10 Best Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a solid choice for a modern, unlocked Android phone that balances performance with handy features. Its 6.2-inch ProScaler display offers a sharp resolution (2340 x 1080), ensuring apps and videos look clear and vibrant without being overly large or bulky. Powered by a Snapdragon processor and 12GB of RAM, it handles multitasking and most apps smoothly, including light gaming and photo editing. The 256GB storage provides ample space for photos, videos, and apps, reducing concerns about running out of space.

Running Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, the phone offers a user-friendly experience with helpful features like a smart assistant capable of managing multiple tasks with one command. The AI Camera includes features such as Audio Eraser and advanced portrait modes, particularly excelling in low light to capture clear, vibrant photos and videos while minimizing background noise. The 4000mAh battery supports fast and wireless charging, comfortably lasting through typical daily use.

Weighing around 5.7 ounces and water-resistant, the Galaxy S25 is durable enough for everyday use. Although the screen size is smaller compared to some flagship phones, which may not suit those who prefer larger displays for gaming or media, the device offers a strong combination of speed, storage, and smart features in a compact and well-built design. It is well suited for users seeking a reliable, easy-to-use phone with robust AI camera capabilities.

The Google Pixel 9a is a solid choice if you want a reliable unlocked Android phone with strong photography features and good everyday performance. Its 6.3-inch display supports a smooth refresh rate between 60 and 120 Hz, offering decent visuals but not quite the brightest or sharpest screen you might find at higher price points. Battery life stands out with Google's Adaptive Battery giving you over 30 hours under normal use, and an Extreme Battery Saver mode that can stretch power up to 100 hours, which is great for heavy users or when you can’t charge often.

The camera is a highlight, with Google's Pixel Camera and AI-based tools that help capture clear group photos and close-up details, making it excellent for casual photographers who value quality images without fuss. Performance-wise, the phone has 8 GB RAM and runs the latest Android 15 smoothly, handling daily tasks and apps well, though it’s not designed for very intensive gaming or multitasking. Storage is a comfortable 128 GB, enough for most users to store apps, photos, and videos without needing extra memory cards. The build quality is robust with IP68 water and dust resistance and a scratch-resistant screen, so it can handle everyday bumps and spills. It also benefits from long-term software support with 7 years of updates, keeping it secure and up to date.

The phone includes helpful AI features via the Gemini assistant and useful security functions like theft detection and emergency calls after car crashes. Some users might find the camera and display quality good but not top-tier compared to premium phones, and the base storage could feel limited if you keep a lot of large files. The Pixel 9a is well suited for those who want a dependable, secure smartphone with excellent photo capabilities and long battery life without paying flagship prices.

The Motorola Moto G - 2025 is a solid choice for users looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with some premium touches. Its large 6.7-inch screen offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations feel fluid, though the HD+ resolution (1604 x 720) means the image sharpness won't match higher-end phones with Full HD or better displays. The 50MP main camera uses pixel combining to enhance low-light photos, delivering good image quality for casual photography, complemented by a decent 16MP front camera for selfies. Performance-wise, it runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset with 4GB RAM plus optional RAM Boost, which should handle everyday tasks and media consumption well, though it might struggle with very demanding apps or heavy multitasking.

Storage comes with 128GB built-in and expandable up to 1TB via microSD, offering plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos. The phone runs the latest Android 15, ensuring access to new features and security updates. Battery life is impressive with a 5000mAh capacity, capable of lasting a full day of mixed use, and TurboPower charging adds convenience with quick top-ups. Build quality stands out thanks to a water-repellent design and a stylish vegan leather back combined with Gorilla Glass 3 protection, giving it a premium feel without being fragile.

Being unlocked and compatible with all major US carriers adds flexibility. However, the lower screen resolution and modest RAM mean it’s best suited for general users rather than power users or gamers. Also, it's not fully waterproof, only water-repellent, so care around water is needed. The Moto G - 2025 offers a nice balance of features and durability for those seeking a reliable daily phone without breaking the bank.