Top Smartphone Picks of the Year: Tech Advisor’s 2025-26 Winners

Throughout 2025, the smartphone industry has seen significant advancements and innovations. Artificial intelligence has been a dominant theme, with almost every major phone manufacturer incorporating new AI features into their devices. Additionally, the trend towards ultra-thin smartphones has gained momentum, exemplified by the introduction of the iPhone Air. Noteworthy improvements in camera performance and battery technology have also been observed.

However, a truly exceptional phone must excel in various aspects, including design, display, performance, battery life, and software capabilities.

Today, we have the honor of unveiling Tech Advisor’s selection for the best phone of 2025, along with two notable runners-up.

Best New Phone of the Year – Winner: Google Pixel 10 Pro XL

Google has achieved a remarkable feat with the Pixel 10 Pro XL, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Pixel phones. Despite being Google’s most expensive non-folding phone to date, it undeniably stands out as the best in its class.

The Pixel 10 Pro XL boasts exceptional build quality, impressive durability, and an elegant design that sets it apart. The 6.8-inch OLED display offers a superior viewing experience, enhancing the overall user experience.

With its innovative camera system housed within a distinctive pill-shaped module, the Pixel 10 Pro XL delivers outstanding photographic capabilities. While the hardware may not be the absolute best on the market, it excels in simplifying the process of capturing high-quality images, complemented by various AI features for effortless photo editing.

Although not all AI photography features may be perfect, several provide compelling options for enhancing the final output.

The device’s battery life is robust, charging performance is reliable, and the inclusion of built-in Qi2 technology opens up a world of possibilities for magnetic accessories, including those compatible with Apple’s MagSafe.

Furthermore, the Pixel 10 Pro XL offers a top-tier software experience, featuring the latest Android 16 software out of the box and a commendable seven years of software updates.

While it commands a premium price, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is one of the few flagship devices that truly justifies its cost. In the current landscape, smartphones simply do not surpass the excellence of the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

Explore our comprehensive review of the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL for more insights.

Best New Phone of the Year – First Runner-Up: Oppo Find X9 Pro

Luke Baker

The Oppo Find X9 Pro stands out as Oppo’s finest smartphone creation, raising the bar for camera capabilities and battery performance.

Equipped with a quad-camera setup (50Mp main, 50Mp ultrawide, 200Mp telephoto, 50Mp selfie), the Find X9 Pro delivers exceptional photography results. The optional teleconverter kit enhances the telephoto lens, offering an impressive 9.8x optical zoom. Furthermore, the device’s massive 7500mAh battery, utilizing silicon-carbon technology, ensures prolonged battery life without sacrificing portability.

Boasting top-notch performance, intuitive software, a stunning 6.78-inch OLED display, and a premium yet durable design, the Oppo Find X9 Pro emerges as a standout smartphone and a close contender to the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

For a detailed analysis, delve into our complete review of the Oppo Find X9 Pro.

Best New Phone of the Year – Second Runner-Up: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Luke Baker

While the Galaxy S25 Ultra may offer incremental upgrades compared to its predecessor, the S24 Ultra, it remains a formidable all-around performer that stands among the best of 2025.

Key highlights of the device include exceptional performance, a dazzling 6.9-inch display, and versatile camera capabilities, all housed within an appealing yet sturdy design. Setting it apart from its competitors is the inclusion of the S Pen stylus, providing unmatched functionality for digital artistry and note-taking.

Despite not being flawless and commanding a higher price point than the Pixel 10 Pro XL and Find X9 Pro, the S25 Ultra retains its status as a productivity powerhouse worth serious consideration.

Explore our comprehensive review of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for a detailed analysis.

$1096.2

$1,138.82

$1352.34

For a broader selection of top-tier smartphones, refer to our comprehensive guide on the best phones available. Stay tuned as we unveil more winners across various categories, including phones, tablets, wearables, and more in the days to come.