Smartphones might not be the most thrilling gadgets to splurge on, but they're indispensable for everyday tasks like messaging friends, watching YouTube videos, scrolling through social media, and snapping photos. The latest models can be pricey, so we've carefully selected the best smartphones by balancing value and cost.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Smartphones:
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
1See it at Amazon
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
2See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### Apple iPhone 16 Pro
4See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
### Google Pixel 8
0See it at Amazon
### PocoX5 5G
1See it at Amazon
### RedMagic10 Pro
1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic
### SamsungGalaxy Z Fold 6
0See it at AmazonEveryone has different priorities when it comes to smartphones. Some seek top-notch photography capabilities, others crave peak performance for mobile gaming, while many desire a vibrant display for streaming content. We've rigorously tested a range of smartphones to cover these needs, ensuring you get the best options available, whether you're an Android enthusiast or an iPhone aficionado.
Our selection includes versatile devices that excel in various areas, from premium Android phones to the latest iPhones. We focus on smartphones that offer the best balance of features and affordability, without compromising on quality. We also consider older models that, thanks to price drops, offer exceptional value, often surpassing newer counterparts.
Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Smartphone
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
1Experience the power of a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen with a robust processor that effortlessly manages multitasking, video editing, gaming, and stunning camera operations. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavyThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as the ultimate all-around smartphone, excelling in every category. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we were impressed by its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which flawlessly handles the latest games, maintaining a steady 60fps in Genshin Impact at max settings. The phone's ample memory ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to switch between apps without missing a beat.
The S24 Ultra's 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display, with a 1-120Hz refresh rate, delivers stunning visuals and smooth motion clarity. Its new anti-glare finish enhances visibility in bright conditions. While the titanium frame adds to its size and weight, the phone's sleek design and durability, along with its expansive screen, make it perfect for use with the S Pen stylus, a feature few phones can match.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
5 Images
Its camera system is equally impressive, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto sensor. These deliver exceptional photos across various scenarios, while the 12MP front-facing camera captures solid selfies. Despite its high price, the S24 Ultra offers tremendous value for its capabilities.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Best Camera Phone
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
2With its elegant design, exceptional cameras, quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro is a standout smartphone. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1280x2856, 495 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G4Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 48-Megapixel Telephoto, 42-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,700mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerThe Google Pixel 9 Pro excels in photography with its versatile triple-camera system, capturing high-quality images whether you're zooming in or taking wide shots. The selfie camera also delivers vibrant, sharp photos.
Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples
22 Images
Google's refined design enhances the Pixel 9 Pro's aesthetic appeal, with thin bezels around a 6.3-inch display that offers a bright OLED panel and smooth refresh rate. While the Tensor G4 chip may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple's A18 Pro, it's efficient for everyday tasks and AI applications, and still handles gaming well. Google's commitment to long-term software support adds to the phone's appeal.
3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Best iPhone
### Apple iPhone 16 Pro
4With a lower starting price and a more compact design than the Pro Max, the iPhone 16 Pro retains the same powerful camera system and performance. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSPowerful performanceElegant designRobust camera systemCONSCamera settings could use some tweaksThe Apple iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, offers a compelling package with similarities to the Google Pixel 9 Pro, including display size, camera count, and weight. While the Pixel 9 Pro's cameras may be more reliable, the iPhone 16 Pro still delivers excellent quality with some adjustments, especially for ultra-wide and selfie shots.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max share the same camera system, making the Pro a great choice for those who prefer a smaller device without sacrificing capabilities. Its 6.3-inch display, thanks to slim bezels, provides a vivid viewing experience, while the A18 Pro chip ensures top-notch performance for everyday use and gaming. The base model's 128GB storage might be limiting, but the USB 3.0 Type-C port facilitates quick backups to free up space.
