The best Android phones in 2025 feature different models from multiple brands. That's the beauty of the current phone market, which spans from the best foldable phones, like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, that challenge the status quo, to cheap phones, like the CMF Phone 2 Pro and Google Pixel 9a, that cater to consumers on a budget. Just last month, Samsung kicked off the thin-phone craze with the Galaxy S25 Edge, and I expect other phone makers to follow suit in 2025.
Of all the top handsets we've tried and tested at ZDNET, the best Android phones offer a robust hardware-software package with just enough innovation to keep the user excited.
What is the best Android phone right now?
I thoroughly test every Android phone that makes its way onto my desk, spending at least two weeks (and up to months) with each device before deciding whether it fits within ZDNET's buying guide. My pick for the best Android phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for $1,299, which features the company's flagship features and capabilities, including an S Pen stylus for precision inputs, AI features for productivity and creativity, a 200MP camera system, and the most durable display on any Galaxy phone yet.
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro is another frontrunner for its sheer value. It sells for $459 yet offers premium features like a 120Hz OLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, and capable cameras backed by a new telephoto lens.
Also: The best cheap phones in 2025: Expert tested and reviewed
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Best Android phones in 2025
Show less View now at Amazon View now at Samsung Why we like it: The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best handset of all the Android phones we've tested. The new Galaxy AI embedded in the device brings a slew of generative AI capabilities, including real-time phone call translations, multi-app AI voice prompts, enhanced photo editing, and a new AI Select tool that offers contextual shortcuts based on what you hover over. Notably, I've found that most of these features outperform AI tools offered by competing Android phones regarding speed, reliability, and practicality. Like its predecessor, the S24 Ultra, the S25 Ultra is built with a large 6.9-inch AMOLED and a reliable 5,000mAh battery. It helps that the S25 Ultra is made of a lightweight yet durable titanium frame and features Corning's Gorilla Armor 2, which is ideal for users who worry about damaging or scuffing up their devices. Under the hood, the S25 Ultra includes an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset for improved graphics and AI features and 12GB of RAM. From our testing, the Qualcomm processor not only yields greater day-to-day performance but also improved power efficiency for longer endurance (roughly nine hours of typical use per charge). Lastly, the big upgrade for the new camera system is 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: Although the price of the S25 Ultra is still fairly inaccessible at $1,299, the phone's upgrades make it well worth it for users holding onto three to four-year-old devices, and are looking to switch to something more capable. The S25 Ultra retains last year's anti-reflection screen which, when paired with the larger cooling chamber, makes it a fantastic multimedia device and easy to use when outdoors. If money is no object, or you score a competitive offer from your local carrier or retailer, then the S25 Ultra is the best phone you can buy today. Who should look elsewhere: With the S25 Ultra, you'll have to live with the fact that the S Pen no longer supports Bluetooth gestures, which previously allowed users to snap with a click of the stylus key. And if you're tight on budget or not a fan of the Ultra model's boxier footprint, I'd recommend a lower-tier S25 model or check out the OnePlus 13. Both options offer similar features but for less money. 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 $1,299 Value 7 Performance 10 Battery life 10 Camera quality 9 Display 9 Pros AI-centric Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset
Improved ultrawide rear camera
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