The smartphone market in 2025 offers impressive options for those looking to spend less than $800. While flagship devices continue pushing price boundaries, manufacturers are packing more premium features into their mid-range offerings. Let’s explore the top contenders that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy S25
Samsung’s base model Galaxy S25 packs a punch at $799. It features a compact 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Powering the device is Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ensuring snappy performance for years to come.
The camera system impresses with a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto offering 3x optical zoom. This versatile setup allows for high-quality photos in various scenarios. Samsung’s computational photography continues to improve, rivaling results from more expensive models.
One of the S25’s standout features is its software support. Samsung promises an industry-leading 7 years of Android OS updates and security patches. This long-term commitment adds significant value, potentially allowing users to keep their device relevant through 2032.
Key Features:
- 6.2-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display
- Snapdragon 8 Elite processor
- 50MP + 12MP + 10MP (3x zoom) camera system
- 7 years of software updates
- 25W wired / 15W wireless charging
- IP68 water and dust resistance
While the 4,000mAh battery is smaller than some competitors, the efficient processor helps maintain solid battery life for most users. The 25W wired charging is adequate but falls behind some rivals offering faster speeds.
Google Pixel 9
Google’s Pixel 9 matches the Galaxy S25’s $799 price point while offering a slightly larger 6.3-inch OLED display. The Tensor G4 chip may not benchmark as high as Qualcomm’s offerings, but it excels in AI-powered features that enhance the user experience.
The Pixel’s camera system remains a highlight. While it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, the 50MP main sensor and 48MP ultrawide produce stunning photos in various lighting conditions. Google’s computational photography magic often outperforms devices with more complex hardware setups.
Android enthusiasts will appreciate the clean software experience and rapid updates directly from Google. Like Samsung, Google promises 7 years of OS and security updates for the Pixel 9.
Key Features:
- 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display
- Google Tensor G4 processor
- 50MP + 48MP camera system
- 7 years of software updates
- 27W wired / 15W wireless charging
- Advanced AI features (Magic Editor, Best Take, etc.)
The 4,700mAh battery offers a slight capacity advantage over the Galaxy S25. While charging speeds are modest, most users should comfortably get through a full day of use.
Apple iPhone 16
For iOS fans, the iPhone 16 starts at $799 and brings several improvements over its predecessor. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display now features always-on functionality, a feature previously reserved for Pro models.
Apple’s A18 chip continues to lead the pack in mobile processing power, handling demanding tasks with ease. The dual 48MP + 12MP camera system delivers excellent photo and video quality, benefiting from Apple’s image processing advancements.
iOS 18 introduces more customization options and AI-powered features to rival Android offerings. Apple’s long-term software support remains a strong selling point, with devices typically receiving 5+ years of major OS updates.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display (now with always-on)
- A18 Bionic chip
- 48MP + 12MP camera system
- 5+ years of software support (estimated)
- MagSafe wireless charging
- Action Button for customizable shortcuts
The iPhone 16 retains its predecessor’s excellent build quality and IP68 water resistance. While the 60Hz display refresh rate lags behind Android competitors, the overall smoothness of iOS helps mitigate this drawback for many users.
OnePlus 12
OnePlus continues to offer flagship-level specs at a more accessible price point. The OnePlus 12, available for $699, features a large 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the OnePlus 12 delivers top-tier performance for gaming and multitasking. The triple camera system (50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom) produces high-quality photos, benefiting from OnePlus’ partnership with Hasselblad for color tuning.
OxygenOS, based on Android 15, offers a clean and customizable user experience. While software support doesn’t match Samsung or Google’s 7-year promise, OnePlus commits to 3 years of major OS updates and 4 years of security patches.
Key Features:
- 6.82-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor
- 50MP + 48MP + 64MP (3x zoom) camera system
- 80W wired / 50W wireless charging (US model)
- 5,400mAh battery
- Alert slider for quick profile switching
The large 5,400mAh battery combined with 80W fast charging (in the US model) ensures users can quickly top up their device when needed. The OnePlus 12 offers an excellent balance of performance and value in the sub-$800 range.
Motorola Razr+ (2024)
Foldable phones continue to evolve, and Motorola’s Razr+ (2024) brings the flip phone form factor to the sub-$800 market at $699. When folded, users interact with a large 4-inch external display capable of running full apps. Unfolded, the device reveals a 6.9-inch pOLED main display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor provides ample power for multitasking and running demanding applications. While not the absolute top-tier chip, it strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency.
Camera performance has improved significantly, with a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultrawide. The ability to use the main cameras for high-quality selfies when the device is folded is a nice bonus.
Key Features:
- 4-inch external display / 6.9-inch 120Hz pOLED main display
- Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor
- 50MP + 50MP camera system
- 45W wired / 15W wireless charging
- 4,000mAh battery
- Compact folding design
The 4,000mAh battery is smaller than some competitors but generally sufficient for a full day of use. Motorola’s clean Android implementation with thoughtful additions for the folding form factor enhances the overall experience.
When choosing a smartphone under $800, consider your priorities. The Galaxy S25 and Pixel 9 offer the longest software support. The iPhone 16 remains the only iOS option. The OnePlus 12 provides excellent hardware value, while the Motorola Razr+ brings foldable technology to a more accessible price point. Each device has its strengths, catering to different user preferences in the competitive 2025 smartphone landscape.