Top iPhone Models to Buy in 2025 Revealed

Choosing the right iPhone can feel overwhelming with the array of options available. Apple introduced the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and the more recent iPhone 16e in 2024, each offering unique features to cater to different needs and budgets. Whether you're aiming for the latest technology or seeking a more budget-friendly option, it's crucial to consider all your choices carefully.

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 these iPhones run on iOS 18, which was unveiled at WWDC 2024, introducing a host of AI enhancements and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To fully leverage Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or later model.

For those interested in enhancing their iPhone experience, don't miss our guide to the best iPhone accessories, which includes essential items like screen protectors. We've also had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which stand up impressively against the AirPods 2 in various 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 is met by powerful internals, a great display, and capable cameras. 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 the perfect balance between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is ideal for one-handed use, yet it retains all the essential features and camera sensors. If you prefer a larger screen, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which offers a similar experience with a bigger display.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. It achieved the highest Geekbench 6 single-core score I've seen in both phones and laptops, thanks to its powerful GPU that ensures smooth gameplay at high settings.

Apple's build quality is top-notch, offering a luxurious feel, though the color options are somewhat subdued. The screen boasts high brightness and contrast, enhanced by a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims of durability with Ceramic Shield glass, I found it susceptible to scratches, so additional protection is advisable.

The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro is impressive, with the main sensor excelling in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide lens captures more in the frame, though it can struggle with softness and noise, possibly due to focusing issues that might be mitigated with manual focus. The 5x telephoto sensor is excellent for portraits with natural bokeh and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a shutter-button-like experience, though it could benefit from future refinements.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

Apple iPhone 16

2More 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 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 is a standout mid-range option within Apple's lineup. With the integration of Apple Intelligence, it features the powerful A18 chip, offering performance comparable to the A18 Pro found in the Pro models. It outperforms many Android phones with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, providing seamless everyday use and the ability to handle demanding games like Wuthering Waves without overheating.

This model offers vibrant color options, alongside classic black and white designs. It also features Ceramic Shield for added protection, though extra safeguards are recommended. The iPhone 16's smaller size is perfect for pocket and hand comfort, and while it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, its OLED display is still sharp and vivid, complemented by robust speakers for an enhanced media experience.

The main camera excels in capturing vibrant, well-lit images, though the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may produce softer images, possibly due to focusing issues that might be addressed in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0The 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 iPhone 16e is Apple's attempt at a budget-friendly option, starting at $599. It's equipped with the A18 chip, offering performance akin to the iPhone 16, but with one less GPU core. The design has been updated to a more modern look, featuring a 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, along with a base storage of 128GB.

However, it omits several features standard in other recent models, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera. This significantly limits its functionality and camera capabilities. If these omissions are deal-breakers, consider exploring refurbished or renewed options like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available for under $500 on platforms like Amazon.

4. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

OnePlus 13

0A great design, excellent display, superb performance, and impressive cameras all combine in a discounted flagship that deserves consideration. 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 OnePlus 13 offers a compelling alternative to iPhones, priced at $899, making it a competitor to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 50MP ultra-wide sensors, delivering excellent photo and video quality, complemented by a standout 32MP selfie camera.

The display is nearly as impressive as the iPhone's, with a 6.82-inch OLED panel at a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, capable of dropping to 1Hz for power savings. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max in performance, excelling in gaming and boasting a long-lasting 6,000mAh battery with rapid 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways and materials, and offers robust water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings. If you're open to exploring options beyond the iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is a strong contender.

Upcoming iPhones

In 2024, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 lineup, bringing significant improvements and performance enhancements. Prices for earlier models have been adjusted, making them more accessible. Additionally, the iPhone 16e was launched as a more affordable option, replacing the iPhone SE. Rumors and leaks about the iPhone 17 lineup, including an iPhone Air, have also surfaced, promising exciting new developments.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

Despite the variety of models, the user experience across Apple iPhones remains consistent, a key factor in their global popularity. However, choosing the right model involves considering several factors:

Phone Size

Size is crucial for usability. For one-handed use, opt for the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. Larger hands might prefer the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max, which offer bigger displays and a more substantial build.

Storage Capacity

Storage needs vary. If you're a heavy user of high-resolution media, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB storage is ideal. Other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual users.

Price

Prices range from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the premium iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1,599 for the 1TB model. All models run on iOS, which receives updates for five to six years post-purchase, ensuring a consistent software experience regardless of the price point.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your specific needs and usage patterns. The iPhone 16 Pro stands out as a well-rounded choice, offering a powerful processor, an excellent camera system, attractive colors, and a variety of storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones lead the smartphone market, Android offers competitive alternatives. The OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro are top contenders in the Android space, providing features that rival those of the latest iPhones. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also offer compelling options that meet many of the expectations of iOS users.