Best iPhone 2025: I tested the top models and found your perfect fit
Many consider the Apple iPhone the best phone on the market, but with so many configurations and models available today, which one should you buy? For years, I've tested every iPhone model released, including the large-sized iPhone 16 Pro Max and the budget-oriented iPhone 16e, gathering insights on what models resonate with what type of user.
With iOS 26 debuting at Apple WWDC this month, the dynamics of how you decide which iPhone model to buy, and how you interact with it, just changed again. Notably, the latest software version will likely not be compatible with some older iPhones, including the iPhone XR and XS. So I'd advise against buying those two models, even if they can be had for less money. Instead, I'd consider the iPhone 16e for budget shoppers, as its $599 starting price is more accessible than other iPhones that Apple offers.
What is the best iPhone right now?
ZDNET's mobile experts carefully test every iPhone model at release, putting them through their paces to provide you with the best advice on which model to buy and the key features to look out for when you do. Right now, our pick for the best iPhone overall is the iPhone 16 Pro Max, thanks to its vivid and slim-bezel display, extensive camera tools, including a new Camera Control button, and support for Apple Intelligence features. Should you prefer a smaller, easy-to-handle form factor, consider the iPhone 16 Pro.
For most people, the standard iPhone 16 is your best bet if you want the latest iOS 26 features and Camera Control but don't want to spend a thousand dollars. It helps that the base iPhone models this year sport colorful finishes that are sure to appeal. Read on for the rest of our top picks for the best iPhones you can buy right now.
Sort by AllThe best iPhones of 2025
Show lessThe iPhone 16 Pro Max is the best iPhone overall due to its highly capable specifications and supersized attributes. It's the iPhone model that sets a new standard for Apple every year and continues to be a worthy competitor to Samsung's S Ultra series and Google's Pixel Pro XL.
Why we like it: Besides being the largest iPhone Apple currently offers, with a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, the iPhone 16 Pro Max also has the best-rated battery life, at 27 hours of video playback. From our tests, we found the phone to last much longer than the standard 16 Pro and last year's 15 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max looks and feels fairly similar to last year's 15 Pro Max, as it's also made of titanium instead of previous versions' stainless steel. This material choice "makes the Pro phones about 10% lighter (than their predecessors) and is very durable," as ZDNET's editor-in-chief, Jason Hiner, describes it.
The one notable hardware change comes in the form of a new Camera Control key on the right side of the device. Camera Control lets you quickly turn on the camera app, adjust color tones and other photographic settings, and capture pictures and videos. It's a useful tool that, with a bit of practice, can be essential for creative workflows.
Review:iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max
Who it's for: The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a flagship phone that commands a flagship price, meaning it's ideal for users who are willing to pay for the best iPhone available, whether that's directly through retailers or through carrier deals. You should buy the Pro Max version if you want the larger screen, enduring battery life, and triple-camera setup.
Who should look elsewhere: But if you're shopping on a budget and don't mind a smaller screen, consider the $999 iPhone 16 Pro ($200 cheaper and with a 6.1-inch display). If you can live without the dedicated telephoto lens, you can even go with the $899 iPhone 16 Plus, which features a large screen and battery but only has wide and ultrawide lenses for shooting.
iPhone 16 Pro Max specs: Processor: Apple A18 Pro Bionic | Display size: 6.8 inches with 120Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 12MP 5x telephoto | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Natural Titanium, Desert Titanium, White, Black | Weight: 227g | Starting price: $1,099
Pros
- Lightweight titanium shell
- Camera Control key for added utility
- 48MP ultrawide with 4K 120fps recording
- A18 Pro processor capable of new AI features
- Pricer than most flagship smartphones
- May feel unwieldy for some users
- No major hardware improvement over its predecessor
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best iPhone overall
4.4 / 5 ScoreThe iPhone 16 Pro Max is the best iPhone overall due to its highly capable specifications and supersized attributes. It's the iPhone model that sets a new standard for Apple every year and continues to be a worthy competitor to Samsung's S Ultra series and Google's Pixel Pro XL.
Why we like it: Besides being the largest iPhone Apple currently offers, with a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, the iPhone 16 Pro Max also has the best-rated battery life, at 27 hours of video playback. From our tests, we found the phone to last much longer than the standard 16 Pro and last year's 15 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max looks and feels fairly similar to last year's 15 Pro Max, as it's also made of titanium instead of previous versions' stainless steel. This material choice "makes the Pro phones about 10% lighter (than their predecessors) and is very durable," as ZDNET's editor-in-chief, Jason Hiner, describes it.
