Verizon supports most of the best phones you can buy, like the iPhone 16 Pro and Galaxy S25 Ultra, as well as exciting foldable phones like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6. Whether you’re a Verizon subscriber or looking to start a new plan with the carrier, we rounded up the best phones that we’ve tested and reviewed. Phones on this list have vibrant displays, good cameras and a battery life that will last you a day or more. But with so many handset options it can be difficult to know which phone will best suit your needs. To simplify the choice, we gathered our top picks. Below are our picks for the best Verizon phones you can get this year.
The best phone for most people is the $799 iPhone 16. It comes in two sizes: a 6.1-inch regular iPhone 16 model or a larger 6.7-inch iPhone 16 Plus model that starts at $899. The phones have a new 12-megapixel ultrawide camera that performs better in low light and can now take macro photos, meaning you’ll be able to focus close to take amazing food snaps. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have an Action button that you can program to do different functions, too, like turn on the flashlight, record an audio memo, change the focus mode and more.
There’s also a new Camera Control button that not only lets you take photos and quickly change things like zoom, Portrait mode aperture and Photographic Styles, but can also trigger a new feature called Visual Intelligence, which will add context to whatever the camera is pointed at — a bit like Google Lens. Unfortunately, like Apple Intelligence, Visual Intelligence isn’t on the iPhone 16 at this time and will come via a software update. We think the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are ideal for most people looking for a great phone that’ll last years.
Our favorite Android pick is currently Samsung’s Galaxy S24. For more info, read our guide to help find the best phone for your needs and take a look at our tips on how to buy a new Apple iPhone or Android phone and where to snag the best phone deals.
When I tested the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus I was definitely impressed by the new photography features, the convenient Action button and the elegant build. I consider these phones to be top-notch choices for Apple fans. Parts of the iPhone 16’s key feature, Apple Intelligence, are now out, and the fact that these phones will support it means they’ll likely feel future-proofed for years to come. Aside from screen size (6.1 inches on the regular, 6.7 inches on the Plus), battery size and price, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are identical in every way.
The iPhone 16 isn’t perfect — it’s missing an always-on display, and it feels like it’s been ages since Apple improved its wired charging speeds. But it checks all the important boxes and then some.
The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus rank so high in our testing because the phones appeal to both novice users and power players a like. They offer about 90% of the experience of Apple’s Pro models but cost hundreds of dollars less. Not only is the iPhone 16 a wonderful phone out of the box, Apple has a long track record of updating its software and security patches for years.
Who it’s best for
When you think about how the Camera Control key, the Action button and the Dynamic Island come together, along with the camera and battery improvements Apple has made over the last several years, the iPhone 16 is a compelling upgrade for someone coming from an older iPhone, especially if that person is on an iPhone 13 or older. For those who don’t need the Pro’s extra photography prowess and battery life, the iPhone 16 won’t disappoint.
Who shouldn’t get it
I wouldn’t recommend buying the iPhone 16 just for the Camera Control button or the better ultrawide camera.
The Galaxy S25’s biggest flex, as I found in testing, is that it shares many features with its pricier counterparts — the S25 Plus and S25 Ultra — but costs several hundred dollars less. You’ll find features like the AI Select tool, Audio Eraser and deeper Gemini integration across all of Samsung’s S25 devices, as well as a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM — making the smaller phone of the bunch still seem pretty mighty.
And while the Galaxy S25 might look incredibly similar to the S24 and share many of the same specs, consistency isn’t so bad when it means there’s a consistently good camera and great battery life. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 review.
Having a baseline phone, like the Galaxy S25, that delivers many of the same perks as more expensive models is a huge plus in my book. And given the remarkable processing power, standout camera and seamless AI integration in the Galaxy S25 lineup, it’s great that you can get all those premium features for $800.
If you’re someone who insists on buying a flagship device, the Galaxy S25 won’t let you down. but if you have a device that’s two years old or more, you might be enticed to tap into all the latest Galaxy AI and integrated Gemini features. But $800 isn’t pocket change, and there are definitely other options for those who want to be more budget conscious, but if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the baseline S25 can be a great all-around choice.
You probably don’t need to upgrade if you’re using last year’s S24.
There’s a lot to like about the Pixel 9, from its respectable camera to its classy new design and lengthy 7-year timeline for software updates. But Google’s phones have always shined for their clean, slick software, and that once again applies to the Pixel 9 series. Pixels are also among the first to get new software updates, making them an ideal choice for those who want to get their hands on the latest version of Android first. Aside from Android updates, Google also brings new features to Pixel phones throughout the year through updates it calls Feature Drops.
