What defines a “best” Android smartphone in 2025? Is it built-in artificial intelligence? A camera that replaces a DSLR? Or simply the everyday experience it delivers?
These questions have plagued me over the past few weeks as I've reviewed the year's biggest releases. Because, let's face it, it's no longer enough to have "the most powerful" or "the one with the most RAM." In a saturated, mature market increasingly defined by software and user experience, choosing an Android phone today is more complex—and fascinating—than ever .
I've gone through tests, benchmarks, comparisons , and, above all, everyday use. From public transportation in Santiago to international trips with aggressive roaming. This ranking isn't meant to fuel fan wars, but rather to provide clarity. Here are the 12 best Android phones of 2025 , analyzed from a technical, strategic, and real-life perspective.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung isn't taking as many risks as before, but it dominates the premium category with surgical precision . The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a 3nm Exynos 2500 processor (in most markets), with significant improvements in power efficiency and graphics performance thanks to its AMD GPU.
-
High point: Improved computational photography with the AI Boost Engine, enabling a more realistic night mode and stabilized 10x optical zoom that finally feels usable.
-
Criticism: The One UI interface is still very customized. Some users might prefer a more stock Android experience.
Battery life has improved over the previous generation, and for the first time, I see a 5000 mAh battery that performs as if it were 6000 mAh , thanks to an AI system that adapts background usage in real time.
2. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Yes, Google hasn't officially arrived in Chile yet, but the Pixel 9 Pro has become one of the most coveted gems for importers and enthusiasts.
-
Why it stands out: Computational photography with the new Tensor G4 chip. It now incorporates an on-device Small Language Model (LLM) to improve voice interaction and real-time recommendations, even offline.
-
Weakness: Even with its evolution, the raw performance of the Tensor G4 is below the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 , which affects demanding games.
-
Trend: The commitment to sustainability is clear: recycled aluminum body, plastic-free case, and guaranteed 7-year update support.
The Pixel 9 Pro isn't competing on power , it's competing on intelligence. And that, in a world shifting toward AI, makes a lot more sense than it seems.
3. OnePlus 12
OnePlus has matured. It's no longer the flagship killer, but it's still one of the best value options in the premium segment.
-
Display: 6.8" LTPO AMOLED with adaptive 120Hz and peak brightness reaching 4500 nits. Impressive for the outdoors.
-
Camera: Improves on Hasselblad, although it's still a step behind Samsung and Google in night processing.
-
Fast charging: 100W wired, 50W wireless. In 2025, this will make a real difference.
I used it for two weeks as my main device, and I can say that its fluidity is almost addictive , even compared to more expensive phones .
4. Xiaomi 15 Pro
Xiaomi no longer surprises with price alone. The 15 Pro reflects a company that's taking the high-end market seriously .
-
1-inch main sensor with optimized Leica lenses.
-
HyperOS replaces MIUI, with a cleaner approach closer to stock Android .
-
Pending debate: Is it worth it without official support in Chile? For enthusiasts, yes. For the average user, it can be complicated.
5. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Foldables are no longer expensive prototypes. And the Fold 6 is the first foldable that feels like a no-compromise main phone .
-
Stronger hinge (no more uncomfortable creaking).
-
Wider and more useful external screen .
-
Great review: The price. $2,000,000 CLP is a luxury that only a minority can justify.
In terms of productivity, with DeX, split screen, stylus, and optimized apps, the Fold 6 is unbeatable . But it's niche.4
6. ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro
For gamers, this is the phone . Extreme performance, a fluid display, and a battery that lasts through long gaming sessions without overheating .
-
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 + active cooling system .
-
Software optimized for games like Genshin Impact, Fortnite and CoD Mobile .
-
Cons: Average camera, heavy weight.
7. Sony Xperia 1 VI
Sony continues to focus on the multimedia experience. The Xperia 1 VI is a favorite among those who consume content, record, or edit videos on their mobile devices .
-
True 4K OLED display (unique on the market).
-
Physical camera button and professional video recording .
-
Narrow market: Practically only for content creators. Not for everyone.
8. Motorola Edge 50 Ultra
Motorola is experiencing a rebirth. The Edge 50 Ultra combines premium design, ultra-fast charging (125W), and a camera that's impressive in the mid-high-end segment .
-
Clean, almost stock interface .
-
Attractive pricing curve in emerging markets.
-
In Chile, its retail presence is growing, making it a concrete alternative to Samsung and Xiaomi .
9. Honor Magic6 Pro
Honor has managed to differentiate itself after separating from Huawei. The Magic6 Pro stands out for its variable aperture periscope camera and IMX989 sensor .
-
MagicOS feels fast, but still cluttered .
-
Excellent curved screen, although it polarizes the public .
10. OPPO Find X7 Ultra
Although its presence in Latin America is limited, OPPO continues to break barriers with innovation.
-
First phone with dual periscopic camera , for 3x zoom and real 6x optical zoom.
-
Ceramic design that stands out in aesthetics and resistance .
-
Limited availability. Highly valued by importers.
11. Vivo X100 Pro+
OPPO's sister brand offers a flagship with a total focus on photography.
-
Customized image processing by ZEISS .
-
AI that adjusts parameters in real time according to context and light .
-
Little known in Chile, but highly valued by those who import it.
12. Nothing Phone (2a)
We conclude with a different model. Nothing focuses on minimalist design and experience.
-
Smooth interface, almost pure Android , with unique rear LED design .
-
Competitive price (around $400,000 CLP when imported) .
-
It doesn't stand out in cameras or power, but it does in identity.
What does “the best cell phone” really mean?
In 2025, the best phone isn't just the most powerful, the most expensive, or the most popular . It's the one that meets your needs precisely. For some, it's an unbeatable camera; for others, it's an infinite battery or years of update support.
What is clear is that today's Android is no longer the Android of the past . Artificial intelligence is no longer just an extra feature: it's in the camera, the battery, the keyboard, real-time translation, and system customization. Brands know this, and they're using it to differentiate themselves beyond just megapixels or display Hz.
Which of these Androids best suits your daily life?
I invite you to share your experience, questions, or which of these devices you find most relevant to the Chilean context in the comments. And if you're interested in learning more about each model, I recommend checking out our full analysis of 2025 mobile cameras or our comparison between Samsung and Xiaomi in the mid-range segment.