David Bridges
You might already have a good idea of which smartphone you want to be your next one. However, the landscape of available options is more varied than ever before, making the decision a bit more challenging. If you’re leaning towards an iPhone, even within that category, the new models offer enough differences that you may find yourself pondering longer than expected. For those who prefer Android, the array of choices is even broader, including innovative foldable phones, leaving you with even more questions to consider before making a financial commitment.
At Engadget, we review a multitude of phones regularly, having tested dozens over the years. Whether you’ve set your sights on one of our current top-rated picks, a model from Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series, an affordable smartphone, or another device entirely, we are here to assist you in determining which phone will best suit your needs this year.
Choosing Between Android and iOS: Which Operating System Suits You Best?
When searching for the best smartphone, it becomes evident that each operating system (OS) has its distinct advantages and drawbacks. Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem makes it incredibly easy to share data across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, allowing seamless hand-offs for tasks such as phone calls or music streaming. However, this convenience comes at the cost of flexibility, as services like Apple Messages are exclusive to Apple devices, effectively locking you into their ecosystem.
On the other hand, Android provides a much broader selection of devices from manufacturers like Google, Samsung, and Sony. This diversity comes with the caveat that Android devices typically do not receive the same length of software support and often have lower trade-in values. Ultimately, there’s no definitive right or wrong choice; however, it’s vital to consider how your new smartphone will integrate with your existing devices. If you’re not completely dissatisfied with your current OS, switching from an iPhone to an Android device (or vice versa) may not be the most sensible decision, especially if others in your household are using the same platform.
Evaluating Smartphone Cameras: What to Look For
As your smartphone often serves as your primary camera, it’s essential to assess the photo capabilities that matter most to you. In today’s market, nearly every smartphone can capture stunning images in bright lighting conditions. However, if you desire features like long optical zoom, you will likely need to invest in a higher-end device.
Mid-range smartphones typically feature two rear cameras, including a primary wide-angle lens and a secondary ultra-wide lens, often struggling in low-light conditions. Each manufacturer also introduces unique features that may align better with your photography style. For instance, Apple provides four distinct color presets on its latest iPhones, while Google’s Pixel 9 Pro includes innovative tools such as dedicated long exposure and Action Pan modes, enhancing your photography experience.
5G Connectivity vs. Wi-Fi 7: Understanding Your Options
The positive news for smartphone buyers is that by 2025, most devices will come equipped with at least Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6e, along with some form of 5G connectivity. However, if you aim for the fastest wireless speeds available, be prepared to pay a premium. For instance, mmWave 5G can deliver gigabit download speeds, reduced latency, and superior bandwidth. Yet, implementing mmWave 5G necessitates advanced (and often costlier) modems, which are frequently absent in less expensive smartphones.
Fortunately, mmWave 5G isn’t universally available, meaning that depending on your location and network provider, you might not miss much by opting for a device that lacks this feature. The same goes for Wi-Fi 7, which is currently found in some high-end models like the Galaxy S25, but is rare in budget options. Remember, Wi-Fi 7 also requires a compatible router. Unless you have a specific need or use case for these technologies, the absence of mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7 shouldn’t deter your search for a new smartphone.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Smartphone
Since preferences vary widely regarding what constitutes the best smartphone, it’s essential to evaluate additional specifications that might be particularly significant to you. For example, avid mobile gamers are likely to appreciate the 120Hz refresh rates available on devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 or the Apple iPhone 16 Pro. If extended battery life is crucial, consider opting for a larger iPhone or an Android device with a battery capacity between 4,000 and 5,000 mAh. For those managing multiple devices, having a smartphone that supports reverse wireless charging can be incredibly useful; Samsung phones even allow you to recharge compatible Galaxy Watches.
Read our full iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max review
Screen size: 6.3-inch | Storage capacity: Up to 1TB | SIM support: Dual eSim | Battery Life: About one day
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max continue to represent the pinnacle of the iPhone experience. This year, there is minimal difference between the two models in terms of camera performance and overall functionality, but both devices now enjoy the advantages of Apple Intelligence along with the exciting customizations offered by iOS 18.
While the size variation between the two models is notable—6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max—most users will find this distinction does not significantly affect regular usage. The standout hardware features include the newly introduced Camera Control button and the advanced Fusion Camera. The Camera Control button is a unique side button equipped with touch and pressure sensors, streamlining the process of launching the Camera app as well as allowing for enhanced exposure control during photography.
The new Fusion Camera boasts a faster quad-pixel sensor and enables 4K video recording at 120 fps with Dolby Vision, eliminating the shutter lag that often hampers capturing the perfect moment. Additionally, it comes with innovative features like Photographic Styles that provide customizable enhancements beyond standard filters.
Both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are powered by the new A18 Pro chipset, providing exceptional performance while ensuring support for Apple Intelligence. The differences in camera setups between the Pro and Pro Max are less pronounced this year, with battery life being a primary differentiator; the Pro Max can last up to two days, while the standard Pro offers a full day of battery life. Evaluating whether the extra $200 for the Pro Max is worth it ultimately depends on your personal usage needs, but both models deliver outstanding performance, remarkable photography capabilities, and enhanced customization options with the latest iOS updates. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor
- Rapid camera performance with high-quality video capabilities
- Photographic styles offer creative and visually appealing options
- Extensive customization options throughout the device
- Battery life could be improved
- Camera Control feature may require adjustment to master
$999 at Apple
Read our full Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL review
(Pixel 9 Pro) Screen size: 6.3-inch | Storage capacity: Up to 1TB | SIM support: 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | Battery Life: 24+ hours
The new Pixel 9 Pro finally offers a more compact alternative in the Pixel series, which has long been regarded as one of the best options for Android smartphones. The smaller Pro model retains the superior features of the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL, providing a 6.3-inch display that is not only easy to handle but also fits comfortably in your pocket without the risk of dropping it.
What’s more, the Pixel 9 Pro does not skimp on features, as it offers the same advanced camera setup and performance found in its larger sibling. The only significant differences include the screen size and battery charging speeds, with the non-XL version charging at a slightly slower pace. Nevertheless, the Pixel 9 Pro impressively lasts nearly 25 hours on a single charge, making it highly practical for daily use.
The Pixel 9 Pro series stands out as our top pick for Android smartphones, thanks to its exceptional camera quality, innovative AI features, and a refined overall design that feels sophisticated and polished. While previous Pixel models featured vibrant and blocky aesthetics, this year’s offering feels more mature and reminiscent of an iPhone. Without the distinct camera bars, distinguishing between these devices and Apple’s offerings becomes challenging.
Interestingly, the pricing for the Pixel 9 Pro aligns with the iPhone 15 Pro, both starting at $999. Historically, Google’s smartphones have been seen as competitively priced, but this latest iteration justifies its premium status. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option within the Pixel 9 family, the standard Pixel 9 remains a strong choice for most users. However, as it stands, the Pixel 9 Pro is undeniably the best Android smartphone available today. — Cherlynn Low, Deputy Editor
- Exceptional camera features with an enhanced telephoto lens
- Free year of Gemini Advanced included
- Outstanding battery life
- Brilliant, vibrant display that performs well in outdoor conditions
- New Tensor G4 chip runs efficiently
Daniel Mercer
Ethan Carter
