The Best Base Model Phones To Buy In 2025


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Pro model and Ultra model phones are great. They come with all the latest camera tech and, more recently, AI features like Apple Intelligence and Google Gemini. 

But what if you don’t need all that stuff? Simple: save yourself about $300 to $400 and go with a base model phone. 

Apple, Google, Samsung, and even brands like Xiaomi’s base model options offer plenty of bang for your buck which means you don’t need to go Pro to get a metric tonne of performance and awesome camera capabilities.

And right now – based on our extensive testing and love of value for money – these are the top-rated base model phones for 2025. 

The Best Base Model Phones Right Now…

  • Google Pixel 9

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    6.3-inch Actua OLED

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    4700mAh

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    128GB, 256GB

    The Pixel 9 is Google's most affordable 2024 flagship, making a few compromises compared to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL while retaining the Google smarts the lineup has become known for

    "The Google Pixel 9 is one of the coolest redesigns I’ve seen."

    The 6.3-inch Actua OLED display offers a 1080 x 2424 resolution, delivering sharp, vibrant visuals. Its flat design not only looks clean but feels better for gesture navigation and durability.

    READ THE FULL REVIEW: Google Pixel 9
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    Brand:

    Google

    Price Tier:

    Premium

  • OnePlus 13

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    6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED

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    6000mAh

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    256GB, 512GB, 1TB

    With powerful specs, everlasting battery life, and a camera good enough to make you forget your Pixel, the OnePlus 13 is an early front-runner for smartphone of the year. Yeah, it's that good.

    "I'm dumbfounded, I can't find anything wrong with this phone."

    The OnePlus 13 features a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels. This results in sharp details and vivid colors that make media consumption and everyday tasks a delight. Its curved edges not only enhance aesthetics but also improve usability.

    READ THE FULL REVIEW: OnePlus 13
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    Brand:

    OnePlus

    Price Tier:

    Premium

  • Apple iPhone 16

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    6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED

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    3561mAh

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    128GB, 256GB, 512GB

    The iPhone 16 is the best non-Pro iPhone ever made, and the most tempting iPhone in years from an Android perspective.

    "With the new A18 inside, the iPhone 16 feels like it can keep up with the Pros."

    The iPhone 16 comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering a resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels. This translates into crisp details and vivid colors, making every swipe and tap feel premium. It’s a great size for one-handed use without compromising on screen real estate.

    READ THE FULL REVIEW: Apple iPhone 16
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    Brand:

    Apple

    Price Tier:

    Premium

  • Xiaomi 14T Pro

    The Best Base Model Phones To Buy In 2025Pin

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    6.7in CrystalRes AMOLED

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    5000mAh

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    128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

    This powerful sub-flagship takes excellent photos for the money. The Xiaomi 14T Pro lacks the wow factor of some rivals, but doesn’t skimp on storage and has a long-lasting battery.

    "The Xiaomi 14T Pro takes a notable step up in terms of design versus its predecessor."

    At 6.67 inches with a 2712 x 1220 resolution, the CrystalRes AMOLED panel delivers sharp visuals, bold colors, and rich contrast. It’s great for gaming, watching videos, or even just browsing.

    READ THE FULL REVIEW: Xiaomi 14T Pro
    Xiaomi 14T Pro ReviewPinPin

    Brand:

    Xiaomi

    Price Tier:

    Premium


Base Model Phones 101: How They Compare / Contrast To More Expensive Pro and Ultra Variants

The Best Base Model Phones To Buy In 2025Pin
The iPhone 16 Pro / Pro Max comes with a triple lens camera (and LiDAR)

Thinking about upgrading your phone but not sure if you need a Pro or Ultra model? You’re not alone.

While premium models grab attention with flashy cameras and high-end features, base models often deliver the same core performance for hundreds less.

Let’s break down how base model phones stack up against their pricier Pro and Ultra counterparts—so you can decide if spending more is really worth it.

Performance: Plenty of Power for Most People

Base models aren’t slow. In fact, most use the same processor as their Pro siblings.

Where they differ is in RAM. Base models might have 8GB, while Pro models push 12GB or more.

For everyday use—social media, streaming, gaming—you won’t notice much. Heavy multitasker or hardcore gamer? You might feel the difference.

