Top 10 Best Android Phones to Buy in 2025: Expert Picks & Reviews

Finding the right smartphone can feel like a maze these days, with so many options out there. We’ve gone through and tested a bunch of the latest devices to help you figure out the 10 best Android phones to consider for 2025. Whether you’re after top-tier performance, a great camera, or just something that lasts all day, we’ve got you covered. Let’s see which phones made the cut.

Key Takeaways

• The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains a top contender for its all-around performance and features.
• Google’s Pixel phones, like the Pixel 10 Pro XL, are praised for their clean software and camera capabilities.
• Foldable phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Motorola Razr Ultra, offer unique user experiences.
• OnePlus continues to impress with models like the OnePlus 13, offering fast charging and solid performance.
• Value is still important, with phones like the Nothing Phone 3a Pro and CMF Phone 2 Pro providing great features for their price.

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. If you’re looking for the absolute top-tier Android experience, this is pretty much it. Samsung really went all out here, packing in a ton of new AI features that, honestly, are mostly pretty useful. Think real-time call translations and smarter photo editing – stuff that actually makes a difference in daily use. The screen is, without a doubt, the best I’ve ever seen on a phone. It’s a big 6.9-inch AMOLED that’s super bright and has amazing colors, making everything from watching videos to just scrolling through apps a real treat. Plus, it’s got that anti-reflective coating, which is a lifesaver when you’re outside. You can check out more about its display here.

Under the hood, it’s running the new Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip, paired with 12GB of RAM. This thing flies, and it seems to handle power pretty well too, giving you about nine hours of solid use on a single charge. The camera system got a boost with a new 50MP ultrawide lens, which is great for those wide landscape shots or getting up close with macro photography. They’ve also added some pro-level video tools that are starting to rival what you get on iPhones.

Now, it’s not all perfect. It still carries that hefty $1,300 price tag, which is a lot of cash. And while it looks very similar to last year’s model, some people might find it a bit too bulky. Also, a small bummer is that the S Pen no longer has those handy Bluetooth gesture controls. If you’re not set on the absolute best or if the price is a bit much, the regular Galaxy S25 or S25 Plus are solid alternatives that offer a lot of the same goodness for less money.

2. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL

If you’re looking for a big screen experience with Google’s smarts, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is definitely one to consider. It’s got this really nice, large 6.8-inch display that makes watching videos or just scrolling through stuff feel pretty good. The camera system on this thing is seriously impressive, especially when you start zooming in. Google’s Pro Res Zoom feature, which uses AI to help out, can get you shots at up to 100x zoom. I tried it out, and honestly, compared to some other phones, the detail it pulls in at those extreme ranges is pretty wild. It’s not perfect, sometimes the AI can make things look a bit stylized, but for convenience, it’s a game-changer.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Processor: Google Tensor G5
• Display: 6.8-inch, 120 Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto
• Battery: 5,200 mAh
• Storage: 128GB up to 1TB

One of the things I really liked was the battery life. Even with pretty heavy use – lots of scrolling, some photos, and music streaming – I still had a decent amount left at the end of the day. It’s a big phone, no doubt about it, so if you’re not a fan of carrying around a larger device, you might want to check out its smaller sibling, the Pixel 10 Pro. It shares most of the same great features, just in a more compact size. Google promises seven years of updates for the entire Pixel 10 lineup, which is pretty great for long-term use. You also get a year of Gemini Advanced included, which is a nice bonus for all the AI features. It’s a solid choice if you want a top-tier camera and a big, beautiful screen, and you can find out more about the Pixel experience on other devices.

3. OnePlus 13

The OnePlus 13 really hits a sweet spot for a lot of people, especially if you’re trying to get a top-tier phone experience without completely emptying your wallet. It starts at $899, which is a good chunk less than some of the other big names out there like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus or the Google Pixel 9 Pro. For that price, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.

This phone is a charging champion, plain and simple. Seriously, the 80W wired charging is something else. I timed it, and it can get you from zero to fifty percent in about 10 minutes. A full charge? Less than half an hour. That’s way faster than many other flagships, and the best part is OnePlus actually includes the charger in the box. No need to buy that separately, which is a nice touch.

