Top Best Smartphones In 2025

We’ve tested some of the latest smartphones — offering powerful performance, stunning displays, and features that truly stand out. Great picks for both work and play.

8/3/2025

1. Google Pixel 9a with Gemini

Best for: Affordable AI power with top-tier camera

  • Integrated Gemini AI for smart features

  • Amazing photo editing tools

  • All-day battery & strong security features

  • Clean Android experience

Storage: 128 GB
Color: Obsidian
Estimated Price: ~$399 USD
Rating: ★ 4.7 / 5

Google Pixel 9a with Gemini

AI Smarts, Pro-Level Camera & 7-Year Updates—all under $500

Released April 10, 2025, the Pixel 9a delivers flagship-class features at a mid-range price. Powered by the Tensor G4 chip and integrated with Google’s Gemini AI (specifically Gemini Nano), it brings intelligence, battery life, and camera prowess together in a bold, modern design.Android Central+15T-Mobile+15YouTube+15Droid Life

Performance That Feels Premium

Under the hood, the Pixel 9a runs on the same Tensor G4 chip found in higher-end Pixel models—so expect smooth multitasking, excellent AI support, and responsive daily use. With 8GB RAM and either 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 storage, it handles camera-heavy sessions, editing, and app switching with ease.WikipediaT-Mobile

Battery capacity reaches a massive 5,100 mAh, delivering over 30 hours of usage or up to 100 hours in Extreme Saver mode—among the longest endurance on any Pixel to date.LOS40+3Google Fi+3blog.google+3

Gemini AI Built In

Gemini Live replaces Google Assistant on this model, letting you talk naturally with an AI capable of brainstorming, planning, or multitasking across apps like Maps, Calendar, Photos, and YouTube. Gemini also supports live voice conversations and upcoming screen-sharing AI chat for even deeper interaction—though some advanced features may require a Gemini Advanced subscription.blog.google+1

Display, Camera, and Design Highlights

  • Display: A 6.3″ pOLED “Actua” display with up to 120 Hz refresh rate and 2,700 nits peak brightness, making it the brightest A-series display so far.Cinco Días+10Google Fi+10Android Central+10

  • Camera: 48 MP primary lens with optical stabilization plus a 13 MP ultrawide camera. Night Sight, Add Me, Best Take, and Magic Editor bring enhanced Flexibility—but low-light still slightly trails the Pro-tier models.Google Store+3Google Fi+3Droid Life+3

  • Design & Durability: The Pixel⁹⁾a abandons the signature Pixel camera bar for a flatter back design; combines IP68 water resistance with scratch-resistant glass and recycled-aluminum frame. Weighs about 186 g.businessinsider.com+2WIRED+2

Long-Term Support & Extra Features

What to Know Before You Buy

  • Some AI features (like full image generation or advanced voice/chat) require the premium Gemini Advanced subscription—device RAM limitations mean not every AI tool runs offline.T-Mobileandroidfaithful.com

  • Low-light photography isn’t best-in-class compared to Pixel 9 Pro or competition—but still solid for the price.T-MobileWIRED

  • Design may feel controversial to Pixel purists—some users prefer the classic camera bar look.androidfaithful.comT-Mobile

Pros

  • Powerful Tensor G4 chipset with Gemini AI built-in

  • Brighter, smooth 120 Hz OLED display with extreme legibility

  • Excellent battery life—peak endurance in the Pixel lineup

  • Versatile camera features and creative editing tools

  • IP68-rated build plus 7 years of guaranteed updates

Cons

  • Advanced AI features need optional subscription

  • Low-light camera results still slightly lag flagship

  • Design choices reflect mid-range sensibilities over premium flair

Final Rating: 4.7 / 5

At $399, the Pixel 9a with built-in Gemini strikes an impressive balance between price and capability. It’s fast, smart, and future-proof—with eye-catching display, dependable camera, and AI tools that feel both helpful and engaging. Whether you're switching from an older phone or upgrading within Android, this one sets a new standard in mid-tier excellence.

2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best for: Premium iOS experience & photography

  • Stunning Natural Titanium finish

  • Pro-level camera system

  • Ultra-fast A18 chip and Dynamic Island

  • Great for gaming, video, and productivity

Storage: 512 GB
Color: Natural Titanium
Estimated Price: ~$1,099 USD
Rating: ★ 4.95 / 5

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Unlocked)

Flagship Power, Industry-Leading Battery, and Upgraded Camera—All in One Device

If you're ready for a long-lasting, future-packed iPhone without carrier restrictions, the iPhone 16 Pro Max (Unlocked) offers top-tier performance, a massive display, and features that will last years.

