Top Android Phones to Replace iPhone in 2025

The iPhone 16 series has arrived with several upgrades, but the incremental changes may not feel groundbreaking to everyone. It's only natural to explore other options, and the market offers plenty of compelling alternatives. With nearly a decade of experience testing smartphones, I've seen many devices that rival iPhones, often introducing innovative features like folding screens well before Apple. My familiarity with iPhones allows me to appreciate their strengths while recognizing where alternatives might better suit different needs.

For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the entry-level model, the iPhone 16e, starts at a steep $599, while the rest of the 16 series begins at $799. Fortunately, the Android market provides a wide range of alternatives that match the iPhone's key features, excluding iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets.

TL;DR – These Are the Best iPhone Alternatives in 2025:

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### OnePlus 12R

2See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

3See it at Amazon### RedMagic 10 Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicBy broadening your search, you'll discover alternatives with advanced camera systems, designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors, budget-friendly options, and niche models focused on gaming. Instead of choosing between iPhone tiers, you can select a device that perfectly matches your desired blend of features, build quality, performance, and price. Whether seeking the top non-iPhone or a device matching Apple's photographic capabilities, you're sure to find a suitable alternative here.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. OnePlus 13

Best All-Around iPhone Alternative

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7The OnePlus 13 combines a sleek design, outstanding display, top-notch performance, and impressive cameras into a flagship that offers great value. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel SeflieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)PROSGreat valueFast performanceCONSSoftware support a little shorter than rivalsWhen I mention the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, they often look puzzled. But for those curious about the Android ecosystem, this device stands out as a formidable competitor to the iPhone.

The OnePlus 13 showcases significant upgrades over its predecessor, pushing it to the forefront. It boasts the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tests. In gaming benchmarks, the OnePlus 13 outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max, making it a powerhouse for gaming and ensuring smooth daily operations.

Its elegant design features flatter sides and rounded corners, giving it an iPhone-like feel, yet it stands out with its distinctive camera ring and back designs. The OnePlus 13 supports Qi2/MagSafe charging with first-party cases and includes a three-way alert slider, offering an edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. Its water and hot water jet resistance further enhance its appeal.

The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's, with a triple-sensor array featuring 50MP ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto cameras, delivering stunning photos and videos.

Priced at $900, the OnePlus 13 offers excellent value, especially when compared to the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max. It provides more memory and storage, starting with 256GB, and a vibrant 6.82-inch OLED display with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. The OnePlus 13 isn't just the top iPhone alternative; it's the best smartphone you can buy right now.

Pixel 9 Pro – Photos

9 Images2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5The Pixel 9 Pro boasts an elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support, making it a top contender among smartphones. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1280x2856, 495 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G4Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 48-Megapixel Telephoto, 42-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,700mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSElegant and compact designExcellent camera systemLong-term software supportCONSGaming performance lags behindBase storage could be biggerGoogle's Pixel line has long been celebrated for its photography capabilities, and the Pixel 9 Pro exemplifies this prowess. With its three-camera array, the Pixel 9 Pro offers versatile and high-quality photography.

Unlike many phones where one camera overshadows the others, the Pixel 9 Pro's 50MP main sensor, 50MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto sensor all deliver excellent results. The main sensor captures abundant light and detail, the ultra-wide provides a broad field-of-view with consistent color, and the telephoto offers 5x optical zoom, making it a formidable alternative to the iPhone.

Powered by the Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro is faster than its predecessor and manages heat better during daily use. While it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in performance, Google focuses on enhancing AI capabilities, enabling features like natural conversation with a live virtual assistant.

Google also commits to seven years of OS updates and security patches for the Pixel 9 Pro, aligning its support with Apple's long-term offerings.

The Pixel 9 Pro's design is both beautiful and compact, featuring a stunning 6.3-inch display with a 1280x2856 resolution and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. For those preferring a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch display.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images3. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 12R

2The OnePlus 12R offers a large, vibrant display and a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, making it a strong value-focused Android phone. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,500mAhWeight207g (0.46lb)PROSLarge, vibrant displayStrong battery lifeGood main cameraCONSNo wireless chargingOnly IP64 water and dust resistanceWith the iPhone SE discontinued, no new iPhone starts below $500 without significant feature trade-offs. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R provides a near-flagship experience on the Android side.

