The iPhone 16 series has arrived, bringing with it a range of upgrades from previous models. Yet, the incremental changes might not feel groundbreaking for everyone. It's only natural to explore other options in the market, and there's a wealth of choices out there. With nearly a decade of smartphone testing under my belt, I've encountered numerous devices that stand up to, and sometimes surpass, the capabilities of Apple's iPhones. From cutting-edge folding phones to powerful gaming devices, the competition is fierce. My experience with iPhones allows me to appreciate their strengths while also recognizing where alternatives shine brighter.

For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the entry-level models in the latest iPhone lineup, such as the newly introduced iPhone 16e at $599, tend to be pricier compared to other options. The higher-end models in the iPhone 16 series start at $799. Fortunately, many of the best features of iPhones, aside from iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, can be found in other devices. The Android market is brimming with quality alternatives that offer excellent value.

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 expanding your search beyond iPhones, you can discover smartphones with advanced camera systems, innovative designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors like foldables that Apple has yet to explore, budget-friendly options, and specialized gaming devices. Instead of merely choosing among different iPhone models, you can find a device that perfectly matches your needs in terms of features, build quality, performance, and price. Whether you're after a top-tier phone that's not an iPhone or one that can match Apple's renowned photographic quality, you'll find a compelling alternative here.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

1. OnePlus 13

Best All-Around iPhone Alternative

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7A stunning design, vibrant display, top-notch performance, and impressive cameras combine in this discounted flagship that deserves serious consideration. 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 alternatives to iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands out as a formidable contender. This generation's OnePlus 13 brings significant upgrades, including the potent Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. It matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and exceeds it in multi-core tests. In gaming benchmarks, the OnePlus 13 significantly outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max, making it a gaming powerhouse with smooth daily operations.

OnePlus has encased this performance in an elegant design with flatter sides and rounded corners, giving it an iPhone-like feel, while unique camera rings and back designs set it apart. It also supports Qi2/MagSafe charging with first-party cases and features a three-way alert slider, offering a slight edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. With water and hot water jet resistance, the OnePlus 13 is tough to beat.

The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's, boasting a triple-sensor array with 50MP ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto capabilities, delivering stunning photos and videos.

Starting at $900, the OnePlus 13 is a bargain compared to the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max. It offers more memory and storage for the price, with a default of 256GB compared to Apple's 128GB on all but the $1,200 iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its 6.82-inch OLED display is sharp, bright, and smooth with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. The OnePlus 13 isn't just my top iPhone alternative; it's the best smartphone available right now.

Pixel 9 Pro – Photos

9 Images2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Best Cameras in an iPhone Alternative

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

5An elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a champion 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 biggerGoogle has long excelled in smartphone photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro is its latest masterpiece. With its sleek design and versatile three-camera system, it offers exceptional flexibility for capturing stunning images. Unlike many phones where one camera dominates, the Pixel 9 Pro's 50MP main sensor, 50MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto sensor work harmoniously, delivering detailed shots with consistent color across different focal lengths.

Powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro offers enhanced performance and manages heat better than its predecessors. It handles most tasks effortlessly and runs high-end games like Zenless Zone Zero at 60fps. While it might not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw performance, Google's focus on AI capabilities adds value, enabling features like natural language virtual assistants.

Google's commitment to software support is impressive, offering seven years of OS updates and security patches, aligning it closely with Apple's long-term support. The Pixel 9 Pro's 6.3-inch display is sharp, bright, and smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate. For those who prefer a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch display.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images3. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget iPhone Alternative

### OnePlus 12R

2A large, vibrant display and powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip form the core of this 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 discontinuation of the 2022 iPhone SE after the iPhone 16e's reveal, no iPhone model is available under $500 without compromising on features. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R offers a near-flagship experience on the Android side.

OnePlus has crafted a stylish phone with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is sharp at 1264x2780 and boasts a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support, and exceptional brightness. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC with 8GB of RAM, it handles demanding games and offers 128GB of base storage.

OnePlus commits to three major Android updates and four years of security updates, extending the phone's longevity. If you're looking for a sleek, high-performing phone with a display rivaling Apple's best at a budget-friendly price, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice.

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 combines incredible power with a compact 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 phoneWhile iPhones don't fold, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 does, offering a unique and competitive alternative. With its sleek aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back, the Z Flip 6 is both stylish and functional. Its 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display provides quick access to essential features, while the 6.7-inch internal AMOLED display offers vivid colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, the Z Flip 6 handles demanding games and AI tasks with ease. While its camera system may not be Samsung's top-tier, it delivers quality shots with wide and ultra-wide sensors. The external display serves as a convenient viewfinder for selfies, enhancing its versatility.

The Z Flip 6's folding design allows for a compact form factor, offering capabilities that no Apple device currently matches.

5. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### RedMagic 10 Pro

1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers extreme gaming performance, a sleek design, and long battery life at a surprising value. 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 gamers, the RedMagic 10 Pro at $649 offers unmatched performance without the hefty price tag of premium devices. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, it delivers exceptional CPU and GPU performance, surpassing the iPhone 16 Pro Max in multi-core and gaming benchmarks. Its active cooling system ensures sustained high performance during extended gaming sessions, backed by a robust 7,050mAh battery.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's 6.85-inch OLED display is immersive, with the selfie camera hidden under the screen for uninterrupted viewing. The phone's design is sleek and elegant, setting it apart from typical gaming phones.

While its Android skin may be a bit over-the-top and software support shorter than flagship competitors, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers unparalleled gaming value for those who upgrade frequently and don't require the fastest 5G connections.

What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025

While iPhones are popular, more than half of the world's smartphones run on Android, favored for its open platform and customization options. Android users can personalize their devices with themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps, and have access to more apps via the Google Play Store and other marketplaces like the Amazon Appstore and Samsung Galaxy Store.

When choosing an iPhone alternative, consider the following:

Phone Size and Design

Android phones offer a variety of sizes, from compact 4-inch models to expansive 7-inch devices. Foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip line provide versatility, allowing you to switch between a compact form and a full-sized screen, a feature iPhones lack.

Storage Capacity

Android phones typically start with 128GB of storage, similar to the iPhone 16, but many models include a microSD slot for up to 1TB of additional storage. Android devices often provide more features for less money, including larger storage, more memory, better cameras, and more.

Price

Android smartphones are generally more affordable, with budget options starting at $50 and quality models like the Poco X5 5G at $220, compared to the iPhone 16e's $599 starting price. High-end options like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 can reach $2,160 but offer more features than similarly priced iPhones.

Overall, the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as top iPhone alternatives, 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 upgrading every year isn't necessary. 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.