Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Buy?

When you're setting out to buy an iPhone, you'll notice a wide range of options available. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024 and recently introduced the iPhone 16e, making the selection even more diverse. Choosing the right phone can be daunting, but considering all your options is crucial, even if you're tempted by the latest models.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

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Apple iPhone 16

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Apple iPhone 16e

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OnePlus 13

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All iPhones mentioned support iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and an enhanced, better-organized Photos app. To fully utilize Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or later model.

For additional gear, check out our guide on the best iPhone accessories, particularly screen protectors for your new device. We've also had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete well with the AirPods 2 in various aspects, making them a worthy investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2The iPhone 16 Pro offers a perfect balance between the base model and the Pro Max. Its compact size doesn't compromise on features, including powerful internals, a stunning display, and versatile cameras.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18 Pro
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS

• Powerful performance
• Elegant design
• Robust camera system

CONS

• Camera settings could use some tweaks

The iPhone 16 Pro is highly praised for bridging the gap between the base iPhone 16 and the larger iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its smaller size is more manageable for one-handed use, yet it retains all the essential features and camera capabilities. If you prefer a larger screen, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max for a similar experience.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. The chip achieves the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score I've seen in a phone, paired with a high-performance GPU that handles demanding games effortlessly.

Apple's build quality is luxurious, though the color options are somewhat subdued. The screen offers high brightness, excellent contrast, and smooth motion with its 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about Ceramic Shield glass durability, it's still prone to scratches, making additional protection advisable.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro is impressive, especially the main sensor's performance in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide camera captures more in the frame but can be soft and noisy at times due to focus issues, which can be mitigated with manual focus. The 5x telephoto sensor is excellent for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a more intuitive way to navigate settings, though it could benefit from further refinement.

iPhone 16 – Photos

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2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2The iPhone 16 offers excellent performance and fun colors at a more affordable price, without sacrificing much in terms of features.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS

• Excellent performance
• Fun colors

CONS

• Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft

The iPhone 16 stands out as a brilliant mid-range option in Apple's lineup. The integration of Apple Intelligence necessitated an upgrade to the A18 chip, which delivers performance close to the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It outperforms many Android devices with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets in CPU benchmarks, making it ideal for everyday use and gaming.

The iPhone 16 offers vibrant color options alongside classic black and white designs. It includes Ceramic Shield for protection, though additional safeguards are recommended. Its compact size makes it comfortable to use and carry, and while it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, its OLED display is sharp and vibrant, complemented by powerful speakers for an enhanced multimedia experience.

The main camera delivers vibrant, well-lit photos, though the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may suffer from softness due to focus issues. Apple is expected to address these concerns in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e is Apple's most affordable new option, featuring a powerful chip but with some compromises.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 4,005mAh
• Weight: 167g (0.39lb)

PROS

• Fast chip
• Lower price than main iPhone lineup

CONS

• Trims a handful of common iPhone features

For those seeking a budget-friendly iPhone, the iPhone 16e presents a new option, though at a higher starting price of $599 compared to the previous iPhone SE. It features the A18 chip, offering robust performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. The design has been updated to a modern look with a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, with a base storage of 128GB.

However, the iPhone 16e omits several standard features found in other non-SE models, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera. These omissions significantly reduce its functionality and camera capabilities, making it essential to weigh these trade-offs. For those not focused on Apple Intelligence features, exploring refurbished or renewed devices could be a more cost-effective choice, with excellent-condition refurbished iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 models available for under $500 on Amazon.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0The OnePlus 13 offers great value with its excellent design, display, performance, and cameras, making it a compelling alternative to the iPhone.

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Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 6,000mAh
• Weight: 210g (0.46lb)

PROS

• Great value
• Fast performance

CONS

• Software support a little shorter than rivals

The iPhone is renowned for its user-friendly software, solid cameras, and excellent performance. However, the OnePlus 13 provides a compelling alternative, especially if you're not tied to iOS or seeking premium features without the high cost. Priced at $899, it competes with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering a similar set of features.

The OnePlus 13 features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto sensor, a 50MP main sensor, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, delivering impressive photos and videos. The front-facing selfie camera is also outstanding.

Its 6.82-inch OLED display matches the iPhone's quality with a high resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, capable of dropping to 1Hz for power efficiency. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max in performance, excelling in gaming and multi-core tasks, supported by a massive 6,000mAh battery and fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways and featuring an alert slider similar to older iPhones. It offers superior water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings, making it a robust choice. If you're open to alternatives, the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth considering.

Upcoming iPhones

Apple introduced several new models in 2024, including the iPhone 16 series, which brings significant improvements and robust performance. They also adjusted the prices of older models and launched the more affordable iPhone 16e to replace the iPhone SE. Rumors and leaks suggest the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may include an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

Despite the variety of models, the user experience remains consistent across Apple iPhones, which is a significant factor in their global popularity. However, choosing the right model involves considering several key factors:

Phone Size

The size of the iPhone is crucial, especially for one-handed use. Larger hands might prefer the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max, while smaller hands may find the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 more comfortable.

Storage Capacity

Storage is another important consideration. For those who take many high-resolution photos, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is ideal. Other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual users.

Price

Price ranges from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the top-tier iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, all iPhones receive iOS updates for five to six years, ensuring long-term software support and a consistent user experience across the lineup.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage needs. For most users, the iPhone 16 Pro stands out as the best overall choice due to its balanced features, powerful processor, excellent camera system, and various storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones are dominant in the smartphone market, several Android phones offer comparable features. The OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro are top contenders in the Android space. Brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide competitive alternatives with many features that iOS users might appreciate.