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10 Best Smartphones 2025 in the UK

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 5G Mobile Phone, 17 cm (6.7 inches), Double SIM, USB Type-C, 4 GB, 128 GB, 5,000 mAh, Green

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,276
Display
Battery Life
Processor
Display
Great value 5G phone with a decent screen that's nice and bright, and reasonable color rendition.
Battery Life
Battery life is good and it charges at 15W, which is better than the basic models.
Processor
Powerful enough to play memory-hungry games like Raid Shadow Legends, although initial installation takes a couple of minutes.
Storage
Lovely color and easy to use with guaranteed updates for years and expandable storage.
Operating System
Samsung's interface for Android is seamless, and their 'Find My Phone' feature is highly regarded.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a mid-range smartphone with notable features like a 6.7-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, offering a large and clear viewing experience ideal for watching videos and browsing. Its robust build quality typical of Samsung is complemented by a unique green color.

Equipped with 4 GB of RAM and a 128 GB storage capacity, the phone should handle everyday tasks like messaging and web browsing smoothly but may struggle with more intensive apps and games due to its mid-tier processor. The 5,000 mAh battery provides ample power for a full day of use or more, reducing the need for frequent charging.

The inclusion of 5G connectivity is a significant advantage for faster internet speeds and better network reliability. Running on Android, users will benefit from a familiar and customizable operating system. The phone supports dual SIM cards, which is convenient for managing work and personal numbers. A three-year warranty against factory defects is included, providing peace of mind for buyers.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,276
Display
Battery Life
Processor
Display
Great value 5G phone with a decent screen that's nice and bright, and reasonable color rendition.
Battery Life
Battery life is good and it charges at 15W, which is better than the basic models.
Processor
Powerful enough to play memory-hungry games like Raid Shadow Legends, although initial installation takes a couple of minutes.
Storage
Lovely color and easy to use with guaranteed updates for years and expandable storage.
Operating System
Samsung's interface for Android is seamless, and their 'Find My Phone' feature is highly regarded.
#2

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G 128GB Smartphone 8GB RAM Unlocked Dual-Sim-Free - Navy A

Rating
9.6
Display
Battery Life
Camera Quality
Display
The screen quality is excellent, consistent with Samsung's reputation, and the battery life shows a notable improvement over previous models.
Battery Life
Excellent value for money with a fast processor and good battery life, lasting 3-4 days on a single charge.
Camera Quality
The ultrawide camera performance is impressive, akin to higher-end models like the S24.
Processor
Excellent value for money with a fast processor and good battery life, lasting 3-4 days on a single charge.
Build Quality
Build quality feels premium with an all-metal body and appealing design enhancements.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G smartphone offers a solid mid-range option for users seeking a reliable device with comprehensive features. Its 6.6-inch UHD display with a 120 Hz refresh rate delivers smooth visuals, ideal for streaming and gaming. The processor, with a speed of 2.75 GHz, combined with 8GB of RAM, ensures good performance for daily tasks and multi-tasking, although it may not handle the most demanding applications as a flagship model would.

With 128 GB of storage, users have ample space for apps, photos, and videos, and the dual-SIM functionality allows flexibility for users who need to manage multiple phone numbers. The operating system, Android 14, promises a modern user experience.

In terms of build quality, Samsung is known for its durable products, and the three-year warranty against manufacturing defects offers additional peace of mind. Connectivity is ensured with 5G capabilities, keeping users up-to-date with the latest network technology.

This smartphone is well-suited for users who need a balanced device with good display quality, decent performance, and connectivity. However, those looking for superior camera performance or exceptionally long battery life might need to look at higher-end models.

Rating
9.6
Display
Battery Life
Camera Quality
Display
The screen quality is excellent, consistent with Samsung's reputation, and the battery life shows a notable improvement over previous models.
Battery Life
Excellent value for money with a fast processor and good battery life, lasting 3-4 days on a single charge.
Camera Quality
The ultrawide camera performance is impressive, akin to higher-end models like the S24.
Processor
Excellent value for money with a fast processor and good battery life, lasting 3-4 days on a single charge.
Build Quality
Build quality feels premium with an all-metal body and appealing design enhancements.
#3

Google Pixel 8a – Unlocked Android smartphone with advanced Pixel Camera, 24-hour battery and powerful security – Obsidian, 128GB

Rating
9.5
Display
Camera Quality
Battery Life
Display
The Pixel 8a delivers a premium feel with a clear, bright display and loud, clear sound, making it a standout choice even among top brands.
Camera Quality
Google's camera technology shines, offering sharp photos even in dull light, and innovative features like the magic eraser and Best Take for perfect group shots.
Battery Life
Despite impressive features, the Pixel 8a's battery life and charging speed are its Achilles' heel, not lasting a full day with active use.
Operating System
Easy transfer of data and seamless integration with Google apps make switching to the Pixel 8a a breeze, especially for those entrenched in the Google ecosystem.