The one notable hardware change comes in the form of a new Camera Control key on the right side of the device. Camera Control lets you quickly turn on the camera app, adjust color tones and other photographic settings, and capture pictures and videos. It's a useful tool that, with a bit of practice, can be essential for creative workflows.
Review:iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max
Who it's for: The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a flagship phone that commands a flagship price, meaning it's ideal for users who are willing to pay for the best iPhone available, whether that's directly through retailers or through carrier deals. You should buy the Pro Max version if you want the larger screen, enduring battery life, and triple-camera setup.
Who should look elsewhere: But if you're shopping on a budget and don't mind a smaller screen, consider the $999 iPhone 16 Pro ($200 cheaper and with a 6.1-inch display). If you can live without the dedicated telephoto lens, you can even go with the $899 iPhone 16 Plus, which features a large screen and battery but only has wide and ultrawide lenses for shooting.
iPhone 16 Pro Max specs: Processor: Apple A18 Pro Bionic | Display size: 6.8 inches with 120Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 12MP 5x telephoto | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Natural Titanium, Desert Titanium, White, Black | Weight: 227g | Starting price: $1,099
The iPhone 16 looks, feels, and performs like a premium phone should. It also starts at $300 less than the iPhone 16 Pro series, putting it in closer reach for most consumers
Why we like it: The iPhone 16 brings several premium features from the Pro models -- including the Camera Control key, Dynamic Island, and support for Apple Intelligence -- making it feel closer to a Pro than ever before.
From our hands-on experience with the model, its slimmer, lighter design with curved edges offers a noticeably more comfortable grip than older iPhones, without sacrificing durability or style. Add in solid battery life, the reliable A18 Bionic chip, and a fun lineup of colors, and you've got a well-rounded device that delivers excellent value.
Who it's for: The iPhone 16 is a great choice for anyone who wants a modern iPhone with high-end features but doesn't need -- or want to pay for -- the full Pro experience. If you care about one-handed usability, reliable performance, and a camera that can now shoot macro and spatial videos, the iPhone 16 hits the sweet spot. Opt for the standard size for compact comfort, or go with the Plus model for longer battery life and a bigger screen.
Who should look elsewhere: If you're a power user who needs features like a telephoto lens, ProMotion (120Hz) display, or more advanced camera tools, you may still want to spring for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Likewise, if you're coming from an iPhone 14 or newer and don't care much about spatial video or macro photography, the upgrade may feel incremental. Budget-conscious shoppers might also prefer to stick with the iPhone 16e or previous-gen models that still offer strong performance at a lower price.
iPhone 16 specs: Processor: Apple A18 Bionic | Display size: 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, Black | Weight: 170g | Starting price: $799
Pros
- Faster MagSafe charging
- Same Camera Control, Dynamic Island, and Apple Intelligence features as Pro models
- Bright and colorful finishes
- More RAM this year with 8GB
- 60Hz refresh rate still lags behind competitors
- USB-C charging is still capped at 18W
- No dedicated telephoto lens
The iPhone 16 looks, feels, and performs like a premium phone should. It also starts at $300 less than the iPhone 16 Pro series, putting it in closer reach for most consumers
Why we like it: The iPhone 16 brings several premium features from the Pro models -- including the Camera Control key, Dynamic Island, and support for Apple Intelligence -- making it feel closer to a Pro than ever before.
From our hands-on experience with the model, its slimmer, lighter design with curved edges offers a noticeably more comfortable grip than older iPhones, without sacrificing durability or style. Add in solid battery life, the reliable A18 Bionic chip, and a fun lineup of colors, and you've got a well-rounded device that delivers excellent value.
Who it's for: The iPhone 16 is a great choice for anyone who wants a modern iPhone with high-end features but doesn't need -- or want to pay for -- the full Pro experience. If you care about one-handed usability, reliable performance, and a camera that can now shoot macro and spatial videos, the iPhone 16 hits the sweet spot. Opt for the standard size for compact comfort, or go with the Plus model for longer battery life and a bigger screen.
