Top 10 smartphones of 2025: Where Google, Samsung, and Apple stand?
File photo
File photo
LONDON (Web Desk): From the ultra-luxurious Pixel 10 Pro XL to the surprisingly strong Nothing Phone (3a), 2025’s best smartphones are redefining innovation and value.

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL – The most complete Android experience

If money is no concern, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is the ultimate smartphone of 2025. Its stylish design, 6.8-inch display, and durable IP68 protection make it both elegant and tough. The cameras deliver top-notch point-and-shoot results, though the 100x Pro Res Zoom can be unreliable at times.

Google has added Qi2 wireless charging, a new ‘Pixelsnap’ accessory ecosystem, and improved 45W wired charging. With Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive design and seven years of updates, it ensures a smooth experience for years. Despite being large and pricey, it’s perfect for those who want the very best.

Oppo Find X9 Pro – A camera beast with massive battery power

If the Pixel isn’t your style, the Oppo Find X9 Pro might be. It shines with its phenomenal camera setup, long-lasting 7500mAh battery, and high-end 6.7-inch OLED display. The phone’s performance is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, rivaling the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

Its true strength lies in photography — with the Hasselblad teleconverter kit, it can capture zoom shots that rival professional cameras. Battery life is exceptional, lasting up to two days, and 80W fast charging makes it a powerhouse for heavy users.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Power, performance, and premium perfection

The Galaxy S25 Ultra continues Samsung’s dominance in 2025. While its design looks similar to last year’s S24 Ultra, the upgrades are significant. It features a stunning 6.9-inch anti-reflective OLED display, improved camera performance, and unmatched AI tools.

Samsung’s seven-year update support and S Pen stylus make it an ideal productivity phone, although the lack of Bluetooth in the new stylus disappoints some users. It’s expensive and hefty but remains one of the most complete phones available.

Apple iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Max – Apple’s smartest evolution yet

Apple’s 2025 lineup sees the iPhone 17 Pro Max take center stage. With a massive 6.9-inch display, powerful performance, and cameras that rival any Android flagship, it’s Apple’s finest creation yet. However, its bold design with a raised camera plateau has divided fans.

For those seeking balance, the regular iPhone 17 is a smarter pick. It offers double storage, a beautiful display, faster charging, and reliable all-day battery life — all at a more reasonable price. Both models deliver Apple’s trademark performance and software stability, making them strong long-term choices.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE – Flagship feel at a mid-range price

The Galaxy S25 FE stands out as the best phone under Rs194,000, offering the premium build and performance of Samsung’s flagship range at a lower cost. Its 6.7-inch display, strong main and selfie cameras, and One UI 8 software create a refined experience.

It boasts 45W fast charging and seven years of updates, matching Samsung’s premium models. While supporting cameras could be better and software bugs appear occasionally, it’s a mid-range phone that feels truly high-end.

OnePlus 13 – Premium power without the premium price

The OnePlus 13 takes everything great about its predecessor and refines it. With Snapdragon 8 Elite performance, a stunning 6.82-inch OLED screen, and 100W charging, it’s built for power users.

Oxygen OS delivers a slick and intuitive software experience, backed by four years of updates. While its cameras aren’t quite on par with flagships, the overall balance of performance, battery, and price makes it a brilliant buy for under Rs260,000.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra – The camera phone that challenges DSLRs

For photography lovers, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a dream device. With four incredible lenses — including a 200Mp periscope camera — it delivers zoom photography once thought impossible for phones.

Its 6.73-inch AMOLED display, 90W fast charging, and HyperOS 2 interface round out a premium experience. The only downside is its slightly bulky build and less intuitive software. For camera enthusiasts, though, it’s worth every penny.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max – The ultimate Apple flagship

The iPhone 17 Pro Max deserves its own spotlight. With superb cameras, stellar performance, and long battery life, it’s Apple’s most powerful device ever. iOS 26 brings a fresh, customizable interface, while Apple’s long-term support keeps it reliable.

Its heavy build and high price may not suit everyone, but for those seeking a no-compromise iPhone experience, this is the one to own.

Nothing Phone (3a) – The most stylish budget phone of 2025

With a price starting at just Rs93,000, the Nothing Phone (3a) redefines what budget phones can do. Its 120Hz OLED screen, sleek transparent design, and smooth Android performance make it a joy to use.

It even packs 50Mp dual cameras and a 32Mp selfie shooter, easily outperforming most rivals at this price. Battery life is solid, though the lack of a charger in the box is a downside.

CMF Phone 2 Pro – Budget brilliance with premium flair

The CMF Phone 2 Pro by Nothing offers incredible value at around Rs61,000. It improves on the previous model with new camera sensors, a sharper display, and NFC support for contactless payments.

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With three years of OS updates, customisable design, and strong performance, it’s the perfect choice for users who want quality without overspending. While not fully waterproof and with limited software support, it’s easily one of the best affordable phones of the year.

The 2025 smartphone race proves that innovation isn’t just about price. Google pushes AI boundaries, Samsung perfects versatility, and Apple polishes premium perfection. Meanwhile, brands like Oppo, OnePlus, and Nothing are reshaping competition with performance and design at lower prices. Consumers now enjoy more power, choice, and value than ever before.