From Google's Pixel 9 line and Samsung's Galaxy S25 family to Apple's iPhone 16 series and foldable phones like the Motorola Razr Ultra, the best phones in 2025 support 5G connectivity. That means these phones have the fastest possible data speeds across your wireless network. While they tend to be pricey, there are plenty of affordable 5G options like the Google Pixel 9A. Although it won't replace 4G in its entirety, 5G works fast. With 5G handsets being offered by every major phone manufacturer now, it can be difficult to work out which phone is best for you. Tha'ts why we've tested and reviewed dozens of smartphones to find the best 5G phones you should buy.
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- Best 5G Phones of 2025
- What is the best 5G phone right now?
- Best 5G phones of 2025
- Best iPhone
- Best Android phone
- Best premium iPhone
- Best phone for Android purists
- Best premium Android phone
- Best Android Phone Value
- Best built flip phone
- Best entry level iPhone
- Best Google has to offer
- Best 5G phones compared
- Recent updates
- Factors to consider when buying a 5G phone
- How we test phones
- Other phones we tested
- 5G phone FAQs
- What we look forward to in 2025
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What is the best 5G phone right now?
The best phone for most people is the $799 iPhone 16. It comes in two sizes: a 6.1-inch regular iPhone 16 model or a larger 6.7-inch iPhone 16 Plus model that starts at $899. The phones have a new 12-megapixel ultrawide camera that performs better in low light and can now take macro photos, meaning you'll be able to focus close to take amazing food snaps. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have a handful of Apple Intelligence tools for writing, removing distractions from photos and doing summaries of messages and webpages. There's also an added ChatGPT integration to Siri.
Plus, the phones have an Action button that can be programed for different functions like turning on the flashlight, recording a voice memo, changing the focus mode and more. There’s also a new Camera Control button that lets you take photos and quickly adjust settings like zoom, Portrait mode aperture and Photographic Styles. It also activates a new feature called Visual Intelligence, which adds context to whatever the camera sees -- similar to Google Lens. We think the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are ideal for most people looking for a great phone that will last for years.
Best 5G phones of 2025
Pros
- Camera Control is useful for switching camera settings
- Photographic Styles makes photos pop
- Ultrawide camera is better in low light
Cons
- Apple Intelligence isn’t out yet
- No "always on" display
- No changes to wired charging speeds
- No upgrades to the Action button
When I tested the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus I was definitely impressed by the new photography features, the convenient Action button and the elegant build. I consider these phones to be top-notch choices for Apple fans. Parts of the iPhone 16’s key feature, Apple Intelligence, are now out, and the fact that these phones will support it means they’ll likely feel future-proofed for years to come. Aside from screen size (6.1 inches on the regular, 6.7 inches on the Plus), battery size and price, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are identical in every way.
The iPhone 16 isn’t perfect -- it’s missing an always-on display, and it feels like it’s been ages since Apple improved its wired charging speeds. But it checks all the important boxes and then some.
Why we like it
The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus rank so high in our testing because the phones appeal to both novice users and power players a like. They offer about 90% of the experience of Apple's Pro models but cost hundreds of dollars less. Not only is the iPhone 16 a wonderful phone out of the box, Apple has a long track record of updating its software and security patches for years.
Who's it for
When you think about how the Camera Control key, the Action button and the Dynamic Island come together, along with the camera and battery improvements Apple has made over the last several years, the iPhone 16 is a compelling upgrade for someone coming from an older iPhone, especially if that person is on an iPhone 13 or older. For those who don’t need the Pro’s extra photography prowess and battery life, the iPhone 16 won’t disappoint.
Who shouldn’t get it
I wouldn't recommend buying the iPhone 16 just for the Camera Control button or the better ultrawide camera.
Pros
- Camera consistently delivers good images
- Impressive battery life
- More AI features feel practical
Cons
- Several gimmicky AI features
- Not many changes over the S24
The Galaxy S25’s biggest flex, as I noticed during testing, is that it shares many of the same features as its pricier siblings -- the S25 Plus and S25 Ultra -- but for several hundred dollars less. You'll find features like the AI Select tool, Audio Eraser and deeper Gemini integration across all of Samsung's S25 devices, as well as a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM, making the smaller phone of the bunch still seem pretty mighty.
And while the Galaxy S25 might look incredibly similar to the S24 and share many of the same specs, consistency isn't so bad when it means there's a consistently good camera and great battery life. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 review.
