The Best Smartphones of the Year Ranked and Reviewed

Smartphones have become an intrinsic part of our daily lives, evolving faster than almost any other piece of technology. With 2025 being a standout year for innovation, we’ve seen impressive advancements in battery life, camera quality, and performance. Whether you’re an avid mobile photographer, a gamer, or someone who simply wants a smooth experience on social media, the best smartphones of this year deliver on all fronts. From flagship powerhouses to budget-friendly marvels, this ranking takes an in-depth look at the top contenders. We’ve assessed each device across critical factors like design, performance, camera quality, software experience, and value for money. Here's everything you need to know about the best smartphones of 2025.

The Top Contenders

1. iPhone 15 Ultra

Apple’s iPhone 15 Ultra is a shining testament to cutting-edge engineering. The device refines and elevates the smartphone experience in every way imaginable. With its aerospace-grade titanium frame, it is not only lightweight but also incredibly durable. The iPhone 15 Ultra’s highlight is its camera system. Apple introduces a 48MP periscope telephoto lens, enabling users to capture stunning long-distance shots with unmatched clarity. The A17 Pro chip ensures this device is a powerhouse, tackling intense gaming and multitasking effortlessly. On the software side, iOS 19 continues to deliver seamless integrations and innovative features like StandBy mode for nightstand usage. Coupled with an all-day battery, it’s clear why this flagship dominates the premium market. Price range aside, the high level of performance and premium materials justifies every cent of the investment for serious Apple enthusiasts.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Revolutionizing the foldable smartphone category, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 takes multitasking and screen real estate to incredible new heights. Samsung has reduced the device’s hinge size, making it sleeker and more compact when folded. When opened, the stunning 7.8-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and fluid scrolling at 120Hz.

What sets the Z Fold 6 apart is its ability to function as a mini-tablet. Thanks to Samsung’s One UI 6.1 paired with multitasking optimizations, productivity has never felt so natural on a mobile device. From split screens to drag-and-drop functionality, it’s perfect for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip ensures blazing-fast performance. While it comes with a premium price tag, the Z Fold 6 justifies it for users seeking unparalleled versatility in a smartphone.

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google proves once again why its Pixel lineup is synonymous with photography. The Pixel 9 Pro brings AI photography to the forefront, allowing for real-time scene adjustments and post-processed depth editing you won’t get elsewhere. Its 50MP main sensor captures photos that are a cut above the competition, particularly in low-light conditions where its advanced computational photography shines. Apart from the camera, the Pixel 9 Pro excels in offering a pure Android experience. Running Android 15, it provides streamlined updates and an intuitive interface. Google has also beefed up hardware this year with the new Tensor G4 chipset, designed for both performance and energy efficiency. If top-tier photography and clean software are your priorities, this device is undoubtedly one of the best smartphones on the market.

4. OnePlus Horizon 3

Once known as the “flagship killer,” OnePlus continues to deliver value-packed smartphones. The Horizon 3 showcases a stunning 6.7-inch Super Fluid display that supports up to 144Hz, delivering unparalleled smoothness for media consumption and gaming. The device's Hasselblad-branded triple camera system delivers incredible sharpness and true-to-life color reproduction. Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor ensures smooth multitasking and top-notch gaming performance. At a price point significantly lower than the big players, the OnePlus Horizon 3 continues its tradition of outpacing expectations without emptying your wallet.

5. ASUS ROG Phone 8 Ultimate

For gamers, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 Ultimate is the definitive choice. Boasting an innovative cooling solution, a striking 165Hz AMOLED display, and a massive battery, this phone is uniquely tailored for immersive gaming experiences. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it runs the most resource-heavy games with ease. The ROG-exclusive GameCool 7 technology prevents overheating during marathon sessions. Beyond gaming, its extensive battery life and stereo front-facing speakers make it ideal for media enthusiasts. While it caters to a niche market, it excels at doing precisely what it’s designed for.

What Makes These Smartphones Stand Out

This year’s best smartphones have showcased how brands continue to push boundaries. Some have doubled down on innovation by creating new form factors (like foldables), while others have focused on perfecting key features like cameras or performance. Across the board, 2025 has been a year of raising industry benchmarks.

Performance and Chips

Several devices introduced chipsets designed for extreme power without sacrificing efficiency. Apple's A17 Pro and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 lead the pack, enabling smooth multitasking, robust gaming capabilities, and improved battery optimization.

Camera Versatility

Photography remains a defining feature, with manufacturers investing heavily in AI-powered enhancements and upgraded sensors. Devices like the Pixel 9 Pro and iPhone 15 Ultra have added tools for professional-grade photography that fits in your pocket.

Design Innovation

The foldable category has hit new strides with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Its slim form factor combined with a durable hinge mechanism demonstrates a leap in engineering.

Deciding on the best smartphone ultimately depends on your needs. If you’re an Apple loyalist seeking sleek engineering and unmatched integration, the iPhone 15 Ultra is a no-brainer. For productivity enthusiasts or multitaskers, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 delivers unprecedented versatility. Photography aficionados will bask in the Pixel 9 Pro’s cutting-edge AI features, while budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the OnePlus Horizon 3’s outstanding value proposition. Of course, gamers have a clear winner in the ASUS ROG Phone 8 Ultimate.