online
The smartphone market is so diverse that selecting merely one of the top devices for 2025 is challenging. Some users desire expansive displays, rapid processors, and ample storage. Others seek the utmost in camera quality. Meanwhile, there are those interested in the ultimate economic phone and/or compact phone (they’re typically identical)—something straightforward and affordable that easily fits a pocket.
Like many considerations, choosing a smartphone begins with deciding on a platform: Android or iOS? The Google-developed Android system prevails as the world’s most prevalent OS, claiming over 70% of global market presence, chiefly due to its affordability and widespread adoption by minor enterprises in developing regions. Yet, in the U.S. and Canada, Android’s dominance lags behind Apple, with iPhones recently surpassing 50% of the total U.S. market share for the first time.
What phone Should I Buy?
If avoiding excessive spending is your goal, evaluate our top budget recommendations. Here’s a bit of insider info: nearly all premier budget phones hold features nearly equivalent to their flagship counterparts. If top-notch photography isn’t your priority, acquiring a superior phone under $500 is entirely possible.
And then there exists the crucial dilemma: iPhone or Android. Globally, Android maintains roughly a 70% market hold, whereas in America, Apple phone usage represents nearly half the smartphones. The silver lining is the gap and compatibility between these systems is nowhere near as problematic as it once seemed. Recently, Apple enabled RCS messaging on iPhones, allowing high-resolution photo messaging and emoji interactions with your social circle despite those persistent green bubbles.
You may opt for the phone platform that aligns with your preference unless you urgently wish to experience Fortnite natively on your device in the U.S. Presently, Android is the sole space where introducing third-party app stores happens without excessive complexity, though it’s still not straightforward. Phones are in perpetual transformation; however, ensuring satisfaction with your choice is vital as it might remain your companion for three, five, or seven years (or until security patches expire).
The editorial team autonomously assesses and reviews every product included in our Buyer’s Guide. If you buy through our referral links, Gizmodo might receive a commission. Such linking doesn’t sway our editorial content.
The Best Android Phone
Our Pick: Google Pixel 9 Pro ($1,000)
Google Pixel devices have genuinely enhanced their prowess in recent editions. The latest iteration undeniably stands as the finest. The Google Pixel 9 Pro offers a design style reminiscent of an iPhone. If you’re dissatisfied with the absence of curved sides, you might want to grip it to appreciate its solidity.
It’s an exceptional device featuring Pixel’s typically outstanding camera capabilities. One aspect that might deter you is the complete integration of Gemini AI throughout Google’s gadget. Ignoring its presence while using it isn’t feasible. Its prominence is anticipated to grow with Google’s expansion of Gemini Live. The Pro variants also boast exclusive photographic features, maintaining the optimum dimensions for most users’ hands.
See Google Pixel 9 Pro Best Buy
The Best Apple Phone
Our Pick: iPhone 16 Pro ($1,000)
In numerous respects, the iPhone 16 Pro bears such resemblance to the iPhone 15 Pro that doing a double take will be common. Yet, if you’re eager for the latest and finest from Apple, this device is supreme. Disregarding Apple’s entire Intelligence promise, this newer model’s modest enhancements still position it as a superior device. The Camera Control function doesn’t alter phone usability, but the improved cameras excel in capturing vivid details.
The iPhone 16 potentially becomes even better over time. Apple assures it’ll function akin to a shutter button like a DSLR, but that awaits future arrival. The A18 Pro chip significantly outpaces prior iPhone processors. Moreover, opting for the Pro Max isn’t necessary to obtain maximum optical zoom now.
However, unless you urgently require the additional camera sensors and enhanced chips, it’s advisable to consider the standard iPhone 16 if you aim to economize. It is equipped with the A18 chip, includes the camera control button, and features the iPhone 15 Pro’s Action Button. Then, you have the opportunity to save a substantial amount of money on a brand-new mobile device.
See iPhone 16 Pro at Best Buy
The Best Budget Mobile Device
Our selection: Google Pixel 8a ($500)
Google’s budget-level phones consistently rank among the most proficient for their cost. The 7a was impressive, and the Google Pixel 8a combines a robust design (while still preserving Google’s traditional sloped sides and camera bar). It grants access to the vast majority of Android 15 and Gemini features that may be requisite from Google’s ecosystem. It operates on the same Tensor G3 chip as the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Its capacity is such that recommending most individuals purchase the flagship models—when the primary advantage is superior camera quality for an additional $200—becomes a challenge.
See Google Pixel 8a at Amazon
The Best Large Mobile Device
Our Choice: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra ($1,300)
The Galaxy S24 Ultra represents an upgrade over its antecedent. It boasts a 200-MP primary camera endowed with the identical 100x digital zoom as the Galaxy S23 Ultra, facilitating the photography of distant subjects such as airplanes and birds. The telephoto lenses are enhanced in this iteration. There’s an upgraded 50-MP high-resolution sensor in the S24 Ultra offering 5x optical zoom, surpassing the S23 Ultra’s 10-MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Capturing images from a distance yields sharper results compared to the S23 Ultra.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra also offers enhanced comfort in handling due to its squared profile. It proves more accommodating for prolonged grip—especially if utilizing the concealable S Pen, applicable for note-taking, drawing, cropping images from the screen, or serving as a remote for selfies. While it may not suit every individual, this phone fulfills a multitude of needs, rendering its $1,300 initial price point more digestible over time.
