Top Android Phones to Replace iPhone in 2025

The iPhone 16 series has arrived, boasting a range of upgrades, yet the year-to-year enhancements might not feel groundbreaking to everyone. It's only natural to explore other options, and there's no shortage of compelling alternatives. With nearly a decade of smartphone testing under my belt, I've encountered numerous devices that not only rival Apple's iPhones but also introduce innovative features, like folding phones, well ahead of Apple. Having tested iPhones myself, I appreciate their strengths, which makes identifying superior alternatives even more rewarding.

For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the entry-level iPhone 16e, positioned as the budget-friendly option, starts at a hefty $599. The rest of the 16 series escalates in price, beginning at $799. Fortunately, many of the iPhone's top features, excluding iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, are readily available in the Android ecosystem. The market is brimming with high-quality iPhone 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 expanding your search, you can discover advanced camera systems, designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors that Apple has yet to explore, more affordable options, and specialized models tailored for gaming. Instead of choosing which iPhone model suits you, you can find a device that perfectly blends features, build quality, performance, and price to meet your needs. Whether you're after the top non-iPhone smartphone or one that matches Apple's photographic excellence, you'll find an excellent alternative here.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias

Best All-Around iPhone Alternative

Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13

7A 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 OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel SeflieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)PROSGreat valueFast performanceCONSSoftware support a little shorter than rivalsWhen I mention to iPhone users that I'm using a OnePlus 13, they often look puzzled, as if I've posed a riddle. Yet, for those curious about alternatives to iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands out as a formidable competitor to the iPhone.

This generation, the OnePlus 13 has made significant strides. With minimal changes from its predecessor, it still manages to surpass expectations. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and exceeds it in multi-core performance. In graphics-intensive tasks, the OnePlus 13 outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max across various 3DMark gaming benchmarks, making it an exceptional choice for gamers and ensuring smooth daily operations.

The OnePlus 13 boasts an elegant design with flatter sides and rounded corners, reminiscent of iPhones, yet it distinguishes itself with a large camera ring and unique back designs. OnePlus's first-party 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 add to its robustness.

The OnePlus 13's camera system is on par with Apple's, featuring a triple-sensor array with 50MP ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto lenses, delivering stunning photos and videos.

Despite starting at $900, which is higher than the iPhone 16 but more competitive with the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max, the OnePlus 13 offers superior value. It comes with 256GB of storage as standard, outpacing Apple's 128GB on all but the most expensive models. The 6.82-inch OLED display is sharp, bright, and smooth with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. The OnePlus 13 isn't just the top iPhone alternative; it's the best smartphone available today.

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 standout 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's Pixel line has always excelled in photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of its capabilities. This sleek phone delivers exceptional photography thanks to its versatile three-camera setup on the back.

Unlike many phones where one camera dominates, the Pixel 9 Pro features three powerful sensors that work in harmony. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail with a wide angle. The 50MP ultra-wide sensor allows for expansive shots while maintaining color consistency with the main sensor. The 48MP telephoto sensor offers a 5x optical zoom, enabling you to get up close without moving. This camera system stands as a worthy rival to the iPhone.

Powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro offers enhanced speed and avoids the overheating issues of previous models. It handles most tasks efficiently and supports high-end gaming at 60fps. While it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw power, Google's focus on AI capabilities with the Tensor G4 enables advanced AI features, including a natural conversational virtual assistant.

Google raises the bar for Android phones with a commitment to seven years of OS updates and security patches for the Pixel 9 Pro, aligning it more closely with Apple's long-term support.

The phone's design is both beautiful and practical, featuring a sharp 1280x2856 display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. This compact 6.3-inch screen is nearly perfect. For those wanting 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 iPhone SE discontinued after the 16e's release, no iPhone is available for less than $500. In contrast, the Android market offers the OnePlus 12R at $499, which rivals modern flagships in features.

OnePlus crafts a stylish phone with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front, materials typically found on pricier models. The OnePlus 12R features a stunning 6.78-inch display, sharp at 1264x2780, with a 1-120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support, and high brightness levels.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, paired with 8GB of memory, ensures high performance, capable of handling demanding games. The base storage is 128GB.

While OnePlus doesn't match Apple's long-term support, it offers three major Android updates and four years of security updates, enhancing the phone's longevity. If you seek a sleek, high-performing phone with a display comparable to Apple's best at a budget-friendly price, the OnePlus 12R is the ideal 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 is an exceptionally powerful smartphone despite its compact size. 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 slightly less durable than a traditional phoneWhile iPhones don't fold (though they once bent), the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is ready to challenge Apple with its innovative design. Whether folded or unfolded, the Z Flip 6 boasts an appealing look with its flat-edged aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back. When closed, the 3.4-inch AMOLED cover screen provides quick access to notifications, shortcuts, and apps, fitting easily into any pocket.

Unfold the Z Flip 6 to reveal its 6.7-inch internal AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and high contrast. With a 120Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth interactions and gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, the Z Flip 6 handles demanding games and AI tasks with ease.

Though not equipped with Samsung's top camera systems, the Z Flip 6 features a capable setup with wide and ultra-wide sensors. The internal selfie camera is handy for video calls, but you can also use the main rear cameras for selfies, using the external display as a viewfinder.

The Z Flip 6's folding design offers unique advantages over any iPhone, shrinking down significantly for portability.

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 SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportIf gaming is your top priority, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers an astonishing experience for just $649. Despite its affordable price, it doesn't compromise on features, including 256GB of base storage and 12GB of memory.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's performance is outstanding, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. It nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core performance. Its GPU excels in 3DMark gaming benchmarks, outperforming the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The active cooling system ensures sustained high performance, ideal for extended gaming sessions, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery.

The RedMagic 10 Pro's display is a gamer's dream, with a 6.85-inch OLED screen that's bright, sharp, and fast, featuring a hidden under-display selfie camera for uninterrupted viewing. The design is surprisingly sleek and elegant, distinguishing it from typical gaming phones.

However, the RedMagic 10 Pro has its drawbacks. Its Android skin can be overly flashy, software support is shorter than that of leading brands, and cellular network performance might be suboptimal in some regions. Still, for gamers who don't need the fastest 5G and upgrade every couple of years, the RedMagic 10 Pro is an excellent choice.

What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025

While the iPhone remains a popular choice, 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 various themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps.

The Google Play Store offers more apps than the Apple App Store, and you're not limited to it; you can also use the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, Aptoide, and others for diverse app experiences.

Choosing a great iPhone alternative involves considering several factors:

Phone Size and Design

Android phones come in various sizes, from compact 4-inch models to expansive 7-inch screens, offering options to suit different preferences. Foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip line provide the convenience of a compact device that unfolds into a full-sized screen, a feature unavailable on iPhones.

Storage Capacity

Most Android smartphones start with 128GB of storage, matching the iPhone 16, but many models include a microSD slot for up to 1TB of additional storage. Android typically offers more features for less money, including storage, memory, power, screen size, and camera capabilities.

Price

Android smartphones are often more budget-friendly, with prices starting as low as $50 for basic models like the BLU C5L. Quality mid-range options like the Poco X5 5G start at $220, compared to the iPhone 16e's $599. High-end models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB of storage can reach $2,160, but offer more features for the price.

Overall, the Android market provides numerous options for various needs. The OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro are standout choices for most users, with Samsung offering premium design and speed, and Google excelling in camera quality.

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