Google Pixel 8
Best Mid-Range Smartphone
### Google Pixel 8
0Powered by the G3 Tensor chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI features, and a vibrant OLED display at an affordable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.2-inch OLED, 1080x2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G3 Camera50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10.5-megapixel selfieBattery4,575 mAhWeight187g (0.41lb)PROSWonderfully responsive screenSeven years of updates and OS supportImpressive cameraCONSRAM upgrade reserved for Pro modelThe Pixel 8 may not be the newest model in 2025, but it remains a strong contender with its Tensor G3 chip, which offers improved performance and better thermal management. Google's promise of seven years of OS, security, and feature updates ensures the phone's longevity. At a reduced price of $500, the Pixel 8 provides excellent value, with a superior design, Gorilla Glass Victus, improved water resistance, and better cameras than its budget-friendly sibling, the Pixel 8a.
The Pixel 8's 50MP main camera excels in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide sensor performs well in daylight but struggles in low light. The selfie camera offers sharp, wide-angle shots, making it a great choice for its price point.
Poco X5 5G – Photos
9 Images
5. Poco X5 5G
Best Budget Smartphone
### PocoX5 5G
1An ultra-affordable phone with 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming capabilities are modest. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.67-inch Super AMOLED, 1080x2400, 395 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 695 5GCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 13-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,000mAhWeight189g (0.42lb)PROSFeels good in the hand Great-looking displayPhone is fairly snappyCONSWeak camerasSomewhat bloated softwareThe Poco X5 5G is a budget-friendly option that still delivers a lot for $220. Updated to Android 14, it offers a large 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and vibrant visuals. The Snapdragon 695 5G processor handles everyday tasks and some gaming, while its 6GB base memory supports multitasking.
However, the Poco X5 5G's cameras are its weakest point, with the main sensor performing adequately in bright light but the ultra-wide struggling. The selfie camera, though, is decent for its price range.
RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos
10 Images
6. RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Gaming Smartphone
### RedMagic10 Pro
1The RedMagic 10 Pro offers unmatched gaming performance and endurance in a stylish package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportThe RedMagic 10 Pro is a gaming powerhouse, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling fan, which allows for sustained high performance without thermal throttling. Its gaming benchmarks are among the best, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery for extended play.
The 6.85-inch display runs at 144Hz, providing an immersive gaming experience with no visible selfie camera cutout, as it's hidden beneath the screen. The phone also features enhanced touch responsiveness, remappable shoulder buttons, and supports upscaling and frame interpolation for select games. Despite its gaming focus, the RedMagic 10 Pro's build and design are elegant, and it includes quality stereo speakers and a headphone jack. At $649, it's a fantastic value for gamers.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos
6 Images
7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Phone
### SamsungGalaxy Z Fold 6
0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers powerful performance and stunning displays, though its unfolded aspect ratio can be unconventional. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the top choice for a foldable smartphone, transforming into a tablet-like device with a 7.6-inch AMOLED display when unfolded. Both the main and cover displays are vibrant and crisp, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which handles demanding games with ease.
The Z Fold 6's camera system captures detailed photos, with a 50MP main sensor and 30x digital zoom. However, its unique 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded can make some content appear unusual. Despite this, the Z Fold 6 remains a powerful and versatile choice for those seeking a foldable device.
How We Picked the Best Smartphones
The smartphone industry often pushes consumers to upgrade to the latest models or pricier versions with new features. While these upgrades can be beneficial, many features may go unused for most users. We selected smartphones across various price points that offer the best value, focusing on durability, ongoing software support, and features that truly enhance the user experience. Whether you're into photography, gaming, or need a reliable daily driver, our picks ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
Best Smartphones FAQ
Is Samsung better than Apple for smartphones?
Not necessarily. Both Samsung and Apple offer high-quality premium smartphones with excellent cameras and long-term software updates. The choice between them often comes down to familiarity with their respective operating systems, Android or iOS.
Are iPhones better than Android phones?
Modern iPhones are very similar to premium Android phones in terms of features and performance. The decision between them should be based on your comfort with iOS or Android, and how well they integrate with your existing devices.
Which Android phone is the best value for money?
The Google Pixel 8 stands out for its price, offering solid performance, a sleek design, and long-term software support at $500. It's challenging to find better value at this price point without significant compromises.
