Top Android Phones to Replace iPhone in 2025

The iPhone 16 series is here, and while it boasts numerous upgrades from previous generations, the year-to-year changes might not feel as thrilling as you'd hope. It's only natural to explore other options on the market, and trust me, there are plenty to consider. With nearly a decade of experience testing smartphones, I've encountered many devices that rival Apple's iPhones, often bringing innovative features to the table well before Apple does—think folding phones. My familiarity with iPhones allows me to appreciate their strengths, but it also makes it easier to identify where alternatives shine.

For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the budget-friendly option in the new iPhone lineup, the iPhone 16e, starts at $599, while the rest of the 16 series begins at $799. Fortunately, the standout qualities of iPhones, aside from iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, are readily available in the Android market, offering a variety of compelling 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 broadening your search, you can discover advanced camera systems, designs that compete with Apple's best, unique form factors Apple has yet to explore, more budget-friendly options, and specialized models focused on gaming. There's a wealth of choices available, allowing you to select the perfect blend of features, build quality, performance, and price that suits your needs. Whether you're seeking the best non-iPhone option or a device that rivals Apple's renowned photographic capabilities, you'll find a suitable alternative here.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. OnePlus 13

Best All-Around iPhone Alternative

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7The OnePlus 13 is a stellar example of an all-around iPhone alternative, offering a fantastic design, superb display, excellent performance, and impressive cameras, all at a discounted flagship price. 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 a little shorter than rivalsWhen I mention the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, they often look puzzled, but for those curious about the other side of the iOS divide, this phone is a formidable challenger to the iPhone.

The OnePlus 13 has made significant strides over its predecessor, integrating the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. It nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tasks. In graphics benchmarks, the OnePlus 13 often leads the iPhone 16 Pro Max, making it a gaming powerhouse that ensures smooth daily operations.

Its sleek design with flatter sides and rounded corners echoes the iPhone's aesthetic, yet it stands out with its unique camera ring and back designs. OnePlus's cases support Qi2/MagSafe charging, and the phone features a three-way alert slider, offering an edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. Its water and hot water jet resistance adds to its durability.

The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's with a triple-sensor setup, delivering stunning photos and videos. At a starting price of $900, it's a bargain compared to the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max, offering more memory and storage for the price. Its 6.82-inch OLED display is exceptionally bright and smooth with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. The OnePlus 13 is not just the best iPhone alternative; it's among the top smartphones available today.

Pixel 9 Pro – Photos

9 Images2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5The Google Pixel 9 Pro stands out with its elegant design, exceptional cameras, high-quality display, and extensive software support, making it a top contender in the smartphone market. 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 biggerGoogle's Pixel line has always been known for its photography prowess, and the Pixel 9 Pro exemplifies this. It offers a stunning design and a versatile three-camera system that provides exceptional flexibility for capturing subjects.

Unlike many phones where one camera dominates, the Pixel 9 Pro's three sensors work harmoniously. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail, while the 50MP ultra-wide provides a broad field-of-view with consistent color. The 48MP telephoto sensor offers 5x optical zoom, allowing close-up shots without moving. This system is a worthy rival to the iPhone's camera.

Powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro offers enhanced speed and manages heat better than its predecessors. It performs well for most tasks and handles demanding games smoothly. While it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw performance, Google focuses on AI capabilities, supporting features like live virtual assistants.

Google also promises seven years of OS updates and security patches, aligning its support with Apple's long-term commitment. The phone's 6.3-inch display is sharp, bright, and smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate. For those seeking a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch option.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images3. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 12R

2The OnePlus 12R offers a big, vibrant display and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, making it an excellent value-focused Android phone. 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 iPhone SE no longer available and the iPhone 16e starting at $599, the OnePlus 12R at $499 offers a near-flagship experience at a budget price.

The OnePlus 12R features a stylish aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for durability. Its 6.78-inch display is sharp and bright, boasting a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 8GB of RAM, it handles heavy gaming and multitasking with ease, offering 128GB of base storage.

While OnePlus's support isn't as long as Apple's, it promises three major Android updates and four years of security updates, enhancing its value over time. If you're looking for a sleek, powerful phone with a display rivaling Apple's best at a lower price, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice. For more options, check out our comprehensive Android phone recommendations.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 – Photos

6 Images4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Best Foldable iPhone Alternative

### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

3The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 packs incredible power into a compact, foldable design. 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 a little less durable than a traditional phoneiPhones don't fold, but if they did, they'd face stiff competition from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. Its sleek aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back offer a premium feel, while its 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display provides quick access to essential features.

When unfolded, the Z Flip 6 reveals a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with vibrant colors and a 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for gaming and media consumption. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, ensuring top-notch performance for demanding tasks and games, supported by 12GB of RAM.

While not equipped with Samsung's top-tier camera system, the Z Flip 6's dual rear cameras deliver quality photos, and its external display serves as a handy viewfinder for selfies. Its folding design offers a unique advantage over any iPhone, shrinking down for portability and expanding for use.

5. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### RedMagic 10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers top-tier gaming performance, a sleek design, and long battery life, all at a competitive 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 supportIf gaming is your priority, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a surprising powerhouse at just $649. It features the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, delivering performance that nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core tasks and surpasses it in multi-core and graphics benchmarks.

Its active cooling system ensures sustained high performance, making it ideal for long gaming sessions, backed by a massive 7,050mAh battery. The 6.85-inch OLED display is stunning, with a hidden selfie camera that maximizes screen space.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's design is sleek and elegant, distinguishing it from other gaming phones. While its Android skin may be a bit flashy, and its software support shorter than some rivals, if you're focused on gaming and upgrade frequently, the RedMagic 10 Pro won't disappoint.

What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025

While the iPhone remains a popular choice, more than half of global smartphones run on Android, which offers a more open platform. Android users enjoy customization options through themes, wallpapers, launchers, and a wider variety of apps available across multiple app stores like Google Play, Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, and Aptoide.

When selecting an iPhone alternative, consider the following:

Phone Size and Design

Android phones come in a range of sizes, from compact 4-inch models to larger 7-inch devices, offering flexibility in screen size and portability. Foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series provide a compact form factor that can expand into a full-sized screen, a feature iPhones don't offer.

Storage Capacity

Most Android phones start with 128GB of storage, similar to the iPhone 16, but many include expandable storage options up to 1TB via microSD cards. Android devices often offer more features and better value for money compared to iPhones.

Price

Android smartphones generally start at lower price points than iPhones, with budget options available from $50, while quality mid-range models like the Poco X5 5G can be found for around $220. High-end models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB storage can reach $2,160, but still offer more features for the price.

Overall, whether you're seeking performance, camera quality, or budget options, the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as top picks. Samsung offers premium design and speed, while Google excels in photography.

How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?

There's no need to upgrade your phone annually. With smartphones becoming increasingly sophisticated, upgrading every two to three years is sufficient to keep up with advancements in processing power and battery life. If your current phone meets your needs, there's no rush to upgrade.