Top Android Phones for 2025 Revealed

If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're diving into a world of options that go beyond just iPhone alternatives. From folding giants like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 that blur the line between smartphone and tablet, to gaming-focused devices with extra buttons and air-cooled components, the Android market is a hub of innovation. There's no shortage of compelling phones, including the new Galaxy S25 lineup that's already available to order. Many of these options are also competitive in terms of value, meaning you don't need to spend over $1,000 to get a great phone.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Android Phones:

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

0See it at Amazon### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

0See it at Amazon### Poco X5 5G

0See it at Amazon### RedMagic 10 Pro

0See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### Google Pixel 8

1See it at AmazonI've been using Android phones since 2012, starting with my first Android and 3D phone. Since then, I've tested a wide range of Android devices, from budget options to the first 5G phones, gaming phones with unique features, and various folding and flipping models. I've experienced the best from Samsung and Google, and seen how lesser-known brands keep pace or even surpass them. My colleagues and I have extensive first-hand experience with these devices, so we're here to help you find the perfect Android phone for your needs.

What you'll find here are not just the best Android phones but some of the best smartphones overall. Whether you're looking for top-tier features and quality or a budget-friendly option that exceeds expectations, we've got you covered. And if nothing quite fits, be sure to check back often, as the Android market evolves rapidly, offering new devices much more frequently than the iPhone market.

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

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Android Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

0Enjoy a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone packed with a processor that can handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and power the stunning cameras. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBSStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavySince Samsung started appending Ultra to its products, these models have been the pinnacle of the brand's capabilities and design. After our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we decided it's worthy of the top spot in 2024. This phone brings so much to the table, making it the best Android phone available.

The display is a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED with high brightness, extreme contrast, and fluid motion thanks to a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. It also supports the S Pen for precise input. Samsung uses a new blend of Gorilla Glass and a titanium frame for durability, with water and dust resistance as well.

Inside, you'll find the top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, ready to run the latest apps, handle top-tier games at max settings, and keep the phone running smoothly for years. Samsung promises seven years of OS updates, matching Google's commitment to its latest Pixel phones.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung also packs in five camera lenses for the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The main sensor is a 200-megapixel shooter capable of incredible detail. There's a 12MP ultra-wide camera for wider shots, and both a 3x and 5x lens for zooming in on subjects.

You can utilize AI tools to search for objects in photos or edit and adjust them with AI features. With top-tier performance, an exceptional design, travel-worthy cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra sets the standard for Android phones. Until another device challenges Samsung on all fronts, the S24 Ultra remains the top choice.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Android Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly fast and gorgeous smartphone, held back only by its unique aspect ratio when unfolded. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdLarge and in charge, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 we reviewed is a dual-natured beast. Folded, it offers a tall but thin 6.2-inch display. Unfolded, it transforms into a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, allowing you to switch from smartphone to tablet seamlessly. Both displays utilize AMOLED panels for vibrant colors and deep contrast.

With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the Z Fold 6 delivers a significant performance boost over its predecessor (up to 22% in our tests). Whether multitasking with split-screen setups, using DeX like a desktop, or playing the latest games like Wuthering Waves or Zenless Zone Zero, the Z Fold 6 has the power to keep up.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 ImagesIt also features a robust camera setup with a 50MP main shooter, an ultra-wide sensor, and a zoom lens with 5x optical magnification, capable of up to 30x digital zoom. Like the S24 Ultra, the Z Fold 6 benefits from Samsung's AI tools for photo editing, and with an S Pen, you can achieve precise editing on the internal display.

The Z Fold 6's versatility makes it the top foldable Android phone. For those who prefer a smaller option, Samsung also offers the Z Flip 6, which we reviewed as well, trading some camera and multitasking capabilities for a more compact design.

For protection, check out our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases if you choose this phone.

