Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Choose?

When you're setting out to buy an iPhone, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, and more recently introduced the iPhone 16e, further expanding the lineup. This vast array of choices can make selecting the perfect phone challenging, but it's important to consider all your options, even if you're tempted to go straight for the latest model.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

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Apple iPhone 16

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Apple iPhone 16e

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OnePlus 13

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No matter which iPhone you choose, each supports iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and a significantly improved Photos app. To access Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

For the best accessories to complement your new iPhone, check out our guide on the best iPhone accessories, particularly screen protectors. We've also had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete well with the AirPods 2 in several aspects, making them a worthy 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 stunning display, and capable cameras make the iPhone 16 Pro the best overall 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 excels in bridging the gap between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its more compact form factor is perfect for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors of the larger models. If you prefer a larger screen, consider the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which offers a similar experience.

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. The chip achieved the highest Geekbench 6 single-core score I've seen in any phone or laptop. Coupled with a powerful GPU, it effortlessly handles the latest games at high frame rates and maximum settings.

Apple's build quality remains luxurious, though the color options are less vibrant. The display is outstanding, combining high brightness and contrast with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about the durability of Ceramic Shield glass, it's still prone to scratches, so additional protection is recommended.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is impressive. The main sensor excels, particularly in low-light conditions where smartphone cameras often struggle. The ultra-wide lens captures more of the scene, though it can exhibit softness and noise due to focusing issues, which can be mitigated with manual focus. The 5x telephoto sensor is great for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a more intuitive way to adjust settings and take photos, though it may require further refinement in future updates.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2More affordable than its Pro siblings, the iPhone 16 delivers excellent performance without significant compromises. 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, the base model now features the powerful A18 chip, closely matching the performance of the A18 Pro in the Pro models. The A18 chip outperformed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Android devices, making the iPhone 16 a formidable performer in everyday use and gaming.

This model offers more colorful design options, alongside classic black and white choices. Despite featuring Ceramic Shield, extra protection is advisable. The iPhone 16's smaller size makes it more pocket-friendly and easier to handle than the wider Pro Max models.

Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16 boasts a sharp, vibrant OLED display. Coupled with punchy speakers, it's perfect for watching shows and movies. The main camera captures vibrant, well-lit photos, though the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may produce soft images due to focusing issues, which Apple may address in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0Apple's most affordable new option, the iPhone 16e offers a potent chip but with some trade-offs. 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 those seeking a budget-friendly iPhone, the introduction of the iPhone 16e complicates the decision. Although it replaces the iPhone SE and starts at $599, it's pricier than its predecessor. The iPhone 16e uses the same A18 chip as the iPhone 16, albeit with one fewer GPU core, ensuring fast performance and access to Apple Intelligence features.

The design has been updated to a more modern look, featuring a larger, sharper 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass. Base storage is now a more generous 128GB. However, the iPhone 16e lacks several standard features like MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera, which may limit its functionality and appeal.

While the iPhone 16e is the cheapest new iPhone, it might not be the best value. Refurbished or renewed devices, such as the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15 available for under $500, could offer more features at a lower cost.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0A compelling alternative to the iPhone, the OnePlus 13 offers excellent design, display, performance, and cameras at a competitive 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 is renowned for its user-friendly software, solid cameras, and excellent performance. However, if you're not tied to iOS or looking to avoid the premium pricing of Apple's top-tier models, the OnePlus 13 is a compelling alternative. Priced at $899, it rivals the $1199 iPhone 16 Pro Max in features and performance.

The OnePlus 13 features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 50MP ultra-wide sensors, delivering high-quality photos and videos. The front-facing 32MP camera is equally impressive.

Its 6.82-inch OLED display boasts a 3168x1440 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, and can drop to 1Hz for power saving. The screen offers bright peaks and deep blacks, comparable to the iPhone's display.

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 a powerhouse for gaming, supported by a 6,000mAh battery and fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging options.

The OnePlus 13's elegant design comes in various stylish colorways and includes an alert slider similar to older iPhones. It also offers superior water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings, making it more durable against water and high-pressure jets.

For those not committed to the iPhone ecosystem, the OnePlus 13 is a strong contender that offers exceptional value and performance.

Upcoming iPhones

In 2024, the iPhone 16 lineup introduced significant improvements and performance boosts, with Apple also adjusting prices of earlier models. The introduction of the more affordable iPhone 16e aims to replace the budget iPhone SE. Leaked images and information suggest that the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may include an iPhone Air, hinting at further innovations.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

Despite the variety of models, the user experience across iPhones remains consistent, contributing to their status as the most popular smartphone globally. However, key differences between models can guide your choice. Here’s what to consider when choosing an Apple iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

Size is crucial for iPhone users. For one-handed use, opt for a smaller model like the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. If you prefer larger screens and wider builds, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max might be more suitable.

Storage Capacity

Consider your storage needs. For high-resolution photos and extensive app use, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is ideal. Most models start at 128GB, which suffices for casual use.

Price

Price is a significant factor, with the iPhone 16e starting at $599 and the fully-loaded iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) reaching $1,599. Regardless of the model, all iPhones run on the same iOS operating system, ensuring long-term software updates and a similar user experience.

Ultimately, your iPhone choice should align with your usage needs. For most, the iPhone 16 Pro stands out as the best all-around option, offering a fast processor, an excellent camera system, versatile color options, and a range of storage capacities at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones dominate the smartphone market, several Android alternatives match up well against Apple's latest offerings. The OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as top contenders in the Android market. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also offer compelling options with features that rival those of iOS devices.