Home News Top iPhone Models of 2025: Buying Guide

Top iPhone Models of 2025: Buying Guide

Apr 17,2025 Author: Aria

When you're setting out to buy an iPhone, you've probably noticed that there's a vast array of options available. Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, and more recently introduced the iPhone 16e, expanding the lineup further. This variety can make choosing the right phone challenging, even if you're inclined to go for the latest model. It's always beneficial to consider all your options carefully.

8

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

8

Apple iPhone 16

2See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Apple iPhone 16e

0See it at Apple

9

OnePlus 13

0See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

No matter which iPhone you choose, each supports iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To leverage Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or newer.

For the perfect accessories to complement your new iPhone, check out our guide to the best iPhone accessories, especially screen protectors. We've also had the opportunity to review the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete well with the AirPods 2 in several aspects, making them a worthwhile investment.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

  1. iPhone 16 Pro

Best Overall iPhone

8

Apple iPhone 16 Pro

2A compact size is met by powerful internals, a great display, and capable cameras. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product Specifications

  • Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
  • Processor: A18 Pro
  • Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
  • Battery: 3,582mAh
  • Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

Pros

  • Powerful performance
  • Elegant design
  • Robust camera system

Cons

  • Camera settings could use some tweaks

The iPhone 16 Pro strikes a perfect balance between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is ideal for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors found in the larger models. If you prefer a bigger screen, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max for a similar experience.

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The chip achieved the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score I've seen in both phones and laptops. Coupled with a powerful GPU, it handles the latest games at high frame rates and maximum settings effortlessly.

Apple's build quality is luxurious, though the color options are somewhat subdued. The screen is outstanding, offering high brightness, contrast, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about the durability of Ceramic Shield glass, it can still get scratched easily, so additional protection is advisable.

The iPhone 16 Pro's camera system is impressive, particularly the main sensor, which excels in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide lens captures more in the frame but can be soft and noisy, possibly due to focusing issues that manual focus can mitigate. The 5x telephoto lens is excellent for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a more intuitive way to adjust settings, though it could benefit from further refinement in future updates.

iPhone 16 – Photos

7 Images

  1. iPhone 16

Best Mid-Range iPhone

8

Apple iPhone 16

2More affordable than its Pro siblings, the iPhone 16 doesn't make you give up a lot and still delivers excellent performance. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple

Product Specifications

  • Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
  • Processor: A18
  • Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
  • Battery: 3,582mAh
  • Weight: 199g (0.44lb)

Pros

  • Excellent performance
  • Fun colors

Cons

  • Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft

The iPhone 16 is an outstanding mid-range option in Apple's lineup. With the introduction of Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 features the A18 chip, which offers performance comparable to the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It outpaces the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Android devices, making it a powerhouse for everyday use and gaming.

The iPhone 16 offers vibrant color options and a sleek design, along with Ceramic Shield protection. Its compact size is perfect for pocket and hand comfort. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16's OLED display is sharp and vibrant, complemented by powerful speakers for an immersive media experience.

The main camera performs well, capturing vivid colors and handling low-light situations adeptly. However, the ultra-wide and selfie cameras can be soft, likely due to focusing issues that may be addressed in future updates.

  1. iPhone 16e

Best Budget iPhone

Apple iPhone 16e

0The iPhone 16e is Apple's cheapest new option and comes with a potent chip, though some overall trade-offs. See it at Apple

Product Specifications

  • Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
  • Processor: A18
  • Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
  • Battery: 4,005mAh
  • Weight: 167g (0.39lb)

Pros

  • Fast chip
  • Lower price than main iPhone lineup

Cons

  • Trims a handful of common iPhone features

If you're seeking a budget-friendly iPhone, the iPhone 16e is Apple's most affordable new model, starting at $599. It features the A18 chip, ensuring fast performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. The design has been updated to include a larger, sharper 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, with a base storage of 128GB.

However, the iPhone 16e lacks several features standard in other models, such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. While it's a viable option for those needing a simple, new iPhone, consider refurbished or renewed devices like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available for under $500, for potentially better value.

  1. OnePlus 13

Best iPhone Alternative

9

OnePlus 13

0A great design, excellent display, superb performance, and impressive cameras all combine in a discounted flagship that deserves consideration. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus

Product Specifications

  • Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
  • Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
  • Battery: 6,000mAh
  • Weight: 210g (0.46lb)

Pros

  • Great value
  • Fast performance

Cons

  • Software support a little shorter than rivals

The iPhone is renowned for its user-friendly software, solid cameras, and excellent performance. However, if you're open to alternatives or looking to avoid the premium pricing of Apple's top-tier models, the OnePlus 13 is a compelling choice. Priced at $899, it competes with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering a similar feature set at a lower cost.

The OnePlus 13 features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 50MP ultra-wide sensors, delivering high-quality photos and videos. The front-facing camera is equally impressive. The 6.82-inch OLED display boasts a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and power-saving capabilities.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the OnePlus 13 offers performance that rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max, excelling in both single-core and multi-core benchmarks, as well as graphics tests. Its 6,000mAh battery supports all-day use, with fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging options.

The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways, including a unique wood grain pattern. It also features an alert slider and robust IP68 and IP69 water resistance. If you're not set on an iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth considering.

Upcoming iPhones

In 2024, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 series, bringing significant improvements and performance enhancements. They also adjusted the pricing of earlier models to make them more accessible. The iPhone 16e was introduced as a more affordable option, replacing the iPhone SE. Leaked information suggests the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may include an iPhone Air.

What to Look for in an Apple iPhone

While the user experience across different iPhone models is consistent, the variations can make choosing the right one challenging. Here's what to consider when selecting an Apple iPhone in 2025:

Phone Size

Size is crucial when choosing an iPhone. For one-handed use, consider the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. If you prefer larger screens, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max are ideal.

Storage Capacity

Storage is another key factor. If you plan to store many high-resolution photos, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is the best choice. Other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual use.

Price

Price ranges from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the high-end iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, you'll enjoy the same iOS experience and updates for the next five to six years.

Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage. The iPhone 16 Pro is a well-rounded choice, offering a fast processor, excellent camera system, attractive design, and various storage options at a competitive price.

Best iPhone FAQ

What are the best iPhone alternatives?

While iPhones dominate the smartphone market, several Android phones offer comparable features. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro. Brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide competitive options with features that iOS users might appreciate.

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