10 Best Smartphones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a high-end smartphone with a 6.9-inch display, making it ideal for media consumption and multitasking. Its large 512GB storage capacity ensures plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos, while the 12GB of RAM and 3.5 GHz Snapdragon processor provide excellent performance for most tasks. The phone also features a robust battery life with a 5000mAh battery, supporting both fast and wireless charging, ensuring it lasts through the day with moderate to heavy use.

The advanced AI Camera system with features like portrait mode and low-light capabilities is a standout, making it a great option for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the device comes with the latest Android 15 OS and One UI 7, offering a smooth and intuitive user experience. Build quality is solid with a water-resistant design and a premium Titanium Silverblue finish.

While the absence of a traditional audio jack might be a drawback for some, the inclusion of a USB-C port and support for Bluetooth compensates for this. The phone's weight and size might be a bit unwieldy for users with smaller hands or those who prefer more compact devices. Nonetheless, the S25 Ultra is a feature-rich smartphone that caters well to power users, photographers, and anyone looking for a top-tier performance device.

The Google Pixel 9 is a strong contender in the smartphone market, appealing to users who prioritize advanced photography, efficient performance, and versatility in connectivity. Its standout feature is the exceptional camera system, boasting a 50 MP main sensor and a 48 MP ultrawide camera, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and casual users alike. The integration of AI features enhances the camera's capabilities, allowing for innovative editing options that can make your photos truly shine.

In terms of display, the 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120 Hz refresh rate offers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling, which is great for media consumption and gaming. Battery life is also impressive with a 24-hour capacity, ensuring that users can go through their day without constantly searching for a charger.

Performance-wise, the Pixel 9 is powered by the Gemini processor and comes with 12 GB of RAM, which should handle multitasking and demanding apps without any hiccups. The 256 GB storage option provides ample space for photos, apps, and media. While the Pixel 9 excels in many areas, some users may find the lack of a flagship-level processor might not satisfy those seeking the absolute best in speed and performance. Additionally, while the unlocked feature is beneficial for flexibility in carrier choice, it might not be as appealing to those who prefer a phone tied to a specific carrier with bundled offers.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is a strong contender in the smartphone market, especially for users who prioritize camera quality and AI capabilities. With its triple rear camera system, it excels in photography, offering features like Super Res Zoom and Night Sight for low-light environments, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. The addition of Google's AI enhancements, such as Magic Editor and Best Take, allows users to easily improve their photos and make them more engaging.

Display-wise, the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz provides smooth visuals, which is great for browsing and media consumption. The battery life, rated at 24 hours with a capacity of 4700mAh, is impressive, ensuring users can stay connected throughout the day without frequent recharges.

One of the significant advantages of the Pixel 9 Pro is its unlocked status, offering flexibility in choosing carriers and plans. This can be a plus for users who prefer not to be tied to a single network provider. There are some considerations to keep in mind. While 128 GB of storage is decent, some users who store a lot of media might find it limiting, especially as the device doesn’t support expandable storage. The build quality, while solid, may not feel premium when compared to some high-end competitors with metal or glass finishes.