Why we like it
Having a baseline phone, like the Galaxy S25, that delivers many of the same perks as more expensive models, is a huge plus in my book. And given the remarkable processing power, standout camera and seamless AI integration in the Galaxy S25 lineup, it's great that I can get all those premium features for $800.
Who's it best for
If you're someone who insists on buying a flagship device, the Galaxy S25 won't let you down. But if you have a device that's at least two years old, you might be enticed to tap into all the latest Galaxy AI and integrated Gemini features. Now, $800 isn't pocket change, and there are definitely other options for those who want to be more budget conscious, but if you're willing to spend a bit more, the baseline S25 can be a great all-around choice.
Who shouldn’t get it
You probably don't need to upgrade if you're using last year's S24.
Pros
- Larger screens/thinner bezels
- 4K slo-mo OMG
- Audio Mix is brilliant
- iOS 18
Cons
- No Apple Intelligence out of the box
- Camera Control placement not optimal for one-handed shooting
- Elegant finishes aren't very colorful
- Only 128GB of storage for $1,000
The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max have everything I've come to expect in a year-over-year upgrade. The 6.3-inch iPhone 16 Pro and 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max have a slew of upgrades including one of the best batteries on any phone I've tested as well as. In our testing it will easily last a day on a single charge.
The phones also have larger displays, outstanding photo and video chops, high-resolution slo-mo, a new Camera Control button, iOS 18 goodies and a handful of Apple Intelligence tools. The negatives are as thin as the borders around the new screens: You only get 128GB of storage for $1,000; there are only drab color options, and a the new camera button is easy to tap accidentally. Read our full iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max review.
Why we like it
This year the 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max have the exact same cameras -- unlike the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, which had different telephoto options. Screen size, battery life and price should be the deciding factors when you're choosing between the two. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are excellent phones worthy of a spot in your pocket (and mine) if you can afford them.
Who's it best for
If you have an iPhone 12 Pro or older, upgrading to the 16 Pro makes a lot of sense. If you're on a 13 Pro and still have a decent battery capacity, I'd say save your money. And if you're on a 14 Pro or 15 Pro, there's no need to upgrade. Also, I should note that the entry-level $999 iPhone 16 Pro only has 128GB of storage.
Who shouldn't get it
If you are looking for a budget phone or don't need a phone with the latest features or tech.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Fun and somewhat useful AI features
- Better ultrawide camera
- 7 years of software updates
Cons
- More expensive
- Doesn't feel that different from Pixel 8
There’s a lot to like about the Pixel 9, from its respectable camera to its classy new design and lengthy 7-year timeline for software updates. But Google’s phones have always shined for their clean, slick software, and that once again applies to the Pixel 9 series. Pixels are also among the first to get new software updates, making them an ideal choice for those who want to get their hands on the latest version of Android first. Aside from Android updates, Google also brings new features to Pixel phones throughout the year through updates it calls Feature Drops.
The Pixel 9 comes with a few new AI tricks that you may find useful, like the ability to search for content in screenshots, generate images from scratch in the Pixel Studio app and add new objects in photos. These features aren’t must-haves, and they’re not without flaws. Plus, at a starting price of $799, the Pixel 9 has a higher bar to live up to. But the Pixel 9 feels like it belongs in that class of device. Read our full review for the Google Pixel 9.
Why we like it
The Pixel 9 and Google's Gemini assistant still feel like a first step toward what the company is hoping to achieve: Making phone software more intelligent so that we can spend less time swiping, tapping, scrolling and digging. In the meantime, the Pixel 9 shines for its great camera, elegant design and clean software, just like the less AI-centric Pixels of years past.
Who's it best for
If you're a Pixel fan upgrading from an older phone, like the Pixel 6 or earlier, you'll find a lot to love about the Pixel 9. But keep in mind that for the same price, Samsung's Galaxy S25 has a brighter screen and a dedicated telephoto lens for taking zoomed photos.
Who shouldn't get it
If you want the absolute best cameras that Google makes, including having a dedicated telephoto lens, I'd recommend the Pixel 9 Pro.
