Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Choose?

When setting out to buy an iPhone, you're faced with a dazzling array of options. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, and more recently unveiled the iPhone 16e, further expanding your choices. Navigating this variety can be challenging unless you're set on the latest model. Even then, it's beneficial to consider all available options carefully.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2 See it at Best Buy See it at Apple

Apple iPhone 16

2 See it at Best Buy See it at Apple

Apple iPhone 16e

0 See it at Apple

OnePlus 13

0 See it at Best Buy See it at OnePlus

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

For the perfect iPhone accessories, check out our guide, especially if you're looking for screen protectors. We've had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which hold their own against the AirPods 2 in several categories, making them a worthy investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2 A compact size is met by powerful internals, a great display, and capable cameras. See it at Best Buy See 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 stands out by bridging the gap between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is easier to handle with one hand compared to the Pro Max, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors. If you prefer a larger screen, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a similar experience.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. The chip in the iPhone 16 Pro Max achieved the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score we've seen in both phones and laptops. The GPU also performs admirably, ensuring smooth gameplay at high settings.

Apple's build quality feels luxurious, though color options could be more vibrant. The screen offers high brightness and contrast with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about the durability of Ceramic Shield glass, it can still get scratched easily, making protection advisable.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is robust. The main sensor excels, particularly in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide camera captures more in the frame, though it may struggle with softness and noise due to focusing issues. The 5x telephoto sensor is useful for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a shutter-button-like experience, but further refinement is needed.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2 More affordable than its Pro siblings, the iPhone 16 doesn't make you give up a lot and still delivers excellent performance. See it at Best Buy See 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 is a stellar mid-range option, thanks to the introduction of Apple Intelligence, which necessitated a more powerful chip. Equipped with the A18 chip, it offers performance nearly identical to the A18 Pro in the Pro models, outpacing Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Android devices. It handles everyday tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves with ease, remaining comfortable even during extended use.

This model offers vibrant color choices alongside classic black and white options. It also features Ceramic Shield for protection, though additional safeguarding is recommended. The iPhone 16's size is ideal for pocket and hand use, being more manageable than the wider Pro Max models.

While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16's display is sharp and vibrant, enhancing your viewing experience. The main camera performs well, capturing vibrant colors and handling low-light scenarios adeptly. However, the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may produce soft images due to focus issues, which Apple might address in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0 The iPhone 16e is Apple's cheapest new option and comes with a potent chip, though some overall 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

The introduction of the iPhone 16e marks Apple's latest budget offering, starting at $599. While it's the most affordable new iPhone, it comes with some trade-offs. Powered by the A18 chip, it offers solid performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. The design has been updated from the outdated iPhone SE, featuring a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass. Base storage is now a respectable 128GB.

However, the iPhone 16e omits several features standard in other models, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. If these features are non-negotiable for you, consider refurbished or renewed devices, like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15 available for under $500 on Amazon, which might offer better value.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0 A great design, excellent display, superb performance, and impressive cameras all combine in a discounted flagship that deserves consideration. See it at Best Buy See 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 OnePlus 13, priced at $899, offers a compelling alternative to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 50MP ultra-wide sensors, delivering exceptional photos and videos. The front-facing 32MP selfie camera is equally impressive.

The OnePlus 13's display is nearly as good as the iPhone's, boasting a 6.82-inch OLED panel with a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It also conserves power by dropping to 1Hz for static content, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.

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 perfect for gaming and comes with a 6,000mAh battery for all-day use, supported by 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways and materials, including a unique wood grain pattern on the black model. It offers an alert slider similar to older iPhones and boasts IP68 and IP69 water resistance, making it a robust choice. If you're open to exploring beyond the iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is a strong contender.

Upcoming iPhones

In 2024, the iPhone 16 lineup introduced significant improvements and lowered prices on earlier models. The iPhone 16e aims to replace the budget iPhone SE. Leaks suggest an upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, including an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

While the user experience across different iPhone models remains consistent, the variations between them can make choosing the right one challenging. Here’s what to consider when buying an Apple iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

Size is crucial when selecting an iPhone. For one-handed use, consider the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. If you prefer larger screens, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max are ideal.

Storage Capacity

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

Price

Price varies from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the high-end iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. All models run iOS, ensuring long-term software support for five to six years.

Ultimately, the best iPhone depends on your usage. For most, the iPhone 16 Pro offers a well-rounded experience with its fast processor, excellent camera system, timeless design, and various storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones lead the smartphone market, several Android phones offer comparable features. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, alongside other brands like Asus and RedMagic, which provide robust options for iOS users seeking different experiences.