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The Best Android Phones of 2025: Tested by Our Experts

From Google's Pixel 9 and foldable phones like Motorola's Razr Plus to Samsung's Galaxy S25, these are the best Android phones that we tested and that you should buy.

Our Experts

Headshot of Andrew Lanxon
Headshot of Lisa Eadicicco
Headshot of Patrick Holland
Written by  Andrew Lanxon
Written by  Lisa Eadicicco
Written by  Patrick Holland
Article updated on 
Headshot of Andrew Lanxon
Andrew Lanxon Editor At Large, Lead Photographer, Europe
Andrew is CNET's go-to guy for product coverage and lead photographer for Europe. When not testing the latest phones, he can normally be found with his camera in hand, behind his drums or eating his stash of home-cooked food. Sometimes all at once.
Expertise Smartphones | Photography | iOS | Android | Gaming | Outdoor pursuits Credentials
  • Shortlisted for British Photography Awards 2022, Commended in Landscape Photographer of the Year 2022
Headshot of Lisa Eadicicco
Lisa Eadicicco Former Senior Editor
Lisa Eadicicco covered mobile devices. Prior to joining CNET, she served as a senior tech correspondent at Insider, reporting on Apple and the broader consumer tech industry. She was also a tech columnist for Time magazine and got her start as a staff writer for Laptop Mag and Tom's Guide.
Expertise Apple | Samsung | Google | Smartphones | Smartwatches | Wearables | Fitness trackers
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Patrick Holland Managing Editor
Patrick Holland has been a phone reviewer for CNET since 2016. He is a former theater director who occasionally makes short films. Patrick has an eye for photography and a passion for everything mobile. He is a colorful raconteur who will guide you through the ever-changing, fast-paced world of phones, especially the iPhone and iOS. He used to co-host CNET's I'm So Obsessed podcast and interviewed guests like Jeff Goldblum, Alfre Woodard, Stephen Merchant, Sam Jay, Edgar Wright and Roy Wood Jr.
Expertise Apple | iPhone | iOS | Android | Samsung | Sony | Google | Motorola | Interviews | Coffee equipment | Cats Credentials
  • Patrick's play The Cowboy is included in the Best American Short Plays 2011-12 anthology. He co-wrote and starred in the short film Baden Krunk that won the Best Wisconsin Short Film award at the Milwaukee Short Film Festival.
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The best Android phones have excellent cameras, a battery life that lasts a day or more, a powerful processor and years of software and security updates. We tested dozens of Android smartphones, and found the best phones you should buy. Google's Pixel 9 and the 9 Pro XL make our list as does Samsung's Galaxy S25. CNET editors have tested and reviewed every phone on this list. So you should have no trouble finding one that suits your needs. While tariffs and a general uncertainty around the economy have caused people to consider upgrading their phone, companies like Samsung and Google have not raised the prices on their current offerings.

What's the best Android phone?

The $800 Samsung Galaxy S25's battery life is amazing. That's not the only reason it's our pick for best Android phone. It gets seven years of major Android updates, and the cameras are good (there's even a 3x telephoto lens for zooming). Then there are all the AI features: Most are just OK, but Circle to Search is outstanding. Samsung tries to set the Galaxy S25 apart by leaning into what's new (AI), as well as embracing the familiar (good cameras and battery life). And we're definitely impressed. There are plenty of other excellent choices, with the Pixel 8A being another current favorite.

Best Android phones of 2025

Best Android phone

Samsung Galaxy S25

Pros

  • Camera consistently delivers good images
  • Impressive battery life that last a day or more
  • More AI features that actually feel practical

Cons

  • Several gimmicky AI tools
  • Not many changes over the S24

The Galaxy S25's biggest flex that I noticed while testing is it shares many of the same attributes as its pricier counterparts, the S25 Plus and S25 Ultra – but it does so for several hundred dollars less. You'll find features like the AI Select tool, Audio Eraser and deeper Gemini integration across all of Samsung's S25 devices, as well as a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM – making the smaller phone of the bunch still seem pretty mighty. 


And while the Galaxy S25 might look incredibly similar to the S24 and share many of the same specs, consistency isn't so bad when it means there's a consistently good camera and great battery life. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 review.

Why we like it

Having a baseline phone, like the Galaxy S25, that delivers many of the same perks as more expensive models, is a huge plus in my book. And given the remarkable processing power, standout camera and seamless AI integration in the Galaxy S25 lineup, it's great that I can get all those premium features for $800.


