The Best Smartphones for 2025

Smartphones aren't exactly the most thrilling purchases. They're essentially glass rectangles used for messaging, streaming, social media, and photography – essential, yet expensive, especially for top-tier models. This guide highlights the best smartphones based on value for money.

TL;DR – Top Smartphone Picks:

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Our top pick. See it at Amazon

Google Pixel 9 Pro: Excellent camera phone. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy

Apple iPhone 16 Pro: Top iPhone choice. See it at Best Buy See it at Apple

Google Pixel 8: Best mid-range option. See it at Amazon

Poco X5 5G: Best budget smartphone. See it at Amazon

RedMagic 10 Pro: Best gaming smartphone. See it at Amazon See it at RedMagic

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Best foldable phone. See it at Amazon

Value is subjective. Some prioritize photography, others gaming performance, or display quality. We've tested phones across these categories, offering a blend of Android and iOS options, balancing features and price effectively. We also consider older models offering exceptional value due to price reductions.

Contributors: Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

Detailed Reviews:

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1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best Overall Smartphone

A powerhouse featuring a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a robust processor capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. Its exceptional camera system is a highlight. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications:

• Screen size: 6.8 inches
• Rear cameras: 4
• Front cameras: 1
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)
• Battery life: 5,000mAh
• Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Starting price: $1,299.99

Pros: Incredible performance, exceptional camera system. Cons: Titanium construction results in a large and heavy device.

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How We Selected the Best Smartphones:

The smartphone market aggressively pushes upgrades. We countered this by focusing on value. Unless you're a professional photographer or serious gamer, you likely don't need the latest top-tier features. Our choices prioritize value, durability, and long-term software support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

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