Looking for a new phone but not really feeling the iPhone vibe? You’re in luck! 2025 has brought some seriously cool options that aren’t made by Apple. We’ve checked out a bunch of phones, and these are the best non-iPhone phones that really stand out. Whether you want a top-tier Android, a foldable that folds, or something else entirely, there’s a great choice here for you. Let’s see what’s good.
Key Takeaways
- The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a top pick for Android users, especially those who like a stylus.
- Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL is praised for its great hardware and software balance.
- For those interested in foldables, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Motorola Razr Ultra are strong contenders.
- The iPhone 17 is mentioned as a good option from Apple, but this list focuses on non-iPhone choices.
- When choosing a phone, consider factors like battery life, camera quality, display, and whether you need 5G.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. This phone is pretty much the top-tier Android option you can get right now, and honestly, it feels like it. Samsung really went all out here, packing in a ton of features that make it stand out. It’s the kind of device that tries to be everything to everyone, and for the most part, it succeeds.
First off, the display. It’s a 6.9-inch OLED panel, and it’s just gorgeous. Colors pop, everything is super sharp, and Samsung’s anti-glare coating really does make a difference when you’re outside trying to see your screen. It’s bright, it’s fast, and it’s just a pleasure to look at, whether you’re scrolling through social media or watching videos.
When it comes to cameras, the S25 Ultra is a beast. You’ve got a really versatile setup with multiple zoom lenses – a 3x and a 5x optical zoom, plus the main wide and ultrawide cameras. While the zoom lenses might not have the biggest sensors, the results are still seriously impressive for sharing online. Plus, Samsung has added some neat pro video tools that get it closer to what you’d expect from a professional camera setup.
Performance-wise, this thing flies. It’s got the new Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and it absolutely crushes benchmarks and real-world tasks. Gaming, multitasking, whatever you throw at it, the S25 Ultra handles it without breaking a sweat. It even managed to beat out some of the latest iPhones in speed tests, which is a big deal for an Android phone.
Battery life is another strong point. You can easily get through two full days of normal use, and even a heavy day won’t drain it completely. It seems like that new processor is really efficient with power.
Now, let’s look at what you get:
- Display: A stunning 6.9-inch OLED with excellent outdoor visibility and vibrant colors.
- Cameras: A highly versatile system with impressive zoom capabilities and pro-level video features.
- Performance: Top-of-the-line speed thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, great for gaming and productivity.
- Battery: Easily lasts two days with typical use, and a full day with heavy use.
- S Pen: The integrated stylus is still a major draw for note-takers and artists.
- Software Updates: Samsung promises seven years of major OS and security updates, which is fantastic for long-term value.
Of course, it’s not cheap. The price tag is pretty hefty, and some of the AI features can be a bit hit-or-miss. Also, it’s a big, substantial phone, so it might not be for everyone. But if you want the absolute best Samsung has to offer, with a killer screen, amazing cameras, and all the power you could ask for, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is definitely worth considering.
2. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. This phone is pretty much Google’s top-tier offering for 2025, and it really builds on what made the previous Pixels so good. It’s not a massive leap, but almost everything feels a bit more polished and capable.
First off, the design. It’s a big phone, no doubt about it, with a nice 6.8-inch display that’s great for watching videos or playing games. It feels solid in the hand, and you get that usual IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, which is always a plus for peace of mind.
When it comes to what it can do, the Pixel 10 Pro XL really shines with its AI features. Google has packed in some genuinely useful stuff that makes everyday tasks smoother. Think about things like live translation during calls or smart photo editing that actually works well. It’s not just gimmicks; these are features you might actually use regularly.
And the cameras? Still a strong point for Pixel phones. You get fantastic photos with minimal effort, and the video quality is pretty decent too. It’s one of those phones where you can just point and shoot and get great results, which is what most people want.
Here’s a quick look at some of the specs:
- Processor: Google Tensor G5
- Display: 6.8-inch
- Main Cameras: 50MP (wide), 48MP (ultrawide), 48MP (5x telephoto)
- Front Camera: 42MP
- Operating System: Android 16
Now, it’s not perfect for everyone. If you’re a hardcore mobile gamer who needs the absolute fastest processor for super high frame rates, you might find the Tensor G5 a little behind the absolute cutting edge. Also, while the battery life is solid, some other phones out there might last even longer on a single charge. And, just a heads-up, this model doesn’t support physical SIM cards anymore, relying solely on eSIM.
But overall, if you want a phone that’s easy to use, takes amazing pictures, and has smart software features that actually help, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is a really strong contender. Plus, Google is promising seven years of software updates, which is pretty amazing for keeping your phone feeling current for a long time.
3. iPhone 17
Alright, let’s talk about the iPhone 17. Apple’s really trying to make their standard model feel a lot more like the fancy Pro versions these days, and honestly, they’ve done a pretty good job with this one. For a starting price of $829 (or $799 if you sign up with a carrier), you’re getting a lot of the good stuff that used to be reserved for the pricier phones.
One of the biggest upgrades is the display. It now has a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, which means scrolling through your feeds or websites is going to look way smoother. Plus, it finally gets that always-on display feature, so you can glance at notifications without even waking the phone up. It also comes with iOS 26, bringing features like live translation and call screening, which are pretty neat.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:
- Smoother Display: The 1-120Hz variable refresh rate makes everything look fluid.
- Always-On Display: See your important info at a glance.
- Camera Improvements: It shares some camera tech with the Pro models, including Dual Capture and Center Stage for selfies.
- Better Battery Life: Apple claims up to eight hours more video playback compared to last year’s model.
- More Storage: It starts with 256GB, which is double what the iPhone 16 offered.