Camera: Great, But Not Groundbreaking

Base models take awesome photos, but they don’t have all the camera tricks.

  • Lenses: Base models usually have wide and ultra-wide cameras. Pro models throw in a telephoto lens for zooming.
  • Night Modes & AI: Pro models often have better night photography and smarter AI enhancements.
  • Zoom: Expect 2x or 3x zoom on base models. Pro models go up to 10x or even 30x with periscope lenses.

If you’re a casual photographer, the base model is more than enough. But if zoom or pro-level shots matter, you might want to go Pro.

Battery & Charging: Good, But Not the Best

  • Battery Size: Base models usually have smaller batteries. Example: the Pixel 9 has a 4,700mAh battery, while larger models push beyond 5,000mAh.
  • Charging Speeds: Pro models often support faster charging. The Galaxy S24 Ultra charges at 45W, but the base S24 caps at 25W.
  • Wireless Charging: Present on both, but reverse wireless charging is sometimes exclusive to higher models.

For regular use, base models hold up. Power users might miss the faster charging.

Display: Still Sharp, Just Less Fancy

  • Size & Resolution: Base models usually have smaller and lower-res screens. Think 6.1-inch FHD+ vs. 6.7-inch QHD+ on Pro models.
  • Refresh Rate: Apple’s base models stick to 60Hz, so if you want 120Hz you’ll need to go pro. On Android, most base model phones come with 120Hz screens. Another win for Android.
  • Brightness: Pro models often shine brighter, literally. If outdoor visibility matters, that could be a deal-breaker.

But for most people? The base model’s display looks and feels great.

Build Quality: Solid, But Less Premium

  • Materials: Pro models might use titanium or stainless steel, while base models lean on aluminum or plastic.
  • Durability: Both usually have IP68 water and dust resistance, so they’re equally tough.

Unless you’re all about luxury materials, the difference won’t matter much.

Software & Updates: Same Support, Fewer Features

  • Updates: Samsung and Google do 7 years of updates on select models, including its main, base series models (Pixel 9, S24), whereas Apple’s support is standard (7+ years) across all of its phones.
  • Exclusive Features: Some AI tools or camera tricks stay locked to Pro models. For example, Google Gemini might be more advanced on Pro devices, and to get it on non-Pro models, you’ll have to pay.

But for daily use? Base models run just as smoothly.

AI Features: Useful, But Less Powerful

  • Core AI: Both models include AI tools like smart photo editing and voice assistants.
  • Advanced AI: Pro models often get enhanced AI, like real-time translation or advanced photo editing.

For most users, the base AI features are more than enough.

Storage & RAM: Less, But Probably Enough

  • Storage: Base models often start at 128GB, while Pro models might begin at 256GB.
  • RAM: Base models usually have 6GB to 8GB; Pro models can go up to 12GB or more.
  • Expandable Storage: Rare across the board, especially in premium phones.

If you don’t hoard apps and media, you’re covered.

Price-to-Performance: More Bang for Your Buck

Base models can save you $300–$400, and for many, the trade-offs are worth it. You lose a few pro features but keep the core experience. It’s the smarter choice if you don’t need zoom lenses or bleeding-edge AI.

Accessories: Mostly Compatible

Most accessories work across models. But some Pro-exclusive features, like Apple Pencil support or certain camera grips, might not.

Longevity: Built to Last

Base models are designed to last. With the same software support as Pro models, your phone will stay current for 7 years. Pro models might age a little better thanks to higher specs, but for most users, it’s not a huge gap.

Resale Value: Pro Models Hold Value Better

Pro and Ultra models typically resell for more. But base models still hold decent value, especially with brands like Apple and Samsung.

The Bottom Line: Should You Go Base or Pro?

  • Choose Base if you want a powerful, long-lasting phone without extra fluff.
  • Go Pro/Ultra if you need advanced cameras, faster charging, and premium materials.

For most people, a base model phone is more than enough. You’ll save money and still get a killer smartphone experience.

Latest Smartphone Releases


  • Xiaomi 15S Pro

    The Xiaomi 15S Pro didn’t come with a flashy launch, but it brings some seriously heavy hardware to the table. A custom 10-core chip, Leica-engineered cameras, and one of the brightest displays on the market

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

    At just 5.8mm thick, it’s one of the thinnest Android phones ever made—but don’t let the slim profile fool you. This phone is all flagship under the hood.