Let’s talk specs:

• Display: A big 6.8-inch AMOLED that’s super smooth with its 120Hz refresh rate. It’s bright and looks great, even outside.
• Processor: It’s running the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, so everything feels really snappy, whether you’re gaming or just switching between apps.
• Cameras: You get a triple camera setup on the back, all 50MP sensors – a main, an ultrawide, and a telephoto. The main camera does a solid job, though the other cameras aren’t quite as impressive.
• Battery: A hefty 6,000mAh battery that should easily get you through a full day, maybe even two if you’re not a heavy user.
• Durability: It’s got an IP69 rating, which is pretty impressive. That means it can handle high-pressure water jets, so accidental spills or even a quick dunk shouldn’t be a problem.

Now, it’s not perfect. If you’re really into shooting video, you might find the OnePlus 13 a bit lacking. The HDR can be a little inconsistent, and the stabilization isn’t always the best. For serious video work, you might want to look at something like an iPhone 16 Pro. But for most everyday photos and videos, it’s more than capable. Overall, the OnePlus 13 offers a really strong package for the price, especially if fast charging and a great display are high on your list.

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. If you’re looking for a foldable that really feels like a step up, this might be it. Samsung has been refining these book-style foldables for a while now, and with the Z Fold 7, they’ve really nailed some of the things that were just okay on previous models.

First off, the design. It’s noticeably thinner and lighter than you might expect for a foldable. When it’s closed, the outer screen is wider and feels more like a regular phone, which is a big deal for everyday use. No more feeling like you’re holding a chunky remote. Unfold it, and you get this really nice, big 8-inch display. It’s great for watching videos, browsing maps, or just having a bunch of apps open at once. Seriously, it makes using your phone feel more like using a small tablet, but without the extra bulk.

The camera system on this thing is also pretty impressive, especially for a foldable. It boasts a 200-megapixel main sensor, which means your photos should come out looking pretty sharp and lifelike, even in tricky lighting. It even holds its own when it comes to long exposure shots and selfies, partly because the phone can just sit there on its own to take the picture.

Here’s a quick look at some of the specs:

• Displays: 6.5-inch cover screen and an 8-inch main foldable screen, both with 120Hz refresh rates.
• Performance: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
• Cameras: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens.
• Software Support: Expect up to seven years of operating system and security updates, which is pretty solid.

Now, it’s not all perfect. The price tag is definitely on the higher side, starting around $2,000. And while the battery is decent at 4,400mAh, it’s not exactly groundbreaking compared to some other phones out there. Also, if you were hoping for S Pen support, you won’t find it here. But if you want a foldable that feels refined, has a great main display for multitasking, and takes some really good pictures, the Z Fold 7 is a strong contender.

5. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google’s latest big phone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, really leans into the AI stuff. It’s got this Gemini Live thing that feels like a proper chat with your phone, and a new Pixel Studio that can make pictures from just text. It’s pretty neat if you like playing around with new tech. The design is different from older Pixels, looking a bit more like an iPhone now, which some might like and others might miss the old look. The build quality is solid, though the camera bump on the back is still a signature touch.

When it comes to the screen, Google’s still doing some odd things. They boast good specs, but they use something called PWM dimming at a slow rate, which can be rough on the eyes for some people. Other phones, like the OnePlus 13, use a much faster rate, which is easier on your eyes.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Processor: Google Tensor G4
• Display: Large 120Hz OLED, but with slow PWM dimming
• Cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto (5x zoom), 42MP front
• Battery: Good, but charging is still slow
• Software Support: Seven years of updates, which is fantastic.

The camera system is impressive, especially for capturing action shots. While it performs well in good light, low-light and night mode photos are just okay. If you’re not worried about having the absolute best camera Google offers, the regular Pixel 9 might be a better fit. But if you want that big screen and all the AI bells and whistles, the 9 Pro XL is a strong contender. It’s a good choice for anyone wanting a straightforward Android experience with a great camera and a lot of smart features. You can check out comparisons of camera capabilities on phones like the LG G5 to see how it stacks up.

6. Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)

Motorola really stepped up its game with the Razr Ultra (2025). It feels like they took everything good about the previous Razr Plus and just made it better. The hinge feels way more solid now, which is a big deal for a foldable. I got to play with it a bit, and honestly, it’s pretty impressive.

