Choosing a new iPhone in 2025 presents more variety than ever, with Apple's lineup now featuring the super-thin iPhone Air and the budget-friendly iPhone 16e alongside the flagship iPhone 17 series. According to Samuel Gibbs, the Guardian's consumer technology editor with 18 years of experience, the best iPhone might be the one you already own, as hardware updates are often iterative. However, if you're in the market for an upgrade, whether new or refurbished, here is a definitive guide to the best Apple smartphones available.
In-Depth Reviews: The Top iPhones of 2025
Our testing combines real-world use—from commutes to photography trips—with benchmark tools to evaluate performance, battery life, and camera quality. This rigorous process ensures each recommendation is based on how the phones handle day-to-day life.
iPhone 17: The All-Rounder for Most Users
The standard iPhone 17, starting at £799, is the top pick for the majority of people. This year, it closes the gap with Pro models significantly, featuring a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth scrolling. It also gains the Pro's always-on display mode and tougher glass.
Powered by the A19 chip, it starts with a generous 256GB of storage. Battery life is robust at nearly two days, and it supports fast USB-C and Qi2 wireless charging. The dual 48MP rear camera system captures excellent photos, though it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, relying on a 2x crop zoom. A new 18MP Centre Stage front camera cleverly frames group shots. The main drawback is its familiar design, which hasn't changed from the iPhone 16.
iPhone 17 Pro: The Photographer's Choice
For those who prioritise camera prowess, the iPhone 17 Pro, from £1,099, is Apple's best. It sports a new aluminium unibody design in colours like dark blue and bright orange. It shares the brilliant 120Hz screen with the iPhone 17 but houses the more powerful A19 Pro chip.
The triple 48MP camera system is its standout feature, including a new 4x telephoto lens that achieves an effective 8x optical zoom. Battery life lasts around 42 hours, making it a powerful, compact package for photography enthusiasts who don't want the largest screen.
iPhone 17 Pro Max: Ultimate Battery and Screen
If endurance and display size are key, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the answer. Its massive 6.9-inch screen and huge battery deliver up to 55 hours of use, potentially lasting well into a third day. It shares the Pro's superb camera and performance but in a larger, heavier body weighing 231g.
iPhone Air: The Pursuit of Thinness
The iPhone Air, from £999, is Apple's bold move for a featherlight experience. At just 5.64mm thick and 165g, it feels exceptionally sleek with a 6.5-inch 120Hz OLED screen. Compromises include a shorter 40-hour battery life, reliance solely on eSims, and a single 48MP rear camera with no zoom or ultra-wide options. It's a specialist device for those who value form above all.
iPhone 16e: The New Budget Entry
As the cheapest new iPhone from Apple at £549, the iPhone 16e offers a modern experience with compromises. It features an A18 chip, a 6.1-inch OLED screen, and Apple Intelligence AI features. However, it misses out on a dual-camera system, MagSafe, and the Camera Control button. For this price, a refurbished older Pro model may offer better value.
Smart Alternatives: Refurbish or Upgrade?
Before buying new, consider extending your current iPhone's life. A battery replacement from Apple (£65-£109) can offer a new lease of life. Ensure you have at least 2GB of free storage for optimal performance. iPhones typically receive around seven years of software updates; models older than the iPhone 13 will soon lose crucial support.
Buying refurbished is an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice. Look for grades (A-D) indicating condition, and always check battery health, charging ports, and that the device isn't network-locked or reported stolen using its IMEI number. Retailers like CeX, Back Market, and Apple's own refurbished store offer reliable options.
In summary, the 2025 iPhone lineup caters to diverse needs, from the balanced iPhone 17 to the specialist iPhone Air. By assessing your priorities for camera, battery, design, and budget—and considering the refurbished market—you can find the ideal Apple smartphone for you.
