The iPhone 16 series has officially arrived, and while it brings several noteworthy upgrades over previous generations, the year-over-year changes may not feel groundbreaking for everyone. It's only natural to explore what else is out there—and the truth is, there are plenty of compelling alternatives. With nearly a decade of experience testing smartphones, I’ve seen countless devices that not only rival Apple’s iPhones but also introduce innovative features long before Apple does—just look at the rise of foldable phones.
I’ve also tested every major iPhone release, so I understand the strengths that have kept them dominant in the smartphone market. That insight makes it easier than ever to identify when another device might be a better fit for your needs.
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Google Pixel 9 Pro
5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### OnePlus 12R
2See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus### Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
3See it at Amazon### RedMagic 10 Pro
1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic
By expanding your options beyond the Apple ecosystem, you can discover next-level camera systems, designs that match or even surpass Apple’s best, unique form factors Apple hasn’t yet embraced, more budget-friendly picks, and niche models tailored specifically for gaming. There’s an abundance of choice available, giving you the freedom to decide which combination of features, build quality, performance, and price aligns best with your preferences. Whether you're looking for the most powerful phone on the market or a device that rivals Apple’s renowned photography capabilities, you’ll find a solid alternative here.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
Our Top Pick### OnePlus 13
7A great design, excellent display, superb performance and impressive cameras all combine in a discounted flagship that deserves consideration. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel SeflieBattery6,000mAhWeight210g (0.46lb)PROSGreat valueFast performanceCONSSoftware support a little shorter than rivals
When I tell iPhone users I’m holding a OnePlus 13, they often react like I’ve spoken in a foreign language. But if you’re curious about what lies beyond iOS, there’s no better example than the OnePlus 13.
This generation represents a significant leap forward. While only minor updates were needed from its predecessor, those refinements pushed the OnePlus 13 into elite territory. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite octa-core CPU, this device delivers near-flagship iPhone-level single-core performance and outperforms even the iPhone 16 Pro Max in multi-core tasks. Graphics benchmarks also show a clear lead over Apple’s top-tier chip, making this a powerhouse for both daily use and gaming alike.
The OnePlus 13 features a sleek, flat-edged aluminum frame and rounded corners that give it a refined aesthetic. Its large camera module and textured back distinguish it from other flagships. Qi2/MagSafe-compatible cases work seamlessly, and the triple-position alert slider offers added convenience over the iPhone’s mute switch. Thanks to IP68 water resistance, the OnePlus 13 is built to handle real-world conditions.
Photography is another area where the OnePlus 13 shines. Its triple-camera system includes three 50MP sensors—wide, ultra-wide, and 3x telephoto—for consistently high-quality results in both photos and videos.
Value is perhaps the OnePlus 13’s strongest selling point. Starting at $900, it undercuts many premium iPhones while offering superior specs. The default 256GB storage option beats Apple’s 128GB base model, and the 6.82-inch OLED display matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in brightness and smoothness thanks to its 1–120Hz variable refresh rate. Simply put, the OnePlus 13 isn’t just the best iPhone alternative—it’s one of the best smartphones available today.
9 Images
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
5An elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a champ among smartphones.See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1280x2856, 495 ppi, 1
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