The Pixel 9 comes with a few new AI tricks that you may find useful, like the ability to search for content in screenshots, generate images from scratch in the Pixel Studio app and add new objects in photos. These features aren’t must-haves, and they’re not without flaws. Plus, at a starting price of $799, the Pixel 9 has a higher bar to live up to. But the Pixel 9 feels like it belongs in that class of device. Read our full review for the Google Pixel 9.
The Pixel 9 and Google’s Gemini assistant still feel like a first step toward what the company is hoping to achieve: Making phone software more intelligent so that we can spend less time swiping, tapping, scrolling and digging. In the meantime, the Pixel 9 shines for its great camera, elegant design and clean software, just like the less AI-centric Pixels of years past.
If you’re a Pixel fan upgrading from an older phone, like the Pixel 6 or earlier, you’ll find a lot to love about the Pixel 9. But keep in mind that for the same price, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 has a brighter screen and a dedicated telephoto lens for taking zoomed photos.
If you want the absolute best cameras that Google makes, including having a dedicated telephoto lens, I’d recommend the Pixel 9 Pro.
The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max have everything I’ve come to expect in a year-over-year upgrade. The 6.3-inch iPhone 16 Pro and 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max have a slew of upgrades including one of the best batteries on any phone I’ve tested. Based on our testing, it will easily last a day on a single charge.
The phones also have larger displays, outstanding photo and video chops, high-resolution slo-mo, a new Camera Control button, iOS 18 goodies and a handful of Apple Intelligence tools. The negatives are as thin as the borders around the new screens: You only get 128GB of storage for $1,000, there are only drab color options and the new camera button is easy to tap accidentally. Read our full iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max review.
This year the 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max have the exact same cameras — unlike the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, which had different telephoto options. Screen size, battery life and price should be the deciding factors when you’re choosing between the two. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are excellent phones worthy of a spot in your pocket (and mine) if you can afford them.
If you have an iPhone 12 Pro or older model, upgrading to the 16 Pro makes a lot of sense. If you’re on a 13 Pro and still have a decent battery capacity, I’d say save your money. And if you’re on a 14 Pro or 15 Pro, there’s no need to upgrade. Also, I should note that the entry-level $999 iPhone 16 Pro only has 128GB of storage.
If you are looking for a budget phone or don’t need a phone with the latest features or tech.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra which has a lot of AI features, the best of which are interesting and the worst of which are unreliable. Luckily, Samsung gets a lot of other things right on the S25 Ultra, which has a new Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, high-resolution ultrawide camera and some sweet pro video tools that rival the iPhone 16 Pro. Samsung wisely kept all the best parts of last year’s Galaxy S24 Ultra (basically the entire phone including that antireflective display) but some of its worst parts, too, like the $1,300 price tag.If you want the best screen you can find on any phone, get the S25 Ultra. If you want the most versatile phone cameras, get the S25 Ultra. If you want a stylus, get the S25 Ultra. But if your needs scale back on any of those fronts, the more affordable S25 options, or even last year’s S24 Ultra, may be worth considering. Read our full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review.
The reason to get the Ultra over its S25 siblings is its screen, which is truly the best I’ve seen on any phone, and the cameras, which are a step above what the S25 and S25 Plus have. Added video features like the ability to record in Log format gets the Ultra as close as it’s ever been to the iPhone in terms of professional video capture.
If you have a Galaxy S22 Ultra or older model, the S25 Ultra will seem like a significant upgrade. It’s harder to make that case for S23 Ultra owners, who, unless their phone’s battery is ailing or they can score an incredible discount, should otherwise sit this one out. And for you S24 Ultra owners, you don’t need this phone. Save your money and treat yourself to a nice steak dinner and a movie.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s appeal is muddied by its $1,300 price. The regular Galaxy S25 has the same functionality, power and longevity, and it costs $500 less. Want a bigger screen? Consider the Galaxy S25 Plus. For the majority of people, the regular Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus will be a better fit.
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, from their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it’s the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.
The phones aren’t perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they’re just OK in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free) But if you’re keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it. Read our Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL review.
Google’s Pixel line of phones has gone from strength to strength and its latest model is unquestionably the best phone the company has ever made. It’s not just the slick-looking design; the Pixel 9 Pro offers a superb camera system, a generous support period and a host of new AI skills making it one of the most accomplished Android phones around. The 9 Pro XL takes that further by accommodating a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch display.
It’s a great phone for those of you looking for an elegant everyday Android phone. The interface is easy to navigate and the camera takes great photos with almost no effort on your part. If you feel overwhelmed by the plethora of settings and menus on other Android flagships, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go. If playing mobile games or watching videos on the go is a priority, opt for the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL.
