How to Choose the Best Smartphone in 2025 — Key Tips & OnePlus 13 Highlight
You might already have an idea which smartphone to buy, but 2025 offers more solid choices than ever. This guide breaks down the main things to consider so you can pick the right phone for your needs.
Android or iOS?
Apple’s ecosystem makes data sharing and handoffs seamless across iPhone, iPad and Mac, but it keeps you tied to Apple services. Android offers a wider range of hardware (Google, Samsung, Sony, OnePlus, etc.) but typically shorter software update windows and lower trade-in values. Consider what ecosystem your other devices use before switching.
Cameras
Most phones take excellent photos in good light. If you need long optical zoom or top low-light performance, expect to pay more. Mid-range phones often have just two rear lenses (wide + ultra-wide) and can struggle in low light. Flagships add telephoto zooms and advanced software modes (long exposure, Action Pan, etc.).
mmWave 5G & Wi‑Fi 7
Most 2025 phones support Wi‑Fi 6/6e and some form of 5G. mmWave 5G and Wi‑Fi 7 offer faster speeds but are usually limited to high-end models and require compatible networks/routers. If you don’t need top-tier wireless speed today, lack of mmWave or Wi‑Fi 7 shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
Other features to weigh
- 120Hz (or higher) displays are great for mobile gaming and smooth UI.
- Battery capacity: look for 4,000–5,000 mAh for long life; larger iPhones also offer extended endurance.
- Reverse wireless charging is handy if you juggle multiple devices (supported on many Samsung phones).
OnePlus 13 — Quick take
The OnePlus 13 is a strong value flagship: 6.8″ OLED up to 4,500 nits peak brightness, Snapdragon 8 Elite, up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, three 50MP rear cameras with a 3x telephoto, and an unusually large 6,000 mAh battery. It keeps classic OnePlus touches like the Alert Slider and vegan leather finishes on some colors. It’s priced below comparable Galaxy S models in many markets.
Find buying options (US Amazon search): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=OnePlus+13&tag=f1rede-20
FAQs
How do I know which smartphone is best for me?
Decide how you’ll use the device: heavy users and power users should consider higher-end models for performance and longevity. Casual users can save with midrange models that still cover the basics.
How much do smartphones cost?
Prices range roughly from $300 to $1,500+. Most people find the sweet spot between $500–$1,000 for a solid combination of performance and features.
How long do smartphones last?
Longevity depends on software update policy and battery health. Apple and Google promise about five years of updates for recent models; Samsung currently offers about four years of Android updates from launch.
Note: This summary is based on recent industry reviews and hands-on testing of many devices. No direct links to the original review site are included here.