Who it's best for

If you're someone who insists on buying a flagship device, the Galaxy S25 won't let you down. but if you have a device that's two years old or more, you might be enticed to tap into all the latest Galaxy AI and integrated Gemini features. Now, $800 isn't pocket change, and there are definitely other options for those who want to be more budget conscious, but if you're willing to spend a bit more, the baseline S25 can be a great all-around choice.

Who shouldn’t get it

You probably don't need to upgrade if you're using last year's S24.

 ... Show more
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Best phone for Android purists

Google Pixel 9

Pros

  • Beautiful design that feels durable
  • Fun and somewhat useful AI features
  • New ultrawide camera takes good photos
  • 7 years of software updates for longevity

Cons

  • More expensive that previous Pixels and competitors
  • Doesn't feel that different from Pixel 8

There’s a lot to like about the Pixel 9, from its respectable camera to its classy new design and lengthy 7-year timeline for software updates. But Google’s phones have always shined for their clean, slick software, and that once again applies to the Pixel 9 series. Pixels are also among the first to get new software updates, making them an ideal choice for those who want to get their hands on the latest version of Android first. Aside from Android updates, Google also brings new features to Pixel phones throughout the year through updates it calls Feature Drops.

The Pixel 9 comes with a few new AI tricks that you may find useful, like the ability to search for content in screenshots, generate images from scratch in the Pixel Studio app and add new objects in photos. These features aren’t must-haves, and they’re not without flaws. Plus, at a starting price of $799, the Pixel 9 has a higher bar to live up to. But the Pixel 9 feels like it belongs in that class of device. Read our full review for the Google Pixel 9.

Why we like it

The Pixel 9 and Google's Gemini assistant still feel like a first step toward what the company is hoping to achieve: Making phone software more intelligent so that we can spend less time swiping, tapping, scrolling and digging. In the meantime, the Pixel 9 shines for its great camera, elegant design and clean software, just like the less AI-centric Pixels of years past.

Who it's best for

If you're a Pixel fan upgrading from an older phone, like the Pixel 6 or earlier, you'll find a lot to love about the Pixel 9. But keep in mind that for the same price, Samsung's Galaxy S25 has a brighter screen and a dedicated telephoto lens for taking zoomed photos.

Who shouldn't get it

If you want the absolute best cameras that Google makes, including having a dedicated telephoto lens, I'd recommend the Pixel 9 Pro.

 ... Show more
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Buy a Google Pixel 9, get $100 store credit

Pros

  • Cover screen updates make it more useable
  • Good battery life gets you through a day
  • Fun, fashionable design
  • Camera upgrades a step forward for photos, but could go farther

Cons

  • New cameras are a mixed bag
  • Camera cover screen position not great for right handed-people
  • Gets warm gaming or charging

Editor's note: Motorola announced its 2025 lineup which includes the Razr Ultra and a 2025 version of the Motorola Razr Plus. The new Razr Plus is virtually identical to the 2024 model, aside from a new titanium hinge and added dust resistance.

When I consider the Motorola Razr Plus on its own terms, it is outstanding. And perhaps, more importantly, it's a delight to use. The 4-inch cover screen makes the Razr feel like two phones in one. You can use pretty much any app on the outer display as well as respond to messages, watch videos, make video calls and even play games – all without opening the Razr Plus up.

Add to that a long battery life (a day plus more in my testing), fast charging, improved cameras and an IPX8 rating that certifies that the Razr Plus will survive temporary dunking and you realize just how much value Motorola has poured into its flagship foldable. It's $1,000 price is steep, but you're getting one of the best clamshell style foldable phones you can buy. Read our full Motorola Razr Plus review.

Why we like it

Not only does the Motorola Razr Plus (2024) have one of the best values as a foldable phone, it's one of the funnest phones I've ever tested. There genuinely isn't another phone that offers the experience that Motorola carved out here with the Razr Plus (2024).


Who it's best for

The Razr Plus (2024) is for people who want to express themselves and have a phone that stand outs from the crowd of rectangular slabs. It's for someone who embraces new technology like a folding screen and wants a bit of nostalgia. At $1,000, it still costs a lot. But you can often find the Razr Plus (2024) discounted.

