Top Android Phones for 2025 Revealed

If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're diving into a wide world of options that go well beyond just iPhone alternatives. The Android market is where some of the most exciting innovations happen, offering everything from folding behemoths that blur the line between smartphone and tablet, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, to devices focused on gaming performance and features, such as the RedMagic 10 Pro with its air-cooled components. The new Galaxy S25 lineup, already available to order, showcases the latest in Android technology. What's great is that many of these devices are competitively priced, so you don't necessarily need to spend over $1,000 to get a fantastic 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 AmazonWith years of experience using and testing Android phones, from the first 5G models to the latest folding and gaming devices, our team has a deep understanding of what makes a great Android phone. We've covered the best options, from high-end flagships to budget-friendly gems, ensuring there's something for everyone. And with the Android market moving fast, you won't have to wait a year to see the next wave of devices, unlike with iPhones.

What you'll find here are not just the best Android phones but some of the best smartphones around. Whether you're looking for top-of-the-line features or a budget score that punches above its weight, we've got you covered. And if nothing quite fits the bill, be sure to check back often as new models are always on the horizon.

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 stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone powered by a robust processor capable of running multiple apps, editing videos, gaming, and powering its impressive camera system. 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 started appending Ultra onto its products, these models have represented the pinnacle of the brand’s capabilities and design. After our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we've concluded it's worthy of the top spot in 2024. This phone offers a comprehensive package, making it the best Android phone available.

The display is a standout feature: a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED screen that boasts high brightness, extreme contrast, and fluid motion with a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra also supports S Pen for precise input. Samsung has encased this in a new blend of Gorilla Glass, one of the strongest available, and a titanium frame. It's also water and dust resistant.

Internally, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC powers the device, ready to handle the latest apps, run top-tier games at max settings, and ensure smooth operation for years. Samsung commits to seven years of operating system updates, matching Google’s promise for its latest Pixel phones.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung has packed in an impressive camera system – five lenses in total – for the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The main sensor is a 200-megapixel shooter capable of capturing incredible detail. For broader scenes, there’s a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and for zooming in, both 3x and 5x lenses are available.

You can leverage AI tools to search for objects in photos or edit and adjust your images. With top-tier performance, exceptional design, travel-worthy cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as the leading Android phone until another contender can match it across the board.

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 visually stunning smartphone, though its unfolded aspect ratio might feel a bit unusual. 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 powerhouse with dual personalities. When folded, it features a tall but slim 6.2-inch display. When unfolded, it transforms into a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, effectively turning it from a smartphone into a tablet. Both displays use AMOLED panels, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrast.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is built for productivity, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which offers significant performance improvements over its predecessor (up to 22% in our tests). Whether you're multitasking with a split-screen setup, using the phone as a desktop with DeX, or playing the latest games like Wuthering Waves or Zenless Zone Zero, the Z Fold 6 is up to the task.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 ImagesIt's not just about performance; the Z Fold 6 also boasts a capable camera system. It features a 50MP main camera, an ultra-wide sensor, and a zoom lens with 5x optical magnification that can go up to a 30x digital zoom. Like the S24 Ultra, it uses Samsung's AI tools for photo editing. With an S Pen, you can achieve fine editing capabilities on the internal display.

The versatility of the Z Fold 6 makes it the top choice for foldable Android phones. However, if you prefer a more compact design, Samsung also offers the Z Flip 6, which we reviewed and found to make some trade-offs on camera and multitasking for a more portable form factor.

You can also explore our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases if you decide to go with this Android phone.

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

0This ultra-affordable phone delivers 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming performance might leave something to be desired. 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 smartphones, and the Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed is no exception. Launched in 2023 for around $220, it remains an outstanding value.

The standout feature of the Poco X5 5G is its display. While many budget phones settle for LCD screens, Poco has equipped the X5 5G with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, boasting a crisp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This results in excellent contrast and color reproduction, perfect for gaming and content consumption.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G offers commendable performance for its price point. It can run games like Genshin Impact at medium settings smoothly. Its large 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting use, capable of streaming Netflix for nearly 20 hours even at maximum screen brightness.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 ImagesAdditional features include an IR blaster, which can function as a universal remote control, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, the Poco X5 5G's software support might not be as extensive as some competitors, and its cameras are less impressive. Still, for those seeking a device with a great screen and solid performance for everyday use, the Poco X5 5G is a compelling choice.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

0The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance and sustained power in a well-designed 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 stands out for its superb gaming performance. It's powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which is incredibly powerful. Additionally, RedMagic's active cooling system ensures better sustained performance than most phones. This active cooling, unlike the passive cooling found in most devices, effectively dissipates heat, allowing for stable frame rates even at max settings.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's 6.85-inch display is both large and impressive. It features a bright AMOLED panel with a sharp 144Hz refresh rate and an under-display selfie camera for an uninterrupted gaming view. The phone also includes two capacitive shoulder buttons, enhancing control in games by allowing for simultaneous actions like moving, aiming, and shooting in FPS games. The touchscreen has an enhanced polling rate for quick input registration.

While the RedMagic 10 Pro's cameras may not match those of its competitors, and its software update promises are shorter than those of Samsung or Google, it offers a powerful gaming package at a competitive price of $649. With the savings, you could invest in a quality mobile phone controller and challenge even 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 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 modelThough the Pixel 8 isn't the latest model, my review of the Pixel 9 confirms that the Pixel 8 still holds up as a great phone. Its age means it's available at a significantly reduced price, making it an attractive option compared to the newer Pixel 8a, which costs just $100 less.

The Pixel 8 features the Tensor G3 SoC, which runs faster and cooler than its predecessor. Google has also made the phone slightly smaller, enhancing its one-handed usability. The 6.2-inch display, despite its size, offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility and performance for games, movies, and more.

One of the Pixel 8's standout features is its seven-year update commitment, ensuring long-term support for operating system updates, security patches, and new features. This extended support is crucial for maintaining device security and functionality over time.

The camera system is another highlight, with a main sensor capable of capturing high-quality images in various lighting conditions. While the ultra-wide camera isn't as impressive, its wide field of view is useful for capturing expansive scenes. Getting such a capable camera system on a phone for around $500 is a great value.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

Choosing the right phone can be challenging, so here's what to consider:

Storage space is essential, especially if you plan to record videos, play games, or download lots of music. While fewer phones now include a Micro SD slot for expansion, some of our picks offer up to 1TB of storage, which should meet most needs. Alternatively, you can use cloud storage to free up space on your device.

RAM is crucial for smooth operation. For everyday use, 4GB of RAM is sufficient, but for heavy gaming and multitasking, more RAM is necessary. All our recommended phones come with at least 6GB of RAM, ensuring robust performance.

The phone's processor is vital for running apps smoothly. The number of cores and clock speed determine processing speed. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, while Google's Tensor chips power Pixel devices. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Tensor G4 are currently the top processors.

Best Android Phones FAQ

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

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