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10 Best Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, Triple Rear Camera System, 24-Hour Battery, and 6.8" Super Actua Display - Porcelain - 128 GB

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a high-end smartphone that really shines in several areas, particularly with its camera and AI capabilities. The triple rear camera system is designed to take stunning photos and videos, even in low light, thanks to features like Night Sight Video and Super Res Zoom. The 24-hour battery life is impressive, making it a great option for users who need their phone to last throughout the day without frequent charging. The 6.8-inch Super Actua display offers vibrant visuals and a smooth experience with a 120 Hz refresh rate, perfect for streaming and browsing.

On the performance side, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by a strong processor and comes with 16 GB of RAM, which means it can handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease. With 128 GB of storage, there’s ample space for photos, videos, and apps.

The unlocked feature of the phone is a big plus for those who want the flexibility to switch carriers. It works seamlessly with major providers like Google Fi, Verizon, and AT&T. There are a few drawbacks to consider, such as the 128 GB storage may not be enough for heavy users, especially since the phone does not support expandable storage via microSD. Some users might find the design less premium than competitors in the same price range.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and users who appreciate strong AI features and a vibrant display. It suits those who prioritize camera quality and battery life but may not meet the needs of users requiring extensive storage.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Display
The display is stunning, with perfect animations and smooth performance, making it ideal for streaming and browsing.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, lasting all day from early morning until late at night, even with intensive use.
Camera Quality
The camera is amazing, taking some of the best photos seen from a phone, with features like Video Boost and Zoom Enhance making editing effortless.
Processor
Despite initial concerns, the Tensor 4 chip performs excellently in day-to-day tasks without overheating, providing a fast and responsive experience.
Operating System
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a pure Android experience without the bloat of other brands, making it highly intuitive and smooth in real-world use.
Build Quality
The build quality feels premium, with a comfortable weight and rounded design that enhances usability.
#2

SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Fold 6 AI Cell Phone, 256GB Unlocked Android Smartphone, Circle to Search, Handsfree Live Interpreter, AI Photo Edits, Large Screen, 2024,US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Silver Shadow

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a high-end, foldable smartphone that delivers an expansive 7.6-inch screen, ideal for those who want a larger display for multitasking, gaming, or immersive media viewing. The build quality is impressive with its foldable design, making it a unique choice for tech enthusiasts who value innovation.

The fast 3.4 GHz processor and 12 GB RAM ensure smooth performance, even when using multiple applications simultaneously. This makes it particularly suitable for power users and gamers who need a robust device for intensive tasks. The 256 GB storage is ample for most users, allowing for significant app and media storage space. The battery capacity of 4400 mAh is decent, but given the large screen and powerful processor, heavy users might find themselves needing a recharge by the end of the day. Fast charging support is a plus here.

The camera setup benefits from AI photo edits, promising high-quality photos with smart enhancement features. The operating system, OneUI 6.1 on Android 14, offers a user-friendly interface with the latest software features. The handset's foldable nature and advanced features like the Handsfree Live Interpreter and Circle to Search make it stand out, yet such innovative features might come with a steeper learning curve. In conclusion, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is best suited for those who are looking for cutting-edge technology, a large immersive display, and powerful hardware for multitasking and gaming, while the average user might find its foldable design and high-end features to be more than what they need or want to spend on a phone.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Display
The beautiful, large screen is perfect for multi-tasking, allowing you to text and take quick screenshots simultaneously.
Battery Life
Battery life is middling, lasting all day with low to medium use, but struggles with heavier use.
Camera Quality
External cameras are a significant improvement from last year, likely due to enhanced image processing.
Build Quality
The materials feel premium, and the physical design is extremely well machined, similar to the S24 Ultra.
#3

Google Pixel 9 - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, 24-Hour Battery, Advanced Camera, and 6.3" Actua Display - Obsidian - 128 GB

The Google Pixel 9 is a strong contender in the smartphone market, particularly appealing to users who value photography, AI capabilities, and a flexible carrier choice. One of its standout features is the advanced camera system, featuring a 50 MP main sensor and a 48 MP ultrawide lens that deliver impressive image quality, making it an ideal option for photography enthusiasts. The AI enhancements, such as Magic Editor and Best Take, enable users to improve their photos easily, setting this phone apart from many competitors.