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Pros
- Best screen on any phone
- Versatile cameras
- Most powerful phone I've tested
- Good battery life
Cons
- $1,300 price
- Design is almost too minimal
- AI features are hit or miss
- S25/S25 Plus have similar features and cost less
Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra which has a lot of AI features, the best of which are interesting and the worst of which unreliable. Luckily, Samsung gets a lot of other things right on the S25 Ultra, which has a new Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, high-resolution ultrawide camera, and some sweet pro video tools that rival the iPhone 16 Pro. Samsung wisely kept all the best parts of last year's Galaxy S24 Ultra (basically the entire phone including that antireflective display) but some of its worst parts, too, like the $1,300 price tag.
If you want the best screen you can find on any phone, get the S25 Ultra. If you want the most versatile phone cameras, get the S25 Ultra. If you want a stylus, get the S25 Ultra. But if your needs scale back on any of those fronts, the more affordable S25 options, or even last year's S24 Ultra, may be worth considering. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review.
Why we like it
The reason to get the Ultra over its S25 siblings is its screen, which is truly the best I've seen on any phone, and the cameras, which are a step above what the S25 and S25 Plus have. Added video features like ability to record in Log format gets the Ultra as close as it's ever been to the iPhone in terms of professional video capture.
Who's it best for
If you have a Galaxy S22 Ultra or older, the S25 Ultra will seem like a significant upgrade. It's harder to make that case for S23 Ultra owners, who, unless their phone's battery is ailing or they can score an incredible discount, should otherwise sit this one out. And for you S24 Ultra owners, you don't need this phone. Save your money and treat yourself to a nice steak dinner and a movie.
Who shouldn’t get it
The Galaxy S25 Ultra's appeal is muddied by its $1,300 price. The regular Galaxy S25 has the same functionality, power and longevity, and it costs $500 less. Want a bigger screen? Consider the Galaxy S25 Plus. For the majority of people, the regular Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus will be a better fit.
Pros
- The screen is delightfully bright
- Cameras are good for $499
- Gemini Live Video AI has potential to be useful
- Solid build
- The under-$500 price
Cons
- Battery life is just OK, will get through a day
- Processor is serviceable (curious about longevity)
- Lacks emergency SOS satellite texting
For $499, Google's Pixel 9A truly feels like you're getting more bang for your buck. It comes with several significant upgrades from last year's Pixel 8A: a fresh design, new display, larger battery, slightly more powerful chip, increased durability and upgraded software features.
But don't get me wrong -- it's not a perfect phone. There are places where Google had to compromise to keep the price under $500, like the lack of satellite connectivity for emergencies available on the $799 Pixel 9. Overall, though, I think the compromises Google made were smart and that the Pixel 9A is worth every penny. Read our Google Pixel 9A review.
Why we like it
The Pixel 9A is proof that you don't need to spend more than $500 to get a great phone. It can handle all you daily tasks, from scrolling social media and news feeds and swiping through TikTok videos to taking a beautiful photo and lasting a day on a single charge.
Who's it best for?
In theory, anybody. The Pixel 9A is for anyone who wants 95% of what a $1,000 phone can do at half the price.
Who shouldn't get it
Anyone who wants the absolute fastest processor of the most cutting-edge cameras.
Pros
- Robust design
- Bright high resolution inner screen
- Battery life should last you a day or more
- It's so damn fun to use
Cons
- Cameras take decent photos but suffer from motion blur
- Only three years of major OS updates
- Gets warm playing games and using the camera frequently
The Motorola Razr Ultra is a beefed-up version of last year's Razr Plus, which won a CNET Editor's Choice Award. It’s as if the Razr Plus hired a trainer and a nutritionist, got absolutely ripped -- and earned the name Ultra. After testing, I've come to adore the Razr Ultra. It does all the "normal" non-folding phone things I want and offers a truly unique experience thanks to its cover screen. I feel like the coolest kid in the coffee shop when Google Pay-ing for my cortado with my Razr Ultra closed. Read our Motorola Razr Ultra review.
But in taking nearly every aspect of the phone to the extreme, Motorola lost one of the most important parts of recent Razrs: the amazing value. The catch for all this "ultra-ness:" the Motorola Razr Ultra costs $1,300.
Why we like it
This is the best built foldable flip phone I've ever used. Motorola took the best parts of the Razr Plus and improved nearly everything else. The battery life is outstanding and easily lasts a day on a single charge and can get you mostly through a second day. The displays are brighter. The main 7-inch foldable display is larger and has more resolution than the Razr Plus and the cameras are improved. The fabric backing is delightful.
Who's it best for
Someone who wants a fun, unique and robust foldable phone. You're willing to pay top-dollar to get the best processor, battery, design and cameras Motorola has ever made.
