus 13R boasts a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 50MP telephoto with 2x optical zoom, and and 8MP ultrawide. The terrible 2MP macro camera from the 12R thankfully did not reappear.
The 6,000mAh battery is the biggest OnePlus has ever used, and it shows its size with some very strong battery life. Two days is more than possible with this phone, and moderate use may see it stretch to a third. It has the same 80W fast charging as its more expensive cousin, so you can give it a fast 10-minute charge and be sure of having hours of extra juice.
A phone this good shouldn't cost $600, but it does. Admittedly, OnePlus's phone don't come with a lot of extra features, which makes a lot of this possible, but considering how easy it is to live without even the best special features out there, the OnePlus 13R is a real steal.
The best midrange Android phone
Samsung Galaxy A35
- Light and comfortable to hold
- IP67 rating makes it durable
- Main camera takes fun photos
- Long software update commitment
- Battery doesn't last two days
- No wireless or fast charging
Why you should buy this: It offers an excellent experience for just $400.
Who it's for: Anyone who loves a bargain.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy A35:
Samsung has been on a roll with its midrange offerings lately, and the Samsung Galaxy A35 is no exception to that trend. An excellent $400 smartphone, the Galaxy A35 has a lot to offer, to the point where it's capable of usurping a place in this list from the more expensive Galaxy A54 — and deservedly so.
The body of the phone is made from plastic, but for once, that's not a negative. The plastic build means it's more comfortable in the hand than some of Samsung's other midrange phones — like the Galaxy A55 — and it's relatively lightweight too, while still feeling substantial. Gorilla Glass Victus+ covers the gorgeous 6.6-inch Super AMOLED 120Hz screen, but there's only regular old glass on the phone's back. That back glass may not hold up to the trials of daily life, so make sure to keep it safe with a protective case.
The Exynos 1380 isn't a new processor by any means, but performance isn't bad, as long as you temper your expectations. It runs 3D games like Asphalt 9: Legends without lag, and as long as you don't expect the lightning-quick reflexes of more modern processors, you'll be fine. The software is solid, as ever with Samsung, and you get access to four years of operating system upgrades and five years of security updates. We did come across some connectivity bugs during our time with the phone, so keep in mind that you may need to troubleshoot these if not fixed by the time you pick up the phone.
The camera is fine, as long as you ignore the wide-angle and macro lenses. The 50MP main lens is solid, even if it won't match up with the cameras of flagships. The battery is a tad disappointing by the standards of Galaxy A phones, with the A35 managing around a day-and-a-half on a single charge. A-series phones should be hitting two days of endurance, so it's a bit substandard in this regard. Charging also tops out at 25W, which is on the slower side. Still, these are easy enough downsides to live with, and anyone upgrading from a phone that only lasts a day will be delighted with the A35's longevity.
All-in-all, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is a very solid smartphone, and easily one of the best-performing devices in the midrange market. At a price of just $400 it undercuts a lot of its competition, and makes it a must-buy if you want a bargain-priced phone.
The best budget Android phone
Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
- Only $200
- Large display with a 90Hz refresh rate
- 5,000mAh battery
- 50MP rear camera, 13MP selfie camera
- Respectable performance
- Unique, textured back
- Secondary cameras aren't impressive
- No water or dust resistance
- Fast charging up to 15W only
Why you should buy this: Because it's an incredibly good smartphone for the $200 price.
Who it's for: Anyone who wants a good phone for less than a quarter of the top flagships.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G:
There are $200 phones that really feel like $200 phones, but the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G isn't one of them. Samsung has done an incredible of keeping the A14 from feeling too fragile, and that starts with the design. Admittedly, it has a plastic body, but it has a unique texture that feels nice and offers grip, something often missing from slippery glass phones. There's no water resistance, but there is a headphone jack, which is a nice bonus.
The 6.6-inch LCD display has a 1080p resolution, but it's hampered by not getting bright enough. It also has some relatively chunky bezels. But even with that in mind, it's an impressive display for a $200 phone, thanks largely to the 90Hz refresh rate. While not as smooth as the same refresh rate you'll find in more powerful phones, this is still impressive in a phone this inexpensive, and a really strong point in its favor when you consider the iPhone 15 is still using a 60Hz refresh rate.
