The iPhone 16 series has arrived with its usual array of upgrades, but the year-to-year changes might not feel as thrilling as before. It's only natural to explore other options, and the market is brimming with alternatives that can stand toe-to-toe with Apple's latest offerings. As a seasoned smartphone tester with nearly a decade of experience, I've encountered numerous devices that not only compete with iPhones but also introduce innovative features that Apple has yet to embrace, such as foldable designs. My firsthand experience with iPhones has taught me to appreciate their strengths, making it easier to identify where alternatives excel.
For many, opting for an iPhone might not be the most practical choice. Even the entry-level iPhone 16e, positioned as the budget option, starts at a hefty $599. The rest of the 16 series escalates in price, with models starting at $799. Fortunately, the key attributes that make iPhones great, aside from iOS and Apple's powerful chipsets, are readily available in the Android ecosystem, which is teeming with quality 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 exploring beyond Apple's offerings, you can discover smartphones with advanced camera systems, designs that rival Apple's finest, unique form factors like foldables, more affordable options, and specialized gaming devices. Instead of choosing between iPhone models, you can select a device that perfectly matches your needs in terms of features, build quality, performance, and price. Whether you're seeking a top-tier smartphone that isn't an iPhone or a device with photographic capabilities akin to Apple's, you'll find an excellent alternative here.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
AnswerSee Results1. OnePlus 13Best All-Around iPhone Alternative
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7A sleek design, outstanding display, top-notch performance, and impressive cameras combine to make this discounted flagship a compelling choice. 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 slightly shorter than competitorsWhen I mention the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, they often look puzzled. Yet, for those curious about life beyond iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands as a formidable challenger to Apple's flagship. This generation, the OnePlus 13 made significant strides, enhancing its already impressive features. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite's eight-core CPU, it nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core tasks. In gaming benchmarks, the OnePlus 13 often outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max, making it an ideal choice for gamers and ensuring smooth daily operations.
The OnePlus 13 boasts a refined design with flatter sides and rounded corners, reminiscent of iPhones, yet it distinguishes itself with a large camera ring and unique back designs. It supports Qi2/MagSafe charging with first-party cases and includes a three-way alert slider, offering a slight edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. Its durability is further enhanced by its ability to withstand water and hot water jets.
The camera system on the OnePlus 13 rivals Apple's, featuring a triple-sensor array with 50MP ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto lenses, delivering stunning photos and videos. Priced at $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 sharp, bright, and smooth with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, making the OnePlus 13 not just the best iPhone alternative but one of the best smartphones available today.
Pixel 9 Pro – Photos
9 Images
2. 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 largerGoogle's Pixel line has always excelled in photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro is the pinnacle of this expertise. It's a visually appealing phone with a versatile three-camera system that offers flexibility in capturing subjects. Unlike many phones with a dominant main camera and less impressive secondary sensors, the Pixel 9 Pro's 50MP main sensor, 50MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom work harmoniously to deliver exceptional results.
Powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro offers improved speed and reduced heat during everyday use. While it may not match the iPhone 16 Pro's A18 Pro chip in raw performance, Google's focus on AI capabilities with the Tensor G4 enables advanced features like a natural conversational virtual assistant. Google also commits to seven years of OS updates and security patches, aligning closely with Apple's long-term support.
The Pixel 9 Pro's design is both beautiful and functional, featuring a sharp 1280x2856 display that reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. For those desiring a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch display.
OnePlus 12R – Photos
7 Images
3. OnePlus 12R
Best Budget iPhone Alternative
### OnePlus 12R
2A large, vibrant display and powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip make this value-focused Android phone a standout. 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 following the iPhone 16e's launch, no new iPhone is available for less than $500. In contrast, the $499 OnePlus 12R offers a near-flagship experience on the Android side.
The OnePlus 12R features a classy design with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, typically found on more expensive phones. Its 6.78-inch display is sharp at 1264x2780 and boasts 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 robust performance, even for demanding games, with a base storage of 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 value over time. If you're seeking a sleek, high-performing phone with a display rivaling Apple's best at a budget-friendly 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 Images
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Best Foldable iPhone Alternative
### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
3The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a powerhouse in a compact form. 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 less durable than traditional phonesWhile iPhones don't fold, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a compelling alternative. Its sleek aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back make it visually appealing whether open or closed. The 3.4-inch AMOLED cover display provides quick access to notifications and apps, fitting easily into pockets or bags.
Unfold the Z Flip 6 to reveal a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED internal display with rich contrast and vibrant colors, enhanced by a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth interactions and gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 12GB of RAM, it handles demanding games and AI tasks with ease.
The Z Flip 6's camera system, while not Samsung's top-tier, includes wide and ultra-wide sensors for quality shots. The internal selfie camera is convenient for video calls, but you can also use the rear cameras with the external display as a viewfinder. With its folding design, the Z Flip 6 offers unique features that set it apart from any iPhone.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
### RedMagic 10 Pro
1The RedMagic 10 Pro offers exceptional 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 supportFor gamers, the RedMagic 10 Pro is a revelation. Priced at just $649, it delivers top-tier gaming performance without significant compromises. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chip ensures high CPU and GPU performance, surpassing the iPhone 16 Pro Max in multi-core tasks and gaming benchmarks. Active cooling technology allows for sustained high performance during long gaming sessions, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery.
The RedMagic 10 Pro's 6.85-inch OLED display is nearly edge-to-edge, with the selfie camera hidden beneath the screen for an uninterrupted viewing experience. Its design is surprisingly elegant, setting it apart from typical gaming phones.
While the RedMagic 10 Pro's Android skin may be a bit flashy and its software support shorter than some competitors, it's an excellent choice for gamers who upgrade frequently and don't require the fastest 5G connections.
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, appreciated for its open platform and customization options. Android users enjoy a variety of themes, wallpapers, launchers, and apps, with more available on the Google Play Store than the Apple App Store. Additionally, alternative app stores like the Amazon Appstore and Samsung Galaxy Store offer diverse app experiences.
When choosing an iPhone alternative, consider the following:
Phone Size and Design
Android phones come in various sizes, from compact 4-inch models to larger 7-inch devices, offering flexibility to suit your preferences. Foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series provide a compact form factor that expands into a full-sized screen, a feature iPhones don't offer.
Storage Capacity
Most Android phones start with 128GB of storage, matching the iPhone 16, but many include microSD slots for up to 1TB of additional storage. Android often provides more features and better value for money than iPhones.
Price
Android smartphones can be significantly cheaper, with budget options starting at $50, like the BLU C5L. Quality budget phones 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 cost $2,160, offering more features for the price.
Overall, the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro are top picks for most users, with Samsung offering premium design and speed, and Google excelling in camera quality.
