Top Android Phones for 2025 Revealed

If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're exploring a vast landscape of options that go beyond mere iPhone alternatives. The Android market is a playground for innovation, offering everything from the groundbreaking folding phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 to specialized gaming powerhouses with enhanced buttons and air-cooling technology. With the introduction of the new Galaxy S25 lineup, which is already available for pre-order, the variety is astounding. Moreover, many of these options are surprisingly affordable, meaning you don't have to break the bank to get a top-notch device.

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 an Android enthusiast since 2012, starting with my first 3D phone, and I've since tested a wide array of devices. From budget-friendly options to the first 5G phones, gaming phones with unique features, and innovative folding, flipping, and twisting designs, I've seen it all. My colleagues and I have hands-on experience with devices from Samsung and Google, as well as lesser-known brands striving to compete or even surpass them. So, whether you're looking for the best of the best or a budget-friendly gem, we've got you covered.

What you'll find here are not just the best Android phones but some of the best smartphones overall. You can opt for top-tier features and quality or discover a budget-friendly device that punches above its weight. And if none of these fit your needs, keep checking back; the Android market evolves rapidly, offering new options much faster than the annual iPhone cycle.

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

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Android Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

0Experience a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone powered by a robust processor capable of running multiple apps, editing videos, gaming, and supporting stunning camera performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavySince Samsung introduced the Ultra designation, these models have represented the pinnacle of the brand's capabilities and design. Our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review confirmed it as the top choice for 2024. This phone offers an impressive suite of features, making it the best Android phone on the market.

Starting with the display, you'll enjoy a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED panel that boasts high brightness, extreme contrast, and smooth motion with a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra retains S Pen support for precise input, and it's encased in a new blend of Gorilla Glass, one of the strongest available, with a titanium frame for durability. It's also water and dust resistant.

Internally, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC ensures it can handle the latest apps, run top-tier games at max settings, and maintain smooth performance for years to come. Samsung promises seven years of operating system updates, matching Google's commitment to its latest Pixel phones.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung has equipped the Galaxy S24 Ultra with five cameras, including a 200-Megapixel main sensor for incredible detail, a 12MP ultra-wide for expansive shots, and both 3x and 5x lenses for zooming in on subjects. You can enhance your photography with Samsung's AI tools, which allow you to search for objects in photos and edit images with AI assistance.

With top-tier performance, an exceptional design, versatile cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as the leading Android phone. Until another device can challenge Samsung across all these fronts, the S24 Ultra remains our number one pick.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Android Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an exceptionally fast and visually stunning smartphone, only slightly marred by its unusual 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 versatile device with dual functionality. When folded, it features a 6.2-inch display; when opened, it transforms into a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, effectively switching from smartphone to tablet. Both displays utilize AMOLED technology, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrasts.

Designed for productivity, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, offering a significant performance boost over its predecessor. Whether multitasking with split-screen setups, using DeX for a desktop-like experience, or playing demanding games like Wuthering Waves or Zenless Zone Zero, the Z Fold 6 keeps pace.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 ImagesPhotography enthusiasts will appreciate the Z Fold 6's 50MP main camera, ultra-wide sensor, and zoom lens with 5x optical magnification, capable of up to 30x digital zoom. Like the S24 Ultra, it integrates Samsung's AI tools for photo editing. With an S Pen, you can enjoy fine editing capabilities on the internal display.

The versatility of the Z Fold 6 makes it our top pick for the best foldable Android phone. For those who prefer a more compact design, consider the Z Flip 6, which offers a different set of trade-offs in camera and multitasking capabilities.

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

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

0This ultra-affordable phone delivers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though it falls short in camera quality and gaming prowess. 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 renowned for its budget-friendly smartphones, consistently packing impressive features at low prices. The Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed was a standout bargain at its launch in 2023 for around $220 and remains a compelling value today.

The standout feature of the Poco X5 5G is its display. While many budget phones settle for LCDs, Poco opts for a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a 1080x2400 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures excellent contrast, vibrant colors, and smooth visuals, ideal for gaming and entertainment.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G offers solid performance for its price, capable of running Genshin Impact at medium settings smoothly. Its 5000mAh battery supports extended use, streaming Netflix for nearly 20 hours even at maximum brightness.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 ImagesAdditional features include an IR blaster for universal remote control functionality and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which are rare on modern phones in the US. However, the Poco X5 5G's camera system and software update support are not as robust as some competitors. Still, for those seeking a device with a great screen and adequate performance for content consumption and basic tasks, the Poco X5 5G is a solid choice.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

0The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance with superior thermal management in an attractive 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 supportIn my review, I found that the RedMagic 10 Pro excels in gaming performance, setting it apart from more well-rounded phones. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, this phone is a powerhouse, and its active cooling system ensures sustained performance during long gaming sessions. This cooling technology allows for more stable frame rates at maximum settings, ignoring typical mobile game warnings about high settings.

The RedMagic 10 Pro features a 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, offering a sharp and fast visual experience. The hidden-under-screen selfie camera maintains an uninterrupted view, and the phone includes two capacitive shoulder buttons for enhanced gaming control, which can be a significant advantage in games like FPS titles. The touchscreen's enhanced polling rate ensures prompt input registration.

While the RedMagic 10 Pro's cameras and software update support are not as strong as some competitors, it offers a powerful package at a starting price of just $649. This savings can be used to invest in a quality mobile phone controller, making it a competitive alternative to devices like the Steam Deck.

5. Google Pixel 8

Best Midrange Android Phone

### Google Pixel 8

1Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid camera performance, smart AI features, and a bright, vibrant 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 may not be the latest model, but as I reviewed the Pixel 9 myself, I can attest that it remains a fantastic choice, especially at its now-reduced price. Opting for the Pixel 8 over the Pixel 8a, which costs just $100 more, is a smart move.

Google's Pixel 8 brings notable upgrades, including the Tensor G3 SoC, which performs faster and cooler than its predecessor. The phone is slightly smaller, making it more pocketable and easier to use with one hand. Its 6.2-inch display features a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, ensuring excellent visuals for gaming and media consumption, complemented by decent stereo speakers.

A significant advantage of the Pixel 8 is its commitment to seven years of updates for the operating system, security patches, and features, ensuring long-term usability and security.

The Pixel 8's camera system is another highlight, with a main sensor that excels in low light and delivers sharp, colorful photos. The ultra-wide lens, while not as impressive, offers a broad field of view. For a phone priced around $500, this camera performance is a great value.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

Choosing the right phone involves considering several key factors. Storage space is essential, especially if you engage in activities like video recording, gaming, or music downloads. While fewer phones now feature a Micro SD slot for expandable storage, some of our top picks offer up to 1TB of internal storage. Alternatively, you can use cloud storage to free up space on your device.

RAM is vital for smooth operation, with 4GB being sufficient for basic tasks, but heavier use requires more. All our recommendations have at least 6GB of RAM, ensuring you can handle gaming and multitasking with ease.

The phone's processor is crucial for performance. The number of cores and clock speed determine how quickly the phone processes tasks. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Google's Tensor G4 being among the best currently available.

Best Android Phones FAQ

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

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