Who shouldn't get it

If you're looking for a budget phone, but really want a flip phone, check out the regular Razr. If you're nervous about own a foldable phone, I'd recommend staying away from the Razr Plus.

 ... Show more

Best premium Android phone

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Pros

  • Best screen on any phone
  • Versatile cameras
  • Most powerful phone I've tested
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • $1,300 price
  • Design is almost too minimal
  • AI features are hit-or-miss
  • S25/S25 Plus have similar features and cost less

Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra which has a lot of AI features, the best of which are interesting and the worst of which unreliable. Luckily, Samsung gets a lot of other things right on the S25 Ultra, which has a new Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, high-resolution ultrawide camera, and some sweet pro video tools that rival the iPhone 16 Pro. Samsung wisely kept all the best parts of last year's Galaxy S24 Ultra (basically the entire phone including that antireflective display) but some of its worst parts, too, like the $1,300 price tag.
If you want the best screen you can find on any phone, get the S25 Ultra. If you want the most versatile phone cameras, get the S25 Ultra. If you want a stylus, get the S25 Ultra. But if your needs scale back on any of those fronts, the more affordable S25 options, or even last year's S24 Ultra, may be worth considering. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review.

Why we like it

The reason to get the Ultra over its S25 siblings is its screen, which is truly the best I've seen on any phone, and the cameras, which are a step above what the S25 and S25 Plus have. Added video features like ability to record in Log format gets the Ultra as close as it's ever been to the iPhone in terms of professional video capture.

Who it's best for

If you have a Galaxy S22 Ultra or older, the S25 Ultra will seem like a significant upgrade. It's harder to make that case for S23 Ultra owners, who, unless their phone's battery is ailing or they can score an incredible discount, should otherwise sit this one out. And for you S24 Ultra owners, you don't need this phone. Save your money and treat yourself to a nice steak dinner and a movie.

Who shouldn’t get it

The Galaxy S25 Ultra's appeal is muddied by its $1,300 price. The regular Galaxy S25 has the same functionality, power and longevity, and it costs $500 less. Want a bigger screen? Consider the Galaxy S25 Plus. For the majority of people, the regular Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus will be a better fit.

 ... Show more

Best S25 Ultra alternative

Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus

Pros

  • Lightning fast charging
  • Nice big screen
  • 7 years of OS and security upgrades
  • Great performance with games, movies and animations

Cons

  • Battery life is a day, similar to baseline S25
  • Similar specs as the S25 at a higher price
  • Rival phones at the same price have better cameras

If the baseline Galaxy S25 appeals to you but you'd rather have a bigger screen and higher battery capacity – without upgrading all the way to the Ultra – the S25 Plus may be the phone for you. The entire S25 lineup shares many features, from AI capabilities to processing power to memory, so the Plus may be a viable choice if you're looking for something right in the middle.

That said, the Plus' minimal upgrades over the baseline S25 may not justify the $200 price difference. But if a bigger phone just feels better to hold and you'd rather have a 4,900 mAh battery (over the S25's 4,000mAh one), then that $1,000 starting price might ultimately be worth every penny. Read CNET's full Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus review.

Why we like it

While the baseline S25 checks all the key boxes, the S25 Plus can simply feel like a more comfortable device to use, especially if you're a fellow member of the bigger hands club. In addition to sharing many of the same features as the pricier S25 Ultra, the S25 Plus has a higher battery capacity than the baseline model -- though in CNET's tests, there weren't any major discrepancies in how the two batteries actually performed. Still, sometimes you just want to live a little larger, and this phone can be the perfect fit.

Who it's best for

If you like having a larger screen to watch movies or play games on, the S25 Plus can be a great choice. While the S25 Ultra might be a top pick for someone who wants both a bigger phone and the most premium features, the S25 Plus can be that goldilocks device that meets you right in the middle -- without you having to spend $1,300 on the Ultra.

Who shouldn’t get it

If you want the absolute best in terms of cameras, don't get the S25 Plus. For $1,000 phones like the Pixel 9 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro have better cameras. Or if you can afford to buy a $1,300 phone, check out the Galaxy S25 Ultra which has an amazing set of lenses

 ... Show more

Pros

  • Genuinely fun new AI skills
  • Sleek new design
  • Seven years of software updates
  • Cameras can take great daytime shots

Cons

  • Camera hardware hasn't improved much over Pixel 8 Pro
  • Gemini AI will eventually require a paid subscription

The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, from their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it's the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.

