This list might seem unconventional, but let me explain. Selecting five smartphones to genuinely appreciate in 2025, especially within our industry, is quite challenging. For instance, Ro could only manage four selections, as did Sagar, while Ivan's 'Top 5' consists of three similar foldables. Thus, my list features a blend of personal favorites, crowd-sourced suggestions, and a couple of choices made for the sake of tradition.
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold
Personally, I have no need for a foldable phone. I've experimented with clamshell designs and ventured into phone-tablet hybrids, but neither fits my lifestyle. My smartphone primarily serves for doomscrolling and instant messaging, and I'm particularly interested in high-quality cameras—not necessarily for photography, but for that added reassurance of having them available if needed. Unfortunately, neither of these flexible designs accommodates my requirements.
However, just because I prefer doing tasks like online shopping and managing travel arrangements on a PC (and watching films on an actual TV) doesn’t mean others feel the same way. The Galaxy Z TriFold transitions seamlessly between being a phone and a larger, more conveniently proportioned tablet whenever extra screen space is necessary. Additionally, it offers superior protection for its flexible display when not in use compared to its competitor, the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate.
While the Z TriFold is quite pricey, at around €3,000, and its cameras would be considered average on a midrange conventional phone, we must consider priorities. Although the features it provides may not resonate with me, I can still appreciate the advancements it represents in foldable technology.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Google Pixel 10 Pro
These two models are grouped together because, in my opinion, they serve similar purposes, albeit on opposite sides of the operating system spectrum. Every year, I find myself wanting at least one, if not both, but practicality often sways my choices elsewhere.
There exists an elusive quality of distinction when using Apple or Google devices, which holds true for their latest smartphones. The glass has a unique feel, the displays are exceptionally bright, animations are smoother, and the haptics are refined—these nuances truly enhance the user experience.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro • Google Pixel 10 Pro
Moreover, these two manufacturers are among the few that offer devices with built-in Qi2 magnetic attachment capabilities, something I find highly appealing, despite the growing doubts about its practicality in my specific use cases.
That said, neither smartphone boasts particularly exciting cameras, and impressive photography capabilities are essential to me. A good design and an abstract notion of excellence can only carry weight for so long.
vivo X300
My partner has been diligently searching for a replacement for her Pixel 7 Pro, keeping her own specific requirements in mind. To her credit, she patiently awaited the perfect device, declining several options that only partially met her needs.
Enter the vivo X300. It's compact—unlike the larger Pixel—and features exceptional rear cameras that are modern and far superior to those on the Pixel. It also has a capable selfie camera, exceeding the Pixel's quality, and a robust battery (she got lucky with a non-EU unit). This phone checks all her boxes, and if that isn't enough to secure a spot on my top 5 list, I don't know what is.
Oppo Find X9 Pro
Now, we arrive at my unequivocal favorite of the year: the Oppo Find X9 Pro. It should be evident by now what I prefer, and this device comes remarkably close to perfection. It's a top-tier camera phone with a large battery, and it conveniently includes a first-party case that features a Qi2-compliant metal ring. What more could I possibly ask for?
That said, I acknowledge that Ultra-level camera phones take things a step further. Unfortunately, these models have mostly been limited to the Chinese market—at least for vivo and Oppo—so I’ll remain skeptical about the availability of global versions until I can physically hold them. While Xiaomi has generally offered more dependable international models, internal logistics have prevented me from obtaining the 15 Ultra after a year with the previous version. I have enjoyed experimenting with the vivo and Oppo devices instead.
In a recent tri-phone camera comparison, the Oppo emerged victorious over the vivo X300 Pro, aligning with my specific priorities. Additionally, the Oppo has superior battery performance compared to the vivo X300 Pro in its EU configuration. Although I rarely find myself away from a power source, it's reassuring to have better battery longevity for those rare occasions when I do. For a brief period, we considered being a solely vivo-centric household, but ultimately, the Oppo has proven itself to be a better fit for my needs than the X300 Pro.
You might notice that my choices lack overt excitement and are grounded in practicality. This decrease in upgrade significance is noticeable; major advancements in one aspect often require concessions in others, making it difficult for me to become genuinely enthused about a device—at least not easily. Let’s hope the upcoming batch of Ultra phones can change that.
