At the close of 2025, the competition among smartphones hit new heights. With powerful upgrades and advancements across brands, smartphone enthusiasts have a lot to consider. Here are the top five contenders for the title of the best smartphone of 2025, featuring standout models from Samsung, Apple, Honor, and OnePlus. We’ll cover their main features, strengths, and drawbacks to help you decide which is best suited for your needs.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra was one of the first major releases of 2025, and it remains an outstanding all-around performer. Its refreshed design features flat sides, making it ergonomic and modern. The device boasts Samsung’s signature Gorilla Armor display with anti-reflective properties, delivering stunning visuals and scratch resistance.

Key features:

• Display: Best-in-class with vibrant colors and up to 2,000 nits brightness.
• Processor: Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy ensures peak performance.
• Cameras: Log video recording and generative AI tools for enhanced creativity.
• AI Integration: Innovative features like 'browsing assist' streamline daily tasks.
• Updates: Seven years of Android updates offer longevity.

Drawbacks:

• Battery: Samsung opted not to include silicon-carbon tech, limiting battery capacity.
• Water Resistance: While rated at IP68, it lacks IP69 protection for high-pressure jets.
• Price: Launched at $1,300, it’s one of the pricier models, though discounts are now available.

Though pricey, the S25 Ultra features the most seamless S Pen integration and a robust AI suite, making it a leader in productivity and innovation.

Apple iPhone 17

The iPhone 17 stunned many with its significant improvements over its predecessor. For the first time, Apple included a 120Hz ProMotion display on its non-Pro model – a much-appreciated upgrade. At $800, it combines competitive features with reasonable pricing.

Key features:

• Display: 120Hz refresh rate with exceptional 3,000-nit brightness.
• Chipset: A19 Bionic chip, 20% faster than the iPhone 16’s.
• Cameras: A new center-stage 18 MP camera supports both portrait and landscape capture.
• Storage: Double the base storage compared to the previous generation.

Drawbacks:

• Design: Minimal changes from the iPhone 16 might leave some underwhelmed.
• Camera: Lacks telephoto lenses, relying instead on software-based zoom.

For those looking for great performance at a competitive price, the iPhone 17 is a solid choice. Pro users, however, may prefer the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max for additional camera and performance benefits.

Samsung Galaxy X Fold 7

Samsung’s Galaxy X Fold 7 takes foldables to the next level, addressing many shortcomings of earlier models. This ultra-thin device offers improved durability and functionality.

Key features:

• Thin Profile: 4.2 mm when unfolded, 8.9 mm folded.
• Display: Usable 6.5-inch cover display and a stunning 8-inch internal AMOLED screen.
• Cameras: Flagship-level 200 MP main camera, versatile for photography enthusiasts.
• Updates: Seven years of OS upgrades ensure longevity.
• Multitasking: Enhanced usability with split-screen and app displays.

Drawbacks:

• Price: Starting around $1,900, it’s a serious investment.
• Battery: Limited to 4,400 mAh, restricting longevity in a busy day.
• Stylus: No S Pen support, a step back from previous models.

If you’re intrigued by foldables, the Galaxy X Fold 7 is a premium choice with excellent multitasking capabilities and build quality.

Honor Magic V5

Honor’s Magic V5 foldable smartphone has made waves in 2025 for its innovative silicon-carbon technology, offering extended battery life and faster charging.

Key features:

• Battery: Market-leading 5,820 mAh capacity backed by 66W wireless charging.
• Displays: Smooth 6.43-inch cover screen paired with a high-quality 7.95-inch internal display.
• Eye-Friendly Tech: 4,320 Hz PWM dimming for comfortable use in low light.
• Affordability: At about $1,300 during discounts, it’s more budget-friendly than Samsung’s foldable.

Drawbacks:

• Camera Bump: Significant in size, though functional for stability.
• Stylus: The Magic Pen lacks pressure sensitivity found in Samsung’s S Pen.

Those seeking an affordable, high-performing foldable with outstanding battery life will find the Honor Magic V5 an appealing option.

OnePlus 15

OnePlus continues to deliver value, and the OnePlus 15 is no exception. Packed with cutting-edge features at a lower price point than many competitors, this device stands out.

Key features:

• Display: World’s first 1.5K 165Hz panel, ideal for gamers and media consumers.
• Performance: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with a triple-chip system for enhanced touch and Wi-Fi performance.
• Battery: 7,300 mAh supported by 120W fast charging to 100% in just 39 minutes.
• Pricing: Starts at $850, making it the most cost-effective on this list.

Drawbacks:

• Camera Performance: Triple 50 MP sensors are decent but fail to match the level of Samsung or Vivo.
• Updates: Four years of OS updates fall short of competitors like Google or Honor.

The OnePlus 15 is designed for speed and efficiency, perfect for power users and gamers who prioritize performance over camera excellence.

Honorable Mentions

Several excellent devices came close to making the top five:

• Vivo X300 Pro: Outstanding cameras but less availability in Western markets.
• Xiaomi 15 Ultra: High-tier performance at an aggressive price.
• Honor Magic 7 Pro: A well-rounded choice for those on a budget.

Practical Takeaways

• The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best all-rounder for productivity seekers, enhanced by its S Pen and AI features.
• The iPhone 17 offers unmatched display quality and balanced performance at a competitive price.
• If you’re looking for foldable options, the Samsung Galaxy X Fold 7 and Honor Magic V5 cater to different needs—premium features versus battery life and price.
• The OnePlus 15 delivers flagship capabilities for a fraction of the cost, excelling in speed, display quality, and unique technology.

These top picks offer a glimpse into what makes 2025’s smartphones stand out, underscoring the rapid leaps in innovation and design witnessed this year.