Top 2025 Android Smartphones

Choosing the best Android phone is a thrilling adventure! The market explodes with options beyond simply being an iPhone alternative. Imagine folding behemoths like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, transforming from phone to tablet, or gaming powerhouses boasting extra buttons and advanced cooling. Android fosters innovation, constantly delivering exciting new phones—including the recently released Galaxy S25 series. And the best part? You don't need to break the bank for a fantastic device; many offer exceptional value.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Android Phones:

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Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

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### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

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### Poco X5 5G

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### RedMagic 10 Pro

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### Google Pixel 8

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My Android journey began in 2012 with a 3D phone—a memorable start! Since then, I've explored the spectrum of Android devices: budget champions, groundbreaking 5G pioneers, innovative gaming phones, foldable marvels, flip phones, and even a twisting phone! I've tested Samsung and Google's flagships and discovered hidden gems from lesser-known brands. This experience, combined with the expertise of my colleagues Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru, ensures we provide you with the most informed recommendations.

This isn't just a list of the best Android phones; it's a selection of the best smartphones overall. Whether you seek top-tier features or budget-friendly brilliance, we've got you covered. And remember, the Android market is dynamic, so check back often for the latest updates!

Contributions by Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru.

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Android Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

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Experience a stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, powered by a robust processor capable of handling demanding tasks like multitasking, video editing, gaming, and showcasing the exceptional camera system.

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 6.8 inches
• Rear cameras: 4
• Front cameras: 1
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)
• Battery life: 5,000mAh
• Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Starting price: $1,299.99

PROS: Incredible performance, Exceptional camera system

CONS: Titanium construction results in a large and heavy device

Since Samsung introduced "Ultra," these models have defined the pinnacle of their design and capabilities. Our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review solidified its top spot in 2024. Its impressive features make it the best Android phone available.

The 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED display delivers high brightness, incredible contrast, and smooth motion with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. S Pen support provides precise input. Protected by durable Gorilla Glass and a titanium frame, it boasts water and dust resistance. Inside, the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC ensures smooth performance for years to come, backed by Samsung's commitment to seven years of OS updates.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

(5 Images)

The camera system boasts five lenses, including a 200MP main sensor for exceptional detail, a 12MP ultrawide, and 3x and 5x telephoto lenses. AI-powered tools enhance photo editing and object recognition.

With top-tier performance, exceptional design, impressive cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra reigns supreme until another phone can match its comprehensive excellence.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Android Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a remarkably fast and visually stunning smartphone, slightly hampered only by its unusual aspect ratio when unfolded.

Product Specifications

• Screen: 7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Camera: 50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP front
• Battery: 4400mAh
• Weight: 239g (0.52 lb)

PROS: Stunning displays (inside and out), Extremely powerful

CONS: Unusual aspect ratios, Large and heavy

Our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 review highlighted its dual nature: a tall, slim 6.2-inch display when folded, and a spacious 7.6-inch 4:3 aspect ratio tablet when unfolded. Both AMOLED displays offer vibrant colors and deep contrast.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor delivers exceptional performance, excelling in multitasking (split-screen), desktop mode (DeX), and demanding games.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

(6 Images)

Its camera system includes a 50MP main shooter, ultrawide sensor, and a 5x optical zoom lens (up to 30x digital zoom), complemented by Samsung's AI editing tools. S Pen support further enhances editing capabilities.

Its versatility makes it the best folding Android phone. Consider also the Samsung Z Flip 6 (reviewed separately) for a more compact and stylish alternative.

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

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This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though with some compromises in camera quality and gaming performance.

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.8-inch OLED, 1116x2480, 400 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version
• Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 16-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 6,500mAh
• Weight: 229g (0.5lb)

PROS: Brilliant display, Excellent sustained gaming performance, Stylish design

CONS: Shorter software support, Underwhelming camera system

My review of the Poco X5 5G highlighted its exceptional value. Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate provides excellent contrast and color for a budget phone. The Snapdragon 695G SoC delivers solid performance, even handling Genshin Impact at medium settings smoothly. The large 5000mAh battery provides impressive battery life.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

(9 Images)

The Poco X5 5G includes an IR blaster and a 3.5mm headphone jack. While long-term software support and camera quality are limitations, it delivers excellent value for its price.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

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The RedMagic 10 Pro stands out with exceptional gaming performance and sustained power.

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 7,050mAh
• Weight: 229g (0.5lb)

PROS: Excellent gaming performance, Great display

CONS: Underwhelming cameras, Shorter software support

My review highlighted its superior gaming performance thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling system, ensuring stable frame rates even at maximum settings. The 6.85-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, along with under-screen selfie camera and capacitive shoulder buttons, enhances the gaming experience.

While cameras and software support are less impressive than competitors, its powerful gaming capabilities and price make it a compelling choice for gamers.

5. Google Pixel 8

Best Midrange Android Phone

### Google Pixel 8

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Despite not being the newest model, the Pixel 8 offers excellent value with its Tensor G3 chip, solid cameras, smart AI features, and a vibrant OLED display.

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.2-inch OLED, 1080x2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Tensor G3
• Camera: 50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10.5-megapixel selfie
• Battery: 4,575 mAh
• Weight: 187g (0.41lb)

PROS: Responsive screen, Seven years of updates and OS support, Impressive camera

CONS: RAM upgrade reserved for Pro model

Even though the Pixel 9 is out, the Pixel 8 remains a strong contender due to its lower price. The Tensor G3 SoC delivers fast and cool performance. The compact 6.2-inch 120Hz display with 2,000-nit peak brightness is impressive, complemented by good stereo speakers. Seven years of OS and security updates are a major advantage.

The camera system features an excellent main sensor for low-light performance and a wide field-of-view ultrawide lens. Its camera quality at this price point is a highlight.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

Choosing a phone involves considering storage, RAM, and processor. Sufficient storage (some options offer up to 1TB) is crucial, especially for video recording, gaming, and music. Adequate RAM (6GB or more in our picks) ensures smooth multitasking. Powerful processors like Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Tensor G4 (used in our selections) are key for optimal performance.

Best Android Phones FAQ

What is the difference between an Android phone and a smartphone?

Android phones are a type of smartphone. Android is Google's operating system, competing with iOS. Almost all Android-powered devices are smartphones.