The phones aren't perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they're just okay in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free) But if you're keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it. Read our Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL review.

Why we like it

Google's Pixel line of phones has gone from strength to strength and its latest model is unquestionably the best phone the company has ever made. It's not just the slick-looking design; the Pixel 9 Pro offers a superb camera system, a generous support period and a host of new AI skills making it one of the most accomplished Android phones around. The 9 Pro XL takes that further by accommodating a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch display.

Who it's best for

It's a great phone for those of you looking for an elegant everyday Android phone. The interface is easy to navigate and the camera takes great photos with almost no effort on your part. If you feel overwhelmed by the plethora of settings and menus on other Android flagships, Google's Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go. If playing mobile games or watching videos on the go is a priority, opt for the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Who shouldn't get it

If you don't need the best cameras Google makes, consider the regular Pixel 9. I do like the fit and finish better on the 9 Pro, but it starts at $999.

 ... Show more

Best small Android phone

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Pros

  • Matte finish
  • New main camera take good photos
  • 7 years of OS updates
  • Auto zoom for photos

Cons

  • $1,100 starting price is high
  • Cover screen is a step down in quality from the internal one
  • Adding apps to cover screen is wonky

For better or worse, Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 6 foldable is packed with AI. It can take a rough sketch and turn it into artwork or help me have a conversation in French or Korean despite me only knowing a few words of either language. The new autofocus/auto zoom feature lets you prop the phone in a half-open position, the Z Flip 6 will automatically zoom in or out (switching between the main and ultrawide cameras) to get a photo that best suits the moment. But the AI features are the least impressive aspects of the the Z Flip 6.

Samsung's latest clamshell style foldable has a new 50-megapixel main camera, a smaller hinge and crease, a larger battery and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. But all this comes at a higher starting price: $1,099 which makes it hard to appreciate the Galaxy Z Flip 6 for the absolute great phone that it is. Read our full review for the Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 6.

Why we like it

Samsung's latest clamshell style foldable has a new 50-megapixel main camera, finally putting it on par with non-folding flagship phone cameras. The hinge is smaller and helps reduce the size of the crease on the internal screen. It has a new chip, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and 12GB of RAM for flagship performance. There's even a larger battery. For all intents and purposes, the new Z Flip 6 is a Galaxy S24 that can fold in half – which is fantastic.

Who it's best for

If you already have a Samsung phone and have been itching to try a flip phone, then then the Galaxy Z Flip 6 brings the software and features you're used to in a cutting-edge design that is equally nostalgic and seemingly futuristic.

Who shouldn’t get it

If you spend a ton of time around dirt or sand, this phone isn't for you.

 ... Show more

Best for productivity

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Pros

  • Larger and more symmetrical front screen
  • Improved design with less noticeable crease
  • Inner screen is best on any foldable phone I've used
  • Better ultrawide camera than previous Fold 5
  • 7 years of software upgrades

Cons

  • $100 more expensive than the Z Fold 5
  • Mediocre charging speeds and battery life that mostly gets through a day
  • New software features don't add more benefit to the foldable design

With the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung is getting closer to its goal of making a device that doubles as a phone and a tablet without compromising too much in either direction. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 has an improved design with a sleeker look that’s easier to grip, a less noticeable crease, a new processor and an upgraded ultrawide camera.

It’s really the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s big, bright and crisp internal screen that makes it the best choice for those who want a foldable phone for entertainment. Be prepared to spend a pretty penny: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at an eye-watering $1,900, making it $100 more expensive than last year’s Z Fold 5 was at launch.