See Galaxy S24 Ultra at Samsung
Also Worth Considering: iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,200)
The Max model embodies all the characteristics we admired in the Pro, only with a larger and more slender casing. While it doesn’t offer significantly more than a larger framework for users with larger hands, the iPhone 16 Pro remains an excellent choice for Apple enthusiasts.
See iPhone 16 Pro Max at Best Buy
The Top Small Mobile Device
Our recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S23 ($800)
Android aficionados, consider trying out the more compact Samsung Galaxy S23. This 6.1-inch device is the perfect remedy for users overwhelmed by the oversized screens monopolizing valuable pocket space. The Galaxy S23 offers enhanced nighttime photography when compared to its forerunners—competitive enough to stand alongside
Los algoritmos de Google.
Aunque la pantalla es más pequeña de lo habitual, es el distintivo Super AMOLED de Samsung con una impresionante frecuencia de actualización de 120Hz, por lo que usarlo se sentirá más fluido que la experiencia con el Google Pixel 7 de 90Hz. La única nota negativa es que el pequeño Galaxy S23 no incluye soporte para UWB, lo cual podría ser deseable para sacar el máximo provecho de lo que pagas a tu operador cada mes.
Ver Galaxy S23 en Samsung
Considera También: Apple iPhone 15 ($800)
Si aún anhelas un teléfono compacto que entre en cualquier bolsillo y tienes afinidad por Apple, también merece ser considerado el iPhone 15 de 6.1 pulgadas. Apple ha incluido en este dispositivo el procesador A16 Bionic del iPhone 14 Pro con un plus de potencia. También cuenta con la Dynamic Island del año pasado. Y al igual que el modelo Pro, ahora utiliza USB-C.
Ver iPhone 15 en Best Buy
El Mejor Teléfono Plegable
Nuestra Elección: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold ($1,800)
Durante años, Samsung ha dominado en plegables, pero la competencia finalmente se ha puesto al día. El Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold representa una mejora significativa respecto al Pixel Fold 2023. Es más delgado y más rápido, comparable con la excelente sensación de OnePlus Open de 2023. Sus cámaras son sólidas (aunque no tan avanzadas técnicamente como las del buque insignia Pixel 9 Pro), y su software ha recibido una gran actualización gracias a una pantalla dividida fácil de usar.
Todavía le falta el manejo de múltiples ventanas de aplicaciones que Samsung incluye en su Galaxy Z Fold 6, y su rendimiento no se compara completamente con los conjuntos de chips de gama alta de Qualcomm y Apple, pese a costar $1,800. Si eso te desanima, solo recuerda que gran parte del motivo por el que usas el plegable es por su bisagra. El teléfono de Google simplemente se siente genial, y por eso es nuestra elección.
Ver Google Pixel 9 Pro en Best Buy
Mejor Plegable de Tipo Concha
Nuestra Elección: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 ($1,100)
Tengo mis objeciones con el plegable tipo concha de Samsung, principalmente porque limita qué aplicaciones y widgets puedes usar en la pantalla externa. A pesar de eso, la calidad de construcción del Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 después de seis iteraciones le da ventaja. Es rápido y cuenta con cámaras sólidas, con una opción de foto de 50 MP. Para aquellos preocupados por la resistencia del plegable, este es el único tipo concha en su clase clasificado con resistencia al polvo IPX. También es un teléfono impresionante a la vista, siendo la opción favorita el diseño con la parte trasera amarilla y detalles dorados. Si buscas un móvil que sea también un accesorio elegante, esta podría ser la mejor elección.
Ver Galaxy Z Flip 6 en Samsung
También Puedes Considerar: Motorola Razr 2024 ($700)
El Galaxy Z Flip 6 tiene un MSRP de $1,100. Lo encontrarás en descuento o con reducción por intercambio, pero indudablemente, sigue siendo costoso para lo limitado que es. Luego tienes el Motorola Razr 2024 de $700. Usa un CPU menos potente y su cámara no iguala a la competencia, pero, de nuevo, son $700.
Y con eso, obtienes un teléfono muy permisivo con las apps que puedes usar en su pantalla exterior de 4 pulgadas. La pantalla es tan grande que envuelve los salientes de la cámara. Es un teléfono peculiar y a veces incómodo. Las partes traseras de cuero vegano y gamuza vegana son en su mayoría innecesarias. Sin embargo, es un teléfono atrevido y divertido de tener. Simplemente dicho, es el plegable más económico disponible hoy en día.
Ver Motorola Razr 2024 en Amazon
Esta lista se actualiza regularmente con nuevas recomendaciones y previsiones de productos.
¿Deseas más selecciones de dispositivos electrónicos de Gizmodo? Echa un vistazo a nuestras guías de los mejores laptops, mejores televisores, y mejores auriculares. Si buscas lo próximo importante, ve nuestra guía de todo lo que sabemos sobre el iPhone 16.