The OnePlus 12R features a classy aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. Its 6.78-inch AMOLED display is sharp at 1264x2780 and supports a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, offering brightness and color accuracy comparable to Apple's best.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC with 8GB of RAM, the OnePlus 12R handles demanding tasks and gaming effortlessly. It comes with a base storage of 128GB.

While its software support isn't as long as Apple's, OnePlus promises three major Android updates and four years of security updates, enhancing its long-term value. If you seek a sleek, high-performing phone with a display rivaling Apple's at a budget-friendly price, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice. For more options, check our comprehensive Android phone recommendations.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 – Photos

6 Images4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Best Foldable iPhone Alternative

### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

3The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers powerful performance in a compact, foldable design. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDisplay6.7-inch 2650 x 1080 AMOLED (inner); 3.4-inch 720 x 748 AMOLED (cover screen)CPUQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3RAM12GBStorage256GB – 512GBRear camera50MP + 12MPFront camera10MPOSAndroid 14PROSSnapdragon 8 Gen 3 is extremely powerfulGorgeous displaysCONSFoldable design is a little less durable than a traditional phoneWhile iPhones don't fold, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 competes admirably with Apple's offerings. The Z Flip 6's sleek aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back provide a stylish look whether open or closed. The 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display offers quick access to notifications and apps, fitting easily into pockets or bags.

Unfolding the Z Flip 6 reveals a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED internal display with vibrant colors and a 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for gaming and smooth interactions. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, it handles demanding games and AI tasks with ease.

Although the camera system isn't Samsung's top-tier, the Z Flip 6's dual rear cameras and internal selfie camera produce high-quality photos. Using the rear cameras for selfies via the external display adds versatility.

The Z Flip 6's folding design provides unique features unmatched by any Apple device, making it a strong contender against the iPhone.

5. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### RedMagic 10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance, a sleek design, and long battery life at a competitive price. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportFor gamers, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a revelation, offering top-tier performance at just $649. Despite its affordable price, it includes 256GB of storage and 12GB of RAM.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's performance is outstanding, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. It nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and exceeds it in multi-core tests. Its GPU outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max in gaming benchmarks, and its active cooling system ensures sustained high performance during long gaming sessions. A 7,050mAh battery supports extended play.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's 6.85-inch OLED display is immersive, with the under-display selfie camera maximizing screen real estate. Its elegant design sets it apart from typical gaming phones.

While its Android skin may be over-the-top and its software support shorter than some rivals, the RedMagic 10 Pro is an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize performance and don't need the fastest 5G connections.

What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025

With more than half of the world's phones running Android, users appreciate its open platform, which allows for customization with themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps. The Google Play Store offers more apps than the Apple App Store, and alternative app stores like the Amazon Appstore and Samsung Galaxy Store provide additional options.

Choosing a great iPhone alternative involves considering several factors:

Phone Size and Design

Android phones come in various sizes, from compact 4-inch models to expansive 7-inch devices. Foldable smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series, offer a small form factor that expands to a full-sized screen, a feature unavailable with iPhones.

Storage Capacity

Most Android phones start with 128GB of storage, matching the iPhone 16, but many offer expandable storage via microSD cards up to 1TB. Android devices often provide more features for less money, including higher storage, memory, power, screen sizes, and camera capabilities.

Price

Android smartphones are typically more affordable than iPhones, with budget options starting at $50 and quality models like the Poco X5 5G available for $220. Even high-end devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB of storage can be found for $2,160, offering more features for the price.

Overall, the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as top picks for most users, with Samsung offering premium design and speed, and Google excelling in camera quality.

How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?

With new Android phones released annually, upgrading every year isn't necessary. Smartphones today are more advanced, so upgrading every two to three years ensures you stay current with processing power and battery life. If your current phone meets your needs, there's no rush to upgrade.