Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Buy?

Choosing the right iPhone can feel overwhelming given the vast array of options available. Apple introduced the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, followed by the more recent iPhone 16e, expanding the lineup further. With such variety, selecting the perfect phone requires careful consideration, even if you're eyeing the latest models. It's essential to explore all your options to ensure you pick the iPhone that best suits your needs.

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

All iPhones listed here support iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To fully leverage Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

For those interested in enhancing their iPhone experience, check out our guide to the best iPhone accessories, especially screen protectors. We also reviewed the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which impressively rival the AirPods 2 in several aspects, making them a worthwhile investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2A compact size paired with powerful internals, a superb display, and versatile cameras make the iPhone 16 Pro an excellent choice. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18 Pro
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

Pros

• Powerful performance
• Elegant design
• Robust camera system

Cons

• Camera settings could use some tweaks

The iPhone 16 Pro strikes a perfect balance between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is more manageable for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors of its larger sibling. If you prefer a larger screen, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which offers a similar experience.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for both daily tasks and gaming. It achieved the highest Geekbench 6 single-core score we've seen in a smartphone or laptop. The GPU ensures smooth gameplay at high settings.

Apple's build quality is luxurious, though the color options are less vibrant. The screen is stunning, with high brightness, contrast, and a fluid 120Hz refresh rate. Despite the Ceramic Shield glass's touted durability, it can still scratch easily, so consider additional protection.

The cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are outstanding. The main sensor excels in low-light conditions, while the ultra-wide sensor captures more in the frame, though it can be soft and noisy due to focusing issues. The 5x telephoto lens is perfect for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a shutter-button-like experience, but Apple may need to refine it in future updates.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2Offering more affordability than its Pro siblings, the iPhone 16 doesn't compromise much and delivers impressive performance. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 3,582mAh
• Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

Pros

• Excellent performance
• Fun colors

Cons

• Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft

The iPhone 16 stands out as a brilliant mid-range option in Apple's lineup. With the introduction of Apple Intelligence, it required updated internals, resulting in the A18 chip, which matches the performance of the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It outperforms many Android devices with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, making it ideal for everyday use and demanding games like Wuthering Waves.

Available in more colorful options, the iPhone 16 also features Ceramic Shield for protection, though additional protection is recommended. Its size is perfect for pocket and hand, being more manageable than the Pro Max models.

Though it misses the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16's display is sharp and vibrant on its 6.1-inch OLED screen. The speakers are punchy, enhancing media consumption. The main camera performs well, capturing vibrant colors and handling low-light scenarios effectively, but the ultra-wide and selfie cameras can be soft due to focus issues.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0Apple's most affordable new model, the iPhone 16e, offers a powerful chip but with some compromises. See it at Apple

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
• Processor: A18
• Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 4,005mAh
• Weight: 167g (0.39lb)

Pros

• Fast chip
• Lower price than main iPhone lineup

Cons

• Trims a handful of common iPhone features

For budget-conscious buyers, the iPhone 16e is Apple's cheapest new option, starting at $599. While it's the default budget iPhone, it comes with several trade-offs. It features the A18 chip, similar to the iPhone 16 but with one less GPU core, ensuring fast performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. The design has been updated to include a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, with base storage increased to 128GB.

However, it lacks several features standard in non-SE models since the iPhone 12, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a dual rear camera setup. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. If the missing features are a concern and you're not focused on Apple Intelligence's AI, consider refurbished or renewed devices, like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available under $500 on Amazon.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0With a great design, excellent display, superb performance, and impressive cameras, the OnePlus 13 is a compelling alternative at a discounted flagship price. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

Product Specifications

• Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
• Battery: 6,000mAh
• Weight: 210g (0.46lb)

Pros

• Great value
• Fast performance

Cons

• Software support a little shorter than rivals

The iPhone's appeal lies in its user-friendly software, solid cameras, and excellent performance. However, if you're not tied to the iOS ecosystem or unwilling to pay premium prices, the OnePlus 13 offers a compelling alternative. Priced at $899, it competes with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering a larger display, smooth refresh rate, multiple cameras, and top-notch processing.

The OnePlus 13's triple-camera setup includes a 50MP telephoto lens, a 50MP main sensor, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, delivering stunning photos and videos. The front-facing camera is also exceptional. The 6.82-inch OLED display rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with a 120Hz refresh rate, variable down to 1Hz for power savings, and high brightness and contrast.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the OnePlus 13 nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance, surpasses it in multi-core performance, and excels in graphics tests. It's excellent for gaming and has a long-lasting 6,000mAh battery, with fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging options.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways and finishes, including an alert slider reminiscent of older iPhones. It offers superior water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings, making it durable even against high-pressure water jets. If you're open to exploring beyond Apple, the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth considering.

Upcoming iPhones

Apple's 2024 lineup includes the iPhone 16s, bringing significant improvements and robust performance. Additionally, Apple has lowered the prices of earlier models and introduced the more affordable iPhone 16e to replace the iPhone SE. Leaked information suggests the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup might include an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

While all iPhone models offer a similar user experience, which is a major draw for Apple fans, the differences between models can influence your choice. Here's what to consider when choosing an iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

Size is crucial when selecting an iPhone. For one-handed use, the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 are ideal. Larger hands might prefer the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max for their bigger displays and wider builds.

Storage Capacity

Storage is another important factor. If you plan to store many high-resolution photos, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is a top choice. Other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual users.

Price

Price ranges from the iPhone 16e at $599 to the iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of your budget, all models receive iOS updates for five to six years, ensuring a consistent software experience and support.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage. The iPhone 16 Pro is the most well-rounded option, offering a fast processor, excellent camera system, appealing design, and various storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones dominate the market, several Android phones rival Apple's latest offerings. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, both leading the Android market. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also offer compelling features that iOS users might appreciate.