Whether you want a cutting-edge camera in your pocket or you’re looking for a cheap Android that will stay fast and secure for years, you have more choice than ever when it comes to choosing the best smartphone.
To help you find your perfect match, I’ve been putting the best phones through their paces for months, using them as my daily driver to separate the top performers from the overpriced paperweights. I’ve tested their cameras in challenging conditions, pushed their processors with demanding apps and scrutinised their battery life under real-world conditions.
From the most powerful iPhone to the most stylish Samsung flip phone, my definitive guide to the best smartphones in 2025 has something to suit your budget and needs.
How I tested
To find the best smartphone, I use each handset as my primary device for at least a week, swapping in my SIM card and integrating it fully into my daily life. This long-term, real-world testing allows me to move beyond benchmark scores and get a genuine feel for a phone’s strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the features and performance that matter most.
- Performance: A phone’s true performance isn’t just about its processor – it’s about how it feels to use. I test this by juggling everyday apps, scrolling through social media, streaming music and multitasking. The best phones feels snappy and responsive, with an intuitive interface that’s free from annoying bloatware.
- Camera: I test the cameras in a wide range of conditions, from bright daylight to tricky low-light situations, capturing everything from portraits and landscapes to the occasional unwilling pet.
- Display: I assess each display for its vibrancy, sharpness and how well it performs in bright and direct sunlight. I also test for smoothness and responsiveness by playing games and scrolling through menus, looking for the fluid motion that a high refresh rate (120Hz) screen provides.
- Battery life: I measure battery life based on a full day of real-world use. This includes a mix of scrolling social media, streaming music and video, taking photos and a bit of GPS navigation.
- Build quality and support: I assess the feel of the materials, the sturdiness of the construction and how comfortable the phone is to hold. I also consider the manufacturer’s commitment to providing long-term software and security updates, which is essential for keeping your device safe and up to date.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
Between them, technology experts Steve Hogarty and David Phelan have been testing and writing about smartphones for more than two decades, from the very first iPhone to the AI-powered flagships of today.
Their rigorous, real-world testing process involves using each handset as their primary device, allowing them to go beyond specs on a sheet to understand how a phone truly performs in daily life. This hands-on, long-term approach, combined with years of industry insight, ensures that every recommendation is based on honest, unbiased and expert opinion.
The best phones for 2025 are:
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