We did come across small stutters during use, and that's likely down to the relatively modest specs. Still, the Galaxy A14 5G has excellent performance when compared to other devices at this price point, and the 64GB of storage is also good enough at this price too. You'll want to clear out running apps to keep it running smoothly, but it also comes with 5G, meaning it should be futureproofed enough for the next few years at least. The battery is a solid two-day affair, thanks to the modest specs and 5,000mAh capacity. Recharging isn't particularly fast at just 15W, but when it lasts this long, it doesn't matter too much.
The camera is also surprisingly good. Ignore the two additional lenses, though, as they're 2MP and don't do much — instead, focus on the 50MP main lens, which takes some decent shots. Images are clear, bright, and avoid oversaturation. Nighttime shots are also good, though with some visible noise when zoomed in. They're all generally still good enough for social media, though, which is a big test for camera phones at this price.
The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a stellar phone for just $200, and if you're looking for a serious budget bargain, then you've found it.
The best designed Android phone
Nothing Phone 2
- Great, modern design
- Glyph lights are cool and useful
- Clean, yet customizable software
- Excellent daytime camera
- Colorful screen
- Only IP54 water resistance
- Poor lowlight camera performance
Why you should buy this: Because it's like nothing else on the market, and a good phone to boot.
Who it's for: Someone who wants a phone that really stands out from the usual crowd.
Why we picked the Nothing Phone 2:
Aside from folding phones, all smartphones are starting to look the same in terms of design. However, Carl Pei's Nothing has done something different with the Nothing Phone, and the latest Nothing Phone 2 continues to stand out from the crowd with the clear glass back and Glyph lighting system.
The Nothing Phone 2 is slightly bigger than its predecessor, coming in with a 6.7-inch OLED display, while the first phone had a 6.5-inch display. The 6.7-inch screen has 2412 x 1080 pixel resolution and a dynamic refresh rate up to 120Hz. Colors are bright and vivid on the display, everything looks crisp and sharp, and the speaker system is pretty decent for the price.
Even as a second generation device, the design for the Nothing Phone 2 is still unlike anything you've seen before. It's a glass slab, yes, but it feels very light and manageable, despite the large size. The flat edges are part of the aluminum chassis, the clear back is made of glass, and the front screen is covered with Gorilla Glass. The Glyph lighting on the back is still present, though the LED strips are broke up into more segments this time around. However, the glass back also makes the phone very slippery, so be careful.
The Glyph lighting is also improved over the first generation. As mentioned earlier, it's broken up into sections, giving it more functionality for various purposes. You can use the lighting as a visual timer, highlight priority notifications by having a persistent light, a fill-light for the camera in low light environments, and certain patterns can be set for incoming calls, accompanied by a sound effect. There's a lot of customization here with the lighting system, and it is one of the standout features of the Nothing Phone 2.
Camera-wise, there aren't a lot of change from the Nothing Phone 1. You have a 50MP main camera and a 50MP ultra wide. The selfie camera is 32MP. During the daytime, the Nothing Phone 2 will take some great photos. It struggles a bit in lowlight environments, but it's a very solid performer across the board.
The Nothing Phone 2 comes with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip, which is a slightly older processor. However, it offers fantastic performance and efficiency, so the Nothing Phone 2 should handle anything you need it to with ease. You get Android 13 with Nothing OS 2.0 layered on top. It's similar to Android on a Pixel, though with some added customization features — including the ability to personalize folders and give all of your app icons a monochromatic paint job.
Battery life on the Nothing Phone 2 is also very good, as it has a 4,700mAh battery inside. Even with heavy use, you should be able to get through the day just fine without having to charge up mid-day. And when you do need to charge, it supports up to 45W PPS charging, which is a little under an hour for a full charge.
Considering the price, the Nothing Phone 2 is one of the best phones you can buy starting at $599. Not only is it one of the most unique looking smartphones around, but the day-to-day experience of using the phone is also rock solid. There's very little to seriously complain about.
The best gaming Android phone
Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Useful gaming features and software
- AniMe Vision games are fun
- Snapdragon 8 Elite chip
- Long battery life
- Fantastic audio
- Poor camera
- Only two Android version updates
- Small update over the ROG Phone 8 Pro
Why you should buy this: This is the best gaming smartphone available today.
