Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Buy?

When you're in the market for a new iPhone, the array of choices can be overwhelming. Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro in 2024, and more recently, introduced the iPhone 16e, expanding the lineup even further. With such a variety, choosing the right phone can be challenging unless you're solely after the latest model. However, it's always beneficial to consider all your options thoroughly.

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16e

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 13

0See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

No matter which iPhone you choose, you'll enjoy the new iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To access Apple Intelligence, however, you'll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

For those looking to enhance their iPhone experience, our guide to the best iPhone accessories can help you find essential peripherals, including screen protectors. We've also had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete favorably with the AirPods 2 in various aspects, making them a worthwhile investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2The iPhone 16 Pro strikes the perfect balance between size and power, offering a compact design with robust internals, a stunning display, and versatile cameras.
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Product Specifications
Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A18 Pro
Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
Battery: 3,582mAh
Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS
- Powerful performance
- Elegant design
- Robust camera system

CONS
- Camera settings could use some tweaks

The iPhone 16 Pro is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between the features of the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is ideal for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors found in its larger sibling. For those who prefer a bigger screen, upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a similar experience with a larger display.

The iPhone 16 Pro boasts the latest A18 Pro chip, which delivers exceptional performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The chip's GPU ensures smooth gameplay even at high settings. Apple's design is luxurious, though the color options are somewhat muted. The OLED screen provides vibrant visuals with high brightness and contrast, complemented by a fluid 120Hz refresh rate. While Apple touts the durability of the Ceramic Shield glass, additional protection is recommended as it can still get scratched.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro excels, particularly in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide lens captures more in the frame but may suffer from softness and noise due to focusing issues, which can be mitigated with manual focus. The 5x telephoto lens is perfect for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature enhances user interaction, though it could benefit from future refinements.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16

2The iPhone 16 offers a more affordable option without compromising much on performance, making it an excellent mid-range choice.
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Product Specifications
Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A18
Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
Battery: 3,582mAh
Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

PROS
- Excellent performance
- Fun colors

CONS
- Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft

The iPhone 16 is an outstanding mid-range option within the iPhone lineup. With the introduction of Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 comes equipped with the A18 chip, delivering performance that rivals the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It easily handles everyday tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves, remaining comfortable even during extended use.

The iPhone 16 offers a range of vibrant color options, along with classic black and white designs. It features the same Ceramic Shield protection, but additional safeguards are recommended. The phone's size is perfect for pocket and hand, making it more manageable than the larger Pro Max models.

While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16's display is still sharp and vibrant. The OLED panel and punchy speakers make it ideal for watching content. The main camera performs admirably, though the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may struggle with softness, an issue that Apple may address in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e offers a budget-friendly option with a powerful chip, though it does come with some compromises.
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Product Specifications
Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
Processor: A18
Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
Battery: 4,005mAh
Weight: 167g (0.39lb)

PROS
- Fast chip
- Lower price than main iPhone lineup

CONS
- Trims a handful of common iPhone features

The iPhone 16e is Apple's most affordable new iPhone, starting at $599. While it offers the A18 chip and access to Apple Intelligence features, it does make several trade-offs. The design has been updated to include a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, with a base storage of 128GB.

However, the iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera, which are standard in other non-SE models. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. If you're looking for a simple, new iPhone and don't mind these limitations, the iPhone 16e might suffice. However, refurbished options like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15 available for under $500 may offer better value.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 13

0The OnePlus 13 combines great design, a stellar display, impressive performance, and excellent cameras, making it a compelling alternative to the iPhone.
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Product Specifications
Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
Battery: 6,000mAh
Weight: 210g (0.46lb)

PROS
- Great value
- Fast performance

CONS
- Software support a little shorter than rivals

The OnePlus 13, priced at $899, offers a compelling alternative to the iPhone. It competes with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, featuring a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto lens, a 50MP main sensor, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor. The front-facing camera also delivers excellent results.

The OnePlus 13's 6.82-inch OLED display boasts a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and power efficiency. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor delivers performance that rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max, excelling in both single-core and multi-core tasks, as well as graphics performance. With a 6,000mAh battery and fast charging options, it's ideal for all-day use.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways, and includes an alert slider reminiscent of older iPhones. It also offers superior water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings. If you're open to exploring beyond the iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth considering.

Upcoming iPhones

In 2024, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 series, bringing significant improvements and performance enhancements. They also adjusted the prices of older models, making them more accessible. The iPhone 16e was introduced as a more budget-friendly option, replacing the iPhone SE. Leaked information suggests that the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may include an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

While the user experience remains consistent across different iPhone models, key differences can help you choose the best one for your needs. Here’s what to consider when buying an Apple iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

Size is crucial when selecting an iPhone. For one-handed use, smaller models like the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 are ideal. Larger models like the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max are better suited for those with bigger hands or who prefer a larger screen.

Storage Capacity

Storage is another important factor. If you plan to store many high-resolution photos, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is the best choice. Other models offer a base of 128GB, suitable for casual users.

Price

The iPhone range spans from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the premium iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, all iPhones come with the latest iOS, ensuring updates for the next five to six years.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on how you intend to use it. For most users, the iPhone 16 Pro offers the best overall package with its fast processor, excellent camera system, and a variety of storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones are dominant in the smartphone market, several Android phones offer comparable features. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, which are leading options in the Android space. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide competitive phones with features that appeal to iOS users.