The iPhone 16 series has arrived, bringing a range of enhancements over previous models, but the annual upgrades may not always feel groundbreaking. It's natural to explore other options, and I can assure you, there's a wealth of alternatives out there. As a seasoned smartphone tester with nearly a decade of experience, I've encountered numerous devices that rival the capabilities of Apple's iPhones. Some even introduce innovative features like folding phones, well ahead of Apple. My extensive testing of iPhones allows me to appreciate their strengths, which makes it easier to identify where alternatives excel.
For many, choosing an iPhone isn't the most practical decision. Even the entry-level model in the latest iPhone lineup, like the newly announced iPhone 16e, starts at a hefty $599, positioning it on the pricier side of the market. The rest of the 16 series, beginning at $799, are even more expensive. Fortunately, many of the standout features of iPhones, aside from iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, can be found in other devices. The Android market offers an abundance of quality iPhone 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 iPhones, you can discover advanced camera systems, designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors that Apple has yet to explore, more affordable options, and specialized models tailored for gaming. With so many choices available, you can select the perfect blend of features, build quality, performance, and price to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking the top non-iPhone smartphone or a device that matches Apple's photographic prowess, you'll find an excellent alternative here.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
OnePlus 13
Best All-Around iPhone Alternative
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7A blend of excellent design, superb display, top-notch performance, and impressive cameras makes this discounted flagship 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 rivalsWhen I mention the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, they often look puzzled, as if I've posed a riddle. However, for those curious about what lies beyond iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands as a formidable competitor to the iPhone.
This generation's OnePlus 13 has made significant strides. With only a few changes from its predecessor, these enhancements have propelled it to new heights. The OnePlus 13 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite's eight-core CPU, which nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tasks. In graphics performance, the OnePlus 13 consistently outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 3DMark gaming benchmarks, making it an ideal choice for gaming and ensuring smooth daily operations.
OnePlus has encapsulated this power in a sleek chassis. The phone features flatter sides and rounded corners, reminiscent of an iPhone, but it stands out with its distinctive camera ring and unique back designs. It also supports Qi2/MagSafe charging with OnePlus's first-party cases and includes a three-way alert slider, offering a slight edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. Its robust build can withstand water and hot water jets, making it highly durable.
The OnePlus 13's camera system is a strong contender against Apple's, boasting a triple-sensor array with ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto cameras, all at 50MP resolution. It captures stunning photos and delivers impressive video quality.
The OnePlus 13 offers exceptional value, starting at $900. While not as budget-friendly as the iPhone 16, it competes with the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max, offering more memory and storage for the price. With a default of 256GB storage compared to Apple's 128GB on most models, and a 6.82-inch OLED display that matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in sharpness, brightness, and smoothness thanks to a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, the OnePlus 13 truly excels. It's not just my top iPhone alternative; it's the best smartphone you can buy right now.
Pixel 9 Pro – Photos
9 Images
2. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
5With its elegant design, exceptional cameras, quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro is a standout among smartphones. 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 behindBase storage could be largerGoogle has always excelled in smartphone photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of its expertise. This device combines stunning aesthetics with top-tier photographic capabilities, thanks to its versatile three-camera setup on the back.
While many phones feature one standout camera supported by less impressive sensors, the Pixel 9 Pro boasts three powerful sensors that work harmoniously. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail with a wide angle. The 50MP ultra-wide sensor allows for expansive shots while maintaining color consistency with the main sensor. Additionally, the 48MP telephoto sensor offers a 5x optical zoom, enabling close-up shots without moving. This camera system is a worthy rival to any iPhone.
The Pixel 9 Pro runs on the new Tensor G4 SoC, which enhances speed and mitigates the heat issues of earlier models. It handles most tasks efficiently and supports demanding mobile games like Zenless Zone Zero at 60fps. Although it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw performance, Google's focus on AI capabilities with the Tensor G4 allows for advanced AI functions, including a natural conversational virtual assistant.
Google has also raised the bar for Android phones with its commitment to seven years of OS updates and security patches for the Pixel 9 Pro, aligning its support with Apple's standards.
This impressive feature set is housed in a beautifully designed phone. The 6.3-inch display is sharp at 1280x2856 and incredibly bright, reaching a peak of 3,000 nits, with a 120Hz refresh rate. For those desiring 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
2With a large, vibrant display and a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, this value-focused Android phone delivers impressive performance. 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 discontinuation of the 2022 iPhone SE following the iPhone 16e's release, no new iPhone is available for less than $500, and even then, you're compromising on features. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R on the Android side offers a near-flagship experience at a fraction of the cost.