Who it's for: Mobile gamers who take their gaming very seriously.
Why we picked the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro:
Asus has been making big changes to the ROG Phone; Horrifically, it's made a phone that looks normal! But on the plus side, nothing that made the ROG Phone so special has been lost in the process, and it means the new Asus ROG Phone 9Pro is the best choice for a gaming phone in 2025.
Let's touch on those design changes first. Basically, the ROG Phone 9 Pro looks a lot more normal than previous versions. Out are the distinctive gamer chic design and the large cooling vents, and in is a much more sleek, black design that's not too dissimilar to the styles of other flagship phones. There's a LED array on the back, yes, but it doesn't show up when it's not in use, meaning the ROG Phone 9 Pro is maintains the subtlety introduced by the ROG Phone 8 Pro. It's slimmer, lighter, and thinner, meaning it's easier to use, but it has lost some of that mad charm early gaming phones used to have.
What's that processor? Why, it's the Snapdragon 8 Elite! It's fast and extremely capable, and it's paired with some other impressive specs. You either get 16GB or 24GB of RAM, plus 512GB or 1TB of storage, providing plenty of power and room for even the biggest games. But this phone's performance only starts at the spec sheet, as it offers a boost to 185Hz for supported games and the range's excellent AirTriggers on either shoulder. Add the optional AeroCooler X Pro accessory to keep it cool, and you have a phone that's thoroughly at home blasting the most challenging games available.
The beefy 5,800mAh battery offers a long-lasting battery life too. With only small amounts of use, the battery could last three or four days thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite's energy-sipping — but really take the gaming mode for a spin, and it'll still last a solid day. It also comes with 65W fast charging to get it charged right back up again.
Even the camera has been improved. It has a 50MP main lens, a 13MP wide-angle lens, and a 32MP telephoto lens, making this one of the more technically impressive Asus camera systems. Shots are pretty decent, and given how bad previous gaming phone cameras have been, this is something of an achievement. Sure, it won't end up on the best camera phones list, but the camera no longer a reason to avoid the phone.
All of this comes with a cost, and throwing a "for gamers" sticker on any product has always meant a hike in price. Thankfully, given the specs and performance on offer here, the initial asking price of $1,199 isn't that bad. It's more than the equal of other phones in this price range, and plays games better than any of them. And while it can't match most others for camera performance, the battery life means there's still a place for this device. If you're an avid mobile gamer, this should be your next phone.
The best foldable Android phone
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Brilliant screen for games and video
- Versatile and fun camera
- Long software update commitment
- Superb build and design
- Thin and well-balanced
- Free year of Gemini Advanced
- Slow charging
- Heavy
- Expensive
Why you should buy this: This phone combines the best of both worlds: ease of use when folded, and an entertainment superpower when open.
Who's it for: If you want one of the best Google Pixel phones on the market today.
Why we picked the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the culmination of Google's time in the world of folding phones. With its satin aluminum chassis and totally silent hinge, everything about the 9 Pro Fold feels premium — and that's something you look for when paying $1,800 for a handset.
At just 10.5mm, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is actually thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and OnePlus Open. In many ways, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold feels like using a large non-folding phone. Despite its size, the ergonomics are well-designed. The one major downside is the weight; at 257 grams, it's not going to go unnoticed in your pocket.
From a power standpoint, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is nothing to scoff at. It's powered by the G4 Tensor chip and comes with 16GB of RAM, up to 512GB of storage, and a 4,650mAh battery. Though Google might claim the phone can get up to 24 hours of battery life (or even up to 72 hours with the Extreme Battery Saver mode), real-world application is a bit different. Our reviewer found the phone to average between 3.5 and 5 hours of life on a single charge, depending on what you're doing.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a powerhouse, with a spec sheet that firmly places it as the best foldable Android phone, but that title comes at a price. Make no mistake: buying this phone is a splurge, and while it's going to provide hours upon hours of entertainment, the weak battery life could make it a poor match for power users.