  • Nothing Phone (3a) Pro

    It’s got the same slick design and OLED display, but adds a periscope zoom camera and a 50MP front-facing shooter.

  • Nothing Phone (3a)

    The Nothing Phone (3a) nails the formula: give people what they actually want, keep the price low, and make it look cooler than anything else in its class.

  • Motorola EDGE 60 Pro

    With a bold design, flagship-like display, and surprisingly refined camera system, it’s one of the most interesting mid-range phones of 2025.

  • Google Pixel 9

    I’ve been using the Pixel 9 for a few weeks now, and honestly? It nails all the basics—and a bit more. Killer stuff all round!

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro

    I’ve used the Pixel 9 Pro as my daily device, and it’s hands-down the best balance of power, practicality, and photography you’ll find on Android right now.

  • OnePlus 13

    I’ve been using the OnePlus 13 as my daily driver for a few months now—and I’ve got to say, it’s easily one of the best Android phones I’ve tested this year.

  • Xiaomi 15 Ultra

    After using the Xiaomi 15 Ultra for over a week, I can confidently say: this phone is an absolute beast. It’s made for camera nerds, power users, and creators.

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max

    If you’ve been holding out for a truly complete iPhone, the 16 Pro Max delivers—hard. After using it daily, I won't be going back…

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

    Big screen, big battery, and even bigger brains—this is the Pixel to get if you want Google’s best hardware and longest support.

  • Google Pixel 9a

    The Pixel 9a brings Google’s flagship-level smarts to a budget-friendly package, and it’s easily one of the best-value Android phones of 2025.

Best SIM-Only Plans & Deals


  • Boost Mobile Unlimited Premium Plan

    Boost’s top-tier option brings the heat: 50GB of premium data, hotspot, North America roaming, global talk & text, and $430 off select devices. All-in at $60/month with no contract.

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    Data: Unlimited (50GB premium speed)

  • Boost Mobile Unlimited+ Plan

    Level up with 40GB of premium data, hotspot access, global calling, and up to $300 in device savings. All for just $50/month. No contracts and flexible phone options included.

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    Data: Unlimited; Speed Caps After 40GB

  • Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan

    Start strong with 30GB of premium data, unlimited everything, and a killer intro offer: just $15/month for the first 3 months, then $25/month forever. No contracts. No fluff. Big value.

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    Data: Unlimited (Speed Caps Over 30GB)

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    Another high-data, low-cost option with no contract. 108GB for just £9, full 5G access, and the same goodies you get with 12-month deals.

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    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 20GB

    The lowest price option. 20GB for £6 with all the same perks as pricier plans. Great if you don’t use much data and want to save every penny.

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    Data: 20GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 110GB

    This plan gives you big data and zero commitment. 110GB for just £10 with all perks intact. If you need more data but want the freedom to cancel, this is the one.

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    Data: 110GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    More data, same price. For just £8/month, you get 60GB on a no-strings 1-month rolling plan. Ideal for users who stream often but don’t want long commitments.

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    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 40GB

    Perfect if you want full flexibility. You get 40GB and all of iD Mobile's perks with no lock-in, annual increases, or setup fees. Great for short-term users.

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    Data: 40GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    One of the best pound-per-GB plans around. You get 60GB for £8 with £25 cashback, which means you’re effectively paying closer to £6/month. Includes roaming and data rollover.

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    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    This deal gets you a healthy 108GB of 5G data for less than a tenner, with no upfront costs and £24 cashback. All the perks are included too: data rollover, roaming, and loyalty rewards.

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    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: Unlimited Data

    This iD Mobile plan doesn’t just compete on price, it’s up there with the best of them. Unlimited everything, a year-long lock-in with no price rises, and £42 cashback straight to your pocket. It’s like getting nearly 3 months free.

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    Data: Unlimited, No Speed Caps

  • Mint Mobile 20GB Plan

    If you're looking to save some cash on your bills, this plan is an awesome option. You'll get 20GB of data per month and 20GB hotspot data allowance. For moderate to heavy users, that should be more than enough. I seldom use more than 10GB of data a month, and I'm always using my phone

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    Data: 20GB