Who shouldn't get it
If you're unsure of foldables, this might not be the best fit. If you find yourself in places with sand, dirt and other fine particles, the Razr Ultra (like all foldable phones) isn't worth the risk. The Razr Ultra has the same class-leading IP rating for dust and water resistance, but the dust resistance is only for particles 1-mm or larger.
Pros
- Does most of the Apple stuff I want
- Battery life is great
- Matte finish back
- The rear camera is good
- A18 chip performance
Cons
- $599 price isn't cheap
- Odd value proposition
- Lacks MagSafe
- Screen is good, but wonder how it will age
Apple took a Taco Bell-like approach with the $599 iPhone 16E, mixing and matching parts and features from prior phones to create a "new" iPhone. Its design and screen are similar to the iPhone 14. Its A18 processor is the same as the one in the iPhone 16. In my testing, I found that this gives the iPhone 16E a weird value proposition. It's new, but it's old. It's affordable, but not cheap.
If you're rocking an iPhone SE, an iPhone 11 or older, the 16E will be a nice upgrade in every way, from the camera to the battery life -- though you might miss that ultrawide camera. I also think that this is a good phone for people using Android phones who want to switch and dip the proverbial toe into Apple's waters. I do recommend looking into carrier deals, discounts and trade-ins to drop that price a bit, unless you're set on doing an installment plan over a couple of years. Read our iPhone 16E review.
Why we like it
After testing the iPhone 16E, I was most surprised by how wonderfully uneventful it was to use. Along with all the standard iOS 18 functions and goodies, like iMessage and FaceTime, I used Apple Intelligence, made calls on 5G, took a bunch of share-worthy photos and videos and played video games like Resident Evil 4. If this is all you want in an iPhone, look no further.
Who's it best for
If you're rocking an iPhone SE, an iPhone 11 or older, the 16E will be a nice upgrade in every way, from the camera to the day plus battery life -- though you might miss that ultrawide camera. I also think that this is a good phone for people using Android phones who want to switch and dip the proverbial toe into Apple's waters.
Who's it not for
Choosing between the $829 iPhone 16 and the $599 16E is a tough choice. If you have the budget, I'd go with the regular 16. You get a brighter screen, MagSafe, and an ultrawide camera that doubles as a macro lens -- great for taking close-up photos like of food since the main camera automatically switches to a cropped version of the ultrawide in order to nail focus.
Pros
- Genuinely fun new AI skills
- Sleek new design
- 7 years of software updates
- Cameras can take great daytime shots
Cons
- Camera hardware hasn't improved much over Pixel 8 Pro
- Gemini AI will eventually require a paid subscription
- Launches with Android 14, not Android 15
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, from their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it's the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.
The phones aren't perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they're just okay in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free) But if you're keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it. Read our Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL review.
Why we like it
Google's Pixel line of phones has gone from strength to strength and its latest model is unquestionably the best phone the company has ever made. It's not just the slick-looking design; the Pixel 9 Pro offers a superb camera system, a generous support period and a host of new AI skills making it one of the most accomplished Android phones around. The 9 Pro XL takes that further by accommodating a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch display.
Who's it best for
It's a great phone for those of you looking for an elegant everyday Android phone. The interface is easy to navigate and the camera takes great photos with almost no effort on your part. If you feel overwhelmed by the plethora of settings and menus on other Android flagships, Google's Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go. If playing mobile games or watching videos on the go is a priority, opt for the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Who shouldn't get it
If you don't need the best cameras Google makes, consider the regular Pixel 9. I do like the fit and finish better on the 9 Pro, but it starts at $999.
