Top iPhones of 2025: Which to Buy?

If you're planning to buy an iPhone, you'll notice there are numerous options available. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, and later introduced the iPhone 16e, adding to the list of choices. Picking the right one can be challenging unless you're simply going for the latest model. Even then, it's worth considering all your options.

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple### Apple iPhone 16e

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 13

0See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusEvery iPhone on this list supports iOS 18, introduced at WWDC 2024, which introduces advanced AI features and a revamped Photos app. To access Apple Intelligence, you’ll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

Looking for the right accessories? Check out our guide to the best iPhone accessories, especially screen protectors for your new device. We reviewed the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, and they stack up well against the AirPods 2 in various categories, making them a worthwhile investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2With a compact design and powerful specs, the iPhone 16 Pro strikes a balance between portability and performance. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSPowerful performanceLuxurious designSuperior camera systemCONSCamera settings require some fine-tuningThe iPhone 16 Pro bridges the gap between the standard iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its smaller size makes it easier to handle one-handed compared to the larger Pro Max, but it doesn’t skimp on features or camera sensors. If you prefer a larger screen, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a similar experience with added screen real estate.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. The A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 Pro Max achieved the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score I’ve ever recorded, surpassing even some laptops. Paired with a powerful GPU, it handles demanding games effortlessly.

Apple’s build quality is top-notch, exuding luxury, though the color options are less vibrant. The display is stunning, combining high brightness and contrast with smooth motion thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. While Apple touts the Ceramic Shield glass as durable, I found it prone to scratches, so protective measures are advisable.

The cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are impressive. The main sensor excels in low-light conditions, performing exceptionally well. The ultra-wide captures more in the frame but struggles with softness and noise in certain conditions, likely due to focusing issues (manual focus can mitigate this). The 5x telephoto sensor is a game-changer for portrait photography and distant shots. The new Camera Control feature allows intuitive photo adjustments, though further refinements are needed.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images2. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16

2Priced lower than its Pro counterparts, the iPhone 16 delivers excellent performance without significant compromises. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18Camera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery3,582mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)PROSOutstanding performanceVibrant color optionsCONSModerate softness in ultra-wide and selfie shotsThe iPhone 16 is an excellent mid-range option in the lineup. The introduction of Apple Intelligence necessitated upgrades to the internals, so the iPhone 16 comes equipped with the A18 chip, which matches the performance of its Pro siblings with only slight differences. The A18 narrowly trails the A18 Pro but significantly outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip found in many Android phones.

In everyday use, the iPhone 16 handles tasks seamlessly, including demanding games like Wuthering Waves. After prolonged gaming sessions, the phone remains comfortable to hold.

The iPhone 16 offers more colorful design options, appealing to those who prefer a lively aesthetic. You can also opt for classic black or white designs. Like other models, it comes with Ceramic Shield protection, but additional screen protection is recommended.

Its compact size makes it ideal for pocket and hand use, being narrower than the Pro Max models. The display is sharp and vibrant, paired with excellent sound quality for media consumption.

The main camera produces stunning photos with vivid colors and sufficient lighting even in low-light conditions. While the ultra-wide and selfie cameras are serviceable, they suffer from some softness, likely due to focusing issues, which Apple may address in future updates.

3. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

### Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e is Apple’s most affordable new option, featuring a powerful chip but with notable trade-offs. See it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rateProcessorA18Camera48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,005AhWeight167g (0.39lb)PROSFast performanceLower price pointCONSTrims several common iPhone featuresIf you're seeking an affordable iPhone, the iPhone 16e is Apple’s current entry-level option, starting at $599. While it’s technically cheaper than previous budget models, it still represents a step up in price compared to older options like the iPhone SE.

The iPhone 16e runs on the A18 chip, identical to the iPhone 16 but with one fewer GPU core. This ensures smooth performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. Unlike the dated design of the previous iPhone SE, the iPhone 16e features a sleeker build with an aluminum frame and Ceramic Shield protection.

Storage capacity has been bumped up to 128GB, which is a welcome change. However, Apple removed several standard features present in other models. These include MagSafe compatibility, wireless charging, mmWave 5G support, Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, and dual rear cameras. While these omissions don’t render the phone unusable, they limit its functionality.

If you prioritize affordability over missing features, the iPhone 16e is a viable choice. Alternatively, consider refurbished or renewed options like Amazon’s deals on used iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 units, which