The iPhone 16 series has arrived, bringing with it a host of upgrades, yet the year-to-year changes might not feel as thrilling as one might hope. It's only natural to explore other options, and trust me, there are plenty out there. With nearly a decade of smartphone testing under my belt, I've encountered numerous devices that not only rival Apple's iPhones but often introduce innovative features well before Apple does—think folding phones. My experience with iPhones has given me a deep appreciation for their strengths, which makes it easier to identify where alternatives shine.
For many, choosing an iPhone might not be the most practical decision. Even the most budget-friendly option in the new iPhone lineup, like the newly announced iPhone 16e starting at $599, tends to be on the pricier side. The rest of the iPhone 16 series starts at $799 and goes up from there. 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 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 broadening your horizons, you can discover advanced camera systems, designs that rival Apple's best, unique form factors that Apple has yet to explore, more budget-friendly options, and specialized models focused on gaming. There's a wide array of choices, allowing you to select the perfect blend of features, build quality, performance, and price that suits your needs. Whether you're seeking the best non-iPhone smartphone or a device that matches Apple's renowned photographic capabilities, you'll find a compelling alternative here.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
OnePlus 13
Best All-Around iPhone Alternative
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7A sleek design, exceptional display, top-notch performance, and impressive cameras come together in this discounted flagship that's well worth considering. 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 slightly shorter than rivalsWhen I mention the OnePlus 13 to iPhone users, they often look puzzled, as if I've posed a riddle. But for those curious about what lies beyond iOS, the OnePlus 13 stands as a formidable challenger to the iPhone.
This generation, the OnePlus 13 has made significant strides. With only a few changes from its predecessor, these upgrades have propelled it to the forefront. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite's eight-core CPU, it nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max's single-core performance and surpasses it in multi-core performance. In graphics, the OnePlus 13 outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max across 3DMark's gaming benchmarks, making it a powerhouse for gaming and ensuring smooth daily operations.
OnePlus has encased this power in an elegant design. With flatter sides and rounded corners, it echoes the iPhone's aesthetic, yet stands out with its distinctive camera ring and back designs. OnePlus's first-party cases support Qi2/MagSafe charging, and the phone features a three-way alert slider, offering a slight edge over the iPhone's alert toggle. Its water and hot water jet resistance further enhance its appeal.
The OnePlus 13's camera system rivals Apple's, featuring a triple-sensor array with 50MP ultra-wide, wide, and 3x telephoto lenses. It captures stunning photos and boasts impressive video capabilities.
At a starting price of $900, the OnePlus 13 isn't as affordable as the iPhone 16, but it competes directly with the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max, offering better value. With a default 256GB of storage compared to Apple's 128GB on most models, and a 6.82-inch OLED display that matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max's quality, the OnePlus 13 is not just the top iPhone alternative; it's the best smartphone you can buy right now.
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 has long excelled in smartphone photography with its Pixel line, and the Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of its capabilities. This phone not only looks great but also delivers outstanding photography thanks to its versatile three-camera setup.
Unlike many phones where one camera dominates, the Pixel 9 Pro's three sensors work harmoniously. The 50MP main sensor captures ample light and detail with a wide angle. The 50MP ultra-wide lens expands your field of view while maintaining color consistency with the main sensor. The 48MP telephoto lens offers a 5x optical zoom, allowing you to get up close without moving. This camera system is a worthy rival to any iPhone.
Powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, the Pixel 9 Pro offers enhanced speed and avoids the overheating issues of earlier models. It handles most tasks well and can run demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero at 60fps. 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 features like a natural conversational virtual assistant.
Google has raised the bar for Android phones by promising seven years of OS updates and security patches for the Pixel 9 Pro, aligning it 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. This compact 6.3-inch screen leaves little to be desired. For those wanting 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 are 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 2022 iPhone SE discontinued after the 16e's reveal, no new iPhone is available for less than $500—and that's with significant feature compromises. On the Android side, however, you can get a near-flagship experience with the $499 OnePlus 12R.