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

0This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming performance are modest. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.8-inch OLED, 1116x2480, 400 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading VersionCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery6,500mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSBrilliant display for gaming and entertainmentExcellent sustained gaming performanceStylish designCONSShorter software supportUnderwhelming camera systemPoco is known for its budget-friendly smartphones, and the Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed was a great value when it launched in 2023 for around $220. It remains a solid choice.

The highlight of the Poco X5 5G is its 6.67-inch AMOLED display, which offers a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures excellent contrast and color for content consumption and smooth gameplay on a sizable screen.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G delivers respectable performance for its price point. It can even run Genshin Impact at medium settings smoothly. Its large 5000mAh battery allows for extended use, streaming Netflix for nearly 20 hours at maximum brightness.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 ImagesAdditional features include an IR blaster for use as a universal remote and a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, the Poco X5 5G may not receive long-term software support; it launched with Android 12 and has since been updated to Android 14, but future updates are uncertain. The cameras are also underwhelming, but if you need a device with a good screen and enough performance for everyday use, the Poco X5 5G delivers.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

0The RedMagic 10 Pro combines exceptional performance with extreme sustain in a wonderful package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportWhile other phones may be more versatile, the RedMagic 10 Pro excels in gaming performance. It's equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and active cooling, ensuring better sustain than most phones. This means stable frame rates during long gaming sessions, even at max settings.

The 6.85-inch AMOLED display is large and vibrant, with a 144Hz refresh rate and an under-display selfie camera for an uninterrupted view. The phone also features two capacitive shoulder buttons for enhanced game control, and the touchscreen has an enhanced polling rate for quick input registration.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's cameras don't match those of its competitors, and it offers fewer software updates compared to Samsung, Google, or OnePlus. However, it's a powerful package at a competitive price starting at $649. With the savings, you can invest in a quality mobile phone controller and compete with devices like the Steam Deck.

5. Google Pixel 8

Best Midrange Android Phone

### Google Pixel 8

1Running on a G3 Tensor chip, you'll enjoy solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a bright, beautiful OLED display at an affordable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.2-inch OLED, 1080x2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G3 Camera50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10.5-megapixel selfieBattery4,575 mAhWeight187g (0.41lb)PROSWonderfully responsive screenSeven years of updates and OS supportImpressive cameraCONSRAM upgrade reserved for Pro modelThe Pixel 8 isn't the newest model, but it's still a fantastic phone, especially at its reduced price. There's little reason to opt for the Pixel 8a when you can get the Pixel 8 for just $100 more.

The Pixel 8 features the Tensor G3 SoC, which runs faster and cooler than its predecessor. It's also slightly smaller, making it more pocket-friendly and easier to use one-handed. The 6.2-inch display offers a 120Hz refresh rate and a 2,000-nit peak brightness, making it ideal for games and movies, complemented by decent stereo speakers.

A key advantage of the Pixel 8 is its seven years of updates, ensuring long-term security and feature enhancements. Its camera system is excellent, with a main sensor that performs well in low light and bright conditions, delivering sharp, vibrant photos. While the ultra-wide camera isn't as impressive, it still offers a wide field of view. For $500, the Pixel 8's camera system is a great deal.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

When choosing an Android phone, consider several key factors. Storage space is crucial; if you plan to film videos, play games, or store lots of music, look for phones with ample internal storage or a Micro SD slot, though these are becoming rarer. Our picks offer up to 1TB of storage, which should suffice for most users. Alternatively, cloud storage can help manage space.

RAM is essential for multitasking; 4GB is sufficient for basic operations, but 6GB or more is ideal for heavy gaming and app use. All our recommended phones have at least 6GB of RAM.

Finally, the processor determines how smoothly your phone runs. The number of cores and clock speed are key factors. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Google's Tensor G4 being the top performers currently.

Best Android Phones FAQ

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

Android phones are a type of smartphone. Since the iPhone popularized the term 'smartphone' in 2007, Google has been competing with its Android OS. An Android phone runs Google's Android operating system, and with few exceptions, any device running Android is considered a smartphone.