Top-End Specs: Speed, Display, & AI-Ready Chip

Equipped with Apple’s A18 Pro chip built on a 3nm process, it delivers up to 15% faster performance and 20% greater power efficiency than the previous generationReddit+2Tech Advisor+2Notebookcheck+3Gadgets 360+3Tech Advisor+3.
The massive 6.9" Super Retina XDR OLED display supports a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate and hits brightness peaks around 2,000 nits—ensuring clarity even in bright daylightGadgets 360GSMArena.

Outstanding Battery Life That Outlasts the Competition

With a 4,685 mAh battery, this model delivers Apple’s best-ever endurance: more than 25 hours in real-world use and nearly 33 hours of video playback, depending on testing methodologyHerZindagi+1.
Across consumer reports, both casual and heavy users confirm the battery lasts all day—often into a second period of light use before needing a chargeReddit+2Reddit+2.

Charging speed has improved modestly: roughly 50% in 30 minutes with a 30 W wired charger or MagSafe, topping to full charge in about 75 minutesNotebookcheck+3Tech Advisor+3GSMArena+3.

Cameras That Impress with Clarity and Flexibility

  • 48 MP main sensor delivers sharp, detailed images and solid low-light performance.

  • Upgraded 48 MP ultra-wide lens improves clarity and dynamic range over the prior 12 MP sensor.

  • 5× optical zoom with tetraprism telephoto lens for standout telephoto shots.

  • A dedicated Camera Control button makes launching and using the camera fast and intuitive—ideal for spontaneous momentsindependent.co.uk+6HerZindagi+6GSMArena+6GSMArena+1Gadgets 360.

  • Video goes up to 4K at 120 fps with ProRes support, plus stereo audio for rich capturesGSMArena.

That said, some users reported that ultra-low light selfies can appear grainier than expected—particularly when compared to iPhone 15 Pro Max front-camera footageReddit.

Future-Proof Features & AI Expansion

  • Ships with iOS 18, supports Wi‑Fi 7, USB‑C 3.2, Reverse Wireless Charging, UWB, and Satellite SOS features from day oneen.wikipedia.org+1.

  • With iOS 26, it gains features like Adaptive Power Mode powered by Apple Intelligence, helping extend battery life further by managing system tasks in real-timetomsguide.com+2thesun.co.uk+2.

  • Regular OS and security updates promised through 2029, offering long-term usability.

What to Know Before You Buy

  • Not all advanced Apple Intelligence features (e.g. Visual Meditations, image generation) are available offline—some require the A19 chip or subscription-level access.

  • Charging speeds still peak around 30 W wired and 25 W MagSafe; higher-wattage rumors proved inaccurateGSMArenaNotebookcheckTech Advisor.

  • Image sharpening can sometimes look overly processed; low-light selfies have mixed feedback from early adoptersReddit.

Pros

  • Flagship-level A18 Pro performance with future AI readiness

  • Bright, silky 6.9" 120 Hz OLED display

  • Exceptional battery life—often over a full day on a single charge

  • High-end triple camera with improved ultrawide and powerful telephoto

  • Extensive durability and connectivity features for years of use

Cons

  • Advanced Apple Intelligence functions may require future hardware or subscriptions

  • Wired and wireless charging speeds remain modest

  • Low-light front camera may underperform compared to previous models

Final Rating: 4.95 / 5

If you want a top-tier smartphone with substantial battery, future-ready performance, and superb cameras, the iPhone 16 Pro Max (Unlocked) hits all the right notes. With seamless software updates, top-notch display, and advanced imaging tools, it offers enduring value—especially for buyers planning to keep their phone for years.

3. Google Pixel 9 with Gemini

Best for: Flagship Android power & clean software

  • Advanced AI features powered by Gemini

  • 6.3" Actua Display — vibrant and sharp

  • Smart battery management (up to 24 hrs)

  • Excellent camera in all lighting conditions

Storage: 128 GB
Color: Obsidian
Estimated Price: ~$699 USD
Rating: ★ 4.7 / 5

Google Pixel 9 with Gemini – Unlocked Android Smartphone

Smart AI Features, Clean Android Experience, and a Brilliant Camera for Everyday Users

The Pixel 9 is Google’s answer to those who want flagship-grade photography, fluid performance, and helpful AI—all in a compact and more affordable form than its Pro sibling. With its Gemini AI integration, clean Android 15, and Actua display, it’s one of the smartest everyday phones of 2025.

What’s New in the Pixel 9?

