The iPhone 16 series has arrived, bringing with it a host of upgrades. However, the incremental changes might not always feel groundbreaking, prompting many to explore other options. As someone who has tested smartphones for nearly a decade, I've encountered numerous devices that rival and sometimes surpass iPhones in innovation, such as folding phones. While I appreciate the qualities that have kept iPhones at the forefront of the market, I also recognize where alternatives shine.
For many, opting for an iPhone might not be the most practical choice. Even the entry-level model in the new lineup, the iPhone 16e, starts at a hefty $599, while the rest of the 16 series can cost significantly more. Fortunately, the standout features of iPhones, excluding iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, are readily available in the Android ecosystem, offering a wealth of quality alternatives.
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 exploring beyond Apple's offerings, you can discover advanced camera systems, designs that compete with Apple's finest, innovative form factors, more affordable options, and specialized gaming devices. Instead of choosing between iPhone tiers, consider a mix of features, build quality, performance, and price that suits your needs. Whether seeking a top-tier smartphone that isn't an iPhone or a device that matches Apple's renowned photography capabilities, you'll find excellent alternatives here.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
OnePlus 13
Best All-Around iPhone Alternative
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7A sleek design, outstanding display, exceptional performance, and impressive cameras come together in this discounted flagship, making it a compelling choice. 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 SelfieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)PROSGreat valueFast performanceCONSSoftware support slightly shorter than competitorsWhen mentioning the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, I often get puzzled looks. However, for those interested in exploring beyond iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands out as a formidable competitor to the iPhone.
This generation's OnePlus 13 showcases significant enhancements, particularly with the Snapdragon 8 Elite's eight-core CPU, matching the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpassing it in multi-core capabilities. In graphics, the OnePlus 13 leads by a wide margin in 3DMark's gaming benchmarks, making it ideal for gaming and ensuring smooth daily operations.
OnePlus encapsulates this power in an elegant design with flat sides and rounded corners, reminiscent of iPhones, yet distinguished by a unique camera ring and back design. It also supports Qi2/MagSafe charging and features a three-way alert slider, adding to its appeal. With water and hot water jet resistance, it's a robust choice.
The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's, boasting a triple-sensor array with 50MP resolutions across ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto lenses, 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 comes with a default 256GB of storage, outstripping Apple's 128GB standard, and a 6.82-inch OLED display that matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in sharpness, brightness, and smoothness with a 1-120Hz refresh rate. The OnePlus 13 is not just the best iPhone alternative; it's the top smartphone available today.
Pixel 9 Pro – Photos
9 Images
2. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
5Elegant design, exceptional cameras, a high-quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a standout smartphone.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 slightly behindBase storage could be largerGoogle has long excelled in smartphone photography with the Pixel series, and the Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of this expertise. Its elegant design and exceptional photography capabilities make it a compelling choice.
Unlike many smartphones that rely on a single standout camera, the Pixel 9 Pro boasts three powerful sensors that work harmoniously. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail, while the 50MP ultra-wide offers a broad field-of-view with consistent color. The 48MP telephoto sensor provides 5x optical zoom, allowing for close-up shots without moving.
The Pixel 9 Pro runs on the new Tensor G4 SoC, enhancing speed and reducing heat issues from previous models. It handles most tasks well, including demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero at 60fps, and supports advanced AI features.
Google's commitment to seven years of OS updates and security patches aligns the Pixel 9 Pro with Apple's long-term software support, making it a reliable choice.
The Pixel 9 Pro's 6.3-inch display is sharp, bright, and smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate, and for those who prefer a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch display.
OnePlus 12R – Photos
7 Images
3. OnePlus 12R
Best Budget iPhone Alternative
### OnePlus 12R
2A large, vibrant display and a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip make this value-focused Android phone an excellent choice.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 after the iPhone 16e's release, no new iPhone is available for less than $500. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R offers features akin to modern flagships.
The OnePlus 12R features a classy design with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Its 6.78-inch display is sharp and supports a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and high brightness levels.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and 8GB of memory, it delivers robust performance for gaming and everyday use, with 128GB of base storage.
While OnePlus's software support isn't as long as Apple's, it promises three major Android updates and four years of security updates, enhancing its value over time. If you're seeking a sleek, high-performing phone with a display rivaling Apple's best at a budget-friendly price, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 – Photos
6 Images
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Best Foldable iPhone Alternative
### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
3Despite its compact size, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 delivers powerful performance and a sleek 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 slightly less durable than traditional phonesWhile iPhones don't fold, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a compelling alternative. Its sleek aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back make it a stylish choice.
When closed, the Z Flip 6's 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display provides easy access to notifications and apps, fitting comfortably in any pocket or bag.
Unfold it to reveal a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED internal display with rich contrast and vibrant colors, supported by a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals and gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, it handles demanding tasks and AI functions with ease.
The Z Flip 6's camera system, while not top-tier, offers quality shots with wide and ultra-wide sensors. The external display serves as an ideal viewfinder for selfies using the rear cameras.
The Galaxy Z Flip 6's folding design sets it apart from any iPhone, offering unique functionality and portability.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
### RedMagic 10 Pro
1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional gaming performance, a sleek design, and impressive battery life at a surprisingly affordable 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 SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportFor gamers, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a revelation, offering top-tier gaming performance at just $649. Despite its affordable price, it makes few compromises, including 256GB of base storage and 12GB of memory.
The RedMagic 10 Pro's performance is outstanding, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip delivering near-identical single-core performance to the iPhone 16 Pro Max and surpassing it in multi-core tasks. Its GPU excels in 3DMark's gaming benchmarks, and active cooling ensures sustained high performance for extended gaming sessions. A 7,050mAh battery further enhances its gaming capabilities.
The phone's 6.85-inch OLED display is stunning, with the selfie camera hidden under the screen for uninterrupted viewing. The design is sleek and elegant, distinguishing it from other gaming phones.
While its Android skin is somewhat busy and software support is shorter than some competitors, the RedMagic 10 Pro is an excellent choice for gamers seeking high performance and can overlook minor drawbacks.
What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025
While the iPhone remains the most popular smartphone brand, more than half of the world's phones run on Android, drawn to its open platform and customization options. Android users can personalize their devices with various themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps, and access a broader range of applications through multiple app stores.
When choosing an iPhone alternative, consider the following:
Phone Size and Design
Android phones offer a variety of sizes and designs, from compact 4-inch models to expansive 7-inch screens. Foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series provide the convenience of a small device that unfolds into a larger screen, a feature absent in iPhones.
Storage Capacity
Most Android phones start with 128GB of storage, similar to the iPhone 16, but many include microSD card slots for up to an additional 1TB. Android generally offers more features and storage for less money.
Price
Android smartphones often cost less than iPhones, with prices starting as low as $50 for basic models like the BLU C5L. Quality budget options like the Poco X5 5G start at $220, compared to the iPhone 16e's $599 starting price. Even high-end models 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 are top choices for most users. Samsung excels in premium design and speed, while Google offers superior camera performance.
How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?
There's no need to upgrade your phone annually. With smartphones becoming increasingly advanced, upgrading every two to three years is sufficient to stay current with processing power and battery life. If your current phone meets your needs, there's no rush to upgrade.