Who should look elsewhere: If you're a power user who needs features like a telephoto lens, ProMotion (120Hz) display, or more advanced camera tools, you may still want to spring for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Likewise, if you're coming from an iPhone 14 or newer and don't care much about spatial video or macro photography, the upgrade may feel incremental. Budget-conscious shoppers might also prefer to stick with the iPhone 16e or previous-gen models that still offer strong performance at a lower price.
iPhone 16 specs: Processor: Apple A18 Bionic | Display size: 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, Black | Weight: 170g | Starting price: $799
Going off of retail price alone, the latest iPhone 16e is the cheapest iPhone on the market right now. The $599 starting price comes with its caveats, of course, but there are still several iPhone benefits that may interest budget shoppers.
Why we like it: From our tests, the iPhone 16e excels in ways that are essential to most users, from the 6.1-inch OLED display that's both comfortable to hold and easy to view content, to the exceptional battery life thanks to the efficiency of the A18 processor, to the single 48MP Fusion camera that's capable of capturing vivid and detailed imagery.
Sure, you'll have to settle with some trade-offs, such as the notched display and lack of MagSafe connectors. Still, the overall experience of the iPhone 16e, which runs on iOS 18 with most Apple Intelligence features, makes it a reliable handset for hundreds less than the flagship iPhones.
Review: Apple iPhone 16e
Who it's for: The iPhone 16e is ideal for shoppers who want the quintessential iPhone experience -- FaceTiming in decent camera quality, iMessage texting with the latest chat features, firing up multiple apps in sequence, etc. -- but don't want to spend a grand on a phone. As ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz said after switching over from an iPhone 16 Pro, "I am equally impressed as I am surprised."
Who should look elsewhere: The absence of MagSafe was one of our main critiques when testing the iPhone 16e, so if you're already accustomed to the popular accessory mechanic, you'll want to consider alternatives that support the feature, like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15. The premium iPhone models also offer more flexible camera capabilities, including dedicated telephoto and/or ultrawide lenses.
iPhone SE specs: CPU: Apple A18 | Display: 6.1 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Internal storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Black, White | Weight: 167g | Starting price: $599
Pros
- The most affordable new iPhone in 2025
- Solid battery life for the size
- Excellent software support, with Apple Intelligence features
- A capable 48MP camera with optical zoom
- Outdated notch design
- The 60Hz refresh rate display is inferior to competitors with 120Hz panels
- Lack of telephoto and ultrawide lenses limits shooting capabiltiies
Going off of retail price alone, the latest iPhone 16e is the cheapest iPhone on the market right now. The $599 starting price comes with its caveats, of course, but there are still several iPhone benefits that may interest budget shoppers.
Why we like it: From our tests, the iPhone 16e excels in ways that are essential to most users, from the 6.1-inch OLED display that's both comfortable to hold and easy to view content, to the exceptional battery life thanks to the efficiency of the A18 processor, to the single 48MP Fusion camera that's capable of capturing vivid and detailed imagery.
Sure, you'll have to settle with some trade-offs, such as the notched display and lack of MagSafe connectors. Still, the overall experience of the iPhone 16e, which runs on iOS 18 with most Apple Intelligence features, makes it a reliable handset for hundreds less than the flagship iPhones.
Review: Apple iPhone 16e
Who it's for: The iPhone 16e is ideal for shoppers who want the quintessential iPhone experience -- FaceTiming in decent camera quality, iMessage texting with the latest chat features, firing up multiple apps in sequence, etc. -- but don't want to spend a grand on a phone. As ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz said after switching over from an iPhone 16 Pro, "I am equally impressed as I am surprised."
Who should look elsewhere: The absence of MagSafe was one of our main critiques when testing the iPhone 16e, so if you're already accustomed to the popular accessory mechanic, you'll want to consider alternatives that support the feature, like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15. The premium iPhone models also offer more flexible camera capabilities, including dedicated telephoto and/or ultrawide lenses.
iPhone SE specs: CPU: Apple A18 | Display: 6.1 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Internal storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Black, White | Weight: 167g | Starting price: $599
Read MoreWhile Apple has officially discontinued its iPhone Mini models, the iPhone 13 Mini is still your best option if you want a truly small flagship iPhone.
Why we like it: The iPhone 13 Mini packs formidable specs by today's standards --including the same A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 -- into a truly pocketable design. You still get Face ID, 5G, wireless charging, and reliable dual 12MP rear cameras, all for around $300 refurbished.
For those who miss the days of one-handed phones without sacrificing performance, our real-world experiences with the 13 Mini have proven it to be a more ergonomic experience than any other iPhone model.
Review: Apple iPhone 13 Mini
Who it's for: This is the ideal phone for small phone enthusiasts, minimalists, or anyone who wants flagship-level features in a compact body. It's a great pick if you're willing to buy a refurbished one and want something slightly less outdated than the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 13 Mini is also a great option for users who want a spare phone for business or creative purposes.