Best 5G phones compared
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| 6.1-inch OLED; 2,556 x 1,179 pixel resolution; 60Hz refresh rate | 6.2-inch AMOLED; 2,340x1,080 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,622 x 1,206 pixel resolution; 1-120Hz adapative refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate | 6.8-inch AMOLED; 3,120x1,440 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate | 4-inch pOLED; up to 165Hz variable refresh rate; 7-inch AMOLED; Super HD; up to 165Hz variable refresh rate | 6.1-inch OLED display; 2,532x1,170 pixels; 60Hz refresh rate | 6.3-inch LTPO OLED; 2,856x1,280 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate |
| 460 ppi | 416 ppi | 460 ppi | 422 ppi | 501 ppi | 422 ppi | Cover: 417 ppi; 464 ppi | 460 ppi | 495 ppi |
| 5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches | 5.78 x 2.78 x 0.28 in. | 5.89 x 2.81 x 0.32 inches | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in | 6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 in. | 6.1 x 2.9 x 0.4 in | Open: 2.91 x 6.75 x 0.28 inches Closed: 2.91 x 3.47 x 0.62 inches | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 in. | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in |
| 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm | 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm | 149.6 x 71.5 x 8.25mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm | Open: 73.99 x 171.48 x 7.19mm Closed: 73.99 x 88.12 x 15.69mm | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm |
| 170 g (6 oz.) | 162g (5.71 oz.) | 199 g (7.03 oz.) | 198g (7 oz) | 218g (7.69 oz.) | 186g (6.6 oz) | 199g (7 oz) | 167g (5.88 oz.) | 199g (7 oz) |
| iOS 18 | Android 15 | iOS 18 | Android 14 | Android 15 | Android 15 | Android 15 | iOS 18 | Android 14 |
| 48-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide) | 50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide) 5x telephoto | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide) | 200-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 50-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide) | 50-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide) | 48-megapixel (wide) | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto) |
| 12-megapixel | 12-megapixel | 12-megapixel | 10.5-megapixel | 12-megapixel | 13-megapixel | 50-megapixel | 12-megapixel | 42-megapixel |
| 4K | 8K | 4K | 4K | 8K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K |
| Apple A18 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Apple A18 Pro | Google Tensor G4 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Google Tensor G4 | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Apple A18 | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM N/A + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB | RAM N/A + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB | 12GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 8GB + 128GB, 256GB | 16GB + 512GB, 1TB | RAM unknown + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 16GB + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| None (Face ID) | None | None (Face ID) | None | None | None | None | None | None |
| Up to 22 hours video playback; up to 18 hours video playback (streamed). 20W wired charging. MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W with 30W adapter or higher; Qi2 up to 15W | 4,000 mAh | Up to 27 hours video playback; up to 22 hours video playback (streamed). 20W wired charging. MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W with 30W adapter or higher; Qi2 up to 15W | 4,700 mAh | 5,000 mAh | 5,100 mAh | 4,700m Ah | Up to 26 hours video playback, 21 hours streamed video playback, 90 hours of audio playback. 20W wired charging, 7.5W Qi wireless charging | 4,700 mAh |
| None (Face ID) | Under display | None (Face ID) | Under display | Under display | Under display | Side | None, Face ID | Under display |
| USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None |
| Apple Intelligence, Action button, Camera Control button, Dynamic Island, 1 to 2,000 nits display brightness range, IP68 resistance. Colors: black, white, pink, teal, ultramarine. | 2,600-nit peak brightness; 7 years of OS and security updates; 5G (mmWave); IP68 water and dust resistance; wireless PowerShare to charge other devices; 25W wired charging (charger not included); Galaxy AI; Wi-Fi 7 | Apple Intelligence, Action button, Camera Control button, 4x audio mics, Dynamic Island, 1 to 2,000 nits display brightness range, IP68 resistance. Colors: black titanium, white titantium, natural titanium, desert titanium. | Satellite SOS; 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass; IP68 dust and water resistance; 2,700-nit peak brightness; 45W fast charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging with Google Pixel Stand (second gen); 12W wireless Qi-charging; Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (eSIM + nano SIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor | Titanium frame, 2,600-nit peak brightness; 7 years of OS and security updates; 5G (mmWave); IP68 water and dust resistance; wireless PowerShare to charge other devices; integrated S Pen; UWB for finding other devices; 45W wired charging (charger not included); Galaxy AI; Wi-Fi 7; Gorilla Glass Armor cover glass; ultrawideband | 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass; IP68 dust and water resistance; 2,700-nit peak brightness; 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio; 23W fast charging (charger not included); 7.5W wireless charging Qi certified; Wi-Fi 6E; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (nano SIM + eSIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor; Photo Unblur; Super Res Zoom; Circle To Search | IP48 rating, 68-watt wired charging, 30-watt wireless charging, 5-watt reverse charging, dual stereo speakers, Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic cover dispaly, 3,000 nits peak brightness on cover display, 4,500 nits peak brightness on main display, 5G. | Action button, Apple C1 5G modem, Apple Intelligence, Ceramic Shield, Emergency SOS, satellite connectivity, IP68 resistance | Satellite SOS; 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; IP68 dust and water resistance; Video Boost with 8K Upscaling; Macro Focus on ultrawide; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass; 3,000-nit peak brightness; 45W fast charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging with Google Pixel Stand (second gen); 12W wireless Qi-charging; Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (eSIM + nano SIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor |
| $799 (128GB) | $800 (128GB) | $999 (128GB) | $799 (128GB) | $1,300 (256GB) | $499 (128GB) | $1,300 | $599 (128GB) | $999 (128GB) |
In May 2025, we added the Google Pixel 9A and the Motorola Razr Ultra to our list. The Pixel 9A replaces last year's Google Pixel 8A and come with a new processor, new design, updated screen and cameras -- all for the same $499 price. The Razr Ultra is the best foldable flip phone that we've tested. The battery life gets you through a day with enough charge left to start a second day. The main camera is solid and the displays are brighter. The biggest downside is the $1,300 price.