The best foldable Android phone runner-up
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Fantastic folding design
- Refined size and weight
- IP48 water and dust resistance
- Two colorful, usable screens
- Main camera takes fun, vibrant photos
- Long software commitment
- Slow battery charging
- One-day battery life
- More expensive than last year
Why you should buy this: With six years of experience, Samsung really proves that foldables are the future with the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Who it's for: Multitaskers who like the flexibility of a large, but manageable screen.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6:
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 further elevates the foldable phone experience with its refined design and improved functionality. It features a sleek and lighter build, making it more comfortable for one-handed use when closed. When unfolded, the 7.6-inch screen offers an immersive experience for gaming and media consumption.
Samsung has diligently addressed concerns from the previous generation, such as the crease and overall durability. The Z Fold 6's cameras are suitable for everyday use, although they may not compete with those of dedicated flagship camera phones.
The premium price tag may deter some potential buyers despite the incremental upgrades. However, for enthusiasts of foldable technology, the Z Fold 6 is undoubtedly the pinnacle of this cutting-edge innovation.
Overall, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 presents an appealing option for those seeking to embrace the future of smartphones and experience the latest in foldable innovation.
The best flip Android phone
Motorola Razr Plus (2024)
- A smooth, durable hinge
- Lovely leather back
- Fantastic cover screen
- Much-improved cameras
- Reliable battery life
- Ample charging options
- Fun and charming software
- Tinny speakers
- Three years of OS upgrades
Why you should buy this: It is one of the best flip phones you can buy today.
Who it's for: It appeals to the user who desires a compact, retro-style flip phone but with modern-day accoutrements.
Why we picked the Motorola Razr Plus (2024):
Behold the Motorola Razr Plus 2024, the foldable phone that redefines expectations!
This phone is a visual delight, boasting a luxurious leather back, a seamless hinge, and a captivating color palette. But beauty is just the beginning. The Razr Plus 2024 features a groundbreaking 4-inch cover screen, allowing you to stay connected without ever unfolding. Unfold it; a stunning 6.9-inch inner display with vibrant colors and buttery-smooth visuals greets you.
Prepare to be amazed by the camera upgrades. The 50MP primary camera captures breathtaking photos, the 2x telephoto lens zooms in on the details, and thanks to OIS, you can say goodbye to shaky shots. The large cover screen doubles as a viewfinder, making selfies a breeze.
Performance, battery life, and charging speeds are all top-notch. Motorola's playful software adds a touch of whimsy to your everyday tasks. While the speakers could be richer, and the three years of OS upgrades are a bit disappointing compared to the industry standard, the Razr Plus 2024 is still a premium foldable, and a solid pick for your next smartphone.
The best budget foldable Android phone
Motorola Razr (2024)
- Super-compact design
- Large cover screen with always-on display
- Improved hinge design
- Good cameras
- Long battery life
- Crease is very minimal
- Fun colors
- Ultrawide camera isn't the best
- Only three years of OS upgrades
- No reverse wireless charging
Why you should buy this: It's a folding Android phone that isn't outrageously expensive.
Who's it for: If you want a foldable phone that doesn't break the bank.
Why we picked the Motorola Razr 2024:
The Motorola Razr 2024 is rewriting the rules for foldable phones. At an unbeatable $700, it's a powerhouse packed with value.
This clamshell stunner boasts a gorgeous 6.9-inch foldable P-OLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks, a super-compact design, and eye-catching colors like Spritz Orange. The improved hinge design creates a seamless fold, adding to its premium feel.
But there's more than meets the eye. The Razr 2024 packs a large 3.6-inch cover display for quick interactions, impressive cameras with features like Night Vision mode, and a battery that powers through a full day of heavy use.
While it shines brightly, the Razr 2024 isn't without its caveats. It only offers three years of OS upgrades, which may disappoint those seeking long-term support. Additionally, it lacks reverse wireless charging, and the ultrawide camera performance could be improved.
However, Motorola has mastered the foldable experience without the hefty price tag. Whether you're a foldable enthusiast or ready to embrace innovation, the Razr 2024 is a must-have.
The best Samsung-made Android phone
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Lighter than previous models
- Anti-reflective screen looks amazing
- New wide-angle camera takes great photos
- Powerhouse processor
- Long software update commitment
- One UI 7 is the best version yet
- No Bluetooth on the S Pen
- Galaxy AI features have limited appeal
- Main camera disappoints
- Qi2 wireless charging not built in
Why you should buy this: It's the most advanced Samsung phone on the market.