Who should look elsewhere: If battery life, screen size, or multitasking are high priorities, the iPhone 13 Mini will fall short. Its smaller display isn't great for media consumption, and the compact battery won't match the endurance of larger models we've tested. Anyone needing the latest features or preferring to buy new might be better off with a current-generation iPhone like the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16e, despite the trade-offs.
iPhone 13 Mini specs: Processor: Apple A15 | Display size: 5.4 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: Two 12MP (wide and ultra-wide) | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Starlight, Midnight, Red, Pink, Blue | Weight: 141g | Starting Price: $350
Pros
- Last iPhone Mini model you can buy
- Identical internals to the iPhone 13
- Size doesn't compromise on performance and camera quality
- No high refresh rate display
- Subpar battery life
- Shorter software update schedule
- Need to buy refurbished
While Apple has officially discontinued its iPhone Mini models, the iPhone 13 Mini is still your best option if you want a truly small flagship iPhone.
Why we like it: The iPhone 13 Mini packs formidable specs by today's standards --including the same A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 -- into a truly pocketable design. You still get Face ID, 5G, wireless charging, and reliable dual 12MP rear cameras, all for around $300 refurbished.
For those who miss the days of one-handed phones without sacrificing performance, our real-world experiences with the 13 Mini have proven it to be a more ergonomic experience than any other iPhone model.
Review: Apple iPhone 13 Mini
Who it's for: This is the ideal phone for small phone enthusiasts, minimalists, or anyone who wants flagship-level features in a compact body. It's a great pick if you're willing to buy a refurbished one and want something slightly less outdated than the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 13 Mini is also a great option for users who want a spare phone for business or creative purposes.
Who should look elsewhere: If battery life, screen size, or multitasking are high priorities, the iPhone 13 Mini will fall short. Its smaller display isn't great for media consumption, and the compact battery won't match the endurance of larger models we've tested. Anyone needing the latest features or preferring to buy new might be better off with a current-generation iPhone like the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16e, despite the trade-offs.
iPhone 13 Mini specs: Processor: Apple A15 | Display size: 5.4 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: Two 12MP (wide and ultra-wide) | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Starlight, Midnight, Red, Pink, Blue | Weight: 141g | Starting Price: $350
Read MoreWhile Apple continues to segment its iPhone line with "Pro" and "Plus" models, the regular offering, such as the now two-year-old iPhone 15, continues to be a viable option for consumers.
Why we like it: The iPhone 15 hits a sweet spot in Apple's lineup, offering many of the features previously reserved for Pro models -- like the Dynamic Island, USB-C charging, and a sleek, contoured design -- at a more accessible price. It's powered by the A16 Bionic chip (the same one used in the iPhone 14 Pro), making it fast and capable for everyday use, from gaming to multitasking.
Combine that with one of the brighter Super Retina XDR displays we've measured and an improved 48MP main camera, and you get a phone that feels like a serious upgrade without the Pro price tag.
Review: Apple iPhone 15
Who it's for: This is the iPhone for people who want modern features, strong performance, and great cameras without splurging on a Pro model. It's ideal for everyday users who care about photography, video, and overall speed but don't necessarily need a ProMotion display or a telephoto lens.
Starting at $699 -- or less if you shop around -- it's a smart buy for most people who want a current-generation iPhone that's built to last.
Who should look elsewhere: Power users who want the absolute best camera setup, a 120Hz display, or advanced editing tools may still prefer the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro. And if budget is your biggest concern, the iPhone 14 or 16e might be a better fit --especially if you don't mind sacrificing some modern design touches. Those upgrading from an iPhone 14 may also find the leap a bit underwhelming unless features like USB-C or the 48MP camera are must-haves.
iPhone 15 specs: Processor: Apple A16 | Display size: 6.1 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide and 12MP ultrawide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Black | Weight: 171g | Starting price: $699
Pros
- Goldilocks size for iPhones
- Pro-level camera system
- Improved repairability
- Identical software support as the more-expensive Pro models
- Still 60Hz display
- Doesn't have a telephoto lens
- US customers are locked to eSIM
While Apple continues to segment its iPhone line with "Pro" and "Plus" models, the regular offering, such as the now two-year-old iPhone 15, continues to be a viable option for consumers.
