- Black Friday & Cyber Monday phone deals
- Best Android and iPhone phone reviews
- 1. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL – Best Phone Overall
- 2. Oppo Find X9 Pro – Best Phone Cameras
- 3. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Best Phone Software
- 4. Apple iPhone 17 – Best iPhone
- 6. Xiaomi 15 Ultra – Great Camera Phone
- 7. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE – Best Mid-Range Phone
- 8. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max – Best Premium iPhone
- 9. Nothing Phone (3a) – Best Value Phone
- Other phones tested
- Phone news that could affect your buying decision
- Can I get a better phone deal?
- How to choose the best phone
A smartphone is essential in today’s digital world, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference in your daily life. With competition between major brands at an all-time high—especially in the flagship and premium market—consumers now get better performance, cameras, and features than ever before. But with so many options available, each offering different software, specs, and price points, picking the perfect phone can feel confusing.
That’s where AG4Tech’s expert team comes in. Our editors test smartphones every day, reviewing the latest devices from Samsung, Apple, Google, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo, Motorola, and more. We thoroughly evaluate camera quality, battery life, software experience, performance, charging speed, durability, and value for money. Whether you’re looking for the best Android phone, the top iPhone, the best camera phone, or the best budget smartphone, we know exactly which models deliver the results you care about.
Below are our top 10 picks for the best smartphones you can buy today. Click on any model to read the full review, and don’t miss our detailed buying guide to help you choose the right Android phone or iPhone for your needs.
Black Friday & Cyber Monday phone deals
Black Friday has come and gone, but plenty of deals are still available on Cyber Monday, making it a great time to upgrade. Deciding which phone to buy and where from can be overwhelming, though, so we’ve done the hard work for you and found the best offers and prices on phones. These are accurate at the time of writing on 1 December, though they may quickly change, especially if stock runs low.
See more deals on phones and accessories.
- Xiaomi 15 – £559 (£440 off)*
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – £849 (£400 off)*
- Google Pixel 10 Pro – £879 (£220 off)
- OnePlus 13 – £689 (£310 off)*
- Apple iPhone 16 – £644 (£55 off)
*Lowest price ever seen
Best Android and iPhone phone reviews
1. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL – Best Phone Overall
Pros
- Gorgeous design and display
- Superb camera experience
- Brilliant Android 16 software with long support
- The best wireless charging on Android
Cons
- Big and bulky
- 100x zoom is disappointing
- Even more expensive
If budget isn’t a concern, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is the best smartphone you can buy right now. It delivers ultra-premium hardware, industry-leading software, and an incredibly polished overall experience—all without any major drawbacks.
The elegant design and stunning 6.8-inch display immediately catch your eye, while its IP68 water- and dust-resistance plus tough durability ensure it holds up over time. The camera system offers the most reliable point-and-shoot photography on any phone, with impressive video performance to match. AI camera tools can be inconsistent—100x Pro Res Zoom especially—but they’re optional and easy to disable.
Google’s addition of Qi2 wireless charging and the new Pixelsnap accessory ecosystem marks a big step forward for Android. Still, the improved 45W wired charging and dependable battery life mean you won’t need to top up often.
Software is where the Pixel truly dominates. Android 16 with Material 3 Expressive feels fast, clean, and intuitive, and Google promises seven full years of timely updates—something few rivals can match.
The only real compromises? It’s a large, heavy device—and definitely not cheap.
Who should buy the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL?
You want the best phone available today, are prepared to pay for it, and don’t mind using Android.
Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Further Considerations
You want the best phone available today, are prepared to pay for it, and don’t mind using Android.
2. Oppo Find X9 Pro – Best Phone Cameras
Pros
- Phenomenal cameras
- Gigantic battery
- Excellent performance and software
- One of the nicest screens around
Cons
- Expensive
- Only 5 years of OS updates
The Oppo Find X9 Pro is a truly exceptional all-round flagship. If you’re not a fan of Google’s Pixel software, this is the next best premium smartphone you can buy—and in some areas, it even surpasses the competition.
What makes it so impressive? Almost everything. The Find X9 Pro is one of the rare phones with virtually no weaknesses, unless Oppo’s five-year Android update commitment is a concern for you.
It sets a new benchmark for mobile photography, delivering outstanding still images in nearly every scenario. And with the optional Hasselblad teleconverter kit, its zoom capabilities reach levels previously thought impossible on a smartphone.
Battery life is another standout. The massive 7500mAh battery delivered the highest score in our battery benchmark tests and can easily last two days for many users. Fast charging is excellent too—provided you have an 80W-compatible charger.