What really sets this one apart is that outer screen. Unlike some other flip phones where it’s kind of limited, you can actually do a lot on the Razr Ultra’s cover display. Want to browse the web or scroll through social media without opening it up? No problem. It makes the phone feel much more useful day-to-day. Plus, they’ve added some cool new finishes like Alcantara and wood that not only look good but also make it easier to hold. That extra grip is nice when you think about how these phones are built.

Here’s a quick look at what’s inside:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Displays: 7-inch main, 4-inch outer
• Cameras: 50MP wide, 50MP ultrawide, 32MP front
• Battery: 4,700mAh

It’s definitely on the pricier side, but if you’re after a unique, well-built foldable, it’s worth checking out. You can find it at places like AT&T. Just keep in mind that Motorola’s software update support isn’t as long as some competitors, so if that’s a major concern, you might want to look elsewhere.

7. Nothing Phone 3a Pro

If you’re looking for a phone that really stands out from the crowd without emptying your wallet, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is definitely worth a look. For $459, you get a pretty solid package that includes a nice 6.77-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a capable 50MP camera setup, and a design that’s just plain cool. It’s a refreshing change from the usual slab-like phones we see everywhere else.

The transparent back with visible screws and data ribbons, combined with the Glyph interface (those little LED lights that do stuff when you get notifications), is a real conversation starter. It makes other mid-range phones look a bit boring, honestly. The display itself is also quite good, brighter than some of its competitors and smooth thanks to that 120Hz refresh rate. Powering it all is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip. It’s not going to win any speed contests for heavy gaming, but for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and watching videos, it handles things just fine.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:

• Display: 6.77-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,000 nits brightness
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
• Cameras: 50MP main, 50MP telephoto, 8MP ultrawide (rear); 50MP (front)
• Battery: 5,000mAh
• Storage: 256GB
• Price: $459

Now, it’s not perfect. The cameras can be a bit hit-or-miss sometimes, especially with how they handle colors and contrast – think muted skies or less depth in photos. Also, no wireless charging, which is a bummer if you’re used to that. If you need wireless charging, you might want to check out the Google Pixel 9a instead. Another thing to keep in mind is that in the US, this phone is only available through Nothing’s Beta Program, meaning you can’t just walk into a store and buy it. You have to sign up on their website first. That might be a dealbreaker for some people, but if you’re after a unique phone that offers good value, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a strong contender.

8. Samsung Galaxy S25

So, Samsung’s got this phone, the Galaxy S25, and honestly, it’s a bit of a familiar story. It looks pretty much the same as the S24, and a lot of the specs are too. But, and this is a pretty big ‘but’, it’s got that new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip inside, which really makes a difference. Plus, it’s a little bit smaller and lighter than last year’s model, which is nice if you’re not a fan of those giant phones that feel like bricks in your pocket.

What’s cool is that even though this is the base model, it still gets a lot of the same AI features that Samsung is pushing, like that Gemini integration and the handy Circle to Search. It’s like getting a taste of the fancy stuff without paying the Ultra price tag. For around $800, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you’re coming from a phone that’s a couple of years old. It’s a solid choice if you want a flagship experience without breaking the bank.

However, if you just got the S24, you probably don’t need to rush out and grab this one. The cameras, while still good, haven’t really changed from the previous generation. They take nice pictures, sure, but they’re not going to blow you away, especially if you’re trying to capture fast-moving things – it can be a bit of a struggle. And the charging speed is still stuck at 25W, which feels pretty slow these days. It’s a good phone, no doubt, but Samsung seems content to just keep things consistent rather than pushing the envelope on this particular model.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Display: A bright 6.2-inch AMOLED screen that’s smooth with its 120Hz refresh rate.
• Performance: Powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with 12GB of RAM, so it’s pretty zippy.
• Cameras: A triple-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom. It’s good, but not groundbreaking.
• Battery: A 4,000mAh battery that should get you through the day, but charging is capped at 25W wired.
• Software: It comes with Android 15 and Samsung’s One UI, and you get a promise of seven years of software and security updates, which is pretty impressive.

9. OnePlus 13R

So, the OnePlus 13R. It’s kind of like getting a lot of the good stuff from the pricier OnePlus 13, but without, you know, the super high price tag. Honestly, for what you pay, this phone is a really solid choice if you want a fast phone that doesn’t break the bank. It’s got that Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which is still pretty much top-tier, and it comes with a decent amount of RAM and faster storage.