  • Smaller, sharper 6.3” Actua OLED display

  • Google Tensor G4 chip with better efficiency and thermal handling

  • Built-in Gemini Nano for fast, on-device AI tasks

  • Android 15 with 7 years of major updates

  • Improved dual camera system, with enhanced Night Sight and video stability

Display & Design: Compact Yet Premium

The 6.3-inch Actua OLED display is bright (peaking around 1,600 nits) with sharp colors, making it great for outdoors and multimedia. With flat edges, matte aluminum sides, and a two-tone finish, it’s compact, grippy, and stylish. It’s also IP68 water and dust resistant, built for daily life.

Performance: Fast and Smarter with Gemini AI

Powered by the Google Tensor G4, performance feels fluid for most tasks—whether you’re multitasking, gaming lightly, or using AI tools. It’s not the fastest chip on the market (Apple and Snapdragon still lead), but real-world use is smooth and responsive.

Gemini Nano handles tasks like:

  • Summarizing texts

  • Smart replies in messaging apps

  • Voice typing with punctuation

  • Transcription in Recorder app (offline)

These are done on-device for speed and privacy—no cloud needed.

Camera: Simple, Sharp, and Smart

The dual rear camera setup (50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide) excels at point-and-shoot photography, especially in daylight and low light. Key camera perks:

  • Real Tone for accurate skin tones

  • Magic Editor and Photo Unblur in Google Photos

  • Super Res Zoom (up to 8×) still sharp despite no telephoto

  • Video: 4K at 60fps, with improved HDR and audio separation

Night Sight and portrait shots are among the best at this price, even beating more expensive phones in casual tests.

Battery Life & Charging

With a 4,575 mAh battery, the Pixel 9 delivers all-day battery life—about 6.5–7 hours of screen-on time. It supports:

  • 30 W wired charging (50% in 30 mins)

  • Wireless charging (Qi)

  • Battery Share (reverse wireless charging)

Charging is decent, though not the fastest in its class.

Pros

  • Excellent camera for stills and low-light

  • Clean Android experience with 7 years of updates

  • Useful AI tools powered by Gemini Nano

  • Compact, premium design

  • Fast fingerprint + face unlock

Cons

  • No telephoto lens

  • Tensor G4 still trails in heavy gaming performance

  • Slight warmth under prolonged load

  • 128 GB base model has no SD card slot

Final Verdict: 4.7 / 5

The Google Pixel 9 is an ideal phone for those who want powerful AI tools, top-notch camera performance, and long-term support—without overspending. It may not have all the bells and whistles of ultra-premium phones, but it delivers incredibly well where it matters most.

Perfect for: Android fans, casual creators, and anyone who values software smarts and camera quality in a compact form.

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7

Best for: Stylish foldable phone with top AI features

  • Compact foldable design

  • AI-enhanced camera and battery

  • Ideal for on-the-go use and selfies

  • Blue Shadow color adds flair

Storage: 512 GB
Color: Blue Shadow
Estimated Price: ~$959 USD
Rating: ★ 4.9 / 5

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 – A Smarter, Sleeker Flip for 2025

If you're someone who craves modern innovation with a dash of retro cool, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 is a statement piece that delivers far more than looks. It’s not just about the fold anymore — it’s about functionality, finesse, and future-forward features wrapped into a premium clamshell design.

Design & Display: Pocketable Chic

The Z Flip7 is lighter, slimmer, and more durable than ever before. Samsung has refined the hinge and introduced a near-invisible crease, making it feel more like a traditional slab phone when open.

  • 6.7” FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X inner display with 120Hz refresh rate

  • 3.9” Flex Window outer screen now supports more widgets, notifications, and even apps

  • IPX8 water resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus 3 for better durability

It folds small enough to fit into any pocket or bag — perfect for those who love fashion, tech, or both.

Performance: Powered by Snapdragon

Under the hood, the Z Flip7 features the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, making it one of the smoothest foldables on the market. Whether you're multitasking, gaming, or snapping selfies, performance is flagship-grade and efficient.

  • 12GB RAM + 256/512GB storage

  • Faster app loading and seamless animations

  • Better heat management than previous models

Flex Mode & AI: Multitasking Redefined

The Flex Mode experience is even more refined. Fold it halfway and turn it into a mini laptop for hands-free video calls, content creation, or browsing. Plus, with Galaxy AI tools integrated throughout One UI 7, you get:

  • Live Translate in calls and messages

  • Generative Edit for photo manipulation

  • Summarize and Note Assist in Samsung Notes

  • AI-powered camera suggestions

It’s a smart assistant in your pocket — even when it’s closed.