OnePlus crafts a stylish phone with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front, a durable material found on many pricier devices. The OnePlus 12R boasts a stunning 6.78-inch display, sharp at 1264x2780, with a 1-120Hz refresh rate thanks to its LTPO AMOLED panel. It supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, and offers high brightness levels with per-pixel dimming.
The OnePlus 12R's performance is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and 8GB of memory, ensuring it can handle heavy gaming and other demanding tasks. It comes with a base storage of 128GB.
While OnePlus doesn't match Apple's long-term support, it promises 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 price that competes with Apple's cheapest, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice. For more options, check out our overall 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 an incredibly 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 phoneiPhones don't fold—yet. If they did, they'd face stiff competition from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. This device is designed to challenge Apple, boasting a sleek look whether open or closed. Its flat-edged aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back add to its appeal. When folded, the Z Flip 6 offers a 3.4-inch AMOLED display for quick access to notifications and apps, fitting easily into any pocket or bag.
Unfold the Z Flip 6 to reveal its 6.7-inch internal AMOLED display, which delivers rich contrast and vibrant colors. With a 120Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth visuals for gaming and interaction. 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 not equipped with Samsung's top-tier camera system, 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 rear cameras for selfies, using the external display as a viewfinder.
The Z Flip 6 offers a lot and stands ready to compete with the iPhone, with its folding design providing unique advantages that no Apple device can match.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
### RedMagic 10 Pro
1The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers 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 SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportIf gaming is your top priority, prepare for a surprise. The best gaming phone isn't an iPhone or an expensive Android—it's the RedMagic 10 Pro, priced at just $649. Despite its affordability, it makes few compromises, even offering 256GB of base storage and 12GB of memory.
Performance is where the RedMagic 10 Pro shines. It's the most affordable phone with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, and its new processing cores deliver impressive results. In benchmarks, it nearly matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max's single-core performance and easily outpaces it in multi-core performance. The GPU outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 3DMark's game benchmarks, and its active cooling system ensures sustained high performance during long gaming sessions. A 7,050mAh battery further extends playtime.
The RedMagic 10 Pro's display is a gamer's dream: a massive 6.85-inch OLED with a hidden selfie camera, ensuring uninterrupted screen space. The display is bright, sharp, and fast, enhancing your gaming and viewing experience. The phone's design is surprisingly elegant, setting it apart from typical gaming phones.
However, the RedMagic 10 Pro isn't perfect. Its Android skin can be a bit much, software support isn't as long as that of Samsung, Apple, Google, or OnePlus flagships, and cellular network support may be limited in some areas. But if you prioritize performance, can live without the fastest 5G, and upgrade every couple of years, the RedMagic 10 Pro won't disappoint.
What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025
While the iPhone remains the most popular smartphone brand, more than half of the world's phones run on Android. Android's open platform appeals to users who prefer customization over Apple's more controlled environment. 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.
With Android's growing popularity, choosing a great iPhone alternative can be challenging, but here's what to consider.
Phone Size and Design
One of the best aspects of iPhone alternatives is their variety in size and design. Apple sticks to phones around 6 inches, but Android phones can be as large as 7 inches or as small as 4 inches, catering to different preferences for screen size and hand comfort.
Foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series offer a compact design that can be expanded into a full-sized screen, a feature iPhones don't have.
Storage Capacity
Most Android smartphones start with 128GB of storage, matching the iPhone 16. However, many Android models include a microSD card slot, allowing for up to an additional 1TB of storage.
Android generally offers more for less, providing more storage options, memory, power, screen sizes, features, megapixels, and cameras than iPhones at a lower cost.
Price
Android smartphones are often more affordable than iPhones, with prices starting as low as $50 for basic models like the BLU C5L. Quality budget options like the Poco X5 5G start at $220, compared to the iPhone 16e's $599 starting price.
At the high end, you can get a fully loaded Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 1TB of storage for $2,160. Considering the additional features Android phones offer, they often provide better value.
Overall, if you're looking for an iPhone alternative, the Android market offers a wide range of options for different needs. For most, the OnePlus 13 or Google Pixel 9 Pro are top picks, 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 you don't need to upgrade every year. 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.
