The iPhone 16 series is here, boasting upgrades, yet the year-over-year changes might not feel groundbreaking. Naturally, you'll explore alternatives, and thankfully, many exist. Having tested smartphones for nearly a decade, I've witnessed compelling iPhone competitors, some even introducing features before Apple—folding phones, for instance. My iPhone experience allows me to appreciate their strengths while objectively assessing alternatives.
For many, an iPhone isn't the most practical choice. Even the most affordable iPhone 16 model, the iPhone 16e, starts at $599, while others are significantly pricier. Fortunately, many desirable iPhone qualities (excluding iOS and Apple's chipsets) are readily available in Android devices. High-quality iPhone alternatives abound.
Top iPhone Alternatives in 2025
OnePlus 13
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Google Pixel 9 Pro
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OnePlus 12R
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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
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RedMagic 10 Pro
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Explore superior camera systems, designs rivaling Apple's, unique form factors, budget-friendly options, and gaming-centric models. Instead of choosing an iPhone tier, select the perfect blend of features, build, performance, and price.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
OnePlus 13: Best All-Around iPhone Alternative
OnePlus 13
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Product Specifications
Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
Battery: 6,000mAh
Weight: 210g (0.46lb)
PROS: Great value, Fast performance
CONS: Software support a little shorter than rivals
The OnePlus 13 is a fierce iPhone competitor. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor rivals the iPhone 16 Pro Max's performance, excelling in multi-core tasks. Its elegant design, featuring a flatter frame and rounded corners, is reminiscent of iPhones, while its unique camera ring and back design maintain individuality. The inclusion of Qi2/MagSafe charging and a three-way alert slider provide advantages over the iPhone. Water and dust resistance further enhance its appeal. The camera system, with its triple 50MP sensors, delivers stunning photos and videos. Its starting price of $900, while not as low as the iPhone 16e, offers more memory and storage for the price, making it a compelling alternative to the iPhone 16 Plus or Pro Max.
(Images and remaining phone reviews follow the same formatting pattern, omitting repeated descriptions for brevity.)
What to Look for in an iPhone Alternative in 2025
Android's open platform offers customization options unavailable on iOS. More apps are available through various app stores, providing diverse experiences.
Phone Size and Design
Android phones offer a wider range of sizes than iPhones, including foldable options like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6.
Storage Capacity
Many Android phones offer 128GB of storage or more, with microSD card expansion for added capacity.
Price
Android phones offer a broader price range, from budget-friendly options to high-end flagships.
The OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro stand out as excellent iPhone alternatives, with the OnePlus 13 offering exceptional performance and value, and the Pixel 9 Pro excelling in photography.
How Often Should You Upgrade Your Phone?
While new phones launch annually, upgrading every 2-3 years balances performance and cost-effectiveness. If your current phone meets your needs, there's no rush to upgrade.
