Top 5G Smartphones in 2025: A Guide to the Best Picks

The race for the best 5G smartphone in 2025 is fierce, with brands pushing the boundaries of innovation. Whether you’re looking for groundbreaking cameras, blazing-fast performance, or futuristic designs, here are the top 5G smartphones to consider this year.

Top 7 5G Smartphones

1. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max

Apple redefines premium with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is their most advanced iPhone yet.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED with ProMotion (120Hz).
• Processor: A19 Bionic chip built on a 2nm process.
• Camera: Triple-camera system featuring 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and a periscope telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom.
• Battery: Impressive 30-hour battery life with 30W fast charging.
• Software: iOS 19.

Why it’s great:

The iPhone 17 Pro Max introduces Dynamic Island 2.0, making multitasking smoother and more intuitive. Apple’s new ProRAW video editing tools allow content creators to work directly from their devices. Combined with industry-leading security features, it’s an obvious choice for those who want luxury and performance.

Price: $1,599 (starting).

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra continues to dominate the flagship segment with its powerhouse specs and innovative features.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 144Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: Exynos 2500 (or Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, depending on the region).
• Camera: Quad-camera setup featuring a 200MP primary sensor, 50MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP periscope lens.
• Battery: 5500mAh with 65W wired and 50W wireless charging.
• Software: One UI 7, based on Android 15.

Why it’s great:

Samsung has packed this phone with top-notch AI camera capabilities, stellar battery life, and an immersive display that’s ideal for both gaming and productivity. The new S Pen integration is smoother than ever, making it a perfect choice for professionals and creatives.

Price: $1,399 (starting).

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL is the king of computational photography and AI.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.8-inch LTPO OLED with 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
• Processor: Google’s own Tensor G4 chip, optimized for AI tasks.
• Camera: 50MP wide-angle, 48MP ultrawide, and a 12MP telephoto lens with improved Night Sight and Real Tone.
• Battery: 5200mAh with 30W wireless charging.
• Software: Stock Android 15 with exclusive Pixel features.

Why it’s great:

Pixel phones are known for their camera brilliance, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL is no exception. Its AI-driven Magic Editor and Pixel Call Assist 2.0 make daily life simpler. Plus, with seven years of software updates, it’s built for longevity.

Price: $1,199 (starting).

4. HONOR Magic6 Pro

The HONOR Magic6 Pro is a dark horse in the premium 5G market.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.81-inch OLED with 2160Hz PWM dimming.
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
• Camera: Triple-lens setup with a 200MP main camera, 50MP ultrawide, and 3D depth sensor.
• Battery: 5000mAh with 100W fast charging and 50W wireless charging.
• Software: MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15.

Why it’s great:

The Magic6 Pro focuses on delivering a luxurious design with top-tier performance. Its AI-driven user interface adapts to user habits, making it a highly personalized experience. HONOR also leads the pack with one of the fastest charging systems.

Price: $1,099 (starting).

5. Huawei Enjoy 70X

Huawei’s Enjoy 70X is an affordable flagship offering advanced features.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: Kirin 9000S (5G-capable).
• Camera: Dual-camera system with a 108MP main and 2MP macro lens.
• Battery: 6000mAh with 88W fast charging.
• Software: HarmonyOS 5.0.

Why it’s great:

The Enjoy 70X blends premium design with practical performance, all at a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for users looking for a smooth 5G experience without breaking the bank.

Price: $699 (starting).

6. Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Xiaomi continues its streak of delivering ultra-premium phones at competitive prices with the 14 Ultra.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.73-inch AMOLED with Dolby Vision and 120Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
• Camera: Quad-camera array with 1-inch 50MP main sensor, 48MP telephoto, 48MP ultrawide, and a TOF sensor.
• Battery: 5000mAh with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging.
• Software: MIUI 16 based on Android 15.

Why it’s great:

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra shines with its professional-grade cameras and robust performance. It’s ideal for tech enthusiasts and gamers thanks to its thermal management system and flagship chipset.

Price: $1,099 (starting).

7. OnePlus 13

OnePlus delivers value with its OnePlus 13, packed with flagship-like features at a mid-range price.

Key Features:

• Display: 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
• Camera: Triple-camera system with a 64MP main sensor, 50MP ultrawide, and telephoto lens.
• Battery: 5000mAh with 150W SUPERVOOC charging.
• Software: OxygenOS 14.

Why it’s great:

OnePlus continues to excel in fast charging technology and software smoothness. The OnePlus 13 offers a near-stock Android experience with excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of other flagships.

Price: $899 (starting).

Conclusion

The smartphone market in 2025 is packed with exceptional choices, offering something for everyone. Whether you're drawn to the versatility of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, the luxury of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, or the AI-powered photography of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, there’s a perfect phone waiting for you.

For those seeking budget-friendly options, the Huawei Enjoy 70X provides flagship features without breaking the bank, while the OnePlus 13 balances performance and affordability.

With advancements like AI integration, faster charging, and top-tier cameras, these devices redefine what smartphones can do. Evaluate your needs—be it gaming, photography, or productivity—and pick the one that fits your lifestyle. No matter your choice, these 5G smartphones ensure you're ready to take on the future!