Think of it this way: you’re getting a phone that performs like a flagship from last year, but at a much more reasonable cost. It’s a smart move if you’re trying to get the most bang for your buck.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Display: 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED
• Battery: 6,000mAh with 80W wired charging
• Storage: Starts at 256GB UFS 4.0

The battery life on this thing is pretty impressive, easily lasting a full day for most people, and the charging speed is decent, though not as crazy fast as its bigger sibling. The cameras are good, especially the main one, but don’t expect miracles from the other lenses. It’s a well-built phone, feels sturdy, though the water resistance is just okay at IP65. If you’re looking for a reliable daily driver that handles pretty much anything you throw at it, the OnePlus 13R is definitely worth checking out. You can find more details on OnePlus phones.

10. CMF Phone 2 Pro

So, the CMF Phone 2 Pro. It’s kind of a surprise hit, honestly. For what you pay, it really packs a punch. This phone is a fantastic option if you want a lot of bang for your buck. It’s got this unique design that’s pretty cool, and they’ve actually managed to make the cameras really good for a budget device. I was pretty impressed with the photos it took, especially considering the price point. It’s not going to blow away a flagship phone, obviously, but it’s definitely better than I expected.

Let’s talk specs for a sec:

• Display: 6.77-inch 120Hz AMOLED, 2392 x 1080 resolution. It’s bright and easy on the eyes, which is nice.
• Processor: Mediatek Dimensity 7300 Pro. It handles daily tasks without much fuss.
• Cameras: A 50MP main sensor paired with another 50MP telephoto lens and an 8MP ultrawide. The 16MP front camera is decent too.
• Battery: A solid 5000mAh with 33W wired charging. It lasts a good while.

One of the things I liked is the software. It’s running Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.2, and it’s pretty clean and easy to use. They also added NFC, which is a big deal for contactless payments, and that’s something the previous model was missing. You can even get some neat accessories for it, like a kickstand or a lanyard, which adds a bit of personalization. It’s not perfect, mind you. Availability in the US can be a bit tricky, and it’s not the most powerful phone out there if you’re looking to do heavy gaming. But for everyday use and taking decent pictures, it’s a really solid choice. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly phone that punches above its weight, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is definitely worth checking out, especially if you can snag it through their US Beta Program.

So, Which Phone Should You Grab?

Alright, we’ve gone through a bunch of phones, from the fancy foldables to the everyday workhorses. Picking the right Android phone can feel like a lot, especially with so many good options out there. We looked at cameras, how long the battery lasts, and if the software is easy to use. Remember, the ‘best’ phone really depends on what you need it for and what you can spend. Whether you’re after the latest tech or just something reliable that won’t break the bank, there’s definitely a phone on this list that fits the bill. Keep an eye out for new releases, but don’t forget that the phones we’ve highlighted here are solid choices right now. Happy phone hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Android phone is the absolute best to get right now?

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a really strong contender for the top spot. It’s a fantastic phone that does almost everything well, with great hardware and software. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is right behind it, and the other Android phones on our list are also excellent choices worth checking out.

Should I get an Android phone or an iPhone?

That’s a big question! Really, there are only two main types of phone software to consider: Android and iOS (which is what iPhones run). Both have their own good points, so it depends on what you like and what other Apple or Google devices you might use.

How much should I expect to spend on a good Android phone in 2025?

For a really good, high-end phone, you’re probably looking at spending around $700 to $1,000 or even more. But don’t worry, there are also some awesome mid-range and budget-friendly options that offer great value without costing a fortune.

What makes a phone ‘premium’ or ‘flagship’?

A premium or flagship phone usually means it has the latest and greatest technology. This often includes top-notch cameras, super-fast processors, amazing screens, and extra features like special pens or foldable designs. They’re built with the best materials and offer the most advanced capabilities.

How do you decide which phones make the top list?

Our team tests a lot of phones throughout the year. We look at everything from how good the pictures are and how long the battery lasts, to how fast the phone is and how easy the software is to use. We also consider if the phone offers good value for its price.

When is the best time to buy a new phone?

That’s a tricky one! New phones come out all the time. Sometimes, waiting a little bit after a new model is announced can mean getting a good deal on the older, but still great, model. It really depends on your budget and how much you want the very latest features.