As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to look back at the most impressive smartphones released this year. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a mobile photographer, or just looking for the best value, this list covers the top flagship phones that stood out in 2025. Remember, these are my personal picks based on hands-on experience, and your favorites might differ—so feel free to share your top choices in the comments!
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains one of the best all-rounders of 2025. With a refreshed flat-sided design, the world’s best smartphone display (thanks to Gorilla Armor’s anti-reflective properties), and top-tier cameras with log video recording, it’s a powerhouse. The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy ensures blazing-fast performance, and the S Pen (despite losing air actions) is still the go-to for stylus fans.
Key Features:
- 7 years of Android OS updates
- Galaxy AI: The most complete generative AI suite on any phone
- Excellent camera system with advanced AI features
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Starting price: $1,250 (now available at discounts)
Cons:
Battery life is good but not class-leading due to the lack of silicon carbon tech. The price is premium, and IP69 is missing.
2. iPhone 17
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The iPhone 17 is the best value iPhone of the year, finally bringing a 120Hz ProMotion display to the base model. With 3,000 nits peak brightness, Ceramic Shield 2, and a versatile 18MP center stage camera, it’s a fantastic all-rounder. The A19 chip is 20% faster than last year, and you get double the storage for the same price as the iPhone 16.
Key Features:
- 120Hz ProMotion display
- 18MP square sensor camera
- A19 chip: 20% faster performance
- Double storage at $800/£800
- Great battery life
Cons:
No telephoto camera, and the design is similar to previous years.
3. Samsung Galaxy X Fold 7
Why It’s a Top Pick:
Samsung finally caught up in the foldable race with the Galaxy X Fold 7. It’s ultra-thin (4.2mm unfolded), lightweight (215g), and features a usable 6.5” cover display and an 8” Dynamic AMOLED main screen. The 200MP camera matches the S25 Ultra, and it’s packed with the latest Snapdragon 8 for Galaxy chip.
Key Features:
- Super thin and light design
- 8” Dynamic AMOLED display
- 200MP flagship camera
- 7 years of OS updates
- Advanced Galaxy AI features
Cons:
High price ($1,800+), smaller battery (4,400mAh), and no S Pen support.
4. Honor Magic V5
Why It’s a Top Pick:
Honor’s Magic V5 is a foldable that rivals Samsung, with a larger 5,820mAh silicon carbon battery, 66W wireless charging, and Magic Pen support. Its 6.43” cover and 7.95” main displays are easy on the eyes with 4,320Hz PWM dimming. The ultrawide and telephoto cameras outperform the competition, and the price is highly competitive.
Key Features:
- 5,820mAh silicon carbon battery
- 66W wireless charging
- Magic Pen support
- 4,320Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort
- 7 years of software updates
Cons:
Large camera bump, and the primary camera isn’t quite as strong as Samsung’s.
5. OnePlus 15
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The OnePlus 15 is the best value flagship, featuring the world’s first 1.5K 165Hz display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and a unique triple-chip setup for performance, touch, and Wi-Fi. The 7,300mAh battery supports 120W SuperVOOC charging, and the triple 50MP camera setup offers 4K 120fps Dolby Vision video.
Key Features:
- 1.5K 165Hz display
- Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
- 7,300mAh battery with 120W charging
- Triple 50MP camera system
- Starting at £850 for 256GB
Cons:
Only 4 years of OS updates, and cameras are good but not class-leading.
Honorable Mentions:
- Vivo X300 Pro: Amazing cameras, but limited availability in the UK.
- Oppo Find X9 Pro: Huge 7,500mAh battery, but pricier than OnePlus 15.
- Honor Magic 7 Pro, Vivo X200 Ultra, Xiaomi 15 Ultra: All excellent, but just missed the top 5.
Conclusion
2025 was a fantastic year for smartphones, with innovation in foldables, battery tech, and AI features. Whether you want the best camera, display, or value, there’s something for everyone. What’s your top pick? Drop your favorites in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth reviews and comparisons!