If you don’t need the best cameras Google makes, consider the regular Pixel 9. I do like the fit and finish better on the 9 Pro, but it starts at $999.
For better or worse, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 foldable is packed with AI. It can take a rough sketch and turn it into artwork or help me have a conversation in French or Korean despite my only knowing a few words of either language. The new autofocus/auto zoom feature lets you prop the phone in a half-open position, the Z Flip 6 will automatically zoom in or out (switching between the main and ultrawide cameras) to get a photo that best suits the moment. But the AI features are the least impressive aspects of the the Z Flip 6.
Samsung’s latest clamshell style foldable has a new 50-megapixel main camera, a smaller hinge and crease, a larger battery and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. But all this comes at a higher starting price: $1,099 which makes it hard to appreciate the Galaxy Z Flip 6 for the absolute great phone that it is. Read our full review for the Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6.
Samsung’s latest clamshell style foldable has a new 50-megapixel main camera, finally putting it on par with non-folding flagship phone cameras. The hinge is smaller and helps reduce the size of the crease on the internal screen. It has a new chip, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and 12GB of RAM for flagship performance. There’s even a larger battery. For all intents and purposes, the new Z Flip 6 is a Galaxy S24 that can fold in half – which is fantastic.
If you already have a Samsung phone and have been itching to try a flip phone, then then the Galaxy Z Flip 6 brings the software and features you’re used to in a cutting-edge design that is equally nostalgic and seemingly futuristic.
If you spend a ton of time around dirt or sand, this phone isn’t for you.
For $499, Google’s Pixel 9A truly feels like you’re getting more bang for your buck. It comes with several significant upgrades from last year’s Pixel 8A: a fresh design, new display, larger battery, slightly more powerful chip, increased durability and upgraded software features.
But don’t get me wrong — it’s not a perfect phone. There are places where Google had to compromise to keep the price under $500, like the lack of satellite connectivity for emergencies available on the $799 Pixel 9. Overall, though, I think the compromises Google made were smart and that the Pixel 9A is worth every penny. Read our Google Pixel 9A review.
Why we like itThe Pixel 9A is proof that you don’t need to spend more than $500 to get a great phone. It can handle all you daily tasks from scrolling social media and news feeds and swiping through TikTok videos to taking a beautiful photo and lasting a day on a single charge.
Who it’s best forIn theory: anybody. The Pixel 9A is for anyone who wants 95% of what a $1,000 phone can do at half the price.
Who shouldn’t get itAnyone who wants the absolute fastest processor of the most cutting edge cameras.
With the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung is getting closer to its goal of making a device that doubles as a phone and a tablet without compromising too much in either direction. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 has an improved design with a sleeker look that’s easier to grip, a less noticeable crease, a new processor and an upgraded ultrawide camera.
But it’s really the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s big, bright and crisp internal screen that makes it the best choice for those who want a foldable phone for entertainment. However, be prepared to spend a pretty penny: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at an eye-watering $1,900, making it $100 more expensive than last year’s Z Fold 5 was at launch. Read our Sasmung Galaxy Z Fold 6 in-depth review.
With the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung finally achieved its goal of making a foldable that can truly replicate the experience of a traditional phone while doubling as a sleek tablet. Roughly five years after the original Galaxy Fold’s launch, Samsung’s book-shaped device has gotten lighter, slimmer, more durable and natural to use as a phone; a seemingly mundane but necessary improvement.
If you can get past the sticker shock, there’s a lot to love about the Galaxy Z Fold 6. I just don’t know how many people are willing to fork over $1,900 to experience it. Carriers and retailers still offer some discounts that knock down that high price, but those deals usually come with conditions like trading in an eligible device or opening a new line of service.
Samsung also hasn’t provided the two biggest things I’m looking for in tablet-style foldable phones: more affordable prices and innovative software that makes better use of their dual screens.
Apple took a Taco Bell-like approach with the $599 iPhone 16E, mixing and matching parts and features from prior phones to create a “new” iPhone. Its design and screen are similar to the iPhone 14. Its A18 processor is the same as the one in the iPhone 16. In my testing, I found that this gives the iPhone 16E a weird value proposition. It’s new, but it’s old. It’s affordable, but not cheap.
I recommend looking into carrier deals, discounts and trade-ins to drop that price a bit, unless you’re set on doing an installment plan over a couple of years. Read our iPhone 16E review.
After testing the iPhone 16E, I was most surprised by how wonderfully uneventful it was to use. Along with all the standard iOS 18 functions and goodies, like iMessage and FaceTime, I used Apple Intelligence, made calls on 5G, took a bunch of share-worthy photos and videos and played video games like Resident Evil 4. If this is all you want in an iPhone, look no further.
