Best iPhones for 2025: Top Picks Compared

Choosing an iPhone can feel overwhelming with so many models available. Apple launched the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro in 2024, followed by the iPhone 16e, expanding your options. Unless you’re set on the newest model, exploring all choices can help you find the perfect fit.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Apple iPhone 16

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Apple iPhone 16e

0See it at Apple

OnePlus 13

0See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

Every iPhone on this list runs iOS 18, unveiled at WWDC 2024, delivering advanced AI features and a revamped Photos app for better organization. To access Apple Intelligence, you’ll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

Explore our guide to top iPhone accessories for must-have add-ons, like screen protectors. We also tested the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete closely with AirPods 2, making them a solid choice for earbuds.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Top All-Around iPhone

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2Compact yet powerful, with a stunning display and versatile cameras.See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)

PROSExceptional performanceSleek designAdvanced camera systemCONSCamera settings need minor refinements

The iPhone 16 Pro strikes a perfect balance between the standard iPhone 16 and the larger Pro Max. Its compact size suits one-handed use while retaining all the premium features and camera capabilities of its bigger sibling, unlike earlier models with scaled-down cameras. For a larger display, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a near-identical experience.

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers blazing-fast performance for daily tasks and gaming. In testing, it achieved the highest Geekbench 6 single-core score ever recorded on a phone or laptop. Its GPU excels, handling demanding games at max settings with smooth frame rates.

The premium build feels luxurious, though color options are understated. The display shines with vivid brightness, deep contrast, and fluid motion thanks to a 120Hz refresh rate. While Apple touts the Ceramic Shield’s durability, it’s still prone to scratches, so a screen protector is wise.

The camera system impresses, with the main sensor excelling in low light. The ultrawide captures wider scenes but may show softness and noise due to focus issues, which manual adjustments can mitigate. A 5x telephoto lens enhances portraits and distant shots, and the new Camera Control offers tactile shooting options, though it could use future refinements.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Value iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2Affordable yet powerful, delivering strong performance with minimal compromises.See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18Camera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)

PROSOutstanding performanceVibrant color optionsCONSUltrawide and selfie cameras may lack sharpness

The iPhone 16 shines as a compelling mid-range choice. Apple Intelligence demanded robust internals, so the iPhone 16 sports the A18 chip, nearly matching the A18 Pro’s performance. It outpaces Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Android devices in Geekbench 6 tests and even surpasses the Snapdragon 8 Elite in single-core performance.

This power ensures seamless daily use and smooth gaming, even with intensive titles like Wuthering Waves. The phone stays comfortable during extended sessions. Colorful design options add flair, though classic black and white are available. Like the Pro, it features Ceramic Shield, but extra protection is recommended.

While lacking the Pro’s 120Hz refresh rate, the iPhone 16’s 6.1-inch OLED display is sharp and vibrant, paired with dynamic speakers for immersive media. The main camera captures vivid, well-lit photos, but the ultrawide and selfie lenses may show softness, likely fixable with a software update.

3. iPhone 16e

Most Affordable iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0Apple’s budget-friendly option with a strong chip, but some feature trade-offs.See it at Apple

Product SpecificationsScreen6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rateProcessorA18Camera48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,005mAhWeight167g (0.39lb)

PROSFast processorBudget-friendly priceCONSOmits several standard iPhone features

The iPhone 16e, starting at $599, replaces the iPhone SE as Apple’s budget model but isn’t as affordable as its $429 predecessor. It features the A18 chip, matching the iPhone 16’s performance (with one less GPU core), enabling Apple Intelligence and smooth operation. The modern design includes a 6.1-inch OLED display, aluminum frame, Ceramic Shield, and 128GB base storage.

However, it lacks MagSafe, mmWave 5G, UWB, and a second rear camera, limiting functionality compared to other iPhones since the iPhone 12. While a solid choice for basic needs, refurbished iPhone 14 Pro or 15 models, available for under $500 on Amazon, may offer better value for some.

4. OnePlus 13

Top iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0Stylish design, vibrant display, and top-tier performance at a competitive price.See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

Product SpecificationsScreen6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel SelfieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)

PROSExcellent valueTop-notch performanceCONSSHorter software support than competitors

For those open to alternatives, the OnePlus 13 at $899 rivals the $1199 iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its triple-camera system, with 50MP wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses, delivers stunning photos and videos, complemented by a sharp 32MP selfie camera.

The 6.82-inch OLED display, with 1440x3168 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s quality, offering vibrant colors and power efficiency. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chip nearly matches the iPhone’s single-core performance, surpasses it in multi-core, and excels in graphics, making it ideal for gaming. A 6,000mAh battery supports all-day use, with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.

With a sleek design, IP68/IP69 protection, and a nostalgic alert slider, the OnePlus 13 is a strong contender for those not tied to iOS.

Upcoming iPhones

The iPhone 16 lineup brought significant upgrades in 2024, with reduced prices for older models. The iPhone 16e replaced the SE as the budget option. Leaked details suggest the iPhone 17 series, including an iPhone Air, is on the horizon.

What to Consider When Choosing an iPhone

All iPhones share a seamless user experience, making them the world’s most popular smartphone. However, model differences matter. Here’s what to prioritize in 2025.

Phone Size

Size impacts usability. For one-handed use, the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 are ideal for smaller hands, while the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max suit larger hands with their bigger displays.

Storage Capacity

Storage needs vary. For high-resolution photos and heavy app use, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB is best. Most models start at 128GB, sufficient for casual users.

Price

iPhones range from the $599 iPhone 16e to the $1,599 iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB). All include iOS, with updates for five to six years, ensuring consistent software across budgets. The iPhone 16 Pro offers the best balance of performance, cameras, and value.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the top iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones lead the market, Android options like the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro offer comparable features. Brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide solid alternatives with iOS-like functionality.