Don’t be put off by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset either. Its performance rivals, and in some cases matches, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Combine that with a beautiful 6.7-inch OLED display, premium build quality, and refined software, and the Find X9 Pro becomes one of the hardest flagship phones to fault.
Who should buy the Oppo Find X9 Pro?
Anyone seeking for the greatest cameras or the longest battery life of any phone.
Oppo Find X9 Pro: Further Considerations
If you want a more compact design or the best software support, look elsewhere.
3. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Best Phone Software
Pros
- Top-tier performance
- Impressive cameras
- Gorgeous anti-reflective screen
- The most advanced AI around
- Slick software experience
Cons
- Very similar to S24 Ultra
- S Pen has no Bluetooth
- Expensive
Best Prices Today in AMAZON : View Deal
The Galaxy S25 Ultra may look almost identical to the S24 Ultra, and from a hardware standpoint, much of it is. But that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most impressive flagship smartphones you can buy.
Samsung has trimmed even more weaknesses this year. You get increased processing power, subtle but meaningful camera upgrades, and a new anti-reflective display coating that elevates the 6.9-inch 120Hz OLED panel to the best in its class. The slightly rounded corners also improve comfort when holding the device.
On the software side, this is the best experience Samsung has ever delivered—arguably the best Android software experience overall. The phone includes a comprehensive suite of genuinely useful Galaxy AI features and benefits from seven years of major updates, putting it among the longest-supported phones on the market.
Still, the S25 Ultra isn’t flawless. The built-in S Pen has lost Bluetooth support, the device remains heavy and bulky, and the price continues to be extremely high.
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?
You want to go all-out with top specs and features not found elsewhere, like Samsung’s S Pen stylus.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Further Considerations
It’s expensive and might be overkill for some users. Look elsewhere if you’d prefer a lightweight or compact phone.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review
4. Apple iPhone 17 – Best iPhone
Pros
- Double the storage
- Excellent screen
- Camera features for socials
- Solid battery life
Cons
- AI features are still hit and miss
- Camera could be improved
Best Prices Today in AMAZON : View Deal
Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup introduces major changes, including the ultra-thin iPhone Air and a bold redesign for the Pro models, making the choice more complicated than in previous years. For most users, however, the entry-level iPhone 17 emerges as the standout option.
The iPhone 17 offers the best balance of value, design, and features across Apple’s range. While owners of the iPhone 16—or even the 15—may not feel the need to upgrade, the jump is significant for those coming from an iPhone 14 or earlier.
This all-rounder features a compact yet vibrant display, smooth performance, respectable battery life with faster charging (with the right adapter), point-and-shoot cameras, and double the storage of last year’s model—all at the same price.
It’s not without minor drawbacks: Apple Intelligence still lags behind competitors, and the Camera Control button could use refinement. Still, the iPhone 17 is a reliable, long-term daily driver for most users.
Who should buy the iPhone 17?
You want the best value iPhone from the current generation.
iPhone 17: Further considerations
Similar-priced Android rivals have features like telephoto cameras and better AI.
5. OnePlus 15 – Best Phone Performance
Pros
- Best-in-class performance
- Great user experience with nice AI additions
- Outlandish battery life
- Super-fast charging
Cons
- Not quite top-tier cameras
- Software support could be longer
- Magnetic accessories require case
The OnePlus 15 is a bold and exciting upgrade over the OnePlus 13, hitting almost every mark for a flagship Android phone.
Its standout feature is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, delivering unmatched performance that few, if any, Android devices can rival. Powering the phone is a massive 7300mAh silicon-carbon battery, capable of lasting a full two days for most users. Super-fast 120W wired and 50W wireless charging complement the battery perfectly, even if Qi2 support still requires a case.
The 6.8-inch 165Hz OLED display is stunning, and the refreshed design makes the phone look and feel premium. OxygenOS 16 is highly intuitive, packed with useful features, though software support isn’t quite as long as the top competitors.
Camera performance will ultimately influence your decision. While some hardware downgrades exist, the triple 50MP rear sensors deliver impressive results, with only minor weaknesses compared to the very best camera phones.
For most users, the OnePlus 15 is an outstanding all-rounder, combining top-tier performance, battery life, and design into a flagship that’s hard to beat.
Who should buy the OnePlus 15?
You want a phone that’s excellent in just about every department for under a grand with change to spare.
OnePlus 15: Further Considerations
Look elsewhere for the best cameras if that’s really important to you.