Why we like it: The iPhone 15 hits a sweet spot in Apple's lineup, offering many of the features previously reserved for Pro models -- like the Dynamic Island, USB-C charging, and a sleek, contoured design -- at a more accessible price. It's powered by the A16 Bionic chip (the same one used in the iPhone 14 Pro), making it fast and capable for everyday use, from gaming to multitasking.
Combine that with one of the brighter Super Retina XDR displays we've measured and an improved 48MP main camera, and you get a phone that feels like a serious upgrade without the Pro price tag.
Review: Apple iPhone 15
Who it's for: This is the iPhone for people who want modern features, strong performance, and great cameras without splurging on a Pro model. It's ideal for everyday users who care about photography, video, and overall speed but don't necessarily need a ProMotion display or a telephoto lens.
Starting at $699 -- or less if you shop around -- it's a smart buy for most people who want a current-generation iPhone that's built to last.
Who should look elsewhere: Power users who want the absolute best camera setup, a 120Hz display, or advanced editing tools may still prefer the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro. And if budget is your biggest concern, the iPhone 14 or 16e might be a better fit --especially if you don't mind sacrificing some modern design touches. Those upgrading from an iPhone 14 may also find the leap a bit underwhelming unless features like USB-C or the 48MP camera are must-haves.
iPhone 15 specs: Processor: Apple A16 | Display size: 6.1 inches with 60Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP wide and 12MP ultrawide | Front camera: 12MP | Colors: Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Black | Weight: 171g | Starting price: $699
Top iPhone models compared
After weighing out the specs and reviewer-tested experiences, the best iPhone is currently the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It's got a beautiful AMOLED display, a powerful (and future-proofed) chipset, and a reliable camera system that covers all the bases and angles. Naturally, the 16 Pro Max is also Apple's most expensive model, so if pricing is a concern, consider cheaper options like the iPhone 16e and even older models.
iPhone models compared | Base Price | Base Storage | Display | Processor | Cameras (rear) |
iPhone 16 Pro Max | $1,099 | 128GB | 6.8 inches | A18 Pro | Three |
iPhone 16 | $799 | 128GB | 6.1 inches | A18 | Two |
iPhone 15 | $699 | 128GB | 6.1 inches | A15 | Two |
iPhone 13 Mini | $480 | 128GB | 5.4 inches | A15 | Two |
iPhone 16e | $599 | 128GB | 6.1 inches | A18 | One |
Are iPhones the best smartphone?
The answer depends on your needs and preferences. For example, while the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is ZDNET's current pick for best phone of 2025, it may not be the best option for you if you often rely on services like iMessage and FaceTime, which are exclusive to Apple's operating systems.
Previously, the gap between iPhones and Android phones was much larger due to Apple opting for a Lightning port instead of USB-C, but with the iPhone 15 models switching to the more universal port for charging and data transfer, it's become less intimidating to switch from Android to iPhone, and vice versa.
Show moreWhich iPhone model is right for you?
It used to be fairly easy to choose an iPhone model as you typically opted for either the "big" iPhone or the "small" one. With four models available in the iPhone 16 series alone, you now have to dig a bit deeper to choose which is best for you. This is especially true of the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, which feature nearly the same hardware, so check out our question above for more on this decision.
Size is generally the first factor to consider, followed by price. Price limits will also drive the amount of internal storage you select for your iPhone.
One fantastic aspect of the iPhone is that all models receive software support for years and years, so it's perfectly viable to buy an older model and trust that it will work well for you for quite some time.
Choose this iPhone... | If you want... |
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max | The top-of-the-line iPhone experience. Buy the Pro Max if you want the largest iPhone available without any of the compromises found on other models. This variant, along with the Pro, will also support Apple's existing (and upcoming) AI features. |
Apple iPhone 16 | A reliable iPhone that now includes several Pro features. For most users, the standard iPhone 16 should be more than enough. |
Apple iPhone 16e | The iPhone 16e is the cheapest model that Apple officially sells. You'll have to settle with a smaller, MagSafe-less design, but the performance makes up for it. |
Apple iPhone 13 Mini | The only iPhone Mini that Apple makes. This is arguably the best compact smartphone money can buy, even if it's nearly three years old. |
Apple iPhone 15 | An older iPhone that can handle modern-day tasks. The iPhone 15 is still a solid smartphone if you want the Apple experience for less, and it supports USB-C. |
Factors to consider when choosing an iPhone
We chose these smartphones by testing them for weeks and months, evaluating them based on real-world applications like phone calls, messaging, web brow
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