Consider last year's models: They can often be a great deal, too. Many companies keep previous generation models of their phones around at a lower price.
Try it out before you buy it: The best way to know if you like a phone is to actually go to a store and try it out.
Prioritize which features are the most important: Do you want a large screen? Are cameras the most important feature for you? What about battery life? Narrow down your choices. This will save you time and money.
Don't discount affordable phones: You can get a great phone that does almost everything that a flagship can do for a fraction of the price.
Save with sales: Companies and retailers usually roll out deep discounts around major holidays, especially Amazon's Prime Day and Black Friday.
Every phone on this list has been thoroughly tested by CNET's expert reviews team. We use the phone, test the features, play games and take photos. We assess any marketing promises that a company makes about its phones. If we find something we don't like, be it battery life or build quality, we tell you all about it.
We examine every aspect of a phone during testing:
- Display
- Design and feel
- Processor performance
- Battery life
- Camera quality
- Features
We test all of a phone's cameras (both front and back) in a variety of conditions: from outdoors under sunlight to dimmer indoor locales and nighttime scenes (for any available night modes). We also compare our findings against similarly priced models. We have a series of real-world battery tests to see how long a phone lasts under everyday use.
We take into account additional phone features like 5G, fingerprint and face readers, styluses, fast charging, foldable displays and other useful extras. We also weigh all of our experiences and testing against the price so you know whether a phone represents good value or not.
Read more: How we test phones
The Galaxy S24 FE does a decent job taking photos, but the more expensive Galaxy S24 uses its more powerful processor to enhance them.
Numi Prasarn/CNETThe $900 OnePlus 13 is a true flagship phone and there's plenty to like. From its powerful performance to its fast charging and vibrant display, it has much of what we expect from a top-end phone right now. It looks good, too, has great waterproofing, a scattering of new AI skills and a reasonable six years of security support.
The $1,200 Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro is a gaming phone that takes nearly every feature to the extreme. It has a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 5,800-mAh and a 6.78-inch AMOLED. We certainly appreciate how well the phone handles intensive graphics and its utterly high 185Hz refresh rate in games that can support it. And even though the phone offers only a small iteration on the Phone 8 Pro's design, it's good to see the LED display on the back gain more personality.
Are 5G phones more expensive?
Yes. As more and more phones are released that support 5G connectivity, the prices of those phones have typically become higher. Part of the price increase is for the 5G modem. While the majority of phones now include 5G connectivity, not every phone's price has risen. The iPhone 16 Pro still has the same $999 price that the 15 Pro, 14 Pro, 13 Pro, 12 Pro, 11 Pro, XS and iPhone X had when each was released.
Is a 5G phone better than a 4G phone?
Technically, no. A smartphone's cellular connectivity doesn't determine whether one phone is better than another. Having 5G support on a phone does help future-proof it as carriers continue to roll out and upgrade their towers to 5G. Since the majority of phones now come with 5G support, there isn't a way to compare them to 4G ones. For example, the iPhone 16 Pro supports 4G and 5G; there isn't a 4G-only version in the US.
Google is expected to release the Pixel 10 series later this year. There's also buzz for the next iPhone, likely called the iPhone 17 -- from a slimmer version of the upcoming device to a new screen with a higher refresh rate on baseline models. We've rounded up rumors, leaks and analyses on the iPhone 17 Air (one of several nicknames for Apple's next iPhone). Read CNET's iPhone 17 rumor roundup for more info.
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