The Google Pixel 8a stands out in the smartphone market with its emphasis on camera capabilities and AI-driven features. The advanced Pixel Camera is a highlight, promising excellent photos with features like Super Res Zoom for detailed close-ups without needing extra equipment. Google AI enhances the camera experience further with tools like Best Take and Photo Unblur, which are handy for capturing group photos or fixing blurry images. The 6.1-inch display with a 1080 x 2400 resolution offers a crisp viewing experience, although it might not compete with some high-end models with larger screens or higher resolutions.

Battery life is marketed as lasting up to 24 hours, which should suffice for most users, although actual performance can vary based on usage. Powered by a Snapdragon processor with 8GB of RAM, the Pixel 8a should handle everyday tasks efficiently but may fall short under more demanding applications compared to flagship devices.

With 128GB of storage, the phone offers ample space for apps and media, though there's no mention of expandable storage, which could be a limitation for those needing more space. Running on Android, the operating system ensures smooth integration with Google's ecosystem and regular updates.

In terms of build quality, the Pixel 8a maintains Google's standard with a sturdy design, albeit slightly heavier at 187g. Connectivity options include 5G, ensuring fast mobile data speeds. However, being an unlocked phone, it offers flexibility in choosing a network provider.

For users prioritizing innovative photography features and a reliable Android experience, the Pixel 8a is a solid choice. However, those seeking extensive storage options or cutting-edge processing power might need to consider alternatives.

Rating
9.5
Display
Camera Quality
Battery Life
Display
The Pixel 8a delivers a premium feel with a clear, bright display and loud, clear sound, making it a standout choice even among top brands.
Camera Quality
Google's camera technology shines, offering sharp photos even in dull light, and innovative features like the magic eraser and Best Take for perfect group shots.
Battery Life
Despite impressive features, the Pixel 8a's battery life and charging speed are its Achilles' heel, not lasting a full day with active use.
Operating System
Easy transfer of data and seamless integration with Google apps make switching to the Pixel 8a a breeze, especially for those entrenched in the Google ecosystem.

Buying Guide for the Best Smartphones

Choosing the right smartphone can be a daunting task given the plethora of options available in the market. It's important to consider your personal needs and preferences to find a device that suits you best. Whether you prioritize camera quality, battery life, or performance, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision.
DisplayThe display is the screen of the smartphone where you view all your content. It's important because it affects your overall experience, from watching videos to reading text. Displays come in various sizes and resolutions. Smaller screens (under 5.5 inches) are more compact and easier to handle, while larger screens (over 6 inches) are better for media consumption and gaming. Higher resolution screens (Full HD, Quad HD) offer sharper and clearer images. Choose a display size and resolution based on your usage habits and comfort.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your smartphone can last on a single charge. It's crucial for users who are frequently on the go and rely on their phone throughout the day. Battery capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Phones with higher mAh (3000-5000 mAh) typically offer longer battery life. Consider your daily usage; if you use your phone heavily for gaming, streaming, or multitasking, opt for a higher capacity battery.
Camera QualityCamera quality is important for users who love taking photos and videos. Smartphones come with various camera setups, including single, dual, and triple cameras. Key factors include megapixels (MP), aperture size, and additional features like optical image stabilization (OIS) and night mode. Higher MP cameras (12 MP and above) generally produce more detailed images. If photography is a priority, look for phones with advanced camera features and higher MP counts.
ProcessorThe processor is the brain of the smartphone, affecting its speed and performance. It's important for running apps smoothly and handling multitasking. Processors are categorized by their cores and clock speed (GHz). Entry-level processors are suitable for basic tasks, while mid-range and high-end processors offer better performance for gaming and intensive applications. Choose a processor based on your usage; if you need a phone for heavy gaming or professional tasks, opt for a higher-end processor.
StorageStorage determines how much data your smartphone can hold, including apps, photos, videos, and files. It's measured in gigabytes (GB). Common storage options range from 32 GB to 256 GB and beyond. If you store a lot of media or use many apps, consider a phone with higher storage capacity. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a useful feature if you need additional space.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that runs the smartphone. The two main OS options are Android and iOS. Android offers more customization and a wider range of devices, while iOS is known for its smooth user experience and integration with other Apple products. Choose an OS based on your preference for customization, app availability, and ecosystem compatibility.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the smartphone. It's important for durability and aesthetics. Smartphones can be made from plastic, metal, or glass. Metal and glass builds are generally more premium and durable but can be more fragile. Consider how you use your phone; if you need a rugged device, look for phones with reinforced build quality or additional protection features.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include network compatibility (4G, 5G), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. These features are important for internet access, connecting to other devices, and making contactless payments. 5G offers faster internet speeds but may not be necessary for all users. Evaluate your connectivity needs based on your usage patterns and the availability of network infrastructure in your area.