It’s a question you may have heard many times before: “Which iPhone should I buy?” Most of the time, the answer is simple: Get the best one you can afford. And if you’re happy with your current iPhone, don’t feel like you have to upgrade at all. If you are ready to make a change, though, we’ve tested all seven models in Apple’s current smartphone lineup and picked out the ones that should satisfy most people.
Before you dive in, note that we’ve based this guide on the list prices for current, unlocked iPhones on Apple.com. If you can find a heavy discount from another trustworthy retailer or a good deal on a refurbished model, that could always change the value equation.
Table of contents
Best iPhones for 2025
The rest of Apple’s iPhone lineup in 2025
Apple iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus
The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have made genuine improvements over their predecessors and generally feel more “Pro-like” than they have in years past. They also come in a range of vibrant colors. If the iPhone 16 Pro or 16 Pro Max are just too pricey, especially if you want extra storage space, they’re fantastic compromises. Still, they are compromises. If you can afford it, the Pro should hold up a bit better over time.
Apple iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
The iPhone 15 and 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus still get you many key upgrades over the iPhone 16e, including a superior two-camera system, a brighter display, MagSafe and the Dynamic Island. The 15 Plus is particularly appealing as the most affordable big-screen iPhone in Apple’s current lineup. It has excellent battery performance as well.
At $699 or $799, though, both phones are priced in something of a no man’s land. Most people who care about ultrawide cameras and MagSafe support should just spend another $100 for the iPhone 16 or 16 Plus, which add AI features, a slightly improved ultrawide lens with macro support, an extra hour or two of battery life, faster wireless charging (25W vs. 15W), a quicker processor, more RAM, the Action button and the Camera Control button.
Those who just want the essentials, meanwhile, are probably happy to save an extra $100 on the iPhone 16e, which is still better equipped for the long-term thanks to its faster chip and Apple Intelligence support. As a result, the 15 and 15 Plus will probably make the most sense if you can find a good price on a refurbished model.
Recent updates
February 2025: The new iPhone 16e replaces the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus as our “budget” pick. We’ve also removed our notes on the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation), as each has been formally discontinued.
January 2025: We’ve made a few minor edits for clarity and ensured our recommendations are still up to date.
December 2024: We’ve made a few edits to reflect the release of Apple Intelligence, though our picks remain the same.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/best-iphone-160012979.html?src=rss