OnePlus crafts a stylish phone with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front, a tough material found on many premium devices. The OnePlus 12R features a stunning 6.78-inch display, sharp at 1264x2780, with a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support, and high brightness levels.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and 8GB of memory, the OnePlus 12R delivers robust performance, handling heavy gaming with ease. It comes with a base storage of 128GB.
While OnePlus's support isn't as long-term as Apple's, it offers three major Android updates and four years of security updates, extending the phone's 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. For more options, check out our overall Android phone recommendations.
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 packs an incredible amount of power. 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 less durable than traditional phonesWhile iPhones don't fold, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a compelling alternative. Its sleek design, featuring a flat-edged aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back, is striking whether open or closed. The 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display provides quick access to notifications, shortcuts, widgets, and apps, making it pocket-friendly when folded.
Unfolded, the Z Flip 6 reveals a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, boasting rich contrast and vibrant colors, with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth interactions and gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and equipped with 12GB of RAM, it handles demanding games and AI tasks effortlessly.
While not featuring Samsung's top camera system, the Z Flip 6 includes a capable setup with wide and ultra-wide sensors. The internal selfie camera is convenient for video calls, but you can also use the rear cameras for selfies, utilizing the external display as a viewfinder.
The Z Flip 6 brings unique capabilities to the table with its folding design, offering a compact form factor that no Apple device can match.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
### RedMagic 10 Pro
1The RedMagic 10 Pro offers exceptional gaming performance, a sleek design, and long battery life at an attractive 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 gaming enthusiasts, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a game-changer, delivering top-tier performance at a surprising value of just $649. Despite its affordable price, it makes few compromises, offering 256GB of base storage and 12GB of memory.
Performance-wise, it's exceptional. The RedMagic 10 Pro, equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, closely matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tasks. Its GPU outperforms the iPhone in 3DMark gaming benchmarks, and active cooling ensures sustained high performance during extended gaming sessions. A 7,050mAh battery further enhances its gaming endurance.
The RedMagic 10 Pro features a stunning 6.85-inch OLED display, with an under-display selfie camera maximizing screen space. The display is bright, sharp, and fast, ideal for gaming and multimedia. Its elegant design distinguishes it from typical gaming phones.
While the RedMagic 10 Pro isn't perfect, with its Android skin being somewhat flashy and software support not as long as some competitors, it's an excellent choice for gamers who don't require the fastest 5G connections and tend to upgrade every couple of years.
What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025
Although the iPhone remains the most popular smartphone brand, more than half of the world's phones run on Android. Users appreciate Android's open platform, which allows for extensive customization through themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps.
Moreover, the Google Play Store offers a wider array of apps than the Apple App Store, and you're not limited to just one app store. You can also explore the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, Aptoide, and more for diverse app experiences.
With the increasing popularity of Android, choosing a great iPhone alternative can be challenging, but here are key factors to consider:
Phone Size and Design
One of the advantages of iPhone alternatives is the variety in sizes and designs. While Apple sticks to roughly 6-inch phones, Android devices can range from 4 inches to 7 inches, catering to different preferences for screen size and ergonomics.
Additionally, foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series offer the convenience of a compact form factor that can be expanded into a full-sized screen—a feature iPhones currently lack.
Storage Capacity
Most Android smartphones start with 128GB of storage, matching the iPhone 16. However, many Android models include a microSD card slot, allowing for up to an additional 1TB of storage.
Android phones often offer better value, providing more storage, memory, power, screen sizes, features, megapixels, and cameras for less money compared to iPhones.
Price
Android smartphones are generally more affordable than iPhones, with prices starting as low as $50 for basic models like the BLU C5L. Quality budget-friendly options like the Poco X5 5G begin at $220, a stark contrast to the iPhone 16e's $599 starting price.
At the high end, a fully equipped Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB of storage costs $2,160. Considering the additional features available on Android phones, you're getting more value for your money.
In summary, there are numerous excellent Android smartphones for various needs and preferences. For most users, the OnePlus 13 or Google Pixel 9 Pro are top picks, with Samsung offering premium design and speed, and Google excelling in camera quality.
How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?
New Android phones are released annually, but you don't need to upgrade every year. 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.