 ... Show more

Best Android phones compared

ProductSamsung Galaxy S25Samsung Galaxy S25 PlusSamsung Galaxy S25 UltraGoogle Pixel 9Google Pixel 9 ProGoogle Pixel 9 Pro XLMoto G Power 5G (2024)Motorola Razr Plus (2024)Samsung Galaxy Flip 6Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate 6.2-inch AMOLED; 2,340x1,080 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.7-inch AMOLED; 3,120x1,440 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.8-inch AMOLED; 3,120x1,440 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate6.3-inch LTPO OLED; 2,856x1,280 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate6.8-inch LTPO OLED; 2,992x1,344 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate6.7-inch LCD; 2,400 x 1,080 pixels, 60-120Hz refresh rate4-inch pOLED; 1,272 x 1,080 pixels; 1-165Hz variable refresh rate; 6.9-inch pOLED; 2,640 x 1,080 pixels, 1-165Hz variable refresh rate3.4-inch AMOLED; 720 x 748 pixels; 60Hz refresh rate; 6.7-inch AMOLED; 2,640 x 1,080 pixels; 1-120Hz refresh rate6.3-inch AMOLED; 2,376x968 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate; 7.6-inch AMOLED; 2,160x1,856 pixels;1-120Hz variable refresh rate
Pixel density 416 ppi509 ppi501 ppi422 ppi495 ppi486 ppi391 ppiCover: 417 ppi; Internal: 413 ppiCover: 306 ppi; Internal: 425 ppiCover: 410 ppi; Internal: 374 ppi
Dimensions (inches) 5.78 x 2.78 x 0.28 in.6.24 x 2.98 x 0.29 in.6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 in.6x2.8x0.3 inches6x2.8x0.3 inches6.4x3x0.3 inches6.6 x 3 x 0.3 in.Open: 6.75 x 2.91 x 0.28 in Closed: 3.47 x 2.91 x 0.6 inOpen: 6.5 x 2.83 x 0.27 in Closed: 3.35 x 2.83 x 0.59 inOpen: 6.04x5.21 x0.22 in; Closed: 6.04x2.68x0.48 in
Dimensions (millimeters) 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3 mm162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm152.8x72x8.5 mm152.8x72x8.5 mm162.8x76.6x8.5 mm167.2 x 76.4 x 8.5mmOpen: 171.42 x 74 x 7.09mm Closed: 88.09 x 74 x 15.32mmOpen: 165.1 x 71.9 x 6.9mm Closed: 85.1 x 71.9 x 14.9mmOpen: 153.5x132.5x5.6mm; Closed: 153.5x68.1x12.1mm
Weight (grams, ounces) 162g (5.71 oz.)190g (6.70 oz.)218g (7.69 oz.)198g (7 oz.)199g (7 oz.)221g (7.8 oz)201g (7.09 oz.)189g (6.67 oz)187g (6.6 oz)239g (8.43 oz)
Mobile software Android 15Android 15Android 15Android 14Android 14Android 14Android 14Android 14Android 14Android 14
Camera 50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto)200-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 50-megapixel (5x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide)50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 8-megapixel (ultrawide)50-megapixel (wide) 50-megapixel (2x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide)50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto)
Front-facing camera 12-megapixel12-megapixel12-megapixel10.5-megapixel42-megapixel42-megapixel16-megapixel32-megapixel10-megapixel4-megapixel (inner screen under-display); 10-megapixel (cover screen)
Video capture 8K8K8K4K4K4K1,080p4KTBD8K
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for GalaxyQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for GalaxyQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for GalaxyGoogle Tensor G4Google Tensor G4Google Tensor G4Mediatek Dimensity 7020Snapdragon 8S Gen 3Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM + storage 12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB12GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB12GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB16GB + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB16GB + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB8GB RAM + 128GB12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB, 512GB12GB + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Expandable storage NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneUp to 1TBNoneNoneNone
Battery 4,000 mAh4,900 mAh5,000 mAh4,700 mAh4,700 mAh5,060 mAh5,000 mAh4,000 mAh4,000 mAh4,400 mAh
Fingerprint sensor Under displayUnder displayUnder displayUnder displayUnder displayUnder displaySideSideSideSide
Connector USB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-C
Headphone jack NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneYesNoneNoneNone
US starting price $800 (128GB)$1,000 (256GB)$1,300 (256GB)$799 (128GB)$999 (128GB)$1,099 (128GB)$300 (128GB)$1,000 (256GB)$1,100 (256GB)$1,900 (256GB)

Recent updates

In January 2025, we added the Samsung Galaxy S25, S25 Plus and S25 Ultra to our list. The new phones replace last year's Galaxy S24 series and come with new processors and cameras–all at the same price.

Factors to consider when buying an Android phone

Look at last year's phones: Companies typically keep previous models around at a discounted price. For example, while you can buy the $699 Pixel 8 or $999 Pixel 8 Pro for less than the current Pixel 9 equivalents.

Get more for less with cheap phones: For a fraction of the cost, you can get a solid phone that does almost everything a pricier flagship phone can do. The Google Pixel 8A packs a good camera and is frequently discounted to under $400.