This phone is a solid choice for most people who want a great iPhone experience without shelling out for the absolute top-tier model. It’s got a good balance of features, performance, and price. If you’re not a hardcore photographer or someone who pushes their phone to its absolute limits 24/7, the iPhone 17 should serve you very well. It’s also a good size if you prefer something that isn’t a giant slab in your pocket.
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. If you’ve been eyeing those foldable phones but found them a bit clunky or just not quite there yet, this one might change your mind. Samsung really seems to have ironed out a lot of the kinks with this model.
The biggest win here is how they’ve managed to make it feel so much more like a regular phone when it’s closed. Seriously, the cover screen is wider and more usable, and the whole thing is thinner and lighter than previous versions. It doesn’t feel like you’re carrying around a mini-tablet in your pocket anymore, which is a huge plus. When you open it up, you get this expansive 8-inch display that’s fantastic for multitasking. You can actually run three apps side-by-side without feeling too cramped.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Design: It’s incredibly thin, almost surprisingly so. The hinge feels solid, and the overall build quality is top-notch. It genuinely feels like a premium device.
- Displays: Both the cover screen and the main foldable screen are bright, sharp, and colorful. The crease on the inner display is much less noticeable now, which is great for watching videos or just scrolling.
- Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, this thing flies. It handles demanding games and heavy multitasking without breaking a sweat.
- Cameras: This is a big deal for a foldable. It boasts a 200-megapixel main camera, the same one you’ll find in the top-tier S25 Ultra. The photos it takes are seriously impressive for a foldable.
- Software Support: Samsung is promising seven years of software and security updates, which is pretty amazing and means this phone should stay current for a long time.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The price tag is, well, hefty. We’re talking about a serious investment here. Also, if you were hoping to use an S Pen for drawing or note-taking, you’re out of luck with this model; that feature is gone. But if you want a foldable that feels refined, performs brilliantly, and takes fantastic pictures, the Z Fold 7 is definitely worth a look, provided your wallet can handle it.
5. Motorola Razr Ultra
Okay, so if you’re tired of the same old slab phones and want something that actually turns heads, the Motorola Razr Ultra might be your jam. This thing folds, which is pretty neat, and it does it with style. It’s like carrying a piece of the future in your pocket.
When it’s closed, it’s this compact little square that feels solid. But pop it open, and bam – you’ve got a 7-inch display. The cool part is that the outside screen is actually useful. You can do a surprising amount without even unfolding it, like checking notifications, replying to texts, or even using Google Pay for your coffee. It’s a really nice touch that makes the whole foldable experience feel more practical.
Motorola really went all out with the design this year. They partnered with Pantone, so you can get it in some pretty wild colors like pink (Cabaret) or even a wood veneer look (Mountain Trail). It’s definitely not your average black or silver phone, which is refreshing.
Under the hood, it’s packing some serious power with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and 16GB of RAM, so it’s not just a pretty face. Plus, the battery life is surprisingly good for a foldable, easily lasting a full day and sometimes even into the next. They’ve also managed to make it water-resistant, which is a big deal for any foldable phone.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Displays: A big 7-inch main screen and a handy 4-inch cover display.
- Performance: Top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
- Battery: A 4700 mAh battery that keeps going.
- Storage: Comes with 512GB of space.
- Colors: Unique options like pink, wood veneer, red, and black.
Now, it’s not perfect. The cameras are decent, but they’re not quite as mind-blowing as some other flagships out there. And let’s be real, the price tag is pretty steep. But if you want a foldable that feels premium, performs well, and looks seriously cool, the Razr Ultra is a strong contender. It’s a fun device that really stands out from the crowd, and you can check out more about its release date if you’re curious.
So, Which Phone is Right for You?
Alright, so we’ve looked at some pretty sweet phones that aren’t iPhones. It’s clear that whether you’re after a top-notch camera, a battery that just keeps going, or something that folds in half, there’s a great option out there for you. Don’t feel like you have to go with the crowd; these alternatives offer a lot of bang for your buck and some really cool features. Take your time, think about what you actually use your phone for day-to-day, and pick the one that feels like the best fit. Happy phone hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra a top pick?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a fantastic choice because it has a big, beautiful screen perfect for watching videos or drawing, and it comes with a special pen called the S Pen. This makes it super handy for taking notes or being creative. It’s like a mini-computer in your pocket, offering a lot of power and cool features for all sorts of tasks.
Why is the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL recommended?
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is considered one of the best Android phones out there. It’s great at taking amazing photos, even in tricky lighting. Plus, it runs smoothly with all the latest software updates from Google, making it a reliable and enjoyable phone to use every day.
What’s special about the iPhone 17?
The iPhone 17 is a solid choice if you like Apple’s iPhones. It offers a great experience with a really nice screen, good cameras for snapping pictures, and it performs well. It’s a good balance of features and price, not costing as much as the super-fancy Pro models.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 a good foldable phone?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a top-notch foldable phone. When you open it up, you get a large screen that’s like a small tablet, which is awesome for multitasking or enjoying movies. It’s one of the best options if you want a phone that can fold and give you more screen space.
What makes the Motorola Razr Ultra stand out?
The Motorola Razr Ultra is a cool, modern take on the classic flip phone. It folds in half, making it super compact and easy to carry around. It’s a stylish choice for those who appreciate a phone that’s both fashionable and functional, bringing back a popular design with new technology.
When is the best time to buy a new phone?
The best time to buy a new phone is usually when your current one stops working well or you really need an upgrade. However, if you’re looking for deals, new phone models often come out at certain times of the year. For example, iPhones usually launch in September, Samsung’s Galaxy S phones in January, and their folding phones around July. Keeping an eye on these release schedules can sometimes help you find a good deal or get the latest model.
