Every year, we create a detailed guide to help you make informed smartphone purchases. These guides are so important that many people base their buying decisions on them. Over time, we’ve received tremendous feedback from people who’ve shared how helpful these guides are. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear people say, “I watched your smartphone buying guide and made the right choice.”
That’s why we spend countless hours researching every detail before sharing this guide with you. We’ve done this in 2022, 2023, 2024, and now for 2025. This year, we’ve gone a step further by preparing a physical buying guide, highlighting what you need to consider for every price range and category. Think of it as your smartphone-buying bible.
If you want to buy a smartphone in 2025, this guide will explain everything you need to know, quickly and efficiently, in just 5-7 minutes. Let’s dive in!
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Stick to Your Budget
One of the first things to remember is to stick to your budget. Often, people plan to buy a phone for $200 but get tempted by deals for $250 or $300. However, great phones are available in every price range. While a small 5-10% deviation might be okay, try to avoid overspending unnecessarily. - Don’t Upgrade Too Often
Avoid upgrading your smartphone every 6-12 months. There’s usually not much difference in performance or features over such a short period. Ideally, use your phone for at least two years—three years is even better. If you can stretch it to four or five years, that’s fantastic. Frequent upgrades also contribute to e-waste, so it’s better for the environment to keep using your device as long as possible.If your phone has a minor issue, consider repairing it instead of immediately replacing it. This not only saves money but also reduces waste. - Beware of Marketing Hype
Don’t rush into buying the latest flagship phone or trendy devices just because of marketing gimmicks, trends, or flashy offers. Take time to read reviews, watch videos, and let the phone receive a few updates to resolve any initial issues. - Understand Gimmicks
- Virtual RAM: This feature uses storage as RAM, but if your storage isn’t fast enough (e.g., UFS 4.1), the virtual RAM won’t add significant performance benefits.
- Peak Brightness: Claims of 4500 nits peak brightness can be misleading because such brightness levels are achieved only in specific areas and situations. Instead, focus on typical brightness and High Brightness Mode (HBM), which are more relevant to real-world use.
- Chipset Rebranding
Many brands rebrand chipsets, making it seem like they’ve launched a new processor when it’s essentially the same. For example, Snapdragon 695 might be rebranded as 6S Gen 3, or Dimensity 800 might become 7050. Always check the specifications to understand the real capabilities.
iPhone Buyers: Key Points to Consider
If you’re considering an iPhone, avoid models like the iPhone 11, 12, 13, or even 14. These models still use the outdated lightning port and lack several modern features. Instead, go for the iPhone 15 or later, which come with Type-C ports, upgraded RAM, and advanced AI features.
The newer models, such as iPhone 15 and 16, have doubled their RAM compared to older generations, going from 3-4GB to 6-8GB. They also feature innovations like Dynamic Island and other AI functionalities. However, it’s high time Apple refreshed its design, which has remained mostly the same for over six years.
Recommendations for Android Phones by Price Range
Here’s a quick guide based on budget:
- Under $125: Look for basic smartphones that cover essential functions.
- $150-$250: Great options with decent performance, cameras, and features.
- $375-$500: Mid-range phones offering excellent performance and high-refresh-rate displays.
- $600+: Flagship-level devices with cutting-edge features and advanced hardware.
Avoid Falling for Stunts
Promotional and introductory offers often create a false sense of urgency. For example, during holiday sales, many people buy phones thinking they’re getting the best price. However, similar prices are often available even after the sale period. Don’t rush into a decision—take time to evaluate your options.
Software Updates Are Crucial
If you’re buying an Android phone in 2025, ensure it comes with Android 15 out of the box. Look for phones that promise at least two years of updates, as you might even get three updates during that time. Software updates are essential for security and functionality, so prioritize them when choosing a phone.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, buying a smartphone is about balancing your budget, understanding features, and making informed decisions. Don’t fall for marketing gimmicks or hype; instead, focus on what matters most to you. Whether you’re buying an iPhone or an Android phone, this guide will help you make the right choice.
