This year, we've seen multiple smartphone launches -- no-compromise flagship Google Pixel 10, the iPhone 17 Pro, and Samsung's latest foldable lineup. Some of the best phones of 2025 are priced below $1,000, so you don't have to break the bank to get the best 5G experience. I've shortlisted phones starting at $300 and up to $1,800 in several form factors.
Whether you need a pro-grade smartphone or want to save on expenses and get the best value, there's plenty to choose from. ZDNET tested and reviewed a plethora of 5G phones to help you choose the best device for your needs.
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What is the best 5G phone right now?
We've tested dozens of devices, and our pick for the best 5G phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. It features the best display on a phone in 2025, a bunch of useful AI features, and plenty of power under the hood. All flagship phones have versatile cameras and big and sharp displays, but aspects like these separate this Samsung phone from the rest.
The newiPhone 17 also comes close and wins in terms of value. This is the closest a base iPhone has gotten to its Pro sibling, and it is my go-to recommendation this year.
However, the best 5G phone depends on what you want and how much you are willing to invest in it. For instance, some might need the best cameras, while others would like to have a foldable. We've picked the best 5G phones for every need.
Sort by All Value Performance Battery life Camera quality Display
The best 5G phones in 2025
Show less View now at Samsung View now at Amazon Why we like it: The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best Android phone we've tested. I like it for its display. The anti-reflective coating paired with the high contrast of Samsung AMOLED display makes it the best screen on a smartphone. It also offers the most polished set of AI features with Galaxy AI including real-time phone call translations, AI Select tool that offers contextual shortcuts based on on-screen content, and more. Under the hood, you get an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset for improved graphics and efficient performance. Samsung has done a great job at extracting the best of battery life from its 5,000mAh cell. This means you can expect the phone to last an entire day with ease. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is made of a lightweight yet durable titanium frame and features Corning's Gorilla Armor 2. This is ideal for users who worry about damaging or scuffing up their devices. Another upgrade includes the presence of a 50MP ultrawide lens that produces greater detail and vividness when capturing landscape and macro shots. Review: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Who it's for: The S25 Ultra's price is still fairly inaccessible at $1,300, but it regularly goes on sale for around $1,000. It is for those who want the best of Android in a big phone form factor. Who should look elsewhere: If you are coming from a previous-generation Galaxy S-series flagship and love the S Pen, this phone is not for you. The Galaxy S25 Ultra's S Pen no longer supports Bluetooth gestures. Plus, this is not the most ergonomic device due to its sharp edges. you can look at the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL if you want a comfortable to hold big Android phone. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Display size: 6.9 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $1,300 Value 6 Performance 10 Battery life 10 Camera quality 9 Display 9 Pros Best display on a smartphone
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