With a 6.3-inch Actua Display and a refresh rate of 120 Hz, the Pixel 9 offers a smooth and vibrant visual experience, enhancing everyday usage whether you're browsing, gaming, or watching videos. The unlocked nature of the device allows for versatility in choosing carriers, which is a significant plus for users who prefer having that flexibility.

Battery life is another strong point, boasting a 24-hour capacity that can cater to a day’s worth of usage without frequent charging. This feature is particularly beneficial for users with an active lifestyle or those who are often on the go.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Display
The bright, clear screen, fast response times, and long battery life, plus wireless charging, make this the perfect phone.
Battery Life
The Pixel 9 is the best phone for anyone looking for a compact device, with an excellent camera for everyday photography and impressive battery life.
Camera Quality
The Pixel 9 is the best phone for anyone looking for a compact device, with an excellent camera for everyday photography and impressive battery life.
Build Quality
The design looks premium and stands out from other Android devices, with top-notch haptic feedback enhancing the user experience.

Buying Guide for the Best Cell Phones

Choosing the right cell phone can be a daunting task given the plethora of options available in the market. It's important to consider your personal needs and preferences to find a device that suits you best. Whether you prioritize camera quality, battery life, or performance, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision.
DisplayThe display is the screen of the phone where you view all your content. It's important because it affects your overall experience, from watching videos to reading text. Displays come in various sizes and resolutions. Smaller screens (under 5.5 inches) are more compact and easier to handle, while larger screens (5.5 inches and above) provide a better viewing experience for media and gaming. Higher resolution screens (Full HD, Quad HD) offer sharper and clearer images. Choose a display size and resolution based on your usage habits; if you watch a lot of videos or play games, a larger, high-resolution screen might be ideal.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your phone can operate before needing a recharge. It's crucial for users who are frequently on the go and rely on their phone throughout the day. Battery capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Phones with higher mAh ratings generally last longer. For light users who mainly text and call, a battery around 3000 mAh might suffice. Moderate users who browse the internet and use social media should look for batteries around 4000 mAh. Heavy users who stream videos and play games should consider batteries 5000 mAh and above.
Camera QualityCamera quality is important for users who love taking photos and videos. It includes factors like megapixels, aperture, and additional features like optical image stabilization. Higher megapixels can capture more detail, but other factors like sensor quality and software optimization also play a role. For casual photography, a camera with around 12-16 megapixels is sufficient. Enthusiasts who want high-quality images should look for cameras with higher megapixels and advanced features. Consider your photography needs; if you frequently capture moments, invest in a phone with a superior camera setup.
PerformancePerformance is determined by the phone's processor (CPU) and RAM. It affects how smoothly your phone runs apps and handles multitasking. Processors range from entry-level to high-end. Entry-level processors are suitable for basic tasks like calling and texting. Mid-range processors handle everyday apps and moderate gaming well. High-end processors are designed for intensive tasks like gaming and video editing. RAM helps with multitasking; 3-4GB is adequate for light users, 6-8GB for moderate users, and 12GB or more for heavy users. Choose based on your usage; if you run multiple apps or play games, opt for higher performance specs.
StorageStorage determines how much data your phone can hold, including apps, photos, and videos. It's measured in gigabytes (GB). Phones typically offer storage options ranging from 32GB to 512GB or more. Light users who mainly use their phone for calling and texting can manage with 32GB. Moderate users who download apps and take photos should look for 64GB to 128GB. Heavy users who store large files and media should consider 256GB or more. Assess your storage needs based on your usage patterns; if you store a lot of media, opt for higher storage capacity.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that runs the phone. The two main options are Android and iOS. Android offers more customization and a wider range of devices, while iOS is known for its smooth user experience and integration with other Apple products. Choose an OS based on your preference for customization and ecosystem. If you prefer flexibility and a variety of choices, Android might be better. If you value a seamless experience and own other Apple devices, iOS could be the right choice.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the phone. It affects durability and aesthetics. Phones can be made from plastic, metal, or glass. Plastic is lightweight and less expensive but may feel less premium. Metal offers a sturdy and premium feel. Glass looks elegant but can be fragile. Consider your priorities; if you want a durable phone, metal might be ideal. If aesthetics are important, glass could be appealing. Choose based on how you handle your phone and your preference for design.

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