Check your Android type: Some phones, like Google's Pixel series, run a stock version of Android. Others, like Samsung's Galaxy phones, have their own software (OneUI) on top of Android. Each type has its own appeal and drawbacks. If you've been rocking a Samsung phone for years, you'll likely still be more at home on a new Galaxy phone.

Be ready for Cyber Monday sales: The holidays usually bring big discounts and sales, even on phones.

Test your phone: It's definitely worth going to a store and trying out a phone before you shell out hundreds of dollars for it.

Find peace of mind with a case: You spent all this time choosing a phone, now protect it from damage with a case.

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How we test phones

A smart funny intelligent man who is charming taking a photo with a phone

We test every aspect of a new phone from the battery and processor to the cameras.

John Kim/CNET

We test every phone in real-world scenarios focusing on its features, design, performance, cameras, battery life and overall value. We document our findings in an initial review that is periodically updated when there are new software updates or to compare against new phones from phones from competitors like Apple, Samsung, Google and OnePlus.

Photography

Photography is a major focus for most phones these days, so we take pictures and videos of various subjects in a variety of settings and lighting scenarios. We try out any new camera modes such as the 4K 120fps slow motion mode that debuted on the iPhone 16 Pro or the Add Me photo tool that launched with the Google Pixel 9 series.

Battery life

Battery testing is conducted in a variety of ways. We assess how long a phone lasts during a typical day of use, and note how it performs during more focused sessions of video calls, media streaming and gaming. We also conduct a video playback test, which isn't always included in the initial review and is added later in an update.

The author holding the Z Flip 5 up to take a photo.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 largely has the same camera hardware as the Z Flip 4. But the new chip brings some image processing improvements.

Lisa Eadicicco/CNET

Performance

We use benchmarking apps to measure the performance, alongside our own anecdotal experiences using the phone for our review. Of particular note are how graphics and animations look. Are they smooth? Or do they lag or stutter? We also look at how quickly the phone switches between horizontal and vertical orientations and how fast the camera app opens and is ready to take a photo.

A chart showing the results of the 3DMark benchmark test
Jeffrey Hazelwood/CNET

We perform processor-heavy tasks like editing photos, exporting videos and playing games. We evaluate whether a newer version of a particular phone includes enough features to make it worth upgrading from older models.

Read more: How We Test Phones

Other phones we tested

Mike Sorrentino using the Galaxy S24 FE for photos

The Galaxy S24 FE does a decent job taking photos, but the more expensive Galaxy S24 uses its more powerful processor to enhance them.

Numi Prasarn/CNET

Samsung's $650 Galaxy S24 FE is such a comfort to use that at moments our reviewer, Mike Sorrentino, felt like he was testing a scaled-back version of the $1,000 Galaxy S24 Plus. The S24 FE's large 6.7-inch 120Hz refresh-rate display made it easy for me to enjoy streaming shows, playing games and taking video calls throughout the day. And it includes nearly every software perk from the more expensive Galaxy S24 line. Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.

The OnePlus 13 is the first true flagship phone of 2025 and there's plenty to like. From its powerful performance to its fast charging and vibrant display, it has much of what we expect from a top-end phone right now. It looks good too, has great waterproofing, a scattering of new AI skills and a reasonable six years of security support. But while accomplished in some respects, the OnePlus 13 feels more like a "pretty good" 2024 phone, rather than kicking off a new year of tech with any kind of fanfare. Read our OnePlus 13 review.

Android phone FAQ

Which Android phone has the best camera?

The $999 Pixel 9 Pro and the $1,300 Galaxy S25 Ultra (for zooming).

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What are the best brands for Android phones?

The best Android phone makers include Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Motorola and Nothing.

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How reliable is an Android phone?

Android phones come in all shapes and sizes. Prices range from just a couple hundred dollars for a basic smartphone to $1,800 for state-of-the-art foldable phones. All the phones on this list are durable, have an IP rating for water and dust resistance and years of software support.

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How long does an Android phone last?

Every phone on this list varies in how many years of software support you get and how long you can extend the warranty, but most should last you a few years if not more.

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What to look forward to in 2025

Samsung teased the Galaxy S25 Edge at its January Galaxy Unpacked event. Not much is known about the phone aside from it being more slim than the regular Galaxy S25. Here's everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. Google is expected to release the Pixel 10 series later this year.