Best early Prime Day phone deals: My 17 favorite sales live now
Amazon Prime Day is one of the biggest shopping events of the year, with the big-box retailer listing thousands of consumer goods at competitive prices. That's why, if you're in the market for a new phone, whether it's an upgrade or your very first, now is one of the best times to pull the trigger.
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We test dozens of handsets every year, including top models from Apple, Samsung, Google, and more, and some of our most-recommended options are currently discounted ahead of Amazon's multi-day sales event. Here's a rundown of the best early Prime Day phone deals so far.
See early Prime Day dealsBest phone deals for Prime Day 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: $999 (save $300): Arguably the best phone we've tested so far this year has been greatly discounted, getting you a high-performing handset with a vivid, glare-free AMOLED display and a 200MP-led camera system.
- Motorola Razr Ultra 2025: $1,169 (save $130): The top flip phone on the market right now has seen a notable discount on the 512GB variant, and it comes in some fancy colorways.
- Motorola Razr Plus 2025: $700 (save $300): The non-Ultra model of this year's Razr foldable is also on sale, making it a great deal on one of the most well-rounded handsets for creators right now.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: $899 (save $200): Google's flagship handset comes with a large 6.7-inch display, a slew of Gemini-enhanced AI features, and a proven camera system.
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: $759 (save $70): While it's no longer the latest iPhone model, the 15 Pro Max is still ideal for those who want a larger screen and battery life but don't want to spend $1,000+.
- Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: $349 (save $50): The latest midrange Samsung phone has a crisp 6.7-inch display, long-lasting battery life, and a triple-camera system at the rear.
- OnePlus 13: $949 (save $50): One of our sleeper picks for best Android phone this year features 80W wired charging, an IP69 rating for water and dust resistance, and a sleek finish.
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: $1,049 (save $120): Amazon is currently selling the thinnest Samsung phone right now with a free storage upgrade, giving you the 512GB variant for the price of the 256GB one.
- Current price: $999
- Original price: $1,299
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is one of the best phones overall, with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display that's treated with an anti-glare coating. We've also been very impressed with the S25 Ultra's camera output, which features a 200MP main lens capable of capturing far distances without much loss in detail and color. For a limited time, you can pick up the handset at a notable $300 discount. You'll just have to be OK with a larger-than-average handset.
Show more View now at Amazon- Current price: $899
- Original price: $1,099
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is another fantastic big-screen Android phone, especially if you favor Google's cleaner software approach and want the latest Android updates. While a newer model is expected to launch in a matter of months, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is still one of the most reliable handsets you can buy on the market, with this $200 discount making it an even sweeter deal.
Show more View now at Amazon- Current price: $700
- Original price: $1,000
The Motorola Razr Plus (2025) is the brand's mid-tier flip phone, but it shares several features with its flagship sibling, the Razr Ultra. This makes the phone a fantastic deal when it's $300 off, as it's both one of the most capable and affordable flip phones on the market. It helps that Motorola sells the Razr Plus in a series of bold and vivid colors.
Show more View now at Amazon- Current price: $349
- Original price: $399
A $50 discount may not seem like much, but it makes the already accessibly-priced Samsung Galaxy A36 5G more so. We tested the handset earlier this year and found it to be a well-rounded device with a display that rivals models that cost hundreds of dollars more. Sure, that same display is surrounded by thicker bezels, but if you can shoulder off the design aesthetic, you're looking at a fantastic phone deal.
Show more View now at Amazon- Current price: $699
- Original price: $1,799
While the Google Pixel Fold is no longer the latest model from the brand, it's still a pocketable, dual-screen system that will satisfy most people. In fact, the $700 listing price puts it in line with midrange to entry-level flagship phones today -- only you're getting a foldable form factor that's great for multitasking and consuming content.
Show more View now at AmazonMore phone deals from other retailers
- OnePlus 13 with free Buds 3 and Sandstone case for $999 at OnePlus (save $125): The fast-charging Android phone is currently being sold by the manufacturer in a bundle that includes a free pair of wireless earbuds and a protective case.
- Samsung Galaxy S25 (256GB) for $773 at Best Buy (save $86): The base model Samsung phone comes with double the storage and a notable discount at the big-box retailer.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL for $899 at Google (save $200): Like Amazon, Google has discounted its flagship phone by $200. Note that this deal only applies to the larger XL model and not the standard one, so you'll have to live with the 6.7-inch display.
- iPhone 16 Pro for free at T-Mobile (save $999): T-Mobile is currently offering a free iPhone when you port your number to the carrier, add a line, and enroll in its Experience Beyond.
FAQs
When is Amazon Prime Day 2025?
This year, Prime Day starts on Tuesday, July 8, and goes through Friday, July 11.
Are phones really cheaper on Prime Day?
While there are no guarantees that the prices you see are the lowest ever, Amazon -- and the various retailers and sellers it works with -- tends to keep promotions as competitive as possible. That's why you can expect discounts that match all-time lows -- or at least somewhere near them.
How did we choose these Prime Day deals?
While it's always helpful when products are discounted significantly (we usually cover ones that are at least 20% off), ZDNET experts also prioritize promotions on products we've personally tested and can vouch for. Since the products you purchase are considerable investments, we ensure that our recommendations are grounded by thorough research, testing, and value.
We also source reviews from actual customers, whether through Best Buy and Amazon testimonials (with hands-on images) or online forums like Reddit.
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