Camera: Fun and Functional

The dual-camera setup may not beat Ultra phones, but it's tailored for everyday creativity:

  • 12MP main + 12MP ultra-wide, with excellent dynamic range

  • Hands-free selfies with Flex Mode and outer screen preview

  • Nightography AI boosts low-light performance

  • Upgraded video stabilization and HDR

It’s not for pro photographers, but for content creators and social users, it’s a joy to shoot with.

Battery Life & Charging

  • 3,700mAh battery now lasts longer, thanks to improved efficiency

  • 25W wired and 15W wireless charging

  • Easily lasts a full day with moderate use

While not the biggest battery, real-life usage is surprisingly solid thanks to software and chip optimizations.

What We Loved

  • Stunning foldable design that turns heads

  • Larger, smarter Flex Window

  • Excellent performance and AI tools

  • Ultra-portable with a flagship feel

  • More durable and crease-resistant

What Could Be Better

  • Still no telephoto lens

  • Battery life is good, but not exceptional

  • Outer display could support more full apps natively

Rating: 4.9 / 5

The Galaxy Z Flip7 is the most refined version of Samsung’s iconic flip series yet — stylish, practical, and smart. It blends fashion with powerful features, making it a foldable that finally feels ready for everyone.

If you’re ready to stand out while staying productive, this phone is more than just a trend — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

5. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7

Best for: Productivity & multitasking with a large display

  • Massive inner screen for work & entertainment

  • AI photo edits and smart features

  • JetBlack finish for a sleek look

  • Ideal for power users

Storage: 512 GB
Color: JetBlack
Estimated Price: ~$1,799 USD
Rating: ★ 4.9 / 5

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 – The Powerhouse That Folds Like Magic

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 isn’t just a phone — it’s a full productivity suite, entertainment hub, and creativity studio that fits in your pocket. For anyone who wants the very best of both worlds — a phone and a tablet — the Fold7 sets a new gold standard.

Design & Display: Elegance Meets Engineering

Samsung has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with foldables. The Z Fold7 is slimmer, lighter, and sturdier, thanks to its newly enhanced hinge mechanism and upgraded materials.

  • 7.9” Main Display (QXGA+ AMOLED 120Hz): Bigger, brighter, and now even flatter with a nearly invisible crease

  • 6.3” Cover Display (HD+ AMOLED 120Hz): More usable thanks to the better aspect ratio

  • Titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 3 offer top-tier durability

  • IPX8 water resistance returns, now with improved dust protection

It opens like a book and transforms like a dream.

Performance: Flagship Muscle with Galaxy AI

Under the hood, the Fold7 is a beast. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor powers everything from gaming to AI multitasking without breaking a sweat.

  • 16GB RAM and up to 1TB of storage

  • Galaxy AI deeply integrated across apps

  • Improved cooling for longer performance sessions

  • Seamless transition between folded and unfolded modes

You get a device that’s as fast and responsive as it is futuristic.

Multitasking & S Pen Support: The Ultimate Work Tool

The Z Fold7 is built for those who do more. Open three apps side-by-side, use the improved taskbar, and drag & drop like on a desktop. Plus, with S Pen Fold Edition support and smoother responsiveness, it’s perfect for note-taking, sketching, and precision tasks.

  • Enhanced App Continuity

  • Smart Multi-Window gestures

  • AI-powered Note Assist, Summarize, and Translate

  • Samsung DeX ready for true PC-like usage

You won’t just work smarter — you’ll enjoy it.

Camera System: Flagship-Grade Versatility

While the Fold7 isn't trying to replace the Ultra’s camera, it still delivers top-tier results:

  • 50MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 10MP telephoto (3x optical)

  • 4MP under-display inner camera (greatly improved)

  • 10MP outer selfie cam

  • Nightography, Zoom Enhancer, and AI optimization for social-ready shots

For video calls, content creation, or photo editing on-the-go, this setup handles it all beautifully.

Battery & Charging: Reliable for Power Users

  • 4,600mAh battery optimized with AI power management

  • 45W fast wired, 15W wireless, and reverse wireless charging

  • Better heat control = longer screen-on time without throttling

Even heavy users can comfortably get through the day.

What We Loved

  • Tablet-like screen in your pocket

  • Seamless multitasking with powerful Galaxy AI

  • S Pen support for productivity and creativity

  • Premium design that turns heads

  • Surprisingly great battery efficiency

What Could Be Better

  • Still a premium price point

  • Under-display camera still not flagship-grade

  • Slight bulk when folded (though lighter than before)

Rating: 4.9 / 5

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is the most complete foldable device yet — powerful, polished, and packed with features that truly justify its futuristic design. It’s not just a phone upgrade; it’s a lifestyle transformation.

If you're ready to embrace the future of mobile productivity, the Fold7 is not just a good choice — it's the best one.