Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Choose?

Choosing the right iPhone from Apple's expansive lineup can feel overwhelming, especially with the recent release of the iPhone 16, 16 Pro, and the newly introduced iPhone 16e in 2024. Each model offers unique features and capabilities, making it essential to understand your needs before making a decision. Whether you're after the latest technology or a more budget-friendly option, Apple's range caters to various preferences.

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, you'll benefit from iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces advanced AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To fully leverage Apple Intelligence, consider any model from the iPhone 15 series and beyond.

For additional accessories, check out our comprehensive guide to the best iPhone accessories, including essential screen protectors. Our review of the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC highlights their impressive performance, making them a worthy investment alongside your new iPhone.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2The iPhone 16 Pro strikes the perfect balance between size and power, offering a compact yet feature-rich experience. Its 6.3-inch OLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals, while the A18 Pro chip delivers top-notch performance for both everyday tasks and gaming. The camera system, with its 48-megapixel wide, 48-megapixel ultrawide, and 12-megapixel telephoto lenses, excels in various lighting conditions, though the ultra-wide could benefit from improved focus. If a larger screen is preferred, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max for a similar experience on a bigger canvas.

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

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2The iPhone 16 is an excellent choice for those seeking a mid-range option without sacrificing performance. Powered by the A18 chip, it offers robust performance comparable to its Pro siblings, ideal for daily use and gaming. The 6.3-inch OLED display provides vibrant visuals, and while the main camera performs admirably, the ultra-wide and selfie cameras can be soft at times.

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

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e offers a budget-friendly entry into the iPhone ecosystem, featuring the powerful A18 chip. However, it comes with compromises, including the absence of MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a secondary rear camera. If the omitted features are essential, consider exploring refurbished options like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15 available at discounted rates.

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

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0For those open to alternatives, the OnePlus 13 provides a compelling option with a stunning 6.82-inch OLED display and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Its triple-camera setup delivers impressive results, and the large 6,000mAh battery ensures all-day usage. While the software support is slightly shorter than Apple's, the OnePlus 13 offers excellent value and performance.

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

Upcoming iPhones

The 2024 lineup introduced significant enhancements with the iPhone 16 series, offering improved performance and lowered prices for previous models. The iPhone 16e aims to fill the budget gap left by the discontinued iPhone SE. Meanwhile, leaks suggest that the upcoming iPhone 17 series might include an iPhone Air, promising even more variety in the future.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

When selecting an iPhone, consider these key factors:

Phone Size

The right size depends on your hand size and usage preferences. Larger models like the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max offer expansive displays but may be less manageable for smaller hands. The iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 are better suited for those preferring a more compact device.

Storage Capacity

Storage needs vary based on usage. If you're a heavy user of high-resolution media, opt for models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max with up to 1TB. For casual users, the standard 128GB should suffice.

Price

Apple's pricing ranges from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the premium iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1,599. Regardless of the model, you'll enjoy the latest iOS features and long-term software support.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for most users is the iPhone 16 Pro, which offers a balanced combination of performance, camera quality, and design at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones are incredibly popular, Android phones like the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro offer strong competition with comparable features. Brands such as Asus and RedMagic also provide compelling alternatives with features that rival those of iOS devices.