10 Best Smartphones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers a large, sharp 6.9-inch display with a high resolution of 3040 x 1440, making it great for watching videos and browsing. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM ensure smooth and fast performance, suitable for multitasking or gaming. The phone runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, offering a clean and user-friendly experience packed with helpful features like AI-powered multitasking and smart notifications. Storage is generous with 256GB, providing plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos without the need for extra memory cards. The 5000mAh battery supports fast and wireless charging, which should comfortably last a full day with typical use.

Camera-wise, this model shines with an AI Night Mode and an Audio Eraser feature for crisp low-light photos and clear videos without background noise, plus advanced portrait settings that enhance skin tones naturally. Build quality is premium, featuring a sleek Titanium Black finish, water resistance, and the convenience of a built-in S Pen for added productivity. Being unlocked, it works with all US carriers, adding flexibility. The phone weighs 7.7 ounces, which might feel a bit heavy for some users, and its large size may not suit those preferring compact devices. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful, feature-packed smartphone ideal for users who want top-tier performance, excellent cameras, and a beautiful display, especially if you appreciate extra tools like the S Pen.

The Google Pixel 9a is a solid choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded, unlocked Android smartphone with strong features at a reasonable price. Its 6.3-inch display offers a sharp 1080 x 2400 resolution and a variable refresh rate between 60 and 120 Hz, allowing smooth adjustment depending on what you’re doing, although it’s not as fluid as some higher-end models with fixed higher refresh rates. The phone is powered by Google's own Tensor chip, which handles everyday tasks and AI features efficiently, especially the built-in Gemini AI assistant that helps with searching and multitasking across apps.

Battery life is impressive, with a 5100 mAh capacity that supports over 30 hours on regular use, and an Extreme Battery Saver mode that can extend usage up to 100 hours in emergencies. This makes it dependable for long days without frequent recharging. Charging supports fast and wireless options, adding flexibility. Camera-wise, the Pixel 9a shines with Google’s AI enhancements, allowing for great photos with features like Macro Focus for close-up shots and options for improving group pictures. It’s especially good if you enjoy photography but don’t want to fuss with manual settings.

Storage at 128 GB is sufficient for most users, offering ample space for apps, photos, and videos. The phone runs on Android 15, promising up to 7 years of updates, which helps keep it secure and current longer than many competitors. Build quality is robust, with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and a scratch-resistant display, so the phone is more durable against daily wear and accidental spills. The Pixel 9a proves to be a dependable mid-range smartphone ideal for users who value camera quality, battery life, and security without needing the absolute top-tier specs. Those looking for a very high refresh rate screen or extensive storage options might want to explore other models.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a strong choice for those who want a high-end Android smartphone with a big, bright screen and powerful features. Its 6.8-inch OLED display is sharp and vibrant, with a 120 Hz refresh rate that makes scrolling smooth and enjoyable, even outdoors thanks to its high brightness. The phone is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip running at 3.78 GHz, which offers fast and efficient performance suitable for daily tasks, multitasking, and some gaming. Storage is generous at 256 GB, giving plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos, while 16 GB of RAM helps keep things running smoothly.

The camera system shines with a triple rear setup, including a 50 MP main sensor and 100x zoom capability, which is impressive for capturing detailed photos and steady 8K videos, even in low light. Battery life is solid with a 5200 mAh capacity, supporting fast charging to easily last over 24 hours with normal use. The phone runs on the latest Android 16, offering a clean and user-friendly interface with helpful AI features like the Gemini Assistant for voice and camera interactions. Build quality is excellent, featuring durable aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 that protect against drops and scratches. Being unlocked, it offers flexibility to use with most major carriers, which is convenient.

The phone is a bit on the larger and heavier side at 0.35 kg, which could feel bulky for some users. Also, while the AI features are advanced, they might be more beneficial to users comfortable with digital assistants. This makes the Pixel 10 Pro XL an excellent option for anyone looking for a premium Android phone with a large display, excellent camera, strong performance, and long battery life, especially if you appreciate smart AI features and want freedom in carrier choice.