Who's it for: If you want the best Samsung has to offer.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra:
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is undoubtedly this year's best Samsung phone so far. While it isn't that much of a technical leap from the previous generation, the true advances lie in its software and features like Galaxy AI. From a design standpoint, the S25 Ultra is lighter than the Galaxy S24 Ultra. As our own Andy Boxall put it, "ultra in name, and not in size and weight." It has rounded corners that are more comfortable to hold, but an angled body that is less comfortable.
Again, the Galaxy S25 doesn't change much about the 200MP main camera and its telephoto lenses, but Samsung did take a step in the right direction by ditching the 8MP wide-angle lens in favor of a much crisper and detailed 50MP wide-angle. That said, the main camera lacks detail in its photos, even if it balances the colors properly.
The Galaxy S25 runs on One UI 7 — potentially Samsung's best OS yet — and it also comes with the Galaxy AI features you expect. It adds two new features that make it stand out from the pack in the Now Brief and the Now Bar. The Now Brief will summarize your activities throughout the day. The Now Bar is reminiscent of Apple's Dynamic Island, but found at the bottom of the screen rather than the top.
Videos and images shine on the 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 2,600 nits — more than enough to see your screen even on a sunny day.
The battery is on-par with that of the OnePlus 13. At 5,000mAh, the Galaxy S25 Ultra can last up to two days under light use, but the average person can probably expect closer to a day and a half at most. The phone supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.
The downside? At $1,300, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is one of the priciest devices on this list. It's more expnsive than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and the much-less-expensive OnePlus 13 gives the Galaxy S25 Ultra a run for its money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Samsung is a strong player in the Android scene, but it's far from the only brand around. While Samsung makes some excellent smartphones, there are plenty of other great phones from other brands that you can pick from. The Google Pixel range has matured into a powerful and very capable phone line, with particularly exceptional camera capabilities. OnePlus has been a consistently solid performer for a long time now, and even the newcomer Nothing has a lot to offer if you're tempted by its phones.
There's a lot to be said about sticking with brand names you recognize, of course, but don't just trust that a specific brand will always make great phones. Every phone brand releases a stinker every now and again, so it's important to read reviews of individual models before you buy, as a even a good phone's particular strengths may not match what you want.
It entirely depends on what you need from your phone. Price point, size, camera abilities, durability, battery life, and processing power are all common factors that play into many people's choices. If you're an avid gamer, or have a fast-paced job, then you need a phone with fast and snappy performance. Away from a charger a lot? Make sure your phone has solid battery life of at least over a day. Always snapping pictures? Make sure your phone has an excellent camera.
Android phones use the Android operating system, while iPhones use Apple's iOS — but that's only the start of the differences. The two operating systems have grown closer together over the years, but Apple's iOS is generally praised for having a clean interface, not much bloatware, a strong emphasis on privacy, and the ability to interact closely with other Apple hardware, like iPads and MacBooks. Android, on the other had, has many more customization options, can integrate with Windows and other devices, more innovative design, and have many more affordable options for buyers.
The days of two- or three-year smartphones are now behind us, thanks to some of the most prominent Android manufacturers. Samsung now offers seven years of operating system updates and security patches on its new phones, though it was beaten to the punch by Google, who also promises seven years of operating system updates. While there's no guarantee your phone will last that long, it's good to know that if you look after it and it does last, it will stay relevant for longer.
This is a tough question, as there's no correct answer. A lot of Android phones have excellent cameras, but many excel in slightly different areas. If you value versatility and a feature-rich snapping environment, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra's packed camera system will appeal to you. If you don't want to spend a lot of time fiddling with options, then check out the Google Pixel 9 Pro's snap-and-forget approach where the phone's AI handles all the hard work. Maybe budget is important, in which case, the OnePlus 12R is worth looking at.
Battery lives have continued to improve, and the standard you should be aiming for with any smartphone is at least a day of solid use, and most of the phones on this list will hit that goal. Some will even stretch to two days — but keep in mind this will rely on your personal use. High-intensity games, constant music or media streaming, videoconferencing, and other activities that work the processor will cause drain the battery faster, and if that's your life, make sure you pick a long-lasting phone, or invest in a portable charger or charge throughout the day.