If you’re rocking an iPhone SE, an iPhone 11 or older, the 16E will be a nice upgrade in every way, from the camera to the day plus battery life — though you might miss that ultrawide camera. I also think that this is a good phone for people using Android phones who want to switch and dip the proverbial toe into Apple’s waters.
Choosing between the $829 iPhone 16 and the $599 16E is a tough choice. If you have the budget, I’d go with the regular 16. You get a brighter screen, MagSafe and an ultrawide camera that doubles as a macro lens — great for taking close-up photos like of food since the main camera automatically switches to a cropped version of the ultrawide in order to nail focus.
In May 2025, we added the Google Pixel 9A to our list. The Pixel 9A replaces last year’s Google Pixel 8A and come with a new processor, new design, updated screen and cameras — all for the same $499 price.
Don’t forget to buy a case or screen protector: You’ll protect your phone from damage and increase its resale value.
Check out sales: Holidays usually mean discounts and deals on phones.
Go to a store first: The best way to know if you’re going to love or hate a phone is to try it out in person.
Consider a more affordable phone: Features of last year’s flagships always trickle down to this year’s midrange handsets.
Check if you’re already invested: Have you already bought a lot of iPhone apps and iTunes movies? Stick with an iPhone if you still want access to them. Likewise, if you’ve invested in loads of Android apps, you’ll want to stay on that side of the fence. Otherwise, it’s simple enough to switch platforms.
We test every phone in real-world scenarios, focusing on its features, design, performance, cameras, battery life and overall value. We document our findings in an initial review that is periodically updated when there are new software updates, or to compare it against new phones from competitors such as Apple, Samsung, Google and OnePlus.
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 largely has the same camera hardware as the Z Flip 4. But the new chip brings some image processing improvements.
Photography is a major focus for most phones these days, so we take pictures and videos of various subjects in a variety of settings and lighting scenarios. We try out any new features like the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, or the Add Me photo tool that launched with the Google Pixel 9 series.
Battery testing is conducted in a variety of ways. We assess how long a phone lasts during a typical day of use and note how it performs during more focused sessions of video calls, media streaming and gaming. We also conduct a video playback test, as a simple, replicable measure of pure battery life, which isn’t always included in the initial review but sometimes added later in an update.
We use benchmarking apps to measure each phone’s performance, alongside our own anecdotal experiences using the phone for our review. Of note are how graphics and animations look. Are they smooth? Or do they lag or stutter? We also look at how quickly the phone switches between horizontal and vertical orientations, and how fast the camera app opens and is ready to take a photo.
Emergency SOS might be one of the most important features to come out on any phone this year.
We perform processor-heavy tasks like editing photos, exporting videos and playing games. We evaluate whether a newer version of a particular phone includes enough features to make it worth upgrading from older models.
The $900 OnePlus 13 is a true flagship phone and there’s plenty to like. From its powerful performance to its fast charging and vibrant display, it has much of what we expect from a top-end phone right now. It looks good too, has great waterproofing, a scattering of new AI skills and a reasonable six years of security support.
The$1,200 Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro is a gaming phone that takes nearly every feature to the extreme. It has a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 5,800-mAh and a 6.78-inch AMOLED. We certainly appreciate how well the phone handles intensive graphics and its utterly high 185Hz refresh rate in games that can support it. And even though the phone offers only a small iteration on the Phone 8 Pro’s design, it’s good to see the LED display on the back gain more personality.
All of today’s phones pack some kind of camera setup on the back, with most packing multiple ones like ultrawide or telephoto zooms. More expensive phones, like the iPhone 16 Pro, use larger image sensors, better-quality lenses and image stabilization that let in more light, capturing detailed images with beautiful colors — in daylight and at night. Typically, the more you pay, the better quality you’ll get, with the most advanced features being reserved for the most expensive flagships.
There’s a vast array of case options for almost every phone on the market, so which one is best really comes down to how you are going to use it. Many cases are simply there for the style. While these cases will certainly help keep light scratches and scuffs off your phone, you should look toward more specialized rugged cases if you want to take your smartphone on a rough-and-tumble adventure into the outdoors.
Most smartphones — even those at the top end — should be able to deliver a full day of mixed use out of a single charge. That means you should have a bit of juice left at the end of your day, but you should expect to give it a full charge when you plug it in at night.
Google is expected to release the Pixel 10 series later this year. There’s also buzz for the next iPhone, likely called the iPhone 17 — from a slimmer version of the upcoming device to a new screen with a higher refresh rate on baseline models. We’ve rounded up rumors, leaks and analyses on the iPhone 17 Air (one of several nicknames for Apple’s next iPhone). Read CNET’s iPhone 17 rumor roundup for more info.