Read our full OnePlus 15 review
6. Xiaomi 15 Ultra – Great Camera Phone
Pros
- Incredible camera performance
- Excellent screen
- Solid battery life & fast charging
- Silky performance
Cons
- Some design backsteps
- Not the best Android skin
- Mixed bag of AI features
If photography is your main priority, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands out as a superb option. For still images, it easily competes with the very best smartphones on the market.
Equipped with three 50Mp lenses (main, ultrawide, and 3x telephoto) plus a powerful 200Mp periscope offering 4.3x optical zoom, it delivers some of the finest zoom shots available on any phone. The absence of a variable aperture on the main lens does reduce flexibility for close-up subjects, but overall image quality remains outstanding.
With the optional Photography Kit accessory, the 15 Ultra comes closer to replacing a DSLR than any other handset. Add in a sharp 32Mp front camera, and you’ve got a device that excels across the board.
Of course, it’s not just about photos. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra also offers flagship-level performance, a stunning display, and excellent battery life with 90W fast charging. Its design is tough and premium, though slightly on the chunky side.
The biggest compromise lies in the software: Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2 skin isn’t the most intuitive, and its AI features can be hit-or-miss.
💰 While the high price means better value alternatives exist, for photography enthusiasts the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is absolutely worth considering.
Who should buy the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
You want an excellent camera phone experience and are prepared to buy the Photography Kit, which is sold separately.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Further Considerations
Look elsewhere for a better software interface and longer support, or to the regular Xiaomi 15 for something more compact and affordable. The Xiaomi 17 series is official in China, but it isn’t likely to be available globally until 2026.
7. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE – Best Mid-Range Phone
Pros
- Flagship design and build
- Strong main and selfie cameras
- Impressive battery life
- One UI is slick and intuitive
- Seven years of updates
Cons
- Supporting cameras could be better
- Occasional software bugs
- Not suitable for demanding gaming
Best Prices Today in AMAZON : View Deal
The Galaxy S25 FE is the best smartphone you can get under £700/$700, firmly setting the benchmark for mid-range devices.
It delivers flagship-level hardware, with premium build quality and a stunning 6.7-inch display. The design is nearly identical to the Galaxy S25+, and it shares the same excellent main rear and selfie cameras.
Performance is strong, battery life is reliable, and 45W fast charging matches the S25 Ultra—making the S25 FE a well-rounded choice for most users.
Where it truly shines is software. Samsung’s One UI 8 is sleek, intuitive, and feature-rich, and the promise of seven years of updates adds long-term value.
🎯 Unless you’re after advanced secondary cameras or a phone tailored for heavy gaming, the Galaxy S25 FE stands out as the clear winner in today’s crowded mid-range market.
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE?
Anyone who wants the best mid-range phone money can buy, especially if a premium design or great software are important to you.
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Further Considerations
Look elsewhere for a more compact design or a more complete photography experience. The Pixel 9a and Xiaomi 15T Pro are alternatives worth considering.
8. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max – Best Premium iPhone
Pros
- Superb display
- Excellent performance
- Fantastic cameras
- Great battery life
Cons
- Design might divide
- Expensive
- Heavy
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the most powerful iPhone Apple has ever released. With its massive 6.9-inch display, it delivers outstanding performance, premium build quality, and cameras that can rival even the best Android smartphones. While we haven’t been able to run our full battery tests, real-world usage suggests battery life is among the best available today.
On the software side, iOS 26 offers Apple’s most attractive and customizable interface yet. Coupled with Apple’s long-term commitment to software updates, it ensures a smooth and secure experience for years.
The design may not appeal to everyone. The new look, including the controversial camera plateau, makes this one of the largest and heaviest phones currently on the market.
For those seeking a no-compromise iPhone experience and willing to pay a premium, the 17 Pro Max represents the pinnacle of Apple’s smartphone lineup.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
You want the ultimate iPhone experience and are happy to invest in a premium device.
Further Considerations
Consider other options if you prefer a more compact or affordable phone, or if you want an Android device instead.
9. Nothing Phone (3a) – Best Value Phone
Starting at just £329/$379, the Nothing Phone (3a) is one of the most affordable mid-range smartphones available, and for most users, there’s no need to spend more.
It delivers an impressive mix of premium design, fast performance, and solid battery life. The 120Hz OLED display is vibrant and smooth, and Nothing’s take on Android is polished and compelling, with up to seven years of software updates promised.
The main compromise is in the cameras. While the 50MP main, 50MP telephoto, and 32MP selfie cameras outperform many rivals in this price range, the 8MP ultrawide is underwhelming. Paying extra for the Phone (3a) Pro won’t fix this.
Overall, the Phone (3a) is a well-rounded, budget-friendly smartphone. Unless you prioritize advanced photography, AI features, or top-tier performance, it’s an excellent daily driver at a fraction of flagship prices.
Who Should Buy the Nothing Phone (3a)?
You want a well-specced, affordable phone with a standout design.
Further Considerations
Consider other devices if you want better cameras or a more understated style.
CMF Phone 2 Pro: Further Considerations
Look elsewhere for a more traditional and more durable design, or longer software support.
Other phones tested
While we’ve reviewed thousands of smartphones, we’ve narrowed our recommendations here to the 10 best phones currently available. That means some excellent devices didn’t make the cut, especially when it comes to series with multiple models like the Pixel 10, iPhone 17, and Galaxy S25 families (including the S25 Edge and S25 FE).
That doesn’t mean these phones aren’t worth considering. Check out our individual reviews for detailed analysis or to see if a Pro or Plus model might suit your needs better.
Foldables
We haven’t included foldables in our top 10 because most don’t yet justify their higher price compared to the phones above. However, if you’re set on a foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Motorola Razr 60 Ultra are among the best options. The Honor Magic V5 is a strong alternative to the Z Fold 7, especially in book-style foldables, and the Magic 7 Pro offers great features and top-tier IP dust and water protection.
Other Notable Devices
Nothing Phone (3): Unique ‘Glyph Matrix’ screen design makes it stand out.
OnePlus Nord 5: A compelling mid-range alternative.
Huawei P60 Pro: Excellent hardware, though the lack of Google services limits its appeal.
Nubia Redmagic 10S Pro: One of the best gaming phones on the market.
Other noteworthy phones that narrowly missed our top 10 include the Google Pixel 9a, Samsung Galaxy A56, Samsung Galaxy A36, and Xiaomi 15T Pro.
These devices are all worth considering if you have specific needs, from gaming and photography to mid-range affordability or unique design features.
Phone news that could affect your buying decision
Choosing whether to buy now or wait for the next generation is always difficult because most phones are replaced with a new model every 12 months and many contracts now run 24 to 36 months. Ultimately, it is a personal choice that is going to be affected by what you can afford and when, but it’s helpful to know you’re not going to regret your decision nearly immediately.
As an example, we are recommending the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra above. It’s an excellent phone and worth your money today, tomorrow, next week or even next month.
If the thought of your new phone feeling outdated quickly bothers you, it might be wise to wait for the Galaxy S26 series, which is expected to include the S26 Ultra. Holding off could also help if you’re hunting for a deal, as the launch of a new model usually leads to larger discounts on older phones.
However, if you don’t mind these possibilities—or simply don’t want to wait until January—there’s no reason not to buy your phone now.
Other major flagship releases, such as the Honor Magic 8 Pro and Xiaomi 17 series, are expected in early 2026, so the same advice applies. On the other hand, devices like the Pixel 11, iPhone 18, and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 8 are much further away, so it’s not worth delaying your purchase for them.
Can I get a better phone deal?
The prices listed in our best phones roundup are updated daily to ensure you always see the latest deals. Our recommendations focus on design, performance, and overall value, but since retailer and mobile operator prices fluctuate constantly, some lower-ranked phones may offer better deals than those at the top.
Major shopping events are a great time to save. While Amazon Prime Day in October has passed, Black Friday on 28 November is just around the corner. Don’t forget to watch out for January sales and discounts around holidays like Easter.
Another way to save is by considering refurbished phones. They’re not only cheaper but also eco-friendly. Check out our regularly updated list of the best refurbished phone deals to find excellent savings.
How to choose the best phone
When picking a smartphone, consider factors such as build quality and design, display, performance, cameras, battery life, software (Android or iPhone), and overall value for money.
In 2025, a premium phone typically starts around £700/$700, but flagship models can exceed $1,000/£1,000. If you’re buying on a contract, monthly costs in the UK usually range between £30–£50, though high-end phones with extra data can cost more. In the US, contract deals are often more competitive, making flagship phones more accessible.
Not every phone on this list is a flagship. Some mid-range and budget devices appear because they deliver exceptional value, proving that you don’t always need the most expensive model to get a great experience.
Buying a phone outright usually provides the best long-term value, but we understand that not everyone can afford a large one-time purchase. If you do buy outright, don’t forget to include the cost of your mobile plan in your budget.
