Top 11 Reviewed Android Smartphones of 2025: Our Ultimate Picks

Alternative Phones Worth Considering

We evaluate a multitude of Android devices. We appreciate the selections below, yet you may find one of the recommendations above to be more suitable. If you haven’t already checked them out, take a look at our guides for the Best Affordable Phones and Best Folding Phones.

Google Pixel 9 priced at $799: The Pixel 9 is an impressive smartphone (9/10, WIRED Recommends), however, it finds itself overshadowed by the Pixel 8A and Pixel 9 Pro series. While it shares numerous features with its more expensive counterparts, the Pixel 8A can offer a highly comparable experience, saving you hundreds of dollars in the process. If you’re drawn to the design and wish to explore the latest smart software features, don’t let this discourage you! However, it may be wiser to wait until spring for the Pixel 9A.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE for $650: The Galaxy S24 FE from Samsung finds itself in a similar predicament as the Pixel 9. It’s closely priced to the flagship Galaxy S24 series, which often goes on sale at a minimal increase in cost, and there are less expensive options that present better value. It’s a fully functional smartphone featuring a triple-camera setup (that includes a 3X telephoto lens), offering solid performance. It supports wireless charging, boasts an IP68 water resistance rating, and provides reliable battery life throughout the day. Unfortunately, the design lacks a bit of flair.

Google Pixel 8 for $499 and Pixel 8 Pro for $599: The 2023 Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro (7/10, WIRED Recommends) are still up for purchase and they are fantastic devices with a lot to offer. Just ensure you don’t pay over $600. Anything beyond that should lead you to opt for the newly released Pixel 9 series.

Honor Magic V3 for £1,799: If you happen to be outside the US, the Magic V3 stands out as potentially the premier folding phone currently available; it is indeed the slimmest folding phone in the world (8/10, WIRED Recommends). The battery life is impressive, it features a wide external display that feels akin to a regular phone, and opens up to reveal a spacious internal screen. The versatility of its cameras is admirable, though the ultrawide performance leaves something to desire, and the overall software usability can present some frustrations.

OnePlus 12 for $800 and OnePlus 12R for $600: OnePlus has returned to its roots in 2024, delivering impressive specifications at surprisingly affordable prices. The OnePlus 12R offers better value compared to the OnePlus 12 (8/10, WIRED Recommends), yet you should only opt for these devices during sales. Otherwise, it’s advisable to consider the modern OnePlus 13 and 13R as they often don’t cost much more.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 for $1,900: The Fold6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) represents an outstanding large-screen folding smartphone. If durability and repairability are your concerns regarding foldable devices, Samsung remains the safest option due to their extensive experience in this market. The camera system produces excellent photos, the screens reach impressive brightness levels, and Samsung guarantees long-term software support. The Fold6’s external display is wider and significantly more user-friendly compared to earlier models, though there aren’t many substantial upgrades aside from improvements in AI capabilities. Consider looking for last year’s Galaxy Z Fold5 for some cost savings.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 for $1,100: The Flip6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) has some advantages compared to Motorola’s new Razr+, including a superior hinge mechanism, better build quality, more robust cameras, and longer software support. However, I still found the overall experience on the Motorola flip preferable, primarily due to its larger external display. Nonetheless, the Flip6’s 3.4-inch cover screen is very practical for quickly checking widgets, and you can unfold it for an expansive Android experience. The Galaxy Z Flip5 remains a viable option if you’re comfortable purchasing last year’s model at a reduced price.

Mobile Accessories You May Find Useful

We have case suggestions for several popular models, including Samsung’s Galaxy S24, Galaxy S23, and S22 series, as well as Google’s Pixel 9 series. It’s wise to protect these glass devices with a case and consider adding a screen protector to keep the screen free of scratches and blemishes. Here are some additional noteworthy accessories, including charging adapters, which many devices no longer include.

Anker 45-Watt Charger for $20: This compact charger will suffice for most users needing to charge standard smartphones. Its small size, reliability, and affordability make it a great choice, and the prongs fold up for convenience. With many phones supporting 45-watt charging speeds, this charger is an excellent choice.

Counterpart The Charger for $44: Though it might not be the best deal, this stylish charger features a retractable 4-foot cable, making it a superb two-in-one device—no need to pack a separate charger and cable! It outputs 35 watts, sufficient for fast-charging most mobile phones and tablets, and the prongs also fold in for easy transport.

Peak Design Samsung and Pixel Everyday Case for $50: If you own a Samsung or Pixel device and often mount your phone to a bike or scooter, investing in this case and Peak Design’s bike mount is a smart decision. The case securely fits into the mount, is easy to detach, and has remained in place for years of use. Peak Design offers various other accessories you can attach to the back of these cases, effectively integrating Android with Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem.

Nimble Champ Portable Charger 10,000 mAh for $60: This compact battery is perfect for keeping in a bag, providing enough power to fully recharge your phone multiple times. It includes both USB-C and USB-A ports and delivers 18 watts of power, making it capable of charging your phone or tablet, and it’s constructed from 73 percent post-consumer plastic, with eco-friendly packaging.

Nomad ChargeKey for $25: When your phone’s battery is low, it often happens when you forget to pack a charger or battery pack. The ChargeKey is a clever solution—it’s like having a tiny USB-C charging cable attached to your keychain. Simply plug one end into your phone and the other into any power source (like a friend’s phone or a charging adapter you may find), and you’ll be able to recharge your device. Native Union also offers a similar option that is both cute and functional.

Select a Wireless Charger: Our guide to the best wireless chargers features numerous models available in various colors, styles, and materials, including some specifically designed for certain phones. While not every Android device is compatible with wireless charging, it’s a convenience